Our athletes aren't a betting line

Being a Husker is an honor unlike any other. Every time we put on the scarlet and cream, we give it all for our team and our fans.

Out-of-state gambling conglomerates are seeking to make a profit off of fans and players. This will undermine the integrity of college athletics by bringing unrestricted online sports gambling and relentless advertising for online sports betting to Nebraska. These groups do not care about our athletes, our traditions, or Nebraska families. They see our state as another market and every phone as another casino.

As Huskers, we understand the pressure that comes with high-level competition. Today’s student-athletes should be able to compete without worrying that every play, mistake, or outcome could affect someone’s financial well-being. No student-athlete should face harassment or threats because gamblers lost money on a game, a play, or a parlay. Unfortunately, these online gambling companies are known for relentless advertising and in-app ploys to keep gamblers betting and losing.

Game manipulation, bribery, extortion, and threats against athletes, officials, and staff are dangers to the sports world. In one case highlighted by the FBI, a bettor sent threatening messages to college and professional athletes and their families when the athletes’ performances did not align with his wagers. Those messages included racial slurs and graphic threats to kill or harm the athletes and their loved ones.

The FBI also warns that criminal actors attempt to manipulate games by exploiting athletes facing financial difficulties, substance abuse, or gambling problems. When fans begin questioning whether the outcome of a game is determined by honest competition, the integrity of the entire sport is at risk. Husker athletics is about teamwork, discipline, competition, and pride in our state. We cannot allow it to be used as a vehicle to enrich out-of-state gambling interests at the expense of Nebraska families.

On November 3, 2026, Nebraska voters will decide whether to amend our state constitution to open the door to online sports gambling. We urge our fellow Nebraskans to protect student-athletes, protect families, and preserve the integrity of college athletics by voting NO.