NFL football is one of the most exciting sports on the planet and has come a long way since its early days as the American Professional Football Association in 1920, when it had just 14 teams. Today, this prestigious league and organization boasts 32 teams, which is great news for sports betting fans, who can head to Fanatics Sportsbook Louisiana to lay down wagers on NFL games.
The league isn’t just popular with sports betting fans, however. Vast numbers of US citizens and people across the world enjoy the league. The NFL puts on one of the biggest final sporting events in the planet, the Super Bowl; the league is competitive and interesting, thanks to strict salary limits, which creates parity in the league; and athletes in peak condition play a grueling sport; so it’s easy to understand how the NFL has become so popular. You might even be considering attending a game for the first time. Below is a look at why NFL games are such a good day out and at the things you need to know before you attend one.
NFL games as a fantastic day out
To buy tickets to a live game is to invest in a superb day out, look online for how to buy NFL tickets. The atmosphere at the stadium is unbeatable, as you’ll be either cheering or booing teams along with tens of thousands of other fans. The MetLife Stadium, one of the largest stadiums in the league and the home of its New York Giants, holds a capacity of approximately 82,500, for instance.
You’ll be seeing your favorite players in the flesh, and you might even get to meet them. When the players do step out onto the gridiron, expect an exciting game. While you’re waiting for the players to come out for the game, the home team stadium will keep you entertained with videos to get you and the rest of the crowd pumped up for the game.
Essential things you need to know before you attend a game
It’s always best to be prepared so that you can get as much out of the live game experience as possible. Here are some things you should know before you attend.
Stadium policies
The NFL operates a “clear bag” policy in the stadium. Small bags are preferable. Bags any larger than 4.5 x 6.5in must be clear, be made of vinyl or PVC and not be larger than 12 x 6 x 12”. This is for safety reasons.
Camera bags are also not allowed. Small cameras are, but lenses longer than 6 inches are not.
Dressing in your team’s colors
Dressing in your team’s colors is a no-brainer, especially if you’re supporting the home team. Be aware that sometimes teams will change their colors for special occasions, however. Don’t be the only one wearing the wrong colors.
If you’re going to wear a team’s jersey, make sure it’s one of a team that’s playing. To not do so is tremendously uncool, as is wearing the jersey of team from another sport. You’ll see other people committing these clothing gaffs. Don’t be like them.
Dressing for the weather
Check the weather on the day of the game. If it’s during a cold season, you’ll want to wear warm clothing, and bring an umbrella and maybe even take a blanket. Stadiums by bodies of water are more likely to be colder inside than outside. If the game is taking place during a warm season, put on some sunblock, especially when you’re attending a game at an open-air stadium.
How to choose the best seats
Choosing the right seat is important, so if you can choose your seats before buying your ticket(s), do so. The seats on the sidelines or facing the front of center field are usually the best and make it easier to watch the game. There’s nothing worse, however, than not being able to see the game because you have taller people standing in front of you. In this case, you might prefer to choose your seats lower or higher, depending on your height. Tickets can cost $90 or more. The location and the size of the game will determine this.
Parking and transportation
Stadium parking is often limited, so you can save yourself some hassle by using public transport to get to games. This also allows you to sip a beer or two during the game as well. If you do wish to take your automobile, stadium parking can cost between $20 and $75 or more. The stadium may also require you to have a parking pass to park your vehicle there.
Attending a live NFL game makes a great day out and, as well as seeing your favorite players in the flesh, is a chance to make new friends and form stronger bonds with existing friends and family members. To get the most out of your game, make the preparations above and also learn the rules so you can understand what is happening on the gridiron more easily and enjoy the action.
