Why I'll Still Be Watching the NFL at My House This Season

Seeing all of the posts from friends on social media lately, declaring that they will no longer watch the NFL, kind of reminds me of all those famous celebrities and musicians that said they were all going to move to Canada if their candidate didn't win the election in 2016. Did any of them actually move to Victoria, BC or Montreal or Edmonton when Donald Trump took office? I can't think of any off the top of my head.

When I see pals and acquaintances posting online that they are "done with the NFL" because of the league's political stance-of-the-moment, I have doubts that any of them will actually stop watching the games. I'm not even what most would consider a huge sports fan. I don't watch baseball (except when I need relaxing background noise for a nap) and I've never been into basketball much. Pro hockey games are fun to watch, but not if I can't be at an actual game. And the last time that happened was about 15 years ago.

Even me, Mr.-I-Barely-Like-Sports Guy, will be watching football this year, and here's why:

It's the one day a week, for a few hours at least, that all of my family gathers in the living room, all at the same time, to do something together. That might sound pathetic, but it's true.
On our team's game day, we all come together for a common goal. Well, mostly. Two of the kids insist on arguing over player stats, but otherwise, we're all on-board for our team to win. Team shirts, jerseys, and gear are worn by everyone, including the dogs.
I like the food! I like football food! Game days are usually go-all-out at my house. Junk food or a big pot of chili, whatever. Sundays and football and food are a great combo. I know it's going to be good and I'll probably have a bad belly on Monday.
I can deal with a few minutes of whatever political issue happens to precede the games. Would I personally prefer to see everyone stand for the national anthem? Sure. We all stand at my house and face the tv. I also try to understand and accept players who feel they need to kneel. Maybe even have a discussion with the kids about why. Once we get past that three minutes or so, it's almost four hours of escape from whatever headline is screaming from the news this week.

It's a game, it's a tradition, and it's something we enjoy. Will you be watching the NFL this year? Yes or no, send us a message on the free Hawk Mobile App, drop a comment below, or take the poll. I'd love to hear your thoughts.