A Look at the London-based NFL Games
The National Football League is one of the most popular sport organizations in the United States of America. It draws in hundreds of thousands of fans and quite a few punters annually, and the Super Bowl is one of the biggest events in the world of sports.
However, it is a known fact that American football does not enjoy the same popularity around the world as it does in its native country. In an attempt to fix this issue, the NFL has opted to organize a few of its matches in London this year. In this article, we are going to take a look at the matches played in London, and discuss why the NFL has opted for this change of pace.
Why are NFL Games Being Held in London?
So, why has the NFL decided to move three of its matches to London in 2022? The answer is quite simple, and yet twofold. One, they are hoping that move will raise awareness and interest in their organization. After all, American football is believed to have been heavily inspired by rugby, one of England’s most beloved sports. So, it is not at all a bad idea to start exporting American football outside of the States. And logically, the first country would be England, where a market for it might already exist.
The second is to bring the sport closer to fans who might already be there. Annually, the Super Bowl is watched by hundreds of thousands of fans. However, not all of them are Americans. Some tune in from all over the world. On top of that, bets placed on American football games come in from all around the globe, especially on betting websites. Clearly, there are fans of the sport worldwide. It is for these fans, that the NFL has opted to export a few of their matches.
So, the reason this is happening, is so the NFL can attract novice fans, as well as appeal to the ones who already exist in the United Kingdom. Now, let us take a look at the actual games that will be played in London during the up-coming season.
Minnesota Vikings vs New Orleans Saints
Taking place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the first match scheduled in London is going to see the Minnesota Vikings go up against the New Orleans Saints. The match will be taking place on October 2, at 2:30pm BST (or 9:30 am ET).
The Minnesota Vikings have an all-time overall record of 524-451-11. For the unaware, these numbers recount their win-loss-tie records. Meaning that out of all of the games they have played, the Vikings have won 524, lost 451 and tied in 11. This puts them on the number 7 spot of the NFL’s ranking. More than 15 places above their competition.
New York Giants vs Green Bay Packers
The New York Giants are scheduled to go up against the Green Bay Packers on October 9. The game will be held at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and will start at 2:30 pm BST. Both of these teams are two of the most beloved NFL teams, with the Green Bay Packers holding 13 league championship titles and the New York Giants having won four.
Denver Broncos vs Jacksonville Jaguars
Lastly, the Denver Broncos will be facing off against the Jacksonville Jaguars in late October. Unlike the previous two, the game will be taking place in Wembley Stadium. Starting at 1:30 pm on October 30, it is sure to rouse the crowd, as the Denver Broncos are among the most celebrated football teams in the United States. Bearing in mind the fact that the Jacksonville Jaguars are among the four teams who’ve never competed in the Super Bowl, most seasoned punters are placing their odds on the Broncos.
