Big Ten unveils new measures to protect integrity of games amid Iowa’s gambling allegations

IOWA CITY — In the wake of allegations of at least four current and former Iowa football players betting on their own games, the Big Ten Conference has unveiled new measures to protect the integrity of its competitions.

The Big Ten will partner with U.S. Integrity to “enhance monitoring efforts and provide additional educational resources” to prevent prohibited gambling activity, the conference said in a news release. The conference also will require teams to release an athlete availability report at least two hours before each game.

“Enhanced transparency through availability reporting and partnering with U.S. Integrity strengthens our efforts to protect those who participate in our games as well as the integrity of the games themselves,” Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti said in the news release.

U.S. Integrity already works with the SEC, Pac-12 and Big 12 along with some pro sports leagues and sportsbooks, according to its website.

The NCAA has leveled sanctions against 11 current Iowa athletes following its three-plus-month gambling probe. The university has declined to name specific players, citing a federal student privacy law, with the exception of defensive lineman Noah Shannon.

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