A recent poll shows that American sports fans are not surprised that many athletes will squander their shot at education -- because they or someone else has decided that football should be the No . 1 priority while they are in school , because their classes must fit into practice schedules or because their goals are set by athletic departments rather than academic advisers . Oregon : Only 24 % feel programs like Oregon , Ohio State find academic - athletic balance . 3 of 4 of those polled say competitive pressure of universities warps school priorities . Scandals , graduation ##s indicate American colleges are jealous , expert said .
Oregon : Only 24 % feel programs like Oregon , Ohio State find academic - athletic balance . 3 of 4 of those polled say competitive pressure of universities warps school priorities . Scandals , graduation ##s indicate American colleges are jealous , expert said .