The 2024 NFL season has kicked off to a promising start, with impressive TV ratings and a strong turnout for the Sunday games. According to recent data, the first five TV windows of the season averaged 19.86 million viewers, a 14% increase from the previous year. NBC’s Ravens-Chiefs Kickoff Game drew in 24.56 million viewers, with a boost in streaming impressions making up for a slight dip in TV deliveries. The Fox late-national window, featuring the Cowboys and Browns, also saw significant numbers, with 23.93 million viewers tuning in.
Despite these promising ratings, some fans have expressed disappointment with the quality of the games themselves. The prevalence of injuries to star players has led to a sense of mediocrity, with many teams struggling to field their best talent. This, combined with subpar quarterback play and questionable coaching decisions, has resulted in a lackluster product.
The rules of the game, which have been skewed to favor the passing game, have also been called into question. The abundance of flags being thrown on every play has led to a sense of frustration among fans, who are growing tired of the repetitive 3-and-outs and “dink and dunk” offensive schemes.
Many have attributed the decline in quarterback play to a lack of preparation and development at the college level, as well as poor coaching in the NFL. Others point to the dominance of defensive linemen, who are increasingly athletic and quick.
While some have suggested that the solution lies in revising the rules or improving coaching, others believe that the problem runs deeper. The constant influx of penalties, combined with the mounting injuries and lack of excitement, has led to a sense of disillusionment among fans.
Despite this, many fans remain loyal to the NFL, preferring it to alternative leagues like the XFL or AFL. However, there is a growing sense of nostalgia for the days when football was more exciting, with fans longing for the thrill of watching exceptional players and coaches in action.
Leave a Reply