The NFL’s 2024 season is off to a crazy start. Opening week brought in a massive 21 million viewers, a 12% jump from last year, making it the most-watched Week 1 in NFL history. So, what’s making this season such a big deal? There isn’t just one answer, but there are a few reasons why the league feels so exciting right now. New players, fresh coaching ideas, and a growing fan base are all coming together to make this season unpredictable and action-packed.
When we think about some of the best plays so far this season, a few stand out. Mr. Puls, a huge NFL fan, coach, and teacher here at Lodi High School, remembers a few moments that left him speechless.
“I’d say the best plays I’ve seen are these three,” he said. “First, Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry’s 87-yard touchdown run against the Bills. Then there’s the Detroit Lions’ WR Amon-Ra St. Brown’s reverse throwback pass to QB Jared Goff, who, by the way, had a perfect game, going 18-for-18 with 292 passing yards, two passing TDs, a receiving TD, and no interceptions. And finally, the Packers sacking Titans QB Will Levis eight times in one game.”
These are just a few of the incredible moments that have made this season so fun to watch. One of the hottest topics of 2024 is the surge in viewership. It seems like both long-time NFL fans and new viewers are tuning in more than ever. Mr. Puls thinks it’s because of the excitement football brings.
“There’s so much action, and every game matters,” he said. “Compared to sports like the NBA and MLB, where there are games almost every day, football feels more intense. Plus, it’s the ultimate team sport with so many different types of athletes coming together.”
Sophomore Liam Johnson thinks other factors are at play. “I think there are more viewers this year because of last year,” he said. “Taylor Swift being at games and how the Chiefs won the Super Bowl brought in a lot of young people. Plus, there are new players and rookies, and a lot of veterans are retiring.”
So, what’s making this season feel different from past years? For some, it’s just the natural growth of the NFL. Mr. Puls believes fans are becoming more knowledgeable.
“Fans today understand the game better than ever before,” he said. “They get the strategies and what it takes to succeed. That makes watching even more exciting.”
Plus, the NFL is always full of surprises. With so much parity in the league, any team can win on any given Sunday. “Football’s always been about the upsets,” Puls added. “That’s what makes it great.”
As the 2024 season keeps rolling, it’s clear that the NFL is at an all-time high in terms of popularity and excitement. Whether it’s the big plays, the new faces, or the deeper connection fans are feeling with the game, this year feels special. The NFL’s future looks bright, and we’re all just along for the ride, waiting to see what happens next.
