Iowa's Kirk Ferentz Wants NCAA to Adopt Gambling Policy Similar to That of NFL

Iowa's Kirk Ferentz is calling on the NCAA to implement a gambling policy that is similar to that of the National Football League (NFL). 

The Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones are both the subjects of gambling probes though little is known since the report first surfaced two months ago.

Ferentz made his remarks during a Big Ten Media Days appearance.

"I think our world (has) changed dramatically," Ferentz said at Big Ten Media Days. "I think what the NFL has done with their rules makes a lot of sense. I'm hopeful this is an opportunity for the NCAA to reconsider two things: What punishments might be that are fair and relevant to the world we're living in right now, and probably the bigger thing, there's an opportunity right now for a lot better education process." 

Last week, we got a glimpse into what could be happening behind the scenes of this probe after defensive lineman Noah Shannon announced he would not be in attendance at Big Ten Media Days due to his involvement in the NCAA sports betting investigation.

“Being selected to represent the Iowa Hawkeye football team at Big Ten Media Day is a tremendous honor and privilege,” Shannon said in a release. “I am grateful for the opportunity. However, given the circumstances I told Coach Ferentz it would best for him to select another player. Since the NCAA review is not yet complete, I don’t feel it is right for me to represent the team.”

“Noah’s decision to share this information and suggest that another player take his place is reflective of his character,” said Kirk Ferentz. “Noah is a committed and dedicated teammate, and this is a fine example of him always wanting to put the team first.” 

Ferentz also offered more news on the probe.

"It's not a large number of players, period," Ferentz said. "Long story short, I don't know what the outcome will be." 

This week, another NFL player suspension was announced.  Denver Broncos player Eyioma Uwazurike allegedly placed bets on NFL games in violation of league policy.  Around a dozen NFL players are serving lengthy suspensions as a result of breaching the policy.

The NCAA has also been mired in a gambling scandal of its own after personnel from the Alabama Crimson Tide baseball team were found to have attempted to place wagers on a game against LSU based on insider information.

- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com