American Football Flips The Script On The British Invasion
American football isn’t much like its European cousin. It’s tough, intense, and it’s USA all the way. The tables are turning, however, and the NFL in London appears to be a big hit among some fans.The recent matchup between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Indianapolis Colts in London drew people from all over Europe. Here’s what you need to know about the NFL in Europe, past, present, and future.
The NFL Following Overseas
International pro-NFL sentiment is gaining ground. Over 80,000 people flooded into the stadium to watch the Jaguars go head to head with the Colts. Some were local London residents, but some fans traveled from other European countries as well. All for a chance to see the good old American Gridiron in person.
According to NPR, some fans cited the showmanship of the American players as a reason they feel drawn to the sport. It may not be very conventionally British to perform a flashy dance in the end zone, but opposites attract!
The NFL combines aspects of theater or reality TV with sports. What’s not to like? Rivalries are aplenty and tension run high thanks to the connection fans feel with their favorite teams. It’s like being in on the action.
What Brought The Jaguars to London?
The Jaguars franchise signed a contract in 2012 that outlined some exciting terms for NFL fans in London. They are obligated to play one game every season in London from now until 2020. With this step, the Jaguars just became London’s honorary hometown team.
The Jags are the first and only US football team to make such an annual commitment for years to come. Other NFL games have taken place in London, however, dating back to 2007. Globalization, increased overseas communication, and the NFL’s efforts to hold games in England have all contributed to the current level of interest.
Some London fans grew to love an NFL team through a friend living abroad. Some have followed of their own accord because it’s an exciting game that is exotic enough to be enticing. Because of this deal, other NFL teams will gain international exposure. The London crowd may have their own favorite teams, but they are willing to take whatever NFL they can get and most recently, that meant the Jaguars and the Colts.
The Jags met up with the Colts on October 2, 2016, and the fans at Wembley Stadium were ready. The sheer volume of them proves that the NFL in London isn’t a flash in the pan kind of thing. It has staying power.
The Big Game: Jacksonville Jaguars Beat the Indianapolis Colts in London
But, what about the big game? If you haven’t heard already, the Jags prevailed, beating the Colts 30-27. It was an exciting matchup full of big plays, penalties, and a touch of drama the NFL is known for.
The win improved the Jags record to 2-2. They dominated for most of the game, but their lead evaporated as they failed to withstand the onslaught from the Colts. The receivers appeared to have a case of the drops, and several catchable moments ended up in the field.
The win improved the Jags record to 2-2. They dominated for most of the game, but their lead evaporated as they failed to withstand the onslaught from the Colts. The receivers appeared to have a case of the drops, and several catchable moments ended up in the field.
The Future Of The NFL In London
There is talk of a legitimate NFL franchise emerging in London, but so far this is just fan fiction. What is guaranteed at this point is that the NFL has three total games scheduled at Wembley this season and is adding another for 2018. NFL Intentional management has expressed interest in the growth potential other countries offer the sport.
There is also risk involved in a venture of that sort, however. Team loyalties can’t be assured and the NFL appears to be taking a cautious route to explore overseas expansion. This cautious approach hopefully ensures that the endeavor will be successful when it’s finally deployed.
Don’t Let London Show You Up- Get The NFL Gear You Need
The NFL itself is on the rise in London, but so is the gear. If you’re following the action from the UK, you have to stay competitive as the top fan. To do that, you need some NFL apparel of your own. From retailer like NIKE UK you can shop for the latest NFL apparel at affordable cost and represent your favourite team.