that's an argument for the lottery not being necessary since it hasn't led to these big turnarounds.
now, if you're tanking for a USC QB, you obviously don't respect your job security, but football has so many positions that you feel you could find a spectacular talent, especially later. It's easier to talk yourself into thinking someone in rounds 2-3 is gonna be spectacular for your team.
the #1 pick uniquely puts a spotlight on your team for months and sells hope. That's the main immediate benefit of tanking, but you can sell that hope just by drafting a QB if you need one.