Baseball may be America’s pastime, but it’s not America’s preferred sport. Sorry, baseball!
While baseball is certainly ingrained in the nation’s cultural fabric, there’s no question that in recent decades football has risen to prominence. And that’s before Taylor Swift got involved!
From television ratings to youth participation, here are 10 compelling facts that illustrate football’s ascent to becoming our new national sport.
Television Ratings
Plain and simple, football dominates the ratings. The Super Bowl, in particular, has become a cultural phenomenon, drawing record-breaking viewership numbers year after year. In fact, this year’s Super Bowl became the most-watched television program of all time. But it’s not just the Super Bowl that brings in the ratings, as people tune in every Sunday, week after week, during the regular season.
Popularity Among Millennials
Surveys indicate that millennials are more likely to identify as football fans than baseball fans, reflecting a generational shift in sports preferences. The fast-paced action and spectacle of football seem to resonate with younger audiences, contributing to its growing popularity over the years.
Fantasy Football
It seems like everyone — even if they aren’t football fans! — participates in fantasy football. In fact, fantasy football has become a multi-billion-dollar industry, with millions of participants drafting teams, managing rosters, and competing for cash prizes. Social media has also gotten more people involved with fantasy football, as people are sharing their fun experiences online.
Youth Participation
Football remains the most popular sport among American youth, with millions of children and teenagers participating in organized leagues and programs across the country. The grassroots level of involvement in football underscores its widespread appeal and cultural significance. Because more kids play football when they’re young, they’re more likely to watch it as they get older!
Media Coverage
The rise of 24/7 sports media coverage has elevated football to new heights, with dedicated television networks, radio shows, podcasts, content creators, and other online platforms providing in-depth coverage year-round. You cannot turn on a TV during football season and not see something related to football. It’s truly everywhere!
Revenue and Sponsorship Deals
The NFL generates billions of dollars in revenue annually, fueled by lucrative television contracts, sponsorship deals, and merchandising opportunities. Major brands and corporations eagerly align themselves with football, recognizing its immense reach and influence. Because it is so lucrative, football is always on primetime television and social media.
International Appeal
While baseball remains largely confined to North America and select other countries — like Japan — football has achieved more global appeal. There are NFL games now played in London, Germany, Mexico, and, in 2024, Brazil! In fact, it does seem like it’s only a matter of time before the NFL decides to add another team in an international market. Maybe Mexico City, perhaps?!
Social Media
Football commands a significant presence on social media platforms, with NFL teams, players, and leagues boasting millions of followers. They do a great job engaging with fans and providing behind-the-scenes content, highlights, and interactive experiences. You can’t go on Instagram or TikTok during the football season without seeing some NFL team participating in a new social media trend!
Cultural Relevance
Football has permeated every aspect of American culture, from movies and television shows to music and fashion. References to the sport are ubiquitous, cementing its status as a central pillar of contemporary American identity.
National Events and Holidays
Football has become synonymous with national events and holidays, with Thanksgiving Day games and Super Bowl Sunday serving as annual traditions that bring families and communities together. Whether you like football or not, there’s a good chance you’ve played it or watched it with family on one of these major holidays!
