Media Monday: NFL’s 18-Game Fantasy & A Politico Microscandal
Feb 10, 2025
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The podcast dives into the NFL's intriguing proposition of an 18-game season, discussing its potential impact on player health and fan engagement. They also explore the ramifications of major streaming services becoming players in this expansion. Shifting gears, the hosts scrutinize the Trump administration's decision to cut subscriptions to various D.C. publications, pondering its financial consequences on the media landscape. The interplay between politics and journalism adds a juicy layer to the conversation.
28:57
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Quick takeaways
The NFL's potential 18-game season aims to boost revenue through streaming partnerships while raising player health concerns over injury risks.
The Trump administration's cancellation of subscriptions to Politico highlights tensions between government funding and media integrity, impacting the outlet's financial stability.
Deep dives
Potential 18th NFL Game and Streaming Opportunities
The discussion revolves around the potential addition of an 18th game to the NFL season, fueling speculation among fans and executives alike. This expansion could see games packaged for big streaming platforms like Netflix or Amazon, generating significant revenue for the league. The aim is also to ensure that every team has the opportunity to play an international game, as hinted by the scheduled historic match of the Steelers in Ireland. However, player health concerns are paramount, with the NFL Players Association voicing strong opposition due to the increased risk of injuries associated with adding more games.
Impact of Subscription Cancellations on News Outlets
A scandal concerning government-funded subscriptions to news outlets, such as Politico, has emerged, questioning the integrity of such financial arrangements. The Trump administration's decision to cancel an $8 million subscription to Politico Pro raises concerns about the financial stability of the outlet, which relies heavily on government subscriptions for revenue. Although the cancellation is significant, it might only pose a minor impact overall, as most of Politico's business comes from private sector clients needing access to political intelligence. The situation highlights the complex relationship between media funding and government, where such financial ties often lead to scrutiny and political implications.
Fashion Trends and Cultural Reflections in Sports
The episode also delves into cultural discussions surrounding athlete fashion, particularly focusing on Joe Burrow's unconventional outfit choice at the NFL Honors. Burrow's fashion choices reflect a growing trend among younger generations, where athletes often blend sports and personal style, garnering significant public interest. The conversation extends to the appropriateness of such fashion statements in professional settings, sparking a dialogue about evolving norms in sports and beyond. This trend illustrates the interplay between contemporary culture, celebrity, and the expectations of traditional professionalism in sports.
Jon Kelly joins Peter to talk about the NFL’s 18-game fantasy. They analyze the viability of lengthening the NFL season, whether this is a smart business decision, and envision the potential for major streamers to get involved. Then they dissect the Trump administration cancelling its subscriptions to several D.C. publications—and whether this could actually impact their bottom lines.