I would agree with you if it was simply a small amount of sports betting, but he bet on IOWA SPORTS at least 6 times according to his posts. This type of closely held situation is an egregious mistake and many similar situations abound - NFL players are being given year-long suspensions like they are candy because of stuff like this.
The missed meeting stuff is just a distraction, no one really needs a meeting to know the consequences of this crap if you have the slightest involvement in athletics - even if you're a college kid.
And before you ask, I'm 1000% positive I'd have the same take no matter who got nailed. I don't think this is is something that "everybody" is doing. Sure, lots of kids are gambling but extremely doubtful that most all are stupid enough to bet on your own school or in your own sport. Even in the Iowa situation across many sports only a very small percentage of athletes were foolish enough to do that. Everyone knows it's a huge no-no because it creates situations that can challenge the integrity of a sporting contest, so the regulatory authorities at every level are harsh with the penalties they levy. You'd have to be in a bubble not to know this.
He lost 1 year of eligibility out of 5 that he was granted. How could you expect less?
If you're bent out of shape about the "permanent" ban impact affecting his ability to coach at the NCAA level at some time in the future, I would agree with you if I didn't suspect that if in a few years, young Nelson could apply for reinstatement if he is afforded the opportunity and no additional incidents in the meantime.
Don't take this as combative, but I really don't understand the takes that losing a year over this is too harsh on the individual. I really am interested in hearing your reasoning behind your take.
I removed the bad part, so you could read the rest in relative comfort.