Any normal year, it is always good to look at your sport and analyze, discuss & look at the health of the sport you spend so much time, money & energy on following. The NFL has been around for over 100 years and is really a look at the world we live in & human development! So, where are we?
State of the NFL 2020
1 - On thing positive about a pandemic(REALLY, there is positive in this?) is it brings feelings and emotions to the front of the line! People are more up front and honest because of this STUPID virus! The NFL, overall has handled it seemingly well to this point. The players & owners & NFL hierarchy are trying to get through the season. One thing the NFL has always done, since the beginning is survive! The 1920's to 1940's saw many teams fail, but the NFL made it. With testing, heavy fines for not following protocols, and constant focus, we made it to November of 2020. The NFL is a survivor!
2 - Fans & Support? This is a difficult one! It seems the last 100 years has seen the NFL on a steady move upward in popularity & financial success. As a "senior citizen" fan, I am not always happy with the players on the field celebrations, the way the game is being refereed, or all the $$$$$$$$$$, but, the "FAN" seems to be considered. Although, and for good reason, most of the focus is on the younger generation. This makes it somewhat uncomfortable for the over 60 age group! My question, as any business, will the NEW generation for as dedicated to their journey following their teams?
3 - Players? Oh baby, this could be an entire book. Overall, I think MOST have their feet planted firmly on the ground. But, the balance of power between ownership & players is critical, and best served at a 50-50 level. To me, the NBA and basketball is in trouble here! Players, decide where they will play and the same teams win every year. The NFL still seems to have a balance. Team competition, players share & owners share.
4 - Injuries? This has become an issue. The NFL is protecting the quarterbacks, but, from week to week, the injuries still seem to be a concern. My first issue is the NFL schedule. Thursday night football is my problem. Playing Sunday & then Thursday, to me, is a concern. Also, it may be time for an additional bye week during the season?? Another suggestion, training, size of players? Is bigger, really better? And, Non-contact injuries? Why? Is the turf really safe?
5 - A "touchy" subject. Racial issues???? I was a coach & educator for over 40 years. I have seen the progress! I have lived the progress! Why is the progress we have made over the years not discussed more?! We have come a long way, and I know the we need to keep working. But, latino lives, asian lives, all cultures are important! Focus on the good, work on the bad!
6 - Prediction? In life, things are either moving up or down, getting better or declining. I will predict that people will begin to find other ways to spend their time & money. This may be the peak of age NFL and other sports, other activities, will consume our lives? Time will tell!
Until then, .......................
Go Pack Go!
