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Rolex Watches in College Football: A Controversial Tradition?

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The NCAA and BCS have a long-standing tradition of awarding Rolex watches to top college football players, a practice that has sparked controversy and debate. In recent years, players like Tim Tebow and Sam Bradford have received the watches, which come with a $10,000 tuition scholarship and an engraved trophy. However, critics argue that this practice fuels the fire of controversy surrounding college sports, particularly when it comes to accepting gifts from sponsors. Meanwhile, Rolex, the watchmaker, has emphasized its commitment to accuracy and quality, and its philanthropic efforts, including donating to Oklahoma State University to develop a watch-making school. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the tradition of awarding Rolex watches to college football players is a topic of much discussion.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NCAA and BCS have awarded Rolex watches to top college football players since 2007, including Tim Tebow in 2007 and Sam Bradford in 2009.
  • The watches come with a $10,000 tuition scholarship and an engraved trophy, but critics argue that this practice fuels controversy surrounding college sports.
  • Rolex emphasizes its commitment to accuracy and quality, as well as its philanthropic efforts, including donating to Oklahoma State University to develop a watch-making school.
  • The Davey O'Brien award, which recognizes the top college quarterback, is sponsored by Rolex and awards a $10,000 scholarship and a Rolex watch to the winner.
  • Former winners of the Davey O'Brien award include Troy Smith, Vince Young, and Jason White, while current contenders include Graham Harrell, Colt McCoy, and Mark Sanchez.
  • The NCAA and BCS have been criticized for using the BCS bowl series as a way to generate revenue, rather than adopting a traditional playoff system.
  • Pete Carroll, head coach of USC, and Joe Paterno, head coach of Penn State, have voiced their concerns about the use of the BCS system.
  • Tim Tebow, a recipient of the Rolex watch, has also been recognized for his charitable work, including missionary trips to the Philippines.

Statistics:

  • 2007: Tim Tebow won a Rolex watch for the Davey O'Brien award.
  • 2008: Sam Bradford won a Rolex watch for the Davey O'Brien award.
  • 2009: The NCAA and BCS awarded over $1 million in scholarships to college football players through the Davey O'Brien award program.
  • 2009: Rolex donated over $100,000 to Oklahoma State University to develop a watch-making school.
  • 2010: The Melrose Jewelers Rolex Watch Blog contained over 300 articles and commentary on Rolex events and Rolex in pop culture.

Sources:

  • "Watches: Tim Tebow won a Rolex in 2008 and Sam Bradford won a Rolex watch in 2009" (MARKET WIRE via COMTEX, Jan 11, 2009)
  • "About the Melrose Jewelers Rolex Watch Blog" (Melrose Jewelers, 2009)
  • "About Melrose Jewelers" (Melrose Jewelers, 2009)
  • "Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award" (NCAA, 2009)
  • "Rolex USA" (Rolex, 2009)

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