DeWine, Tressel place ‘friendly’ bets on Ohio State game after betting opposition

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel have placed “friendly” bets on the Buckeyes’ upcoming game against “That State Up North,” even though DeWine previously opposed the practice of betting, going as far as saying he regrets his decision to legalize it.

The Ohio State Buckeyes will travel to Ann Arbor, Michigan, on Saturday for a showdown with the Michigan Wolverines. DeWine, a Republican, placed his “friendly” wager against Democratic Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, while Tressel, a Republican, placed his wager against Democratic Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II.

“Every year, this rivalry brings out the best of Ohio — our pride, passion and belief in the Buckeyes,” DeWine said in a release. “I’m confident that Coach Ryan Day and this Buckeyes team will bring home the win. Ohioans know what toughness looks like, and we will see that on full display this Saturday. Go Bucks!”

Tressel, who was Ohio State’s football coach, said in another press release that he will wear the Ohio State vest if the Buckeyes win the game.

“The Game is one of the greatest traditions in all of sports. I’ve never been shy of where I stand on this rivalry and that hasn’t changed,” Tressel said. “The toughness, discipline and focus of this year’s Ohio State team remind me of the groups from the past. I like our chances heading into The Game and have great faith in our guys. Let’s go Bucks!”

Meanwhile, Kelly Breidigan, MSW, a clinical professor in the College of Social Work at Ohio State University, recently warned people about the gambling problems that some may face, telling WOSU Public Media that mental health experts are ready to help everyone who may struggle with this addiction.

The recent news about DeWine and Tressel betting on the upcoming bets came after DeWine began pushing back against sports betting due to the Cleveland Guardians scandal.

DeWine praised MLB for restricting micro-prop betting, urging other sports leagues to do the same.

After previously legalizing adults 21 and older to place sports bets online, at casinos, at racinos and in many other places, DeWine recently regretted his decision, adding that he “would have preferred to have completely done away with the micro-prop bets.”

However, DeWine acknowledged that “there aren’t enough votes” to repeal the law.

“I’m not always right, but I can pretty much guarantee you that they’re not ready to do this,” he said.