NFL: What a turkey

I think I celebrated a Thanksgiving tradition for the last time. Watching the NFL.

I’ve often heard ratings have been dropping. This has been attributed to Deflategate, Star Spangled sit-ins, domestic violence and high profile criminal activity. I have a different take.

Football isn’t football anymore. The gritty “smash mouth” version played in mud and casts has been replaced with end zone dancing and constant commentary on the league’s marquee players. There’s also an endless supply of penalties for any testosterone-laden activity except running. No major sport has had so many drastic changes to the rules in such little time. (Of course every time there’s a penalty or a booth review it gives the networks a chance to earn a bundle advertising alcohol.) These new regulations, we’re told, will make the game more exciting.

So why am I less excited? Maybe it’s because these rules have only led to easy scores, showboating and trash talking. Even the fans are getting into the act of intimidation. (Maybe they’re bored too.) If booty shaking, endless controversy and drinking a beer with a team logo are your thing, maybe the NFL is for you!

STEVEN C. REYNALDS

Coeur d’Alene