"85% Chance of London hosting a regular season NFL game in 2006"

[GeneralDisorder]

During the Pro Bowl coverage, Sky had interview with an NFL official who reckons there's an 85% chance of the NFL bringing a regular season game to London late September/early October. It's likely to be an AFC match-up with possibly two Super Bowl contenders...

85%...? That's almost a done deal...

[redskin_rich]

A regular season game? How is that possible, a team and its ticket holders would lose a home game.

[Biggie]

That's a long flight. It'll probably be two Northeastern teams, like New England and Pittsburgh.

A regular season game? How is that possible, a team and its ticket holders would lose a home game.

They did that in Mexico.

[RedskinRyan]

They did that in Mexico.

they also did that with arizona and san fran...but this is two top teams they are talking about. im kind of against this. preseason, yeah sure. although i dunno, maybe a quality, meaningful NFL game in london would help the fanbase of NFLE.

[RedskinsDave]

I don't like it at all. I hated when the Yanks played games that counted in Japan and then came home with all kinds of illnesses from it. I just don't think it's fair to a team to have a "home" game moved to another country muchless another city. Of course it would be poetic justice if the game is a home game for the Giants.

[helimech24]

I don't like it at all. I hated when the Yanks played games that counted in Japan and then came home with all kinds of illnesses from it. I just don't think it's fair to a team to have a "home" game moved to another country muchless another city. Of course it would be poetic justice if the game is a home game for the Giants.As long as it isn't the Redskins, I really don't care either way. But it would be very ironic if the Giants were forced to play over there.

[danny's stogie]

I don't like it at all. I hated when the Yanks played games that counted in Japan and then came home with all kinds of illnesses from it. I just don't think it's fair to a team to have a "home" game moved to another country muchless another city. Of course it would be poetic justice if the game is a home game for the Giants.

That's a good idea Dave. It would never happen, but it would go a long way towards erasing the injustice. Somewhere Joe-T is reading this and seething.

[EberKain]

They should do it to take away one of giants home games, they did have an extra one this year.

[GeneralDisorder]

Apparently the two teams involved would receive their bye-week the week after playing. The official also suggested a rota system, whereby in say, 8 or 16 years, every team would 'host' 1 home game overseas...

If it does happen, I think the regular season should extended by 1 game to 17. All teams would play this one overseas game on the same weekend. Then no team gains an advantage. Agreed, some teams wouldn't have as far as others to travel - but you could alternate venues year on year. Then there's the not inconsiderable revenue each team would pick up...

Obviously, I'm all for it. I've been to 4 Redskins games over the past two seasons. Kinda feels like my loyalty is being rewarded...

In the 80's the NFL was massive in the UK - but they got complacent and took us for granted. There's a worldwide market for the NFL, they'd be wrong to let it slip a second time...

Not to mention the possiblity of an HR Tailgate in good ol' Landahn Tahn guv'nor...

:)

[smoak]

Obviously, I'm all for it. I've been to 4 Redskins games over the past two seasons. Kinda feels like my loyalty is being rewarded...
:)

For selfish reasons, I would be against it a little, but this is exactly why the NFL wants to do it. They need to cultivate their fans across the country and NFLE ain't getting it done.

[C-7]

Here in South America American football has been steadily growing in popularity over the last 5 years. It's nowhere close to soccer, but it has it's small fan base.

[RedskinsDave]

Sorry guys. I understand there is loyalty overseas but I don't think going to them at the expense of the U.S. fan makes any sense. I have no problem with preseason games but I guarantee you if a team goes over and loses they will blame the loss on the travel and the whole thing will go away.

[BraveSkin76]

A regular season game? How is that possible, a team and its ticket holders would lose a home game.


Same thing was done with Arizona and San Francisco last fall. I would relish such a game as I spent my first years after college working in Manchester and before SkySports, was a little difficult to get choice NFL games.

[flave1969]

Sorry to see that the General attitude of the NFL transmits into it's fans.

I watched year in and year out as 80,000 people filled Wembley Stadium for the American Bowl, yet it was pulled for little or no reason. We had the London Monarchs sell out Wembley for every home game in the inaugural World League season, then as Champions field a markedly poorer team the next year, then have the team taken away.

Fourteen thousand loyal Scottish Claymores fans had their team taken away despite being the third most attended team in any sport in Scotland.

A shirt that may cost you $74.95 plus postage from NFL.Com, will cost me $120 plus postage because I live in the UK.

We receive little or no reward for being fans of the game, so pardon me if a team loses a little Home Advantage when I know that it will be replaced with a support and enthusiasm that is rarely seen in the NFL.

If you are going to call yourself the World Champion then you should cater for the World stage. It seems OK to fleece us here but rewarding us with a game seems out of the question for some of you.

You could at least start with non playoff bound teams towards the end of the season. It would be a sell out.

[CNYSkinFan]

A regular season game? How is that possible, a team and its ticket holders would lose a home game.
Geee that would never happen in the nfl.....oh wait


Relief for victims; 27-10 victory for Giants

NFL.com wire reports

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (Sept. 19, 2005) -- To the New Orleans Saints, their bizarre "home" opener was unfair from the outset. And they played like they didn't want to be there in losing 27-10 to the New York Giants.

"They made this seem like the Super Bowl," quarterback Aaron Brooks said of the NFL and the hoopla after New Orleans had six turnovers and 13 penalties. "We played a team that outplayed us today, but it was way overdone. Setting up a stage, traveling out here, was uncalled for.

[redskin_rich]

Geee that would never happen in the nfl.....oh wait
Ok fine, next team that loses it's stadium due to a natural disaster can go play in England. :rolleyes:


And if they want to send some team, like Arizona, that can't even fill half of their stadium, thats fine too but no playoff teams with sold out stadiums, please.
Here's a thought, you want to see a game live, come to where they are played.

[HAWGZHEAD]

Jet lag, lack of focus from being in another country, and playing in an altogether unfamiliar environment and stadium? No thanks, not for my team in the regular season when every game counts. It sounds like a great idea for a pre-season game but that is it.

[GeneralDisorder]

Ok fine, next team that loses it's stadium due to a natural disaster can go play in England. :rolleyes:


And if they want to send some team, like Arizona, that can't even fill half of their stadium, thats fine too but no playoff teams with sold out stadiums, please.
Here's a thought, you want to see a game live, come to where they are played.

Thanks for the sanctimonious, patronising attitude. No, really...

I & other UK fans already do that - at a not inconsiderable cost. While millions of your countrymen sit on their arses and don't bother unless their team is in or on the verge of the playoffs.

As I already posted - increase the NFL season to seventeen games. 8 home, 8 away, 1 overseas. Drop one of the preseason games. Hey presto - everyone's a winner. I can't see where the problem lies.

And if you really want to carry on being so insular, as Flave says - stop calling yourselves World Champions...

[GeneralDisorder]

Jet lag, lack of focus from being in another country, and playing in an altogether unfamiliar environment and stadium? No thanks, not for my team in the regular season when every game counts. It sounds like a great idea for a pre-season game but that is it.

Hmmn. Cos you'll send Miami to play Buffalo in mid-December when they'll really feel at home. Or send the Dolphins 6 and a half hours away to play in a hostile stadium in Seattle...

[whistleandthumb]

Here's a thought, you want to see a game live, come to where they are played.

What a novel concept!! Playing regular season games in your own stadium!! Maybe the NFL should try that!!

This is the worst idea ever. Why don't we just have regular season games played in March or April. Hell, it'd just be ONE game, and maybe the NFL could make a lot of money since it'd be the one game played in the looooong offseason.

I'm convinced now that the NFL is run by that office of monkeys in the careerbuilder.com ads.

[HAWGZHEAD]

Hmmn. Cos you'll send Miami to play Buffalo in mid-December when they'll really feel at home. Or send the Dolphins 6 and a half hours away to play in a hostile stadium in Seattle...It may not effect them at all but I don't know that and it isn't something worth risking for me. Having them play overseas for some sort of novelty act seems unnecessary and causes at least one team to lose home field advantage in one of their games. Doing this in the regular season would be ridiculous IMO.

[Santheb]

Thanks for the sanctimonious, patronising attitude. No, really...

I & other UK fans already do that - at a not inconsiderable cost. While millions of your countrymen sit on their arses and don't bother unless their team is in or on the verge of the playoffs.

As I already posted - increase the NFL season to seventeen games. 8 home, 8 away, 1 overseas. Drop one of the preseason games. Hey presto - everyone's a winner. I can't see where the problem lies.

And if you really want to carry on being so insular, as Flave says - stop calling yourselves World Champions...

Um, maybe its because millions of our countrymen can't get to the games, because they can't get tickets or they can't afford the tickets, or they just can't make the drive or something. You're coming off really bad here man, asking to change the entire schedule just so games can be played in another freaking country.

And that statement is stupid about us "sitting on our arses." Maybe you don't know, but the Skins have sold out every game in every season for how many years now?

I don't see how you can do this to two probably playoff bound teams. Maybe if it was two teams with no playoff futures, then it'd be better. But every game counts in the regular season.

edit: and they can call themselves World Champions because this is the only league that plays American football that people actually care about.

[redskin_rich]

Thanks for the sanctimonious, patronising attitude. No, really...

I & other UK fans already do that - at a not inconsiderable cost. While millions of your countrymen sit on their arses and don't bother unless their team is in or on the verge of the playoffs.

As I already posted - increase the NFL season to seventeen games. 8 home, 8 away, 1 overseas. Drop one of the preseason games. Hey presto - everyone's a winner. I can't see where the problem lies.

And if you really want to carry on being so insular, as Flave says - stop calling yourselves World Champions...
I didn't mean to come off as sactimonious or patronizing but I think its being selfish to risk competitive balance for the benefit of those of you overseas to see a game in person. This is not like Baseball or Basketball, where there are throw away games. Every game counts and in this era of parity, I see it as stupid, too be frank, to make anybody go to play a real game in an exhibition setting.

Your 17 game proposal is interesting but I strongly doubt the NFL owners would agree to it.

As to the World Champions, I couldn't care less. I never use that phrase anyways. Super Bowl Champs, is what I say...

[Santheb]

As to the World Champions, I couldn't care less. I never use that phrase anyways. Super Bowl Champs, is what I say...

I've always said Super Bowl Champs as well, the only people I've really heard say World Champions are the guys on ESPN, and even then, its usually Chris Berman.

I hate Chris Berman.

[GeneralDisorder]

It may not effect them at all but I don't know that and it isn't something worth risking for me. Having them play overseas for some sort of novelty act seems unnecessary and causes at least one team to lose home field advantage in one of their games. Doing this in the regular season would be ridiculous IMO.

Novelty act...? Mate - I'm from the UK AND have followed the NFL and the Redskins for 25 years. And surprisingly enough, I'm not alone...

Pfeh! Novelty Act...

[HAWGZHEAD]

Novelty act...? Mate - I'm from the UK AND have followed the NFL and the Redskins for 25 years. And surprisingly enough, I'm not alone...

Pfeh! Novelty Act...It is a novelty act to me for the NFL to play a game overseas in the regular season consisting of 16 or even 17 games, where each one of them could make or break your season (see Redskins 2005 season), for no good reason except for you guys getting to see a live game.

[GeneralDisorder]

Um, maybe its because millions of our countrymen can't get to the games, because they can't get tickets or they can't afford the tickets, or they just can't make the drive or something. You're coming off really bad here man, asking to change the entire schedule just so games can be played in another freaking country.

And that statement is stupid about us "sitting on our arses." Maybe you don't know, but the Skins have sold out every game in every season for how many years now?

I don't see how you can do this to two probably playoff bound teams. Maybe if it was two teams with no playoff futures, then it'd be better. But every game counts in the regular season.

edit: and they can call themselves World Champions because this is the only league that plays American football that people actually care about.


Where to begin, eh...?

Have I suggested changing the WHOLE schedule...? No.
(btw, there's already an imbalance in the schedule in that not every team plays each other...)

My statement that a large number of Americans sit on their arses and only jump on the bandwagon when they have a winning team stands as valid. Yes, the Redskins might well be sold out year on year - but explain to me how many Eagles' fans got hold of tickets at FedEx in Week 17 in Spurrier's last season...?

"Um, maybe its because millions of our countrymen can't get to the games, because they can't get tickets or they can't afford the tickets, or they just can't make the drive or something."

Not valid. If I can make an 8 hour plane trip, then "can't make the drive" doesn't wash. Is there no public transport in the US...?

"edit: and they can call themselves World Champions because this is the only league that plays American football that people actually care about."

Yup. And you obviously want it to stay that way...

[Santheb]

Where to begin, eh...?

Have I suggested changing the WHOLE schedule...? No.
(btw, there's already an imbalance in the schedule in that not every team plays each other...)

My statement that a large number of Americans sit on their arses and only jump on the bandwagon when they have a winning team stands as valid. Yes, the Redskins might well be sold out year on year - but explain to me how many Eagles' fans got hold of tickets at FedEx in Week 17 in Spurrier's last season...?

eBay.

"Um, maybe its because millions of our countrymen can't get to the games, because they can't get tickets or they can't afford the tickets, or they just can't make the drive or something."

Not valid. If I can make an 8 hour plane trip, then "can't make the drive" doesn't wash. Is there no public transport in the US...?

Sure it's valid. You're willing to fly overseas to see a three hour sporting event. Good for you. Want a cookie?

"edit: and they can call themselves World Champions because this is the only league that plays American football that people actually care about."

Yup. And you obviously want it to stay that way...

Yeah, sorta.

[flave1969]

Um, maybe its because millions of our countrymen can't get to the games, because they can't get tickets or they can't afford the tickets, or they just can't make the drive or something. You're coming off really bad here man, asking to change the entire schedule just so games can be played in another freaking country.

If we can afford to come and watch games in the United States, and pick up tickets relatively easily if expensively, then you can do it there.

And that statement is stupid about us "sitting on our arses." Maybe you don't know, but the Skins have sold out every game in every season for how many years now?

Yes the Skins have. But there are many teams that have not. Also there are Hundreds if not Thousands of tickets available for Redskins games. When I considered coming to the tailgate two years ago I had a choice of nearly a 1000 tickets for the Tampa game. How many threads have you seen about opposition teams invading FedEx. They are getting those tickets from somewhere.

I don't see how you can do this to two probably playoff bound teams. Maybe if it was two teams with no playoff futures, then it'd be better. But every game counts in the regular season.

I agree with you here it is not the best preparation for Playoff teams, but there are games that could easily be played over here.

edit: and they can call themselves World Champions because this is the only league that plays American football that people actually care about.

Do you know why that is, have you ever bothered to look? Have you ever watched NFL Europe? In the 1980's there was over 120 organised teams playing regular seasons and playoff tournaments. There are still 64 teams in this country playing organised ball. What happens in NFL Europe is symptomatic of the NFL's attitude towards Football outside its borders. If it really wanted to develop the game abroard which it does not then it could, and it would be a massive success.

The reason more people do not watch NFL Europe is because we know we are watching second rate players only a handful of which might make it in the NFL and of whom one per team are from the home country. That isnt developing foreign talent or encouraging fans to invest heavily in the game.

If the NBA, NHL, and MLB had the same policy towards foreign talent think what those leagues would be like. If you think we do not produce athletes capable of playing, watch World Rugby and the athletes who play it for an example.

I have no problem calling the Superbowl winner World Champions but you need to recognise that the NFL willingly takes our Dollars at a higher rate than he does yours. there are millions of fans outside America we frankly deserve better than we get.

[wewantdallas]

I certainly respect and admire the UK fans' support of the Skins. I think it's great, actually, and I totally understand why you'd want to see a live game there.

The problem is, in my opinion, to do it in the regular season would be unfair to the teams in question, maybe not so much to the "away" team, but certainly to the home team.

You have to understand: Most teams treasure their home games, because the impact of a raucous crowd cheering predominantly for one team can NOT be underestimated. The opening day game against the Bears for instance...we (the crowd) were responsible for at least 3 false starts that knocked the Bears out of FG range at one point, preserving a 9-7 win. If we'd played that game in Chicago, I have no doubt we would've lost 10-9, which would have inevitably cost us a playoff berth. And the Dallas game at FedEx - the crowd kept the 'Girls from even having a chance to come back in that one.

I wish there was some better way to get an NFL game to you guys, but it seems to me that if there was a game on neutral territory--wherever that might be--in the regular season, there would certainly be no "home field advantage," hence a HUGE advantage would be lost by one of those teams.

If every team had to do it during the year, that would at least be fair. Otherwise, it would remove for one team a VITAL part of their season: a precious home game.

So, at least from my perspective, it's not "us" wanting to horde the games for ourselves so no one else can join the fun. It's about maintaining one of the vital elements of the game: home field advantage.

Heck, if someone could guarantee that 90 percent of the fans at the proposed game in the U.K. would cheer for the "home" team, I'd be fine with it, but we all know that won't be the case.

[flave1969]

I certainly respect and admire the UK fans' support of the Skins. I think it's great, actually, and I totally understand why you'd want to see a live game there.

The problem is, in my opinion, to do it in the regular season would be unfair to the teams in question, maybe not so much to the "away" team, but certainly to the home team.

You have to understand: Most teams treasure their home games, because the impact of a raucous crowd cheering predominantly for one team can NOT be underestimated. The opening day game against the Bears for instance...we (the crowd) were responsible for at least 3 false starts that knocked the Bears out of FG range at one point, preserving a 9-7 win. If we'd played that game in Chicago, I have no doubt we would've lost 10-9, which would have inevitably cost us a playoff berth. And the Dallas game at FedEx - the crowd kept the 'Girls from even having a chance to come back in that one.

I wish there was some better way to get an NFL game to you guys, but it seems to me that if there was a game on neutral territory--wherever that might be--in the regular season, there would certainly be no "home field advantage," hence a HUGE advantage would be lost by one of those teams.

If every team had to do it during the year, that would at least be fair. Otherwise, it would remove for one team a VITAL part of their season: a precious home game.

So, at least from my perspective, it's not "us" wanting to horde the games for ourselves so no one else can join the fun. It's about maintaining one of the vital elements of the game: home field advantage.

Heck, if someone could guarantee that 90 percent of the fans at the proposed game in the U.K. would cheer for the "home" team, I'd be fine with it, but we all know that won't be the case.

It is the single biggest hurdle, losing homefield advantage and this point I understand. I am pretty sure that Washington would have a crowd that would be every bit as raucous and home based as if it was at FedEx. The same is probably true for Miami, San Fran, Pitt, Chicago, New England, Buffalo and Denver. I think there are at least a dozen teams that could produce a 90% home crowd over here.

[redskin_rich]

Look Flave and GD, I think you all bring up some valid points, especially about NFLE- there should definitely be more than 1 representative from the countries on each squad.
I'm all for preseason games being played abroad. As far as I am concerned, you all could host a Super Bowl. What I don't like, is the idea of teams having to make a long trip to a foreign country during the regular season. It creates at worst, a competitive disadvantage and at best, a scheduling mess. I don't want to have to pray every year that we don't get screwed by the schedule makers in being the ones that have to make this unnecessary trip.
And don't take it personal, I feel this way towards playing regulation games in London, Paris or even if the NFL decided to load up 2 teams on a rocket and send them to Cydonia.

[DUCKIN_TACKLERS]

there are millions of fans outside America we frankly deserve better than we get.
Flave, General. You guys do deserve better. However this isnt a problem of loyalty IMO but more of a simple problem of Geography. The thing that seperates NFL from the other league is that there is an excitement for the whole season for almost every team because all the games matter. Id love for us to cultivate a World wide fanbase. But how could we do it add an extra game. Does that mean every team in the NFL would have an overseas game followed by a bye to account for the trouble of travel. Thats the only way i can see it happening. However that would probably be a co-ordinating nightmare and if you only send 2 teams to represent American Football then you have penalized only those 2 teams(because they will either lose a home game or if everyone is forced to play an extra game some teams will still have extra home games).

[wewantdallas]

As far as I am concerned, you all could host a Super Bowl.

You know, that's not such a bad idea! THAT I would have no problem with whatsoever, because there's rarely any sort of crowd advantage at a Super Bowl game.

[CornerBlitz]

It is the single biggest hurdle, losing homefield advantage and this point I understand. I am pretty sure that Washington would have a crowd that would be every bit as raucous and home based as if it was at FedEx. The same is probably true for Miami, San Fran, Pitt, Chicago, New England, Buffalo and Denver. I think there are at least a dozen teams that could produce a 90% home crowd over here.

I agree that the fans would be just as loud and I think that it is a good idea. The Mexico City game was really loud and sold out so I would imagine the same over in Europe. If the NFL really wants to expand then they should do this even if it is a little disadvantage. There are plenty of fans from Europe just on this site so I would seriously consider this if I was the NFL.

[RedskinRyan]

well what about the time zone differences? like what time would they play the game over there, and then what time would that be over here. like a 1pm game on the east coast...

[GeneralDisorder]

well what about the time zone differences? like what time would they play the game over there, and then what time would that be over here. like a 1pm game on the east coast...

Yup. 6pm London time...

[dj_stouty]

Rich has this one nailed. Having a regular season game overseas will hurt the competitive balance of the league. You simply can't change the schedule so "some" teams have home games overseas and others dont'. If that happned, we would have the "Giants have an extra home game" complaint about several teams at the end of the season.

Plus, I highly doubt this will happen from the owner's standpoint. Do you really think Danny will want to lose 6 million in ticket revenue and probably another 3 in parking/concessions simply to lose a homegame to Europe? Not a chance.

Maybe NO and ARI, which can't fill 20K in their own stadiums may want to benefit from drawing bigger crowds in London, assuming they get a cut of the revenue; but clearly no team who typically sells out their "Mega stadims" like New England, Washington or Philly would care for this change.

[RedskinsDave]

As much as I admire the loyalty our fellow fans in England have, I just can't see it being fair to the home fans or the players. I have no doubt the support would be there. I can just see a legitimate beef from west coast teams about going there and them not having to do it but the east coast teams still would. My biggest problem as a season ticket holder for umpteen years is still having a home game taken from me. Other sports I can see but in the NFL each game is far too important for something that would be no more than marketing.

[ihatedallas]

wait, cant the overseas game just count as an away game for both teams? while still having 8 home games, that makes sense to me. I think if there was a bye afterwards it would solve everything else. I think people from oversees alos enjoy seeing something different every now and then also, not to mention the footbal fans already there. I think people just dont want to share football with everybody else...;)

[dj_stouty]

wait, cant the overseas game just count as an away game for both teams? while still having 8 home games, that makes sense to me.

Logistically, I don't think that is possible.

For every overseas game considered an "away game" for each team, there has to be a complimentary game in which both teams are considered the "home team". The NFL won't let that happen unless you are the Saints.

[gravesUKRedskin]

.... as much as I would love to see my beloved Skins at Wembley, why should the people who pay a LOT OF MONEY for season tickets lose out on a game. There is NO way that a regular season game will be played over here unless Arizona is once again prepared to give up a home game to travel over here. IF that happens, the NFL will make sure it's against one of the popular teams over here as previously mentioned, hopefully the Skins will be that away team.

What really gets our backs up over here is the NFL missed an opportunity. When they created the World League, having the EU-USA rivalry was the way to go. Even if we were watching a lower standard of football, it had the passion because of the rivalries that came up. Now the league is purely EU, it does not have the same passion. Also the NFL decided that the UK audience would put up with what we got and we would be happy with it. WRONG.

OK rant over, but a serious point to finish. How much would it bother you guys IF Arizona moved over here?

[flave1969]

OK rant over, but a serious point to finish. How much would it bother you guys IF Arizona moved over here?

Or what if the next expansion franchises were in Mexico, Canada or Europe?

[RedskinsDave]

Or what if the next expansion franchises were in Mexico, Canada or Europe?

Nah. I don't think it would work in Europe. Too much of a time difference from the west coast to make a reasonable schedule.

[redskin_rich]

I'm not too happy about this when it comes to effect the Redskins but I am happy for our friends in other nations that may finally get to watch a real NFL game in their homeland.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2637594

[smoot]

I'm not too happy about this when it comes to effect the Redskins but I am happy for our friends in other nations that may finally get to watch a real NFL game in their homeland.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2637594
at the minimum, it should help promote interest for nfl europe

[ryflan47]

at the minimum, it should help promote interest for nfl europe

And maybe Spicy will be able to get to a game there :D!

[RedskinsDave]

I think it's ridiculous that some year I may have to pay full price for a preseason game and only get 7 home games. This also will make home field advantage moot for those games. If they played more than 16 games maybe this would make sense. They don't play enough to start screwing with any of them.

[nicefellow31]

I think it's ridiculous that some year I may have to pay full price for a preseason game and only get 7 home games. This also will make home field advantage moot for those games. If they played more than 16 games maybe this would make sense. They don't play enough to start screwing with any of them.


I agree. All this talk of international games dreally irritates me. What does the league say to the season ticket holder who has one less game to attend? Will the price come down?

[silverspring]

Greed.

[SpicyMcHaggis]

And maybe Spicy will be able to get to a game there :D!
That would be awesome.....but I can understand if some people would be pissed for not getting to watch one of the already few home games..the LEAST they should do is lower the season ticket prices for that year.

[WarEagle]

This is a really bad idea. I can see playing an exhibition game over there to generate interest, but to play a regular season game in a country where the NFL is mostly a mere curiosity is odd, and unfair to US fans, and the soccer players who will have to play on the destroyed field later on. There is no end to the owners' greed.

[dj_stouty]

I'm not too happy about this when it comes to effect the Redskins but I am happy for our friends in other nations that may finally get to watch a real NFL game in their homeland.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2637594

I'd like to suggest the Giants be the first team to give up a home game to play in Europe. Gotta give paybacks for the extra home game they got last year.

This is wierd. Every franchise will have 1 home and 1 visitors game outside the US over a 16-year period. That is too long of a period to stretch out the competitive balance.

Anyway...I hope the Redskins' International home game will be in Canada. ROAD TRIP!

[SpicyMcHaggis]

I'd like to suggest the Giants be the first team to give up a home game to play in Europe. Gotta give paybacks for the extra home game they got last year.

This is wierd. Every franchise will have 1 home and 1 visitors game outside the US over a 16-year period. That is too long of a period to stretch out the competitive balance.

Anyway...I hope the Redskins' International home game will be in Canada. ROAD TRIP!
Oh yeah, thanks alot...I get to go see the Giants..*barf* :rolleyes: lol...

[smoot]

Oh yeah, thanks alot...I get to go see the Giants..*barf* :rolleyes: lol...
correction, you get to see them lose

[smoak]

I think it's ridiculous that some year I may have to pay full price for a preseason game and only get 7 home games. This also will make home field advantage moot for those games. If they played more than 16 games maybe this would make sense. They don't play enough to start screwing with any of them.

I agree... but that is a fan's perspective. The NFL and "American football" needs something to boost its popularity worldwide. The NFL has taken over the US and they are looking to move up in the global marketplace... While I hate it as a fan, I get why they are doing it. They have a vision to make football the number one sport around the globe. While that may sound laughable, there was a time when it was laughable to think that baseball would be replaced as a top US sport.

Just a thought.

[RedskinsDave]

I agree... but that is a fan's perspective. The NFL and "American football" needs something to boost its popularity worldwide. The NFL has taken over the US and they are looking to move up in the global marketplace... While I hate it as a fan, I get why they are doing it. They have a vision to make football the number one sport around the globe. While that may sound laughable, there was a time when it was laughable to think that baseball would be replaced as a top US sport.

Just a thought.

Why do they NEED to do anything worldwide? It is an American sport. It is not suited for international play due to the short schedule.

[smoak]

Why do they NEED to do anything worldwide? It is an American sport. It is not suited for international play due to the short schedule.

My guess is that the NFL is trying to rake in more money. They close to maxed the the US market.

Again, I agree with you completely and I find it irritating that the regular season is used for a launching pad for this effort.... I'm just saying that I understand the motivation (greed).

[SpicyMcHaggis]

Why do they NEED to do anything worldwide? It is an American sport. It is not suited for international play due to the short schedule.
I think the problem is more WHEN it is scheduled. Unless they change the time of year when they play, which would be tough because you can't play football in July unless you want to count bodies after each match, the current schedule matches almost exactly the "hottest" time of year for the most important soccer leagues, like the Seria A here in Italy, the Liga in Spain, and the Premier League.

And unlike basketball, which was already the second national sport for many european countries (and the first for some), there is absolutely no interest football whatsoever outside of Germany and England. It's gonna take alot more than one exhibition game a year to get interest up (unfortunately).

[smoak]

I think the problem is more WHEN it is scheduled. Unless they change the time of year when they play, which would be tough because you can't play football in July unless you want to count bodies after each match, the current schedule matches almost exactly the "hottest" time of year for the most important soccer leagues, like the Seria A here in Italy, the Liga in Spain, and the Premier League.

And unlike basketball, which was already the second national sport for many european countries (and the first for some), there is absolutely no interest football whatsoever outside of Germany and England. It's gonna take alot more than one exhibition game a year to get interest up (unfortunately).

Did we mention we're bringing the cheerleaders? :D

[SpicyMcHaggis]

Did we mention we're bringing the cheerleaders? :D
Oh. I see. Interesting....mmhhh...

[smoot]

Oh. I see. Interesting....mmhhh...
if we throw in a dance team or two would it sway you?

[redskin_rich]

I think the problem is more WHEN it is scheduled. Unless they change the time of year when they play, which would be tough because you can't play football in July unless you want to count bodies after each match, the current schedule matches almost exactly the "hottest" time of year for the most important soccer leagues, like the Seria A here in Italy, the Liga in Spain, and the Premier League.

And unlike basketball, which was already the second national sport for many european countries (and the first for some), there is absolutely no interest football whatsoever outside of Germany and England. It's gonna take alot more than one exhibition game a year to get interest up (unfortunately).
These won't be exhibition games. There will be two official games per year outside of the US.

I just hope the Skins go on a down year. I bet we are among the first 6 teams to travel though, since the Redskins are one of the most popular teams, from the NFL, worldwide.

if we throw in a dance team or two would it sway you?You want to send the Funky4 to Europe with the Skins? :D

[smoot]

These won't be exhibition games. There will be two official games per year outside of the US.

I just hope the Skins go on a down year. I bet we are among the first 6 teams to travel though, since the Redskins are one of the most popular teams, from the NFL, worldwide.
actually, as sad as it is, i'd put money that redskins vs. cowboys will be one of the first games to go overseas

[redskin_rich]

actually, as sad as it is, i'd put money that redskins vs. cowboys will be one of the first games to go overseas
It better be the Cowgirls home game or I will take a Sherman Tank to Goodell's office.

[smoot]

It better be the Cowgirls home game or I will take a Sherman Tank to Goodell's office.
can we call dibs right now?


SHOTGUN!!!

[SpicyMcHaggis]

if we throw in a dance team or two would it sway you?
I'm not the problem. I would go to the game even if it was a preseason game against a Division II college team. My interest in football is already pretty high..lol...
The problem is the other people..in Italy the Super Bowl is aired Monday night at about midnight. That should tell you how high the interest is. And I think France, Spain, Portugal, and all the other European countries besides England and Germany are more or less in the same situation.
But hey, if is works, then I'll be the happiest guy on this board! (Maybe the only happy guy on this board? ;))

[SpicyMcHaggis]

These won't be exhibition games. There will be two official games per year outside of the US.

I just hope the Skins go on a down year. I bet we are among the first 6 teams to travel though, since the Redskins are one of the most popular teams, from the NFL, worldwide.

You want to send the Funky4 to Europe with the Skins? :D
How many is that per year in each country? Maybe one every 3 or 4 years...too little to make a difference IMO.

[smoot]

I'm not the problem. I would go to the game even if it was a preseason game against a Division II college team. My interest in football is already pretty high..lol...
The problem is the other people..in Italy the Super Bowl is aired Monday night at about midnight. That should tell you how high the interest is. And I think France, Spain, Portugal, and all the other European countries besides England and Germany are more or less in the same situation.
But hey, if is works, then I'll be the happiest guy on this board! (Maybe the only happy guy on this board? ;))
i didnt mean you specifically, but you in general as in you guys in europe. its not a commonly used form of the word, but one that i tend to use. my apologies for the confusion

[SpicyMcHaggis]

i didnt mean you specifically, but you in general as in you guys in europe. its not a commonly used form of the word, but one that i tend to use. my apologies for the confusion
No problem..my bad for misunderstanding..the thing is I don't think that people in Amsterdam for example are gonna get all excited for a few cheerleaders..if the NFL is serious about going worldwide it has to find a way to get leagues going in the most important countries..not just a game every 4 or 5 years..it doesn't really make any difference whether it's an exhibition or a regular season game since nobody cares about those teams specificallyl anyways..

[RedskinsDave]

It wouldn't surprise me one bit to see the Skins as one of the first teams. Due to contract obligations, there are many teams who would have a hard time missing a game since they do not own their own stadium. We do and we all know Danny loves him some marketing at our expense.

[smoak]

actually, as sad as it is, i'd put money that redskins vs. cowboys will be one of the first games to go overseas

No way! Fans here would burn the NFL offices...

[smoot]

No way! Fans here would burn the NFL offices...
sorry smoak, but i'd put money on it happening

[smoak]

sorry smoak, but i'd put money on it happening

On what do you base your opinion?? I think it would be a JOKE to have division rivalry games played outside of the US where they are appreciated. It would make ZERO sense to further crap on an established fan base and risk losing people just to satisfy the need (greed) to expand in the global market place.

I see zero chance that this happens and I would be floored if it did. My guess is that it will most likely be inter league games or non-divisional conference games.

[smoot]

On what do you base your opinion?? I think it would be a JOKE to have division rivalry games played outside of the US where they are appreciated. It would make ZERO sense to further crap on an established fan base and risk losing people just to satisfy the need (greed) to expand in the global market place.

I see zero chance that this happens and I would be floored if it did. My guess is that it will most likely be inter league games or non-divisional conference games.
faith, i cant explain it ;)

[Lavar703]

Thanks for the sanctimonious, patronising attitude. No, really...

I & other UK fans already do that - at a not inconsiderable cost. While millions of your countrymen sit on their arses and don't bother unless their team is in or on the verge of the playoffs.

As I already posted - increase the NFL season to seventeen games. 8 home, 8 away, 1 overseas. Drop one of the preseason games. Hey presto - everyone's a winner. I can't see where the problem lies.

And if you really want to carry on being so insular, as Flave says - stop calling yourselves World Champions...

You just dont seem to understand. The fans in this country spend Millions on Redskins Merchandise year in and year out. You say that were not loyal and would rather sit on are arses as you put it, yet we buy tickets with obstructed views just to see our beloved Redskins in person. I have been a Redskins fan my whole life and this would kill me, you can have a preseason game but a regular season game is just to important for the momentum of the team. Why should we not call ourselves World Champions, and if people from other countries have a problem with that then why dont your own countries play American style football and try to compete with us, it wont happen. If they want to please people overseas with a preseason game then fine, but dont forget the people that made this sport to begin with "AMERICANS".

[WarEagle]

actually, as sad as it is, i'd put money that redskins vs. cowboys will be one of the first games to go overseas

Agreed. The popular image of Cowboys vs. Indians resonates deeply in Europe from the old American TV shows and movies. This game would be a huge "event" in London or Berlin, even if the teams had mediocre records.

[Keino]

As long as it isn't the Redskins, I really don't care either way. But it would be very ironic if the Giants were forced to play over there.

Yep. My feeling exactly. As long as the Skins don't have to do it Im fine.

[redskin_rich]

Yep. My feeling exactly. As long as the Skins don't have to do it Im fine.
Every team will have to do it, hence the 16 year plan with two games per year. Some teams will make out on the deal, of course I'm talking about the teams that don't sell their stadiums out.
Again, the Skins are one of the most popular teams in the NFL internationally. It is partly because the very first Super Bowl shown worldwide was SB XVII. Because of this, I am sure we will be traveling within the next 3 years.

[Keino]

If you are going to call yourself the World Champion then you should cater for the World stage.


Flave you make some good points but this simply isn't one of them. World Champion is apropos because the game wasn't played internationally until the the NFL decided to do the World League, which by the way nobody in the US watches. And...it's not even truly a "World league" other than the fact it is played on European soil. We export our players for developmental puroses to the World league. Calling the Superbowl winner the "World Champ" is 100% accurate. Nobody in the world could beat them. Maybe France, England et. al. should start their own leagues, then challenge the Superbowl winner.

I don't want to see this game I love go international. The way the International game of basketball has been butchered, I cannot stand the thought of seeing football go through a similar transition where it's not even the sport I am used to watching.

And as a fan, I am most certainly not interested in seeing my favorite team lose a home game to travel to a place with a 6 hour time difference in a game that counts only to have to suffer the jet lag when they get home to prepare for the next opponent in another game that counts.

[Patrick]

Apparently the two teams involved would receive their bye-week the week after playing. The official also suggested a rota system, whereby in say, 8 or 16 years, every team would 'host' 1 home game overseas...

If it does happen, I think the regular season should extended by 1 game to 17. All teams would play this one overseas game on the same weekend. Then no team gains an advantage. Agreed, some teams wouldn't have as far as others to travel - but you could alternate venues year on year. Then there's the not inconsiderable revenue each team would pick up...

Obviously, I'm all for it. I've been to 4 Redskins games over the past two seasons. Kinda feels like my loyalty is being rewarded...

In the 80's the NFL was massive in the UK - but they got complacent and took us for granted. There's a worldwide market for the NFL, they'd be wrong to let it slip a second time...

Not to mention the possiblity of an HR Tailgate in good ol' Landahn Tahn guv'nor...
:)

AWESOME ............. I'd be there in a heart beat ............. just no fishNchips on the bar-B though ....... ;)

[smoak]

faith, i cant explain it ;)

LOL! There is a difference between not being able to explain something and not feeling the need to do so.

[dj_stouty]

I highly doubt the NFL would take one of their biggest rivalries (Dal vs. Was...or Chi vs. GB...etc) and remove it from a US stadium. In fact, I could see EVERY overseas game contain one team from the NFC and one from the AFC. Those are probably the least attended games back home anyway....(See Was vs. Oak for example)

If the owners are going to give up 1 home game, they are going to want to make sure it isn't a divisional game. The almighty dollar speaks...

[smoot]

LOL! There is a difference between not being able to explain something and not feeling the need to do so.
no really, dave put me up to it.


but my logic is simply this: the redskins have one of the largest overseas fanbases. the cowboys have one of the largest, if not THE largest USA fanbase. This probably translates into a large overseas fanbase as well. Throw in the symbolism of it- Cowboys vs. Indians, quite possibly the most heated rivalry in the nfl, the extremeness(word?) of both teams fans. And you have one heck of a ballgame.

This is exactly why i could see that game going overseas. I would think that Goodell would want as good a game as possible with as much hype as possible to drudge up the maximum amount of interest. Heck, if he could, im sure he'd change the football to a soccer ball for the game just to get more people to watch

[smoak]

no really, dave put me up to it.


but my logic is simply this: the redskins have one of the largest overseas fanbases. the cowboys have one of the largest, if not THE largest USA fanbase. This probably translates into a large overseas fanbase as well. Throw in the symbolism of it- Cowboys vs. Indians, quite possibly the most heated rivalry in the nfl, the extremeness(word?) of both teams fans. And you have one heck of a ballgame.

This is exactly why i could see that game going overseas. I would think that Goodell would want as good a game as possible with as much hype as possible to drudge up the maximum amount of interest. Heck, if he could, im sure he'd change the football to a soccer ball for the game just to get more people to watch

But look at from an owner's perspective. Why would they agree to this? Goodell is going to fall in line with what they want and I don't see any smart owner allowing a division rivalry to go overseas. It makes zero sense to me unless they are compensated from the league...

Also, I agree with Dave when says that he could see the Skins being one of the firsts teams to go.... But dallass opens a fancy new stadium next year and they be one of the LAST to go. There is no way Jones will sacrifice an early home game in the first five years of a stadium...

So if you are right and it happens.... I think it'll be us as the "home" team.

[smoot]

But look at from an owner's perspective. Why would they agree to this? Goodell is going to fall in line with what they want and I don't see any smart owner allowing a division rivalry to go overseas. It makes zero sense to me unless they are compensated from the league...

Also, I agree with Dave when says that he could see the Skins being one of the firsts teams to go.... But dallass opens a fancy new stadium next year and they be one of the LAST to go. There is no way Jones will sacrifice an early home game in the first five years of a stadium...

So if you are right and it happens.... I think it'll be us as the "home" team.
you may be right, but its foregone that the games WILL be played overseas, and i think that they will try to make it the biggest games possible to drudge up interest

[GB Skin OT]

Some of the comments on this thread manage to be downright hilarious and very disappointing at the same time...........

1.The NFL WILL be hosting NFL regular season games overseas.
2.Fans will not be burning down the NFL offices or driving tanks to the team office.People might moan (and they certainly have been getting in some great practice on here) but you will still buy your season ticket won't you ?.Of course you will.
3.If the 'Skins do travel (and I for one hope they do) ,do you really think the Skins will charge you for 8 home games when you will only get to see 7 ? I mean come on.........
4.Don't worry,we won't 'change' (American) football.As someone has said earlier we have played football over here since the 80's and when I step on to the field I am subject to the NCAA rules.I am not allowed to rugby tackle the outside linebacker when he comes on a blitz or boot the football under the crossbar for a 'goal'.Don't worry guys,its not gonna happen.
5.The main beef most people seem to have is that everyone with a season ticket will probably miss 1 game in the next 16 years.If the Skins do travel,do you not think that the Skins fanbase will increase massively ? (There are already lots of Skins fans in the UK but we tend to be of a certain age due to the fact that the skins have done very little for a very long time).Take that into consideration.You may however still be of the opinion that who cares ? I still miss one regular season game ! If so,shame on you as a Redskin.....
6.An east coast team playing in London is no different to them flying to San Diego for example.
7.Owner greed.Sport is about money as we all know (unfortunately),of course the NFL wants to expand its markets.
8.Don't worry about the atmosphere if a game is held at Wembley,it will be out of this world.You could even fly over and sample it for yourselves,a tailgate or a meeting of people from this board in London ?.
9.Fans in England are so football crazy i guarantee you whoever comes over Wembley will be full.I hope whatever teams come over enjoy it and put on a good show.I'm sure they will.

Anyway I know we are all entitled to our opinions and yours might differ to mine.As the Skins are so bloody terrible at the minute wouldn't shipping them over here for a week be a good idea ? :lol1:

[ccorces1]

For selfish reasons, I would be against it a little, but this is exactly why the NFL wants to do it. They need to cultivate their fans across the country and NFLE ain't getting it done.


How many of you have been overseas? American football is not popular at all. I'm not sure if one game a season will do the trick. I've been all over Europe and I just don't think they'll catch on to it ever. I guess we'll see.

[smoot]

How many of you have been overseas? American football is not popular at all. I'm not sure if one game a season will do the trick. I've been all over Europe and I just don't think they'll catch on to it ever. I guess we'll see.
welcome to hR. stick around, you'll enjoy yourself. also, feel free to make a thread in the seneca hospitality forum, its kind of how we formally welcome new members

[gravesUKRedskin]

I can completely understand you guys who buy season tickets year in year out do not want to miss any games, let alone miss a home game. It would be like the FA Cup final (Soccer) being played over there when it just looks like it is a joke. BUT, the popularity of the game in the UK has never been as high as it is now. We have just had a new multi year TV deal annonced with 6-10 LIVE games shown every week satrting next year AND more NFL Network progamming as well. The NFL Icons ad is all over the place at the moment. The league is pulling out all the stops to promote the game across Europe, and that is a good thing. I hope as a skins fan that the skins do come over, but I will be going to the game no matter who plays.