Apparently, there’s a rumor making the rounds that Florida quarterback John Brantley suffered an injury during the loss to Alabama that’s severe enough to call into question his availability for this weekend’s game against LSU.
Offensive coordinator Steve Addazio told the Gainesville Sun that there’s no truth to the rumor. A school spokesperson told the same paper that Brantley is fine and is expected to play Saturday.
That, however, hasn’t stopped the sportsbooks from taking the rumor very seriously. According to the Sun, several casinos have removed the Florida-LSU game Saturday from their boards on the strength of the rumors.
“We’re hearing that (Brantley) is questionable,” said Jay Kornegay, Sportsbook Director at the Las Vegas Hilton. “Whenever we get confirmation, either way, what his status is, if he’s playing or not, that’ll make it a betting game again.”
Brantley is scheduled to meet with the media Tuesday afternoon, although he said on Monday that while he’s “a bit sore... It’s nothing major.” The starter added that he expects to practice throughout the week.
However, when those whose livelihood depends on getting the most accurate information possible on every facet of every game takes what’s supposedly a rumor this seriously, it’s something that should be watched, regardless of whatever denials are being put out there by the school.