Night football is usually the best form of football, and I ranked them. Here are my rankings for the three nights of NFL football.
#3 Thursday Night Football
Thursday night is the hardest night for players and fans. Teams get only three days of recovery from Sunday which is far below the optimal time for NFL players, especially the 30 year old veterans who need full recovery. Less rest leads to slower gameplay, more conservative play-calling, and fewer explosive plays.
Stats (Sportspro):
- Viewership: approximately 15.8 million which is the lowest of the three primetime games
- Scoring: average 45.7 points per game slightly lower than Sunday Night Football
- Explosive plays: fewer than Sunday or Monday because players are often limited or rested
Even with the best announcers such as Kirk Herbstreit and Al Michaels the games feel underwhelming because of short prep time and less exciting matchups. Thursday Night Football is simply the weakest primetime experience.
#2 Monday Night Football
Monday Night Football is better than Thursday because teams have almost a full week to recover and prepare. This allows for more strategic gameplay and higher quality performances.
Stats: (ESPN)
- Viewership: approximately 21.6 million
- Scoring: average 45.7 points per game similar to Thursday but slightly more exciting
- Explosive plays: more than Thursday because starters are fully involved and fresh
The main flaw is the announcers, Joe Buck and Troy Aikman who fans feel are less engaging than the Sunday Night Football team. Still Monday Night Football consistently delivers better matchups and more entertaining football than Thursday. Eli Manning and Peyton offer a more humorous commentary if your looking for a laugh.
#1 Sunday Night Football
“Waiting all day for a Sunday Night”- Carrie Underwood. It’s simply iconic. Sunday Night Football is the crown jewel of NFL primetime. Teams have rested and are ready, star players are playing, and headlining match-ups make it the most riveting night to watch.
Stats:( NBC )
- Viewership: approximately 25.5 million highest of the three
- Scoring: average 46.0 points per game
- Explosive plays: highest percentage among primetime games as a result of high power offenses and full preparation for the game.
It’s possible for fans to relax all day and build up to a huge matchup and make Sunday Night Football a spectacle and a tradition. What’s better than a nice dinner in Sudan followed by a great NFL game. The production and announcers are also the best as another aspect of the experience.
Conclusion:
Sunday Night Football – best overall with high scores, exciting plays, and best matchups
Monday Night Football – better with good games and preparation but less overall coverage
Thursday Night Football – worst with short prep, lesser star play, lower scores, and fewest viewers