They are allowed leniency in academic work. They score scholarships and favorable housing at college. The athletes are allowed to practice and play on expensive equipment that the school foots the bi ll for. These privileges are a give and take. You get the perks when you succeed, but you get reamed when you screw up.
Athletes have to be more careful in their actions than any other student.
When that image is tarnished by allegations of underage drinking or fighting, punishment must be doled out appropriately. The school looks to them to showcase the excellence of their institution. Younger kids look to athletes as their role models. After all, professors are never on the boxes of Wheaties. You get them because you are supposed to bring glory to those who support you.