I. Introduction
If you’re a football fan, you’re probably familiar with the regularity of the NFL season. But how many games are played per season, and how has that changed over the years? This article will break down how many football games are typically played in a season for each team and explore the evolution of the NFL schedule over time. We’ll also examine the debate over extending the season and how COVID-19 has impacted the schedule. Finally, we’ll take a look at how many games fantasy football owners should consider when drafting their team, celebrate the 100th season of the NFL, and give you a behind-the-scenes look at game day preparation.
II. Inside look at the NFL regular season schedule: How many football games are played per team?
The NFL’s regular season is a 17-week schedule that typically begins in early September and ends in late December or early January. Each of the league’s 32 teams plays a total of 16 games during the regular season, with one bye week per team.
In addition to the standard 16 games per team, each team also plays four preseason games before the regular season begins. These games do not count toward a team’s regular-season record, but they are used to evaluate players and make roster decisions.
The regular season is structured into 16 weeks of games, with each team playing one game per week, and one of the weeks serving as a bye week for each team. Teams are divided into two conferences, each with four divisions, and the regular season schedule includes games between teams within each conference as well as between conferences.
One of the advantages of a 16-game regular season is that it provides a good amount of variety in the teams that each team faces, allowing for a sense of diversity in opponents and giving different teams varying levels of difficulty for their games. However, the season is also relatively long and can be strenuous for players, and a single loss can often make a big difference in a team’s record.
III. The evolution of the NFL season: A look at how many games teams played over the years
Since its founding in 1920, the NFL’s scheduling has gone through many changes. At first, there was no set schedule or number of games. In 1935, the league instituted a 12-game schedule, and in 1943, reduced it to 10 games due to World War II.
The league eventually increased the number of games back to 12, then 14, and finally in 1978, expanded to the current 16-game schedule.
In recent years, there has been some debate over whether the NFL should expand the regular season even further. One of the reasons for this is financial gain, as more games would likely lead to more revenue for the league and its teams. However, the increased number of games could be detrimental to players’ health and safety, and some players argue that the current schedule is already too grueling.
IV. How much is too much? The debate over extending the NFL season
The debate over whether to extend the NFL season beyond 16 games is a contentious one. Proponents of an extended schedule argue that more games would bring in more revenue and provide fans with more football to watch.
However, opponents of an extended schedule argue that it could have negative effects on players’ health and safety. The NFL’s current schedule is already one of the most difficult in professional sports, and adding more games could increase the risk of injury for players.
Additionally, fans of the current schedule argue that 16 games is the perfect length for a regular season, providing a balance between a long enough season to follow along with and a short enough season to feel like every game matters.
At this time, there are no concrete plans to extend the NFL season, as the league has already shortened the 2020 season due to COVID-19.
V. The impact of COVID-19 on the NFL season: A shortened schedule explained
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted sports leagues around the world, and the NFL has been no exception. In 2020, the league decided to shorten its regular season from 16 to 12 games due to the pandemic.
The shortened season included a shorter preseason, with teams playing just two exhibition games instead of the usual four. The regular season was also delayed, with the first game being played on September 10 rather than in early September as is typical.
The pandemic also led to changes in how teams prepared for and played games. Teams instituted social distancing measures, including eliminating crowds from stadiums and requiring players and staff to wear masks. Additionally, teams were required to test players regularly for COVID-19 and enforce isolation and quarantine protocols for those who tested positive.
Despite the challenges, the NFL was ultimately able to complete its 2020 season, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers winning Super Bowl LV.
VI. Fantasy football breakdown: How many games to consider when drafting your team
Fantasy football is a popular way for fans to get in on the action, but how many games should team owners consider when drafting their rosters? The length of the season can impact drafting strategies, with longer seasons providing more opportunities for players to accumulate points.
However, a longer season can also mean more injuries and a greater need for depth on a fantasy roster. A shorter season can help mitigate these risks, but may also mean fewer opportunities for a player to make an impact.
Ultimately, the number of games in a season should be considered alongside other factors such as a player’s performance history, injury risk, and strength of schedule.
VII. Celebrating a milestone: The 100th season of the NFL
2019 marked the 100th season of the NFL, a monumental achievement that was celebrated by fans and players alike. In those 100 seasons, a total of over 25,000 games have been played.
The league marked the occasion with a series of initiatives and celebrations, including a special logo, historic games, and an exploration of the league’s history. Some of the most memorable moments in NFL history, from the Immaculate Reception to the Music City Miracle, were also revisited during the season.
VIII. Behind the scenes of game day: How many games go into a season’s preparation?
Finally, we come to what happens behind the scenes on game day. Teams spend countless hours preparing for each game, with practices, conditioning, and strategy sessions starting weeks in advance.
On game day, teams arrive at the stadium several hours before kickoff and participate in pre-game warm-ups and team meetings. Coaches and players spend time studying the tendencies of their opponents and developing game plans.
The team’s equipment staff also prepares for the game, making sure that players have all necessary gear and uniforms. Additionally, the stadium staff prepares the field and seating areas for fans.
For fans who want to better understand all that goes into a game day, we recommend reading The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach and attending a game in person to see the preparations in action.
IX. Conclusion
In conclusion, the NFL regular season is a 17-week schedule that includes 16 games per team. The league has made many changes to its schedule over the years, but no major expansions are planned at this time. COVID-19 had a significant impact on the 2020 season, but the NFL was ultimately able to play a shortened schedule and crown a champion. When drafting your fantasy football team, consider the length of the season alongside other factors. Finally, game day preparation involves a great deal of work and effort from both teams and stadium staff. Whether you’re a player, fan, or team owner, understanding the nuances of the NFL season schedule can help you better appreciate the game.