The NFL’s decision to stream its historic game in São Paulo, Brazil on the Peacock platform has led to criticism from National Radio Hall of Famer Chris “Mad Dog” Russo. Russo expressed frustration on ESPN’s “First Take” about the league’s choice to make the game exclusive to a streaming service, potentially leaving fans who do not have access to Peacock unable to watch. He also voiced his displeasure with the NFL’s increasing reliance on streaming platforms for games, including playoff matches on Amazon and games in Europe. Despite Russo’s criticism, NBC Sports leadership is excited about the opportunity to showcase the first-ever regular-season NFL game in Brazil on Peacock.
The Philadelphia Eagles are set to give up a home game in exchange for playing in Brazil to kick off the NFL’s 2024 season at the Corinthians Arena in São Paulo. The team will likely forfeit a scheduled home game against either the Green Bay Packers or Cleveland Browns in order to accommodate the international contest. While Russo is unhappy with the game being shown exclusively on a streaming platform, NBC Sports president Rick Cordella expressed excitement about the opportunity to present this historic game on Peacock as part of three primetime games on the NFL’s opening weekend.
Earlier in the year, the NFL exclusively streamed a wild-card round playoff game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins on Peacock, which also drew criticism from Russo. The decision to move more games to streaming platforms has been justified by the league as a move to attract a younger audience that prefers streaming over traditional television. However, players like Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu have expressed frustration with games being made available exclusively on streaming platforms, calling it “insane.” Despite the criticisms, the NFL seems committed to expanding its partnerships with streaming services for future games.
Russo’s criticisms of the NFL’s decision to stream games on platforms like Peacock highlight the ongoing debate over the impact of streaming on traditional television broadcasting of sports. While the league sees streaming as a way to reach a younger audience and potentially increase revenue, traditional fans like Russo are frustrated by the shift away from traditional broadcasts. The exclusivity of games on streaming platforms also limits access for some fans who may not have the means or desire to subscribe to multiple services. The NFL faces a balancing act in satisfying both traditional fans and adapting to new viewing trends in the digital age.
The decision to showcase the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Brazil exclusively on Peacock represents a significant moment for both the league and the streaming platform. The game in São Paulo marks a new milestone in the NFL’s global expansion efforts and presents an exciting opportunity for fans in Brazil to experience a live game. While Russo’s criticisms may reflect the concerns of some traditional fans, the NFL and NBC Sports seem optimistic about the potential for this historic game to attract a new audience and generate interest in football beyond the United States. The success of this venture could have implications for future international games and partnerships with streaming platforms in the NFL’s ongoing efforts to reach a global audience.
