Eric Esterline Comments on the Increased Popularity and Risks of Sports Betting

Eric Esterline, University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications director of Sports Journalism and Communications and senior lecturer in Sports Media and Communication, is quoted in “At Super Bowl, Sports Betting Will Continue to Dominate, Despite Addiction Risks” published on the UF News webpage on Feb. 5.

The article focuses on the rise in sports betting since the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a nationwide ban in 2018.

“Over the course of the last 10 or 15 years, it’s slowly progressed to the point where it’s a regular part of our society now,” said Esterline. “And the technology has made it more accessible to the general public on a regular basis.”

Easy access to legal gambling may be fueling a rise in addiction and ubiquitous ads are tailored to reach wider audiences.

“Where gambling was a minority interest before, these companies now have to reach the greater American public,” Esterline said. “They want to choose a diverse set of celebrities to reach different audiences. That’s a tactic used by advertising companies to build trust. Having someone like Eli or Peyton Manning or J.B. Smoove means you can relate to different aspects of our culture.”

The NFL has relaxed some of its anti-gambling policies and has reinstated some players who broke the rules.

“I think they’ll stand strong on no betting on the NFL, but the rules will ease back even a little bit further on other events and games,” he said.

Posted: February 5, 2025. Subscribe to our News Digest
Category: College News, Sports
Tagged as: Eric Esterline, Sports Betting Apps, Sports Media and Communication, Super Bowl