Clearly, the coronavirus pandemic has had an impact on every part of society. This medical crisis has also led to an economic one that has forced many people to change how they conduct business. This includes the world of sports. Back in March, the coronavirus pandemic was in full swing. The NCAA was forced to cancel its annual “March Madness” basketball tournament. The NBA was forced to pause its season. Major League Baseball did not get going until July and felt the ire of people all over the world. The only sport that appeared to be insulated from the coronavirus pandemic was the NFL and this was purely due to its lucky timing. Now, the NFL is feeling the wrath of the pandemic as well. As fantasy players and sports bettors continue to rely on free sports picks to help them figure out NFL games, the playoffs continue to get closer. Some people are wondering if the NFL is going to add more playoff teams.
First, it is important to look at a few of the reasons why the NFL might decide to add more playoff teams. The reality is that more games for the NFL are likely to mean more money. Given that the league has felt the sting of reduced fan attendance, they are probably looking for ways to increase their revenue. Adding more playoff teams is a way for them to drive up the number of games they play, leading to more revenue.
In addition, there is also an argument to be made regarding competitive fairness. It is entirely possible that by the time the regular season of the NFL is finished, every team might not have played the same number of games. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, this is exactly what happened during the MLB season. Not every team played the same number of games. Therefore, the NFL might decide that the best way to remedy the situation is to provide more teams with a shot at the playoffs.
One of the major hassles of holding extra playoff games on short notice involves getting the hotel space required to host such a major event. Because most stadiums are severely limiting the number of fans in attendance, this might not be as big of a problem as it usually is. Therefore, adding more NFL teams to the playoffs due to the coronavirus pandemic is possible.
Right now, the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage throughout the country. The reality is that it might get worse during the winter, as the vaccine is unlikely to be available before the summer. Therefore, with flu and the virus hitting at the same time, it is possible that more NFL games might get postponed in the winter. With most teams already having had their bye, the NFL is going to have a hard time sticking to its schedule. Therefore, in the interest of competitive balance and with teams possibly not having played the same number of games, the NFL might decide to add more playoff teams.
