Is the NFL Really Rigged? The Evidence Fans Keep Pointing To

TLDR;

This video explores the possibility of the NFL scripting its games to maximize profits, arguing that the league's structure and financial incentives make it a plausible scenario. It examines the NFL's legal definition as a for-profit entertainment business, its revenue streams tied to viewership and sports betting, and historical instances of fixed games and documented ties between team owners and the gambling community.

• The NFL is legally structured as a for-profit entertainment business with the goal of maximizing profits for its owners.
• Financial incentives such as viewership, media rights, sponsorships, and sports betting could motivate the NFL to manage game outcomes.
• There have been documented instances of fixed games and connections between NFL team owners and the gambling community.

Intro [0:00]

The video starts with a humorous take on the NFL season as a scripted show, suggesting that the league's storylines are too dramatic and unbelievable to be entirely organic. It sets the stage for an exploration into whether the NFL could be scripting its games.

NFL's Legal Structure and Purpose [0:50]

The NFL is legally defined as a trade association focused on promoting the business interests of its team owners. A discretionary clause in the bylaws allows the league to take any actions necessary to increase profits. This legal structure means it would not be illegal for the NFL to script games. The NFL bylaws do not include any obligation to maintain or protect professional competitive integrity.

Financial Incentives and Revenue Streams [2:11]

The NFL's financial incentives are closely tied to viewership, media rights, sponsorships, and sports betting. Increased revenue for sports books, sponsors, and broadcasting companies directly benefits the NFL. NFL revenue has significantly increased in recent decades, as have revenues for broadcasting companies. The legalization of sports betting in many states has created substantial gross gaming revenue and tax dollars. Given these financial incentives, it would seem irresponsible for team owners not to manage the outcomes of games.

Historical Ties and Fixed Games [4:28]

Past and present NFL team owners have documented business ties to the gambling community and organized crime. There have been instances of fixed NFL games. A bookmaker admitted to personally participating in fixing no fewer than 32 NFL games by working with quarterbacks to shave points off the spread. In 1979, there were eight fixed games allegedly fixed by two referees who were investigated by the FBI and the IRS.