Does the NFL Usually Play on Christmas?

Every year, people around the world celebrate Christmas as a time of joy, love, and togetherness. It is a holiday that brings families and friends together, with traditions such as gift-giving, decorating Christmas trees, and enjoying a delicious feast. For many, Christmas also means watching football games on TV. The National Football League (NFL) is known for its exciting games and dedicated fan base. But, does the NFL usually play on Christmas? In this article, we will explore the history of the NFL’s involvement in Christmas and how it has become a tradition for many football fans.

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The History of the NFL Playing on Christmas

Early Years

The NFL was founded on August 20, 1920, and has since become one of the most popular sports leagues in the United States. In its early years, the NFL did not have any games scheduled on Christmas Day. This was mainly due to the fact that Christmas was considered a sacred holiday and most businesses were closed, including football stadiums. Additionally, the NFL season would typically end before Christmas, making it impossible for any games to be played.

First Christmas Game

It wasn’t until 1971 that the NFL played its first game on Christmas Day. The game was between the Dallas Cowboys and the Minnesota Vikings, and it was a significant event in American sports history. The Cowboys’ owner, Clint Murchison Jr., had been pushing for a Christmas Day game for several years but had faced opposition from other team owners. However, in 1971, the league agreed to allow the Cowboys to host a Christmas Day game, and it was a huge success. The game had high ratings and sparked the beginning of a new tradition for the NFL.

Christmas Games Become a Tradition

Following the success of the first Christmas Day game, the NFL decided to continue the tradition. From 1971 to 2000, the Dallas Cowboys were the only team to consistently play on Christmas Day. They became known as the “Christmas Day team” and had a record of 14-2 on this holiday. However, in 2004, the NFL started scheduling more games on Christmas Day, with different teams getting the chance to play. This decision was met with criticism from some fans, who believed that football should not be played on such a sacred holiday. Despite this, the tradition continued, and now multiple games are played every Christmas, giving fans more options to watch their favorite teams.

Why Does the NFL Play on Christmas?

Increased Viewership

The primary reason why the NFL plays on Christmas Day is for increased viewership. As mentioned earlier, the first Christmas game between the Cowboys and the Vikings had high ratings. This trend has continued over the years, with Christmas Day games consistently ranking among the most-watched games of the season. The NFL is a business, and playing on Christmas means more eyes on the TV screens, which translates to higher revenue for the league.

Competing with Other Sports Leagues

Another reason why the NFL plays on Christmas is to compete with other major sports leagues. December is a busy month for sports, with the NBA and NHL also having games scheduled on Christmas Day. By playing on Christmas, the NFL can attract viewers who may not be interested in basketball or hockey, thus increasing their market share. It also helps the NFL maintain its position as the most popular sports league in the United States.

How Are Teams Chosen to Play on Christmas?

Rotation System

Since 2004, the NFL has implemented a rotation system to determine which teams get to play on Christmas. This ensures that all teams get the opportunity to play on this holiday. The rotation system works by alternating between conferences each year. For example, in 2020, it was the AFC’s turn to play on Christmas, so two AFC teams were selected to play. The following year, it will be the NFC’s turn, and two NFC teams will get the chance to play on Christmas.

Impact of COVID-19

In 2020, due to the ongoing pandemic, the NFL had to make some changes to its schedule, including the Christmas Day games. Originally, there were only two games scheduled for Christmas, one in the AFC and one in the NFC, as per the rotation system. However, due to several games being postponed earlier in the season, the NFL added a third game on Christmas Day. This was done to accommodate all the postponed games and give fans more football to watch on this holiday.

How Do Fans Feel About the NFL Playing on Christmas?

Mixed Reactions

The decision to play on Christmas has always been met with mixed reactions from fans. Some fans enjoy having more football to watch on Christmas, while others feel that it takes away from the holiday spirit. Many fans also believe that the players and team staff should have the day off to spend with their families, just like many other professions do. However, for die-hard football fans, watching their favorite teams play on Christmas is a tradition they look forward to every year.

Criticism from Religious Groups

The NFL has received criticism from religious groups for playing on Christmas. Some view it as disrespectful to the holiday and believe that it goes against the true meaning of Christmas. In response, the NFL has stated that they do not intend to disrespect anyone’s religious beliefs and that the games are purely for entertainment purposes.

FAQs about the NFL Playing on Christmas

1. How many games are usually played on Christmas by the NFL?

Typically, there are two games scheduled on Christmas Day, one in the AFC and one in the NFC. However, due to the pandemic, a third game was added in 2020.

2. Has the NFL always played on Christmas?

No, the first Christmas Day game was played in 1971, and it has become a tradition since then.

3. Why does the NFL play on Christmas?

The NFL primarily plays on Christmas for increased viewership and to compete with other major sports leagues.

4. How are teams chosen to play on Christmas?

Teams are chosen through a rotation system, alternating between conferences each year.

5. Do fans support the NFL playing on Christmas?

Fans have mixed feelings about the NFL playing on Christmas, with some enjoying the tradition and others feeling that it takes away from the holiday spirit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the NFL has become a part of many people’s Christmas celebrations. From its humble beginnings in 1971 to now being a tradition, the NFL has successfully incorporated itself into the holiday season. While there is still criticism surrounding the league’s decision to play on this sacred holiday, one thing is certain – football fans will continue to tune in every Christmas to watch their favorite teams battle it out on the field.