Atlanta Chronicles: The Shift from Gambling Thrills to Stressful Chills

Before the kickoff of the Capital One Orange Bowl between Notre Dame and Penn State, I was browsing X when I came across a particular post. A sports betting account announced “breaking news” that Penn State had now become the favorite by one point, a change after Notre Dame had held that position all week. It struck me as peculiar that this was regarded as significant news. In what was characterized as a “pick-em” game, with odds as balanced as they come, can we consider this line shift as substantial as the oddsmakers suggest?

When I reached the legal age to bet on sporting events, I envisioned myself as an expert. I truly understand sports, I kept telling myself. All that I need to do is research a bit and align myself with the right individuals to reap a fortune. Yet, life rarely works out that simply. The way oddsmakers establish their odds can be quite perplexing. Odds may appear excessively “strong” or so incredibly steep that they deter you, even when you feel confident. The entire undertaking can become highly addictive.

In my view, gambling, particularly sports wagering, is just as addictive—or perhaps even more so—than other forms of addiction. As more states sanction it, with 38 states plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico having approved sports betting in various capacities, an increasing number of individuals will find it easily accessible with merely a few taps on their devices.

For three years, I placed bets on sports, intermittently. I never made huge bets, yet devoted considerable time and effort to identifying the best opportunities. My wins were comparable to my losses, and it was clear why many people found it so appealing. It transformed more games into must-watch events and increased the excitement. There was no greater thrill than correctly predicting the spread or selecting who would score a touchdown. However, after achieving a near break-even on my bets, I recognized the futility. This should be a recreational activity providing enjoyment and potential financial gain, yet after a short time, it began to feel like a chore and devoid of pleasure.

Thus, I decided to quit. Why gamble my money if I was barely making any?

I began producing sports content and a podcast (Promotional notice: Audible Sports Cast upcoming content is on the way) and realized there were more fruitful ways to invest my time. While I still appreciate discussing sports betting, I know I have no desire to engage in it again. As I pursue a professional career in sports, gambling should not be part of my journey, in any case.

As I get ready to cover the College Football Playoff National Championship, my focus should be on narrating the stories of the players from Ohio State and Notre Dame, rather than exploiting them.

Amid rising mental health issues, this addiction can result in unimaginable harm. NCAA President Charlie Baker has highlighted the potential risks for student-athletes. A significant number of athletes receive direct messages from fans when their bets don’t pan out. The collegiate athletes face immense pressure already; we do not need an additional source of stress.

While some argue that gambling has heightened the stakes of games, where do we establish the boundary? With current athletes appearing in advertisements and sports betting applications continuously advertised during broadcasts, when will we deem it sufficient?

While waiting for our flight back to Indianapolis at the Miami airport, screens displayed the NFL Wild Card game between the Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans. In the third quarter, Chargers safety Derwin James leaped over Texans tight end Dalton Schultz for what appeared to be an interception in the end zone. An onlooker near me seemed thrilled by the play. However, his elation rapidly shifted to fury when the call was reversed because James couldn’t secure the ball upon landing. I couldn’t help but wonder: Was this individual a Chargers supporter, or did he have money riding on the match?

If you choose to engage in betting, please do so responsibly. And if you find yourself questioning any aspect of your actions, do not hesitate to contact a sports gambling hotline or a trusted individual.

It can be enjoyable, but it’s all too easy to lose control.

By Jeffery Green | @Jeffery_AGreen

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