Let’s start with a little homework assignment. I want everyone reading this to think of their job, school, relationship or just life in general. Now look at everything you do for this. Is there something you don’t necessarily agree with that you either have to do, or aren’t able to do? I guarantee there is something out there. As a matter of fact, it took me about 3 seconds to think of that one thing. So let’s just accept that all of us have something like this.
Now, let’s think about why we do or don’t do these things. I, for one, would no longer be employed if I did what I thought of. It’s not even anything bad, it’s just how my employer likes things to be done. Not to mention the fact that I agreed to it before I started working. It’s just the way it is. If I had that big of a problem with it, I’d find another profession.
That brings us to Atlanta Falcons WR Calvin Ridley. The superstar receiver was suspended by the NFL for a whole season for betting on NFL games.
Like most, I feel the punishment seemed a little extreme. I mean he bet on his team to win, and he wasn’t even playing that game due to injury. Immediately we saw players and media members shouting about how domestic abusers and criminals got less than Ridley. Which is true. I mean Deshaun Watson was just cleared of criminal charges and will play next year somewhere. So I understand the outrage.
Meanwhile, I don’t have much sympathy for Ridley. Much like Sha”Carri Richardson, the track star who was suspended for testing positive for weed before the Olympics. Ridley knew the rules. He could’ve just asked Pete Rose, it’s not smart to bet on the sport you play. Especially on the team you’re on. It’s one thing to disagree with a rule, it’s a totally different thing to knowingly break a rule and be upset when you get in trouble for breaking it. What did he expect?
Ridley definitely pissed off the Falcons organization. He had been a part of trade rumors for a while. Now that’s out the window. They can’t even get something out of him on the field now.
Let’s put all of that aside for a moment. I think Ridley deserves a year suspension for being dumb.
Think about it. How moronic could he be? He seemingly bet on his own team, under his own name. There has to be a million different ways to get around this. The guy has so many resources at his disposal. He could have easily got around the rules. He was just too ignorant to find a solution. Just find someone else to put in the bet for you.
So Calvin, you done goofed. But Mr. Ridley, in typical BO Blogs fashion, I have a simple solution for you.
Here’s what we can do. You seem to like to bet on the NFL. That’s probably still not the best idea, but if you must, here’s how I can help you. If you feel so inclined to make a wager, send an email to blindowlblogs@gmail.com with what you want. I’ll have Mrs. Blind Owl drive me up to Seabrook, NH and I’ll place the bet in my name. All I need from you is a nominal $200 “service” charge for each bet and 10% of your winnings. It’s quick, simple and I’ll send all the money in check form under my name. I’m even open to negotiate. Give it some thought my guy.
Until we can hammer out the details, maybe stay away from betting on sports for a while. It’ll save you a lot of time, money and aggravation.