If you are an NFL fan, it is no secret that watching a game on a Sunday afternoon can be one of the most exciting and enjoyable experiences of the week. But have you ever wondered how these games are scheduled, and what factors go into determining when they start at 1 PM? In this article, we will explore the process behind scheduling NFL games, including the various factors that contribute to this decision.
The Importance of 1 PM Start Times
One of the main reasons why NFL games are scheduled to start at 1 PM is due to their popularity among fans. The late afternoon slot allows fans to have a full day to enjoy the game and all its festivities, such as tailgating, watching pregame shows, and enjoying time with friends and family. Additionally, starting in the late afternoon can also help increase viewership by allowing more people to watch the game live on television.
The Scheduling Process
The NFL uses a complex algorithm to determine when games will start each Sunday, including factors such as travel distance, local weather conditions, and availability of stadiums. The league also takes into account the needs of broadcasters, who want to maximize their viewership by scheduling games during prime time slots.
One of the key factors that determines when a game starts at 1 PM is the location of the two teams playing. If one team is located in the East Coast and the other team is located in the West Coast, it is likely that the game will start in the late afternoon slot to accommodate viewers on both coasts.
Another factor that can influence a game’s start time is the availability of stadiums. For example, if there are multiple games scheduled on the same day, the league may adjust start times to ensure that all stadiums are utilized efficiently.
Case Studies: Real-Life Examples of 1 PM Start Times
One notable example of a game starting at 1 PM is the matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and the Dallas Cowboys in December 2019. The game, which was held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, started at 4:30 PM local time (5:30 PM Eastern) to accommodate viewers on both coasts.
Another example is the matchup between the New England Patriots and the Green Bay Packers in January 2018. The game, which was held at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, started at 4:30 PM local time (5:30 PM Eastern) to maximize viewership for fans on both coasts.
Expert Opinions: What NFL Experts Say About 1 PM Start Times
According to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, scheduling games is a complex process that requires careful consideration of multiple factors, including fan demand, travel distance, and stadium availability. When asked about the importance of 1 PM start times, Goodell stated, "We want our fans to have the opportunity to watch as many games as possible, and scheduling games in the late afternoon slot can help us achieve that goal."
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About 1 PM Start Times
- What factors influence a game’s start time?
- Location of teams playing, availability of stadiums, and broadcasters’ needs.
- When do games typically start on Sunday afternoons?
- Games are scheduled to start at 1 PM, although this can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each game.
