Why the NFL Doesn't Flex the Bears Out of Primetime TV

Sports talk can quickly turn into a cacophony of irrelevant chatter, but discussing the reasoning behind the NFL's decision not to flex the Chicago Bears out of primetime TV is anything but trivial. The game between the Bears and Packers on Sunday Night Football (SNF) marks the longest rivalry in NFL history, dating back to 1921. Despite the Bears' recent struggles, the importance of this matchup cannot be understated.

The Power of Rivalries in Primetime

One of the most compelling reasons why the Bears-Packers game remains on SNF is the enduring rivalry between these two franchises. The interlocking keyed ceiling at Soldier Field, the historic Kimberly Cup, and the.writeIntals game in 1985 all contribute to this enigma that fans and analysts alike cannot overlook. The Bears and Packers have faced each other in some of the most significant games in NFL history, and this tradition makes the game a must-watch for fans and non-fans alike.

Furthermore, the long-standing rivalry has maintained a consistent level of excitement and drama, regardless of the teams' current standings. This constant tension is what attracts viewers and keeps SNF relevant in the eyes of the NFL league.

The Financial Imperatives of Primetime TV

Two underlying factors contribute to the decision to keep the Bears-Packers game on SNF – the popularity of the Packers and the Bears' status as a large market NFL city.

Popular Teams: The Green Bay Packers are a beloved and extremely popular team, drawing large crowds and maintaining a loyal fanbase both locally and across the nation. Their games, especially against their arch-rivals like the Bears, generate significant ratings. Anchoring SNF with a Packers game ensures that the slot remains relevant and attractive to advertisers, who are willing to invest in high-value, high-circulation slots. Market Size: As the third largest city in the NFL, Chicago is a crucial market for SNF. The Bears-Packers game taps into a vast fan base, ensuring that the game attracts a significant viewer count. Even when the Bears are not at their best, the sheer size of their fanbase in Chicago ensures that the ratings are strong, meaning higher ad revenue for the NFL and its partners.

These financial considerations underscore why the league prioritizes the Bears-Packers game on SNF. The selection of this matchup ultimately plays a key role in maintaining high ratings, ensuring revenue stability, and sustaining the primetime slot's prestige.

The Flaws in Flexing the Game

Some might argue that flexing the game to other matchups, especially involving more dominant teams like the Arizona Cardinals and the Los Angeles Rams, would be more exciting. However, the current scheduling is strategic for several reasons:

Risk Management: The Bears-Packers game has playoff implications, with the Packers looking to extend their division lead. Keeping this game on SNF mitigates the risk of low viewership due to the unfavorable circumstances by ensuring a passionate, committed audience. Editional Significance: The rivalry between the Bears and Packers is unparalleled in the NFL. This matchup carries a legacy that transcends mere performance, making it a cornerstone of primetime football. Flexing the game could destabilize the established narrative of this historic rivalry. Strategic Flexing: The NFL does not flex Monday Night Football (MNF) to SNF, as SNF games are specifically designed to maximize viewership. Flexing MNF to SNF would disrupt the league's carefully balanced schedule and potentially erode the value of both slots. Organizational Consistency: Flexing the Packers to SNF wouldn't necessarily yield the desired boost in ratings. The Bills-Tampa Bay Buccaneers matchup is a more balanced and potentially more exciting game, but it doesn't carry the same historical significance and market appeal as the Bears-Packers game.

Conclusion

In summary, the decision not to flex the Bears out of primetime TV is driven by a combination of historical significance, economic considerations, and strategic planning. The Bears-Packers rivalry, regardless of the current standings of the teams, remains a cornerstone of NFL primetime television, ensuring that the league can continue to leverage the success and excitement this matchup generates.

As NFL fans, it's important to appreciate the value of these tie-in games and the legacy they carry, rather than merely focusing on the teams' current form. The long-standing rivalry is a testament to the enduring passion and dedication of the respective fan bases, making it a prime example of why this game belongs on SNF.