NFL Expands...Again

It is the hope of NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell that by the 2010-2011 season, all 32 teams will be playing 17 or even 18 regular season games.  By doing this, the league will reduce it's preseason down to two games.  While this may seem like a fan's dream, there may be some hidden problems underneath.  First of all, less preseason games means less time to prepare for the real season which can impact the health and conditioning of the players as well as the overall product on the field.  With less time to prepare, the end result (i.e. the regular season) may not be up to fan's standards until the fourth or fifth week.  

Having a longer season also increases the risk of more injuries occurring to big name superstars throughout the league.  A 16-game season is grueling as it is, but an 18-game season could potentially be dangerous.  

From a marketing point of view, the length of the season has some pros and cons as well.  By lengthening the season, the NFL is able to generate more revenue from its sponsors.  It may also open up doors for new marketers to enter  as well.  Some downsides to this season-lengthening are the before-mentioned inherent risks associated with the loss of star players.  The NFL relies heavily on the health and success of its superstars.  If stars are becoming injured more often than not, marketers may began pulling their sponsorships and begin searching for alternative venues for reaching a specified market.

As a fan of football and the NFL, I would be in favor of the season being lengthened.  However, as an aspiring marketing professional myself, I understand the risk-reward scenario that exists.

May God be with you Goodell..

Be Well