The NFL last scheduled regular-season games on Labor Day weekend in 2001, back when the "L" in the logo had a playful squiggle. Now, it’s only a matter of time before the NFL reclaims the stage it left 23 years ago.
The Inevitable Return
It’s going to happen. When — not if — the NFL adds that tantalizing 18th game, and the NFL Players Association demands a second bye, the cherished vision of a Super Bowl on Presidents’ Day weekend will finally materialize. But for that to happen, the NFL must start the season on Labor Day weekend.
And that’s before the NFL even contemplates adding 19 or 20 regular-season games. Yes, it’ll happen. In due course.
Coming Back Strong
Prepare yourselves, because soon the NFL will return to Labor Day weekend. Years ago, the league moved away from it since the ratings fell through the floor — folks were out savoring the last unofficial weekend of summer and weren’t glued to their TV sets.
Tech to the Rescue
But hey, times have changed! Now, fans can watch anywhere and anyhow on their smartphones. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or at the beach, you won’t miss the game. Those ratings? They’ll still be sky-high.
An Epic Kickoff
Thanks to the quirky prohibition on NFL games on Friday and Saturday nights (thanks to the broadcast antitrust exemption), the season could now launch with five consecutive nights of prime-time football: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Can you imagine? College football will have to play second fiddle that debut weekend!
College Football, Take a Seat
Don’t fret for the college game. While they clutter Saturdays with unremarkable matchups (ever catch that Cornell-Hofstra blowout?), there’s a brighter way ahead. College games could fill every time slot, both days. But soon, it’ll be NFL-mania throughout Labor Day weekend with games on Thursday night, Friday night, three Saturday windows, three Sunday windows, and maybe even Labor Day Monday. Why cram nine or ten games into a 1:00 p.m. ET slot when they can be standalone events drawing monster ratings? Especially since every team starts with that hopeful 0-0 record, every fanbase brimming with hope.
A Glimpse into the Future
No, we’re not pushing for it. We’re just seeing the writing on the wall. It’s surprisingly overdue. Picture this: every Labor Day weekend turned into an NFL extravaganza. The anticipation, the excitement, the drama — it’s palpable. So, buckle up, fans. The gridiron is set to reclaim its Labor Day weekend glory, and the playbook is already in motion.
