Vendors Russ Adams, John Hagan and Donald Morris chat about the world of sports with Executive Assistant Patrick Edwards.
Navigating
new territory for the
John: The NFL. Anything you want to talk about. Russ?
SPORTSWISE
Russ: First, let me say I am intrigued about the lack of live fans. It truly is an interesting discussion. It’s very different without the fans, but at least we can feel good about having our sports back. Despite the pandemic, I still enjoy the games. Short-term, my main concern is that the players are protected; long-term, I believe we’ll beat this virus. So, for now, let’s get it going. Don: I’ve found that, though the NHL has a higher percentage of COVID-19 incidences than both the NFL and NBA, the NFL's percentage is higher than the NBA's. Patrick: With the high number of player-interactions on the field and the sidelines, that might not be so good, huh? Don: Nope. This has the potential to lead to another shut-
down, which would hurt, because I love a football game on Sunday. John: And Thursday and Saturday, and whatever else day they can come up with! Russ: Right! Don: That said, I’m looking forward to seeing how it all shakes out. We will have teams with new names. The BLM movement is having a push-forward impact on the Native Americans’ franchises; the Washington Redskins, especially, are in the spotlight. And, for me, not only are they in the spotlight for the name change, but also because I see them being this season’s eventual champions. Patrick: Funny enough, I haven’t even given it that much thought; I’ve just been ecstatic to know I will see the Bears play this year!
John: Right! But, y’know, going back to COVID-19, this’ll be the first time that fans won’t be allowed into most of the stadiums. The perhaps-positive aspect of all this is that each team gets to decide this for its team. Of course, they’ll be required to practice the social-distancing rules, including wearing masks, which is good. Patrick: Agreed, John. We now have limits, but it’s nice to be free to a certain point. In regard to the non-live folks. I’ve said this before and’ll say it again—it’s fascinating that, following my laughter at seeing the cardboard cutouts or the big-head video-fan in seats, I forget that I’m watching a game without fans. Absolutely fascinating. Don: I believe the non-live fans will help the players because they’ll be focused and’ll probably make less mistakes.
NFL
Not having live fans will ease a bit of the game-pressure that I’m sure is there. Every game may be of the highest quality. Russ: Hadn’t thought of that, Don, but I’m on board with that. In a couple of months, we’ll know for sure. John: My last point, fellas, is that I believe opening up the economy—as it relates to sports and life—will lead to the government doing a better job of treating those with COVID-19. I trust we have a long line of leadership that can help make this happen. Patrick: By the way, Don, Bears will win the Super Bowl! Any comments or suggestions? Email pedwards@streetwise.org
