With the FIFA World Cup underway, all eyes are on the beautiful game. While the initial excitement is electric, passions slowly diminish as – one by one – national teams are eliminated from the competition. Sure – the love of the game means you’ll be tuning in until the very end – but unless you’re from one of the countries that always make it to the end, chances are you’ll find yourself searching for something else to watch between the final matches.
As an American who loves American football, it’s only fitting I make a pitch to those overseas who lack an interest in our beloved sport. Odds are your indifference is rooted in limited access to games. It’s no different than my limited understanding of cricket. But thanks to efforts by the National Football League to grow international interest in the sport, it’s never been easier to get into American football.
If you end up disappointed in your national team’s performance earlier than expected – and want something to take your mind off the hard truth of waiting four more years for another chance – then consider giving American football a shot. With this in mind, let’s take a look at six ways to get into American football:
Watching games
It goes without saying, but watching games is the first step toward getting into American football. Those outside the United States can do so by signing up for NFL Game Pass, which allows you to watch any game you want. However, due to blackout restrictions, you may need to use a VPN in order to access NFL Game Pass content. You could also try to find a sports pub in your area that puts American football games on television. It’ll be hard to do during the World Cup, but if there’s a will, there’s a way!
Sportsbook betting
One of the easiest ways to get into an unfamiliar sport is to put some skin in the game. With this in mind, consider using NFL live odds to place a few wagers on upcoming football games. Win or lose, the experience will help you gauge the pros and cons of various teams as well as provide a crash course on American football dynamics. After a week or so, you’ll be acquainted with player stats, team standings, performance metrics, and other useful information.
Playing video games
I can say from experience that playing FIFA on my Xbox was one of the best ways to further my understanding and appreciation of association football. The same will apply to those who play Madden NFL. The premier American football video game franchise for over 30 years, Madden is consistently praised by real-world players and coaches, past and present, for its accuracy and excitement.
Absorbing analysis
It might sound like Greek at first (unless you speak Greek), but the more you tune into American football analysis, the more you’ll understand the ins and outs of the game. ESPN Sportscenter is a great place to start, followed by NFL Network analysis. I also suggest becoming a regular reader of the Bleacher Report, Deadspin, and Sports Illustrated articles covering American football.
Attending games in person
If possible, consider attending an American football game to see the action live and up close. While there’s only one more left to play, the NFL International Series works to bring the game to those overseas, making it possible for people in other countries to attend a real NFL game. You could also try to find the nearest university or sports league where American football is played.
Supporting a specific team
Fanatic support of a specific team is part of what makes association football so fun to watch. The same goes for other sports, especially American football. With this in mind, consider picking an NFL team to support based on what you see in the coming weeks. Even if it’s based mostly on the style of their uniforms or some other superficial factor, it’s better than having no team to root for as you watch.
There’s no doubt the 2022 FIFA World Cup has the attention of the majority of the world’s sports fans. But once your national team is eliminated – and it’s only a matter of time for most fans – consider giving American football a chance. It’s more fun and thrilling than you think!
