The NFL: America’s Favorite TV Show
In recent years, the NFL has transcended being just a professional football league. It has become a cultural phenomenon and America’s favorite TV show. Unlike most sitcoms, dramas, or reality shows, the NFL guarantees consistent ratings, no matter which network or streaming app broadcasts its games. The league has truly captured the hearts and attention of millions of Americans.
Just five years ago, only 61 of the most-watched TV broadcasts in America were NFL games. However, by 2021, that number had skyrocketed to 75 out of the top 100 most-watched television programs, as reported by NBC Sports. The following year, in 2022, the NFL claimed 82 spots in the top 100. Last year, all but seven of the top 100 TV broadcasts were professional football games, according to Sportico.
In fact, the only non-NFL programs that managed to crack the top 50 were the State of the Union Address and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Even prestigious events like The Oscars ranked a mere 60th. The Super Bowl, the pinnacle of American sports, consistently leads the way with millions of viewers tuning in each year. In 2023, the Super Bowl’s lead-out program also made the top 100.
This dominance of the TV ratings by the NFL is unprecedented. It marks the first time in history that a single sport, football, has owned the top 100 TV broadcasts. The league’s popularity shows no signs of slowing down, and this information couldn’t have come at a better time, with the playoffs just around the corner.
As Wild-Card Weekend approaches, the NFL continues to captivate fans across the nation. The league has strategically scheduled games over three days, extending the excitement. This weekend will feature thrilling matchups, including the Philadelphia Eagles versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night Football. The game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, which will be played in an expected blizzard in New York, is also generating immense anticipation. Other games, such as the Green Bay Packers versus the Dallas Cowboys and the Los Angeles Rams versus the Detroit Lions, will take place on Sunday.
However, there is one potential hiccup in this otherwise flawless plan. The Browns and Texans will kick off the weekend on Saturday afternoon, while the Chiefs and Dolphins will meet on Saturday night. The latter game will be broadcast on Peacock, NBC’s streaming app. This decision has raised concerns, as not everyone may be aware of the game being on a streaming platform. Bill Simmons, a prominent sports commentator, has criticized the move, calling it a potential disaster. However, looking at the bigger picture, the NFL’s decision to embrace streaming apps is a smart move.
Streaming apps have become the go-to platform for younger audiences, particularly Gen Z. They are more likely to watch content on their phones or tablets rather than traditional cable TV. While the cost of subscribing to multiple streaming apps may be approaching the prices of cable, it won’t change America’s addiction to watching football. The NFL understands this and is adapting to the changing landscape of media consumption.
The numbers and facts speak for themselves. The NFL’s popularity continues to soar, and its partnership with streaming apps will only solidify its position as America’s favorite TV show. Even if the league doesn’t claim all 100 spots in the top TV broadcasts next year, it’s clear that football will remain a significant part of American culture.
As the playoffs kick off this weekend, fans eagerly anticipate the intense matchups and memorable moments that only the NFL can deliver. The league’s ability to captivate audiences and dominate TV ratings is a testament to its enduring appeal. So, grab your popcorn, gather your friends and family, and tune in to witness the excitement and drama of America’s favorite TV show – the NFL.
