OT: Is NFL viewership in a downward spiral?

[Caliknight]

Well you don't have to watch it :)

Viewership of the MLS is definitely on the rise. It pales in comparison to the NFL currently, but it definitely trending up, one might argue remarkably so. Better players are coming, more money is starting to flow and proper facilities have been built. The next big thing for the league will be free agency.

http://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2016/07/27/tv-ratings-mls-are-last-year-all-espn-platforms

 

[RU-05]

One of the big problems is not being able to relate to a team. Outside of the QB and maybe one or two other players, the rosters turn over every year.

Someone noted this way early in the thread, and it's something I never really considered, but I can def see it as a factor.

I think parity in general has hurt. Even as a Giant fan with 2 recent superbowls, the entire Eli era has been very mediocre. Who get's excited about mediocre?

Another big issue is the injuries. The game is so violent, and the injuries are so common, it compounds what was mentioned above in that the starting players from week to week, let alone year to year are constantly changing.

 

[zappaa]

Road House? Like, with Patrick Swayze? As in "it's just pain and pain don't hurt"?

Yea
This is my town, and don't you ever forget it.

 

[ashokan]

Was just watching an old Giants clip from 80s. Parcells and Belichick are on snowy sideline with frosted breath and big gloves. Giants vaunted goal line defense vs Elway. Summerall and Madden making the calls ("Now this is football down here!"). There were no officials taking over the game. No celetardations after every play. Makes me miss football before the office guys fecked it up

Of course you have to watch the video on YouTube since NFL blocked it showing here. Just another brick in the stall.

 

[Debtbubble]

Protesting the national anthem is accepted. See ya good luck.

 

[topdecktiger]

Exactly my point. We have had murderers, rapest, child abuse, manslaughter(drunk driving) and this didn't turn anyone away but non violent protest will. That is sad.
On the other hand, I don't believe this is the cause of viewership going down.

But the ratings weren't going down when all this others stuff happened. If all these other things you named were the deciding factor, then the ratings should have been going down in previous years. That fact that it's just now that the ratings are going down indicated the things you named aren't the catalyst.

 

[yesrutgers01]

But the ratings weren't going down when all this others stuff happened. If all these other things you named were the deciding factor, then the ratings should have been going down in previous years. That fact that it's just now that the ratings are going down indicated the things you named aren't the catalyst.

And that is exactly my point about how sad that is and what it says about NFL fans that have stopped watching because of a non violent protest(like it or not) but did not stop watching when violent crimes are being committed by players.

 

[mdh2003]

For anyone still not sure that RU football has the most complainers of any fanbase in the world, I present to you four pages of football message board about how our fans don't like to watch football.

Fanu - en fuego!

 

[ashokan]

And that is exactly my point about how sad that is and what it says about NFL fans that have stopped watching because of a non violent protest(like it or not) but did not stop watching when violent crimes are being committed by players.

Don't think those are similar. The violent acts weren't against the fans. The dissing of flag and anthem is a slander on fans values and its personal. A quarter of US has some experience with military and that alone will turn many people off. Slavery and the Axis powers were beat under that flag, Civil rights came about because of that flag. People died under that flag and still serve under that flag (and they have to stop anything they are doing to salute when they hear anthem).

Now a washed-up but rich QB gets a radical girlfriend who wants him to help slander cops (also respected a lot by public) and people are supposed to celebrate a misguided protest because its protected by first amendment act. Even a dingbat like Ruth Bader Ginsburg said protests are "dumb and disrespectful". Kappy said he wanted to start a dialogue but he just closed it off. Maybe next he'll dis mothers on Mother's Day because his put him down. Might as well join the Westboro people.

 

[topdecktiger]

Kappy said he wanted to start a dialogue but he just closed it off.

That's the key to it right there. He never wanted to start a dialogue. He just wanted to lecture people.

 

[yesrutgers01]

Don't think those are similar. The violent acts weren't against the fans. The dissing of flag and anthem is a slander on fans values and its personal. A quarter of US has some experience with military and that alone will turn many people off. Slavery and the Axis powers were beat under that flag, Civil rights came about because of that flag. People died under that flag and still serve under that flag (and they have to stop anything they are doing to salute when they hear anthem).

Now a washed-up but rich QB gets a radical girlfriend who wants him to help slander cops (also respected a lot by public) and people are supposed to celebrate a misguided protest because its protected by first amendment act. Even a dingbat like Ruth Bader Ginsburg said protests are "dumb and disrespectful". Kappy said he wanted to start a dialogue but he just closed it off. Maybe next he'll dis mothers on Mother's Day because his put him down. Might as well join the Westboro people.

So, you spoke to him and or his family and know his personal reasons for what he is doing?

 

[cicero grimes]

The games just take too long. Every penalty call requires a Geneva Convention of officials. Each replay lasts longer than a showing of Cleopatra. Every first down is an event and TD's become rehearsals for Dancing With The Stars. Add in at least 10 commercial breaks per half and there is no action or flow to speak of. I gave up on the NFL ten plus years ago and do not miss it.

 

[ashokan]

So, you spoke to him and or his family and know his personal reasons for what he is doing?

Didn't have to. Kappy gave his reasons and they aren't impressive. His own mom dissed him on twitter. Protests began after Kappy began relationship with Muslim activist DJ.


"Heidi Russo, the birth mother of the 49ers quarterback who has been refusing to stand for the national anthem, told Kaepernick — publicly, on Twitter — he is bringing shame to the family and the country."

Colin Kaepernick’s birth mom ironically shames him on Twitter
http://nypost.com/2016/08/30/colin-kaepernicks-birth-mom-ironically-shames-him-on-twitter/

Kaepernick social media posts laud Black Lives Matter, Black Panthers since dating activist DJ
http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2016/...-black-panthers-since-dating-activist-dj.html

 

[RUtrumpet92]

I went to the United States Marine Band ("the President's Own") concert on Monday night. Of course at the start of the show, they asked everyone to please stand for the playing of the National Anthem. My mind immediately went to Kaepernick as the entire audience stood.

He and his fellow anthem protestors are not the main reason I am watching the NFL less this season. But when the NFL refused a request from the Cowboys to wear something in honor of the police officers killed in Dallas this summer, yet tolerates the anthem kneeling/sitting, you better believe it is a factor for me and many others.

BTW the band concert was PHENOMENAL and I strongly recommend seeing them if you get the chance. So talented and so moving!

 

[FanuSanu52]

Didn't have to. Kappy gave his reasons and they aren't impressive. His own mom dissed him on twitter. Protests began after Kappy began relationship with Muslim activist DJ.


"Heidi Russo, the birth mother of the 49ers quarterback who has been refusing to stand for the national anthem, told Kaepernick — publicly, on Twitter — he is bringing shame to the family and the country."

Colin Kaepernick’s birth mom ironically shames him on Twitter
http://nypost.com/2016/08/30/colin-kaepernicks-birth-mom-ironically-shames-him-on-twitter/

Kaepernick social media posts laud Black Lives Matter, Black Panthers since dating activist DJ
http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2016/...-black-panthers-since-dating-activist-dj.html

Think his birth mother dissed him worse when she left him to be adopted by a different family.

 

[tico brown]

These games last so Damm long that football coaches cant wait to go to the bathroom...

http://deadspin.com/washington-coach-pulls-out-dong-pees-freely-before-the-1788166113

 

[Armor and Sword]

What is the NFL doing well? London games...really cool and useful to wake up and have a game on at 9:30 AM.

I take this back. Crap games are scheduled in London because they schedule the bottom teams in the divisions. Last years Giants/Eagles loser was sent to London to play the Rams. It's like the Premier League sending teams slated for relegation to play a Spring match in the USA, instead of sending us Man City Vs. Liverpool.

As for the national anthem, it seems to be networks have been showing more anthems this season, especially ESPN since they have the time to do it, maybe looking for kneelers. Usually, the Anthem is done before they start the 1PM and 4:25 telecasts.

 

[retired711]

I believe the custom of playing The Star-Spangled Banner goes back to America's entry into the First World War in 1917. That was actually before The Star-Spangled Banner became our national anthem; there was no anthem before the early 1930s. I have always liked the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner because playing it reminds people that, despite our rivalries in sports, we are one nation. I just wish the song were easier to sing well. (I've had Phillies Sunday tickets for over a decade, and I am now *quite* experienced in hearing the song!) I do not like the idea of players kneeling. I understand concern over the treatment of blacks and other minorities, but kneeling is just a symbolic gesture; It would be better if the players were to donate money to worthy charities that help minorities, especially minority children.

BTW, Phillies games also feature the singing of God Bless America during the 7th inning stretch. Although this is a much easier song to sing, youi'd be amazed at what some "singers" do to it.

 

[retired711]

I believe the custom of playing The Star-Spangled Banner goes back to America's entry into the First World War in 1917. That was actually before The Star-Spangled Banner became our national anthem; there was no anthem before the early 1930s. I have always liked the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner because playing it reminds people that, despite our rivalries in sports, we are one nation. I just wish the song were easier to sing well. (I've had Phillies Sunday tickets for over a decade, and I am now *quite* experienced in hearing the song!) I do not like the idea of players kneeling. I understand concern over the treatment of blacks and other minorities, but kneeling is just a symbolic gesture; It would be better if the players were to donate money to worthy charities that help minorities, especially minority children.

BTW, Phillies games also feature the singing of God Bless America during the 7th inning stretch. Although this is a much easier song to sing, youi'd be amazed at what some "singers" do to it.

I haven't read this story yet, but it seems that TV viewership is declining in the Premier League as well as the NFL.http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/27/s...column-region&region=top-news&WT.nav=top-news

 

[yesrutgers01]

Didn't have to. Kappy gave his reasons and they aren't impressive. His own mom dissed him on twitter. Protests began after Kappy began relationship with Muslim activist DJ.


"Heidi Russo, the birth mother of the 49ers quarterback who has been refusing to stand for the national anthem, told Kaepernick — publicly, on Twitter — he is bringing shame to the family and the country."

Colin Kaepernick’s birth mom ironically shames him on Twitter
http://nypost.com/2016/08/30/colin-kaepernicks-birth-mom-ironically-shames-him-on-twitter/

Kaepernick social media posts laud Black Lives Matter, Black Panthers since dating activist DJ
http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2016/...-black-panthers-since-dating-activist-dj.html

You are seriously the dumbest person alive if you are going to quote a woman(not his mother but the body who birthed him).
His 'mother' is an absolutly wonderful person who can elequently tell you who her son is and his reasons for what he is doing.
He is grateful for how lucky his is and aware how bad it easily could have been.
Yes, I have spoken to Teresa. Some here, may even figure out how...
Again, kneeling during the Anthem, I can't say I am a fan but I get it.

 

[ashokan]

You are seriously the dumbest person alive if you are going to quote a woman(not his mother but the body who birthed him).
His 'mother' is an absolutly wonderful person who can elequently tell you who her son is and his reasons for what he is doing.
He is grateful for how lucky his is and aware how bad it easily could have been.
Yes, I have spoken to Teresa. Some here, may even figure out how...
Again, kneeling during the Anthem, I can't say I am a fan but I get it.

Meh not impressed by any compliments or insults. His REAL mother disowned him twice. I can understand his self-loathing and need for attention (not to mention his sketchy girlfriend). All the "look-at-me" tats were a clue too.

I any case, all the mother talk reminded me of a King Solomon story. Two women were fighting over a child - both told authorities they were the mother. The two women and child were brought to King Solomon. The women made their cases but Solomon said he couldn't tell who the real mother was and ordered the child cut in half so each woman could have a part. One woman screamed hysterical. Solomon knew then that that as the real mother.

So it is with the people who would call themselves Americans but are chill with watching it get dissed and hacked-up by dopes, A better class of people see the problem for what it is and aren't fooled by high sounding excuses

 

[topdecktiger]

You are seriously the dumbest person alive if you are going to quote a woman(not his mother but the body who birthed him).
His 'mother' is an absolutly wonderful person who can elequently tell you who her son is and his reasons for what he is doing.
He is grateful for how lucky his is and aware how bad it easily could have been.
Yes, I have spoken to Teresa. Some here, may even figure out how...
Again, kneeling during the Anthem, I can't say I am a fan but I get it.

The problem is Kaepernick himself has explained why he's protesting, and much of it is not convincing.

 

[Caliknight]

http://boston.cbslocal.com/2016/10/27/nfl-ratings-national-anthem-protests-poll/

NFL ratings being down might be attributed to the "protests" more than originally thought.

 

[LC-88]

But when the NFL refused a request from the Cowboys to wear something in honor of the police officers killed in Dallas this summer, yet tolerates the anthem kneeling/sitting, you better believe it is a factor for me and many others.

You nailed it. Skrew the NFL.

 

[LevaosLectures]

Protesting the national anthem is accepted. See ya good luck.

Oh lord.

 

[yesrutgers01]

So, viewership is down on the Prime time games. Which Monday and Thursday match ups suck and have gone against the debates.
Sunday games, not so much...
??????????
Last time this happened? 4 years ago

 

[RU22]

I watch the NFL,but various parts of the whole product sucks. The ESPN main studio crew is horrible now. They never should have canned Keyshawn, Cris Carter, Tom Jackson. Randy Moss tries too hard to be funny. I'm really tired of turning on WIP for an Eagles game and finding out every part of the game is commercially sponsored (The CarSense Opening Drive, the Acme First Down, the Nova Care first penalty, The Herr's potato chip sack, - I'm making most of these up but it's constant and annoying). I also find that I have less time for Sunday football. Got kids to raise and a house to maintain. Thursday night and Monday night games suck and should be done away with. Tired of the various good cause campaigns. A whole month of October to wear pink for breast cancer awareness? Is there anyone in the USA not aware of breast cancer by now? Plus the crappy beer sponsors. How about Dogfish Head and New Belgium become sponsors instead?

What is the NFL doing well? London games...really cool and useful to wake up and have a game on at 9:30 AM. Bringing the draft to other cities. NBC Sunday Night Football, usually very watchable.

Baby boomer males are dying and millennials are not into spectator sports. There is one study that states 52% of millennials do not own a TV set.

 

[RU_Planning]

I heard a guy on the radio earlier today that mentioned that the way ratings are calculated now changed recently (radio went through a similar change a couple years ago) and it has affected ratings.

 

[RUaMoose]

WS game 5 tops SNF in TV ratings. And I should note the SNF game was a compelling matchup with "America's Team" participating:

http://deadline.com/2016/10/cubs-in...ay-night-football-nbc-nfl-mlb-fox-1201845375/

 

[ponyfoot19]

Last night's World Series game drew about 25% more viewers then America's Team vs the cheesesteaks.

 

[GeorgeStreet]

I'd rather watch EPL or Champions League, or college (mens and women's) soccer than watch that four-hour long, constant loop commercial called the NFL.

 

[newwavedave1]

Over the top celebrations after even the most routine of plays. The way too many prima donnas have ruined the game for me. Another symptom of the selfie look at me generation.