The modern environment is ruthlessly capitalistic, nobody else is watching out for these kid's best interests beyond the immediate impact it has on their lives/earnings so they've got to make it happen themselves.

If a guy thinks a bowl game could showcase his skills and make a difference that's their decision, but by and large if you've got a family, you need to make the best decision for them. A college degree in my mind is not a viable fallback plan for football players who've been focused on sports their entire lives