Big Ben Legal Troubles Not Likely To Affect Betting On Steelers

Sports Betting News - July 27th, 2009 - Written by Jimmy

By this point, most sporting fans in America are aware of the civil lawsuit Steelers' Quarterback Ben Rothlisberger is facing pertaining to an alleged rape that occurred last year, in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Even media outlets, such as ESPN, which was extremely late breaking the story, has coverage of it.

The primary concern is for the Steelers' Quarterback and whether or not this will affect his performance on the field of play. Of course, this news extends into the gambling spectrum, as potential NFL football bettors are weighing the consequences of this allegation. Distractions, such as these, can really affect an athlete's performance on the field.

So far, most NFL bettors aren't worrying about this revelation at all. In fact, since this allegation is only a civil suit, and not criminal charges, Rothlisberger isn't likely to miss any time of the field of play, at least not due to suspension from the NFL. In interviews, with avid sports bettors in Nevada, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that most would not consider changing their bets, unless Rothlisberger would be suspended. "I'm not a big bettor. I can't afford to lose," said Chuck Spangler of Reno, "Obviously, if it means the player gets suspended, that would affect the way I'd bet."

Rothlisberger's situation can be compared to that of many star atheletes which have face similar serious allegations. For instance, Los Angeles Lakers superstar, Kobe Bryant, faced rape charges in Colorado, back in 2003. Though he was finally acquitted of all charges, Bryant didn't miss a beat. For Bryant, managing court dates along with games that coincided with them, Bryant was able to fulfill all of his duties as a team leader. Others may compare the allegations that Rothlisberger faces to that of the steroid allegations that Barry Bonds went through, while chasing Hank Aaron's home run record.

Some might expect Rothlisberger to play better, with a chip on his shoulder, and that this news won't have an impact, on his play, whatsoever. The two time Super Bowl winning Quarterback returns to lead the Steelers' into the 2009 NFL Season as defending champions. NFL training camps take in this week, which includes the Steelers. Questions are sure to be coming at Big Ben as he faces the media. Steelers camp is sure to garner a lot of attention, especially as they are coming off of a World Championship. If there are distractions, they should arise immediately, and the results will be known right away.