Today’s Starting Bankroll: $995.24 (Yesterday’s Bets)
In the competitive world of the NFL, it’s no secret that performance on the field is paramount. Yet, the recent contract extension for Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker has sparked controversy, not solely for its financial details but for the underlying message it seems to convey. Harrison Butker, now the highest-paid kicker in the NFL with a four-year, $25.6 million deal, of which $17.8 million is guaranteed, has been at the center of a debate following his contentious commencement speech earlier this year.
The Deal
Harrison Butker’s new contract is a testament to his undeniable skill. Over the past seasons, he has proven himself as one of the most reliable kickers in the league, with clutch performances that have often been the difference between victory and defeat for the Chiefs. The financial commitment from Kansas City underscores their confidence in his abilities and the critical role he plays in their game strategy.
I mean, do the Chiefs even win the Super Bowl against the 49ers without Harrison Butker?
The Controversy
However, Butker’s contract extension comes hot on the heels of a commencement speech he gave earlier this year, which stirred significant backlash. In his speech, Butker made comments that many found controversial and polarizing. Critics argue that his words were inappropriate for the platform and did not align with the values of inclusivity and respect.
In short he basically told women that there place was to be in a kitchen taking care of their men. As you can imagine this was not taken likely from women around the world and rightfully so.
I mean, my wife is a hard working professional and if I made any sentiment about her being in the kitchen I would be kicked out of the house, again, rightfully so.
NFL’s Wrong Message
The crux of the controversy lies in the message the NFL and the Kansas City Chiefs are sending by making Harrison Butker the highest-paid kicker despite the fallout from his speech. Critics assert that this move signals a troubling precedent: that performance on the field can overshadow actions and words off it, no matter how divisive.
While it is crucial to recognize and reward athletic excellence, it is equally important to hold athletes accountable for their public statements and frankly actions. The NFL, as a highly visible and influential institution, has a responsibility to set standards for behavior and communication that reflect its values and the diverse audience it serves.
Skill vs. Speech
The decision to offer Butker such a lucrative contract raises questions about the balance between skill and speech in professional sports. It suggests that as long as players deliver exceptional performance, their off-field actions and statements may be overlooked or minimized. This can be a dangerous precedent, potentially encouraging athletes to believe that their words carry less weight than their athletic abilities.
Conclusion
Harrison Butker’s contract extension is a clear indication of his value to the Kansas City Chiefs and his prowess as an NFL kicker. However, it also brings to light the complex interplay between an athlete’s performance and their public persona. As fans and stakeholders in the sport, it is essential to reflect on the broader implications of such decisions and advocate for a balance where skill and speech are both given due consideration.
In celebrating athletic achievements, we must not lose sight of the broader impact of athletes’ words and actions. The NFL and its teams have the power to shape not only the game but also the culture around it. Ensuring that this power is wielded responsibly is key to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment for all.
Day #5 Recap
The difference between a positive day in sports betting and one that ends with you losing a small amount continues to be of the slimmest margins. We went 1-1-1 yesterday, but at least there were no bad beats.
Morocco vs Spain 1st Half Over 1 (+105)
- This one ended in a push despite having 12 extra minutes of stoppage time.
- It could have honestly been a loss if Rahimi for Morocco had not received a PK to take a 1-0 lead on Spain.
- Spain only had a 1st half .38 Expected Goals (xG) so it wasnt like they were chomping at the bit to get one in goal, but still feel like we should have had a win here as they went on to beat Morocco 2-1
France vs Egypt Over 2.5 (-105)
- France was the deciding factor to take the Over in this match, an honestly they got there. Just a little to late as the match ended 1-1 in regulation.
- With a 0-0 halftime scoreline, the Egypitians took a 1-0 lead in the 62′ putting a hush over the Paris crowd. However, the attack was to strong and Mateta tied it up in the 83′.
- The real disappointment for this bet was in the 97′ as it appeared Egypt committed a handball and it went to VAR review. But, to our disappointment the ruling on the pitch for no handball was held up due to a foul leading up to the play and time was ended.
- In extra time or course France scored two goals and went on for an easy 3-1 victory to meet Spain in the Olympic Gold Medal Game.
- Speaking of disappointments, France in both the Men’s and Women’s side of things have been very lackluster in these Olympics. The women were put out by Brazil a couple of days ago and France was lucky to get by Egypt in extra time yesterday.
Elly De La Cruz Over 1.5 HRR (-130)
- Staring down what could be a large losing day, Elly came through. He made it very simple by hitting a 2-run HR in the 1st inning.
- He ended 4-5 with two doubles and two HR’s.
Alternate 2+ RBI Parlay (+44340)
- Jose Ramirez: Had a great day 3-4 but only tallied 1 RBI.
- Trey Lipscomb: Voided did not play.
- Cody Bellinger: 1-4 with no RBI’s.
Day $5 Profit/Loss: – $3.31
What I Learned:
Best Teams Always Win: It’s true. The best teams for the most part will always find a way to win in almost every sport. This is why they are considered the best. Spain and France yesterday both found themselves down 1-0 in their respective matches and some how, some way, won. I think this opens up a large area of live betting in the future that we can target. Looking at France in the 82′ minute they were +400 to advance to the Gold Medal match. Those are good odds for someone who was a -275 favorite pre-match.
$200 ➡️ $200K Challenge
We had a ton of anticipation to start this challenge and wouldn’t you know it Corbin Caroll did not start which voided our bet. Let’s kick things off today:
Challenge Bet (8/6): Manny Machado Over 2.5 HRR (+120)
Day #6 Bets
#1) Olympic Women’s Soccer: USA vs Germany Over 2.5 (+120)
#2) Champions League Qualification: Midtjylland vs Ferencvaros Over 2.15 (-110)
#3) MLB Bet: Jarred Kelenic Over 1.5 HRR (+105)
Parlay of the Day: European Soccer Over’s
