NFL Says No To Online Gambling Yes To Lotteries 

May 26, 2009 - Written by Renee

The proponents of online gambling have found that The National Football League (NFL) is a much more powerful opponent than the conservative section of society. It is based on their opposition that Barney Frank was compelled to hold online sports betting as illegal in his anti-UIGEA bill. However whereas the conservative legislators appear to have the larger society’s interests at heart, the NFL seems to be guided by it's self interest. 

A few days ago the NFL reversed its anti gambling stance and tied up with state lotteries for a few dollars more. As soon as NFL voted to allow the teams to deal with state lotteries contracts were quickly announced. New England Patriots, Washington Redskins, Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers lent their names to state lotteries for a price.  

The arguments given on behalf of the NFL are quite absurd. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said, “This would purely be scratch-off and chance games. They are not in any way connected to the outcome of our games. That is a critical feature for us.” He ignored the fact that online casino gambling also does not involve wagering on the outcome of the NFL games. Goodell also added, “We do think it is responsive to the pressures that states are feeling right now to help meet some of those budget shortfalls. It has been effective in other sports, and it is something that is a reasonable policy.” Again he ignored the fact that the legalization, regulation and taxing of online gambling would bring added revenue to the states.  

If the online casinos agreed to sponsor some of the NFL teams then they would be singing a different tune.