College Students Are Spending $500 A Month on Fantasy Sports—Are You Missing Out?

The landscape of sports engagement for American college students is rapidly evolving as the lines between traditional sports betting and fantasy sports become increasingly blurred. This shift comes in the wake of the Supreme Court's decision in 2018 to strike down the federal ban on sports betting, leading to a legal framework that has swept across 38 states and Washington D.C. Today, as many as $166.94 billion was legally wagered on sports in 2025 alone—an 11% increase from the previous year—highlighting the growing acceptance and popularity of sports gambling.

One of the most significant developments in this arena is the rise of fantasy sports apps, which have gained traction among college students. These platforms, operating in a gray area of legality, often market themselves as skill-based games focused on individual player performance rather than traditional betting on game outcomes. However, as these apps expand to include prop bets and other non-traditional gambling formats, experts warn that they may inadvertently encourage gambling behaviors that can lead to addiction.

Andrew Billings, a professor at the College of Communication and Information Sciences and executive director of the Alabama Program in Sports Communication, stresses that these apps are not just benign pastimes. He notes that the easy access and aggressive marketing strategies aimed at young adults can create an environment conducive to developing problematic gambling habits. This concern is particularly acute for college students, who may lack the financial stability and maturity to handle the risks involved.

Brian Petrotta, a professor of sports media at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, adds another layer to the discussion. He argues that the definition of fantasy sports has evolved dramatically, stating, “What is defined as fantasy sports has been stretched to the very edge of what it could be.” This shift in definition is relevant not only to players but also to the broader implications for college athletics and the students involved. He points out that even if a student's favorite team wins, frustration can arise if their individual betting outcomes do not align, merging fandom with financial stakes in a potentially harmful way.

For students like Evan Dixon, a senior majoring in criminal justice, the allure of fantasy sports apps is undeniable. “I think it definitely helps with their ability to be involved with sports programs and to attend and watch the games,” he shares. While some students view these platforms as a way to enhance their sports experience, the underlying risks cannot be overlooked.

The concerns extend beyond just individual behavior. The rise of fantasy sports apps has implications for athletes themselves. Increased engagement in these platforms can lead to harassment and pressure on players, who may find their performance scrutinized through the lens of gambling interests. This dynamic complicates the relationship between fans and athletes and raises ethical questions about the commercialization of college sports.

As the conversation continues, Petrotta will be further discussing these critical topics at the upcoming Alabama Summit on Sports and Gaming, where he is expected to delve into the implications of these blurred lines. For college students, as well as the institutions that support them, the blend of fantasy sports and traditional betting presents challenges that warrant careful consideration.

In summary, while the expansion of legalized sports betting and the popularity of fantasy sports apps may seem like harmless fun, experts warn that they can foster an environment ripe for gambling addiction and mental health issues among college students. As this trend continues to evolve, the responsibility lies with educators, policymakers, and technology companies to ensure that the well-being of young adults remains a priority amidst the growing enthusiasm for sports wagering.