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North Carolina opens Belichick's second season with 15-10 win over TCU
Belichick, who won six Super Bowls as an NFL head coach, was 4-8 in his college debut with the Tar Heels last year.
Where do the Seahawks land on DAZN's power rankings?
The Seahawks have the talent to defend their Super Bowl from last season in 2026, but fell short of pacing the league in DAZN’s NFL power rankings.
Jamel Dean says Steelers are capable of winning Super Bowl
Jamel Dean believes Steelers can win Super Bowl
Vinod Khosla: Seahawks' task is simple, keep winning and get another Super Bowl
Former Buffalo Bills’ Starter Released by Denver Broncos
Former Buffalo Bills starting safety and Super Bowl champion has been released by the Denver Broncos. The post Former Buffalo Bills’ Starter Released by Denver Broncos appeared first on HEAVY.
49ers' 53-man roster prediction for 2026 NFL season
The San Francisco 49ers are one of the most consistent teams in the NFL. They have registered double-digit victories in four of the last five years, but that’s simply not good enough when at team competes in the NFC West. The 49ers have to face the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks twice a year and they also have to do the same with […] The post 49ers' 53-man roster prediction for 2026 NFL season appeared first on ClutchPoints.
Patriots Legend Bill Belichick Ripped by Paul Finebaum, Given Warning
As an NFL coach, Bill Belichick is arguably the greatest to ever step on the field. He has eight Super Bowls, including six as the head coach of the New England Patriots. However, he’s in college with the North Carolina Tar Heels right now, where he’s been a bit of a bust.Belichick went to UNC […] The post Patriots Legend Bill Belichick Ripped by Paul Finebaum, Given Warning appeared first on HEAVY.
The Athletic Football Show Division Previews
Training camp is in the rear-view mirror. Preseason games are mostly in the rear-view mirror. All that’s left to do is begin the 2026 NFL season. Whether you’ve been following the offseason beat-by-beat, from the Combine, through free agency and the draft, all the way up to this moment, or you’re just checking back in after a busy summer with every other sport under the sun, The Athletic Football Show has got you covered with its Division Preview series. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman run through all 32 teams leading up Week 1, which kicks off with a Super Bowl LX rematch...
Patriots Announce Plans To Honor Two Legendary Super Bowl Teams
The Patriots will honor two championship teams that defined their dynasty during the 2026 season. Here is when New England will celebrate the legendary squads and what made each Super Bowl victory unforgettable.
NFL 2026 Season Preview
Sports Business Radio Host Brian Berger and Executive Producer Bryan Griggs get you ready for the 2026-27 NFL Season with this NFL Season Preview podcast. From the salary cap to what each team nets from gross national revenue, to the highest paid players and new Head Coaches this season to what is new that you should be paying attention to this season, this show is packed with useful NFL information. Berger and Griggs also make their annual NFL team over/under picks and Super Bowl picks for the
NFL 2026 Season Preview
Sports Business Radio Host Brian Berger and Executive Producer Bryan Griggs get you ready for the 2026-27 NFL Season with this NFL Season Preview podcast. From the salary cap to what each team nets from gross national revenue, to the highest paid players and new Head Coaches this season to what is new that you should be paying attention to this season, this show is packed with useful NFL information. Berger and Griggs also make their annual NFL team over/under picks and Super Bowl picks for the
Want to buy a sports team? You better hurry, and bring a ton of cash
The Los Angeles Lakers, the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, a chunk of the New York Yankees. Teams are turning over at a rapid pace, driving the values to stratospheric heights.
Cowboys Super Bowl champ, All-Pro dies at 82
Former Dallas Cowboys Super Bowl champion and All-Pro guard John Niland has died at age 82.
Cowboys Super Bowl champ, All-Pro dies at 82
Former Dallas Cowboys Super Bowl champion and All-Pro guard John Niland has died at age 82.
213 Philadelphia Eagles Fantasy Football Names for the Bird Gang
Hundreds of Philadelphia Eagles fantasy football team names, sorted by player, eagle puns, Philly jokes, Super Bowl picks and work-safe options.
Patriots Hit With Brutal Playoff Prediction Ahead of 2026 Season
The New England Patriots went from four wins to the Super Bowl during Mike Vrabel’s first season in charge.Bleacher Report is predicting a much different ending in Year 2.Brad Gagnon made the Patriots the key part of his AFC East entry in an list of one bold prediction for every NFL division.His forecast was that […] The post Patriots Hit With Brutal Playoff Prediction Ahead of 2026 Season appeared first on HEAVY.
Dallas Cowboys Legend Troy Aikman Puts Franchise on Notice
It has been a long time since the Dallas Cowboys made a run to the Super Bowl or NFC Championship Game. The last time they played in the NFC Championship Game was 1996. That isn’t something lost on team legend Troy Aikman.Aikman was the quarterback for the Cowboys during that last run to the NFC […] The post Dallas Cowboys Legend Troy Aikman Puts Franchise on Notice appeared first on HEAVY.
Commanders Hosted Super Bowl Linebacker Amid Multiple Tryouts: Report
The Washington Commanders hosted a linebacker with Super Bowl experience, as part of multiple tryouts in free agency. The post Commanders Hosted Super Bowl Linebacker Amid Multiple Tryouts: Report appeared first on HEAVY.
Despite complaints about other sports, the NFL has become the most predictable league in America
Over 13 seasons, 58% of Super Bowl participants had the NFL's best regular season record, making the playoffs far more predictable than other sports.
Dallas Cowboys Sign Former Super Bowl MVP Von MIller
The Dallas Cowboys are signing a former Super Bowl MVP edge rusher. The post Dallas Cowboys Sign Former Super Bowl MVP Von MIller appeared first on HEAVY.
Sports podcaster breaks down week 1 of the NFL preseason
Double Coverage Podcast host Zach Hirsch joins “Morning in America” to discuss his thoughts as week 1 of the NFL preseason wraps up, including his Rookie of the Year and Super Bowl predictions.
Bears Reportedly Checking on Availability of Super Bowl Champion
Dolphins Urged to Cut 2-Time Super Bowl Champion Immediately
The Miami Dolphins are being urged to cut a two-time Super Bowl champion before the 2026 season starts. The post Dolphins Urged to Cut 2-Time Super Bowl Champion Immediately appeared first on HEAVY.
Mike Vrabel wasn't bothered by Tom Brady's "no dog in the fight" remark before the Super Bowl
Steelers Reveal Quarterback Plans Against Packers
Green Bay Packers fans are not only excited for the preseason opener because it is the return of football. It is also the reunion of their Super Bowl-winning head coach Mike McCarthy and quarterback Aaron Rodgers on the sideline, playing against the Packers with the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, while reports earlier in the summer were […] The post Steelers Reveal Quarterback Plans Against Packers appeared first on HEAVY.
Thurman Thomas on Josh Allen and the Bills
Thurman Thomas on building the new Bills stadium and this season's Super Bowl odds.
Poll: Are the Eagles Messing With Jalen Hurts?
The headaches have started early for the Philadelphia Eagles. The Super Bowl LIX champions have won 50 games in the last four seasons, yet it always seems like there’s a problem. Head coach Nick Sirianni is on the hot seat… Until he got traded, wide receiver A.J. Brown was a distraction… Every year, there’s a new offensive coordinator… And then there’s quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Broncos Move on Former Rams Super Bowl Champion
The Denver Broncos have a former Super Bowl champion and veteran defender on their radar amid NFL training camp. The post Broncos Move on Former Rams Super Bowl Champion appeared first on HEAVY.
Bears' Ben Johnson eyes more than just Super Bowl: 'I want to have the highest-scoring offense ever'
Even After Super Bowl Victory, The Seahawks Are Being Overlooked
Colin Cowherd says Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks remain overlooked despite being the defending champions.
Are The Chicago Bears a Super Bowl Contender in 2026?
2 Mississippi State football players caught sports gambling on NFL, NBA
Documents show two Mississippi State football players were caught sports gambling on the Super Bowl and NBA using Kalshi in February.
CardVault by Tom Brady, a sports memorabilia shop, to open in Town & Country
San Mateo native Tom Brady, who is best known for winning seven Super Bowls and becoming one of the most decorated quarterbacks in football history, is about to take on more visible presence in Palo Alto’s Town & Country Village.
Ex-Eagles Super Bowl Champion Linked to NFC North Team
A former Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl champion is still waiting for his phone to ring about a job from an NFL team.Offensive guard Mekhi Becton did not have a good season after winning it all with the Eagles. Becton had a failed one-year run with the Los Angeles Chargers, resulting in his release and now […] The post Ex-Eagles Super Bowl Champion Linked to NFC North Team appeared first on HEAVY.
Bleacher Report Questions Nick Sirianni's Future Despite Eagles' Sustained Success
According to Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski, Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni may be on the hot seat depending on the result of this season. "If the Eagles falter because Sirianni fails to get his team back on track, the organization should consider a quick hook to take full advantage of the window with its current core." Philadelphia hired Sirianni ahead of the 2021 NFL season, after firing Super Bowl-winning coach Doug Peterson.
‘It’s impactful’: Seattle Sports fans see a bright future at stadium gatherings
Two major sports events took place in Seattle on Saturday. The Super Bowl-winning Seahawks held their Fan Fest, and the Mariners celebrated 50 years of Seattle baseball as the team hosted the Tampa Bay Rays.
Vinatieri inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Five of some of the best professional football players were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday, including South Dakota native Adam Vinatieri. Vinatieri played 24 seasons in the NFL, ten for the New England Patriots and 14 with the Indianapolis Colts, winning four Super Bowl Rings […]
Eagles OT Lane Johnson reveals where he stands on retirement
Two-time Super Bowl champion Lane Johnson offered an update about his future with the Philadelphia Eagles ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
NFL Exec Thinks Bills Could Explore Blockbuster $27 Million Trade
The Buffalo Bills put together a strong all-around NFL offseason. Heading into the 2026 NFL season, they are once again viewed as a team who could make a run all the way to the Super Bowl. Over the last few years, Josh Allen and company have had those same expectations. However, they have come up […] The post NFL Exec Thinks Bills Could Explore Blockbuster $27 Million Trade appeared first on HEAVY.
DeMarcus Lawrence returns for 13th season after considering retirement
Seahawks defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence capped his 12th NFL season with his first Super Bowl ring.
Von Miller stirs Bills return rumors: 'Unfinished business'
The Bills defense can use all the help it can get. Von Miller is seemingly hinting about a return to the Bills with the Super Bowl contenders desperate for help along the defensive line. Miller,...
Patriots’ Drake Maye Gets Honest About WR Trade Rumors
The New England Patriots and quarterback Drake Maye are heading into the 2026 NFL season with big expectations. After making a run to the Super Bowl last year, similar success is expected this year.Unfortunately, the Patriots were unable to come out on top in the Super Bowl last year. They came up short against the […] The post Patriots’ Drake Maye Gets Honest About WR Trade Rumors appeared first on HEAVY.
Jon Gruden "fired up" to broadcast Bucs preseason game
Jon Gruden, who won Super Bowl XXXVII as Tampa Bay's head coach, will be in the broadcast booth as the play-by-play announcer for the Bucs' second preseason game against the Chiefs on Aug. 22.
Carrie Underwood's return to 'Sunday Night Football' sends internet into a frenzy
Fans are split on Carrie Underwood's return to Sunday Night Football, with some pushing for Ella Langley while others demand a Super Bowl halftime show.
Seahawks add depth, sign two undrafted free agents
Roster shuffles continue for the reigning Super Bowl Champions as Week 2 of training camp progresses
Jadeveon Clowney returns to the Texans, chasing a Super Bowl in his 13th season
After seven years and six teams, the defensive end is back where his career began.
Buffalo Bills Predicted to Land Monster 300-Pound Defender
The Buffalo Bills will once again head into the upcoming 2026 NFL season as a top-tier Super Bowl contender in the AFC. With Josh Allen leading the way, they are always going to have a shot at winning a championship.During the offseason, the Bills clearly decided to go all-in on winning now. They went out […] The post Buffalo Bills Predicted to Land Monster 300-Pound Defender appeared first on HEAVY.
Aaron Donald looks to establish a media and entertainment footprint
As defensive tackle Aaron Donald focuses for now on whether he'll end a two-year playing hiatus in pursuit of a second Super Bowl ring, he's activating a longer-term vision for his post-football future.
Buffalo Bills Land Big Josh Allen Update During Training Camp
The Buffalo Bills and superstar quarterback Josh Allen will enter the 2026 NFL season being viewed once again as a top-tier Super Bowl contender in the AFC.Over the last handful of years, Allen and company have been a top pick to win a championship. Unfortunately, the team has come up short time and time again […] The post Buffalo Bills Land Big Josh Allen Update During Training Camp appeared first on HEAVY.
Packers’ First Preseason Game Becomes Super Bowl Reunion
The Green Bay Packers will get another chance to see their former quarterback face off against their team. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is expected to play the first two games of the preseason this year, according to a report by Mike Silver of The Athletic. The Steelers’ first preseason game happens to be hosting […] The post Packers’ First Preseason Game Becomes Super Bowl Reunion appeared first on HEAVY.
NFL offseason power rankings: No. 3 Buffalo Bills try again to get Josh Allen to a Super Bowl
3-Point Stance: Patriots’ training camp expectations have changed
New England’s no longer rebuilding; it’s refining amidst Super Bowl expectations.
Analyst Declares Jaguars His Early Super Bowl Pick
Despite a criticized offseason and persistent national doubt, Peter Schrager is backing the Jaguars to silence critics with a surprising Super Bowl run this season.
Cowboys Truth Behind Dak Prescott's 'Controversial' Super Bowl T-Shirt
5 Reasons Kyle Shanahan Needs to Leave 49ers After 2026
Kyle Shanahan is going to win a Super Bowl. Kyle has more parallels to another coach: Andy Reid. Reid spent 14 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, winning six NFC East titles and reaching the NFC Championship Game five times.
Dak Prescott setting high expectations for Cowboys and their offense
When Dak Prescott arrived at training camp Tuesday, he wore a vintage t-shirt celebrating the Dallas Cowboys’ last Super Bowl win as a statement of intent. After 10 years in the NFL without a meaningful playoff run for an organization that has not claimed a championship since after the 1995 season, their star quarterback is ready to end those droughts through his deeds, words, and even wardrobe choices. “To go into training camp and to go into the season to say that those are our goals, I mean, it’d be stupid or we’d be remiss not to own that, and take accountability in that, and take pride in saying this is what we want to be and what we want to do,” Prescott said Thursday.
Former Auburn star, Alabama Sports Hall of Famer, dead at 85
Lanett native started in Super Bowl I for Kansas City Chiefs
Dak Prescott, Cowboys embracing Super Bowl talk
Cowboys’ $90 Million Starter Sends Clear Warning Ahead of Camp
Entering training camp, the vibes feel different for the Dallas Cowboys, as this feels like a Super Bowl-contending team.The Cowboys’ offense is about as elite as it gets, and the defense dramatically improved in the offseason. Even with the additions on defense, there is still some concern about how this unit will look.Last year, the […] The post Cowboys’ $90 Million Starter Sends Clear Warning Ahead of Camp appeared first on HEAVY.
MVP Matthew Stafford says star-studded Rams have "a high ceiling" for climb toward a Super Bowl run
Matthew Stafford is back at work in his 18th NFL training camp and his first since winning his first league MVP award
Zac Taylor’s New Mindset Could Define the Bengals’ 2026 Season
Trading post-Super Bowl pressure for infectious optimism, Taylor aims to unleash Joe Burrow and a revamped roster by embracing the high-stakes thrill of a pivotal campaign.
Seahawks Issued Intriguing Najee Harris Take Amid Training Camp
The Seattle Seahawks head into the 2026 NFL season as the defending Super Bowl champions, but they still have a few concerns as they try to repeat. One of the biggest questions surrounds the team’s running back group.Kenneth Walker III departed in free agency this offseason, signing with the Kansas City Chiefs, while Zach Charbonnet […] The post Seahawks Issued Intriguing Najee Harris Take Amid Training Camp appeared first on HEAVY.
Bills Face Dire Prediction on Josh Allen’s Future in Buffalo
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen may need to leave Buffalo for a shot at winning a Super Bowl, an NFL analyst suggested. The post Bills Face Dire Prediction on Josh Allen’s Future in Buffalo appeared first on HEAVY.
San Francisco 49ers Receive Honest Admission on Super Bowl Window
Mike Vrabel’s second act will define his Patriots legacy
Reaching the Super Bowl once proves you're a good coach. Sustaining excellence—proves you're great. Which one is Vrabel?
Super Bowl-winning former New England Patriots starter dead at 38
He also played with the Raiders, Bills, Ravens, Chiefs and 49ers.
Titans Sign 2-Time Super Bowl Winner Before Training Camp
The Tennessee Titans signed a defensive back a few days before the start of training camp under Robert Saleh The post Titans Sign 2-Time Super Bowl Winner Before Training Camp appeared first on HEAVY.
Charlotte business leaders say city will be ready if tapped for draft, Super Bowl
Goodell told Panthers owner David Tepper that the city, stadium and its facilities were “Super Bowl-quality.”
Training Camp Could Decide Joshua Palmer's Future with the Bills
With a crowded receiving corps and Super Bowl aspirations, veteran Joshua Palmer must build instant chemistry with Josh Allen to secure a prominent role in Buffalo’s evolving offense.
Super Bowl LXII will be played on February 13, 2028
Tepper's $1.3B stadium project could help pave way for Super Bowl in Charlotte
Tepper's investment coincides with the team announcing extension of a stadium naming rights deal with Bank of America.
NFL commissioner praises Charlotte, says it’s ‘Super Bowl quality’
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell spent Thursday evening in the Queen City as he joined Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper for a fireside chat.
Philadelphia Eagles Get Linked to Intriguing Browns Trade Target
Going into the 2026 NFL season, the Philadelphia Eagles‘ biggest question marks will be on the offensive side of the ball. After dominating in the Super Bowl two seasons ago, the defensive side of the clear was by far the strongest for Philadelphia in the following season and it wasn’t particularly close. But with that […] The post Philadelphia Eagles Get Linked to Intriguing Browns Trade Target appeared first on HEAVY.
One ESPN Cowboys Super Bowl Take That Finally Makes Sense
Eagles Get More Bulletin-Board Material Ahead of 2026 Season
The Philadelphia Eagles are the two-time reigning NFC East champs, and are just 18 months removed from the Super Bowl. The Eagles were 11-6 in 2025, a three-game drop off from the 2024 season where they won 14 games and defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in Super Bowl LIX. Plus, Philadelphia fell 23-19 to the San Francisco 49ers in the wild-card round.
World Cup betting in U.S. equivalent of '10 Super Bowls'
Sportsbooks and technology providers across the United States sports betting industry report that this year's World Cup produced record handle for a soccer tournament across the board and even rivaled other major prolonged sporting events.
World Cup Final Averaged More Than 61 Million Viewers
The final posted the largest U.S. television audience since the Super Bowl.
Bills’ ‘Nightmare’ Scenario Revealed That Could Derail Josh Allen’s Season
The Buffalo Bills made a big decision this offseason when they parted ways with head coach Sean McDermott and promoted Joe Brady to the new role.Buffalo struggled to reach the Super Bowl over the last six seasons, so it needed to take action to give the Bills and their fans a boost, which meant parting […] The post Bills’ ‘Nightmare’ Scenario Revealed That Could Derail Josh Allen’s Season appeared first on HEAVY.
UFC Freedom 250 Fails to Knock Out The Ratings
(Welcome to my weekly streaming ratings report, the single best guide to what’s popular in streaming TV and what isn’t. I’m the Entertainment Strategy Guy, a former streaming executive who now analyzes business strategy in the entertainment industry. If you were forwarded this email, please subscribe to get these insights each week.) If UFC fans wanted one image to say, “Hey, Paramount+ is crushing it with their UFC rights deal,” I could provide that image. Here it is: (Reminder: this is my creation of the Nielsen Top 30, since Nielsen doesn’t combine the lists or include sports. I take all three lists and combine them. Some streaming TV shows probably have higher ratings than many of the films on this list.) Look at that! UFC Freedom 250 is number one! It topped the Nielsen “Top 30” list for shows and films that made the top ten the week of 15-June. So if you’re a UFC fan or supporter of Paramount+, that’s the good news for you this week. This program topped the ratings charts for one week. Everything else is bad news, or at least a huge caveat to that story, which I’ll explain today in the first part of this week’s Streaming Ratings Report—for the weeks of 8-June and 15-June—which is a double issue since I’ve been writing on a bunch of topics recently. UFC Freedom 250 is one of the biggest streaming events of the year, and super relevant to Paramount+’s strategy, so it merited its own article. Let’s dive in! (Reminder: The streaming ratings report focuses on the U.S. market and compiles data from Nielsen’s weekly top ten viewership ranks, Luminate’s Top Ten Data, JustWatch and Reelgood interest data, Samba TV household viewership, company datecdotes, Netflix hours viewed data, Google Trends, and IMDb to determine the most popular content. While most data points are current, Nielsen’s data covers the weeks of June 8th to June 21st 2026. You can find a link to my terminology here.) Subscribe Check Out My Interview on UFC 250 at MMA Draw After you read this article, if you want even more thoughts on UFC and Paramount-Skydance/Paramount+, I did a written interview with MMA Draw. They asked me to answer some questions about UFC Freedom 250, and I was happy to chat with them. Find it here: [ The MMA Draw Newsletter Did Paramount really overpay for the UFC? What the data tells us so far If you know the history of American television, you also know that combat sports is often a leading indicator of the future… Read more a day ago · 10 likes · 1 comment · Nate Wilcox and Zach Arnold ](https://www.themmadraw.com/p/did-paramount-really-overpay-for?utm_source=substack&utm_campaign=post_embed&utm_medium=web) I never thought I’d need a combat sports newsletter in my life, but the good folks at MMA Draw publish an excellent one on UFC, MMA, pro wrestling, boxing and more, analyzing both the sports themselves and the politics, economics and antitrust issues that impact them. Check the article and their newsletter out! Paramount+ Has Its Best Sporting Event of All Time…But Was It Worth It? Before we look at the UFC Freedom 250 data in particular, let’s talk about what we can’t say. Namely, let’s start with the lack of comparisons. First off, I’d love to put a chart out comparing this fight to past UFC fights on Paramount+…but we don’t have the data. This is the first time we’ve gotten Nielsen data about a Paramount+ UFC fight. As far as I can tell, Paramount provided data for the first fight, but it was a proprietary datecdote (saying it had “an average minute audience” of 5 million “views”) and then, for two fights, we got the linear viewership numbers when they aired on CBS, but no streaming data. Everything else was crickets. We also can’t compare this fight to other fights/combat sports on streaming, in particular the MMA and boxing, because Netflix also didn’t use Nielsen to track those events, opting for TVision and VideoAmp, respectively. (This isn’t Paramount’s fault, but does still suck.) We also can’t compare to UFC’s fights that used to be on ESPN+, since we don’t have any data for that, plus Disney+ didn’t have marquee fights. The comparisons would not be apples-to-apples. Can we compare to past Pay-Per-View fights? Absolutely not. The comparisons would absolutely NOT be apples-to-apples. That didn’t stop Paramount+, though, who bragged that their UFC events have reached drastically more people than past PPV fights. Duh. Sorry, but I gotta make this point again. A basic tenet of economics is that the cheaper something becomes, the more people consume or buy it. That’s Econ 101. (Sometimes pundits call things “Econ 101” that are actually like Econ 210 or even PhD-level economics, but no, this is really like first or second class basic economics.) Yet I still see one analytics firm consistently say that more people watch films on streaming than PVOD proves streaming which means that the streaming window is more valuable than the PVOD window. No, it’s not! Same thing here. Pay-Per-View events back in the day could be really, really, really expensive! So whole groups of people pitched in to buy them. That increased the perceived value of, say, the Mike Tyson fight. Or a UFC numbered event. So yes, the fact that Paramount+ makes numbered UFC fights essentially “free” if you’re already a Paramount+ member means consumption will go up. Obviously. Same for Netflix and their boxing matches. They’re talking about fights that used to cost consumers, in some cases, $50 in 1996…which is over $100 in today’s dollars. Over 1.6 million people paid that to watch the Tyson-Holyfield fight! Again, streaming is essentially “free”. Or $10 to $20, depending on what streamer we’re talking about and what tier you’re on. No wonder more people are “watching”. (Plus, Nielsen’s out-of-home viewing also helps these numbers.) UFC Freedom 250 Did Well…But I Have A Lot of Worries So what can we compare the fights to? Well, the good news is Nielsen put out that the fight averaged 7.0 million viewers for UFC Freedom 250, which is a solid number for a fight. We also know the length, at roughly 4 and a half hours. (I saw different run times, but this seems to be the consensus considering it started at 8 pm, had a delay and then finished after midnight on the East Coast. If you assume a shorter run time, then yes, the total hours viewed would go down.) That means I have the two numbers needed to add this to my Nielsen database. And then…I can compare this viewership to the NFL: And, uh, not great. But also within striking distance, mainly because the runtime for this event was so long. I’d also add that this event had viewership equal to a regular season NFL game on streaming, but if anything, it was more comparable to an NFL playoff or Super Bowl-esque event. And you can compare viewership to the top football games on broadcast, cable and streaming, and it’s not impressive at all: We can also compare it to other sports that week, including the NBA Finals and start of the World Cup: Again, not great. The NBA generated roughly four times as many average viewers each game for its NBA Finals. The World Cup has similarly big numbers. Also, that’s just a tiny fraction of the 25 most watched sporting events each week. The NBA, NHL and FIFA World Cup had many, many more games racking up hours. We could also compare this to other streaming programs to get an idea of “is this a good investment?” and here is how it ranks compared to other top Paramount+ programs: The worry here? Well, unlike scripted programming, which has rewatchability, older fights/sporting events have very little library value. Very, very few people are rewatching these fights, especially years from now. Paramount has also released datecdotes bragging about their subscriber numbers. Earlier this year, they claimed that the first UFC fight on Paramount+ brought in 1 million subscribers. Then, in their quarterly earnings report, they only ended up with 700K subs. Not great! They claimed they dropped lower-value international subscribers, but that’s why I tend to discount subscriber additions when they’re leaked to the press.1 I expect we may see a bump again for UFC Freedom 250, but I’d caution using subscriber growth so soon after these events to judge the success, since new subs with high churn (see Peacock) aren’t great either. Also, analysts often want to attribute all subscriber growth to their favorite/pet show, and that just doesn’t make sense. The biggest caveat for UFC Freedom 250 and Paramount’s very first UFC marquee event is that these could be high watermarks for the sport. UFC Freedom 250 had an incredible amount of earned media coverage compared to most UFC fights. I mean, it had wall-to-wall national news coverage in the lead up to the event. (The first fight also had a lot of promotion from Paramount since it was first.) Other fights could reach this bar—say the Conor McGregor return to the Octagon—but they’ll be fewer and far between. Was This Deal Worth It? All to ask: is this Paramount deal worth it? In this case, I think the UFC Freedom 250 numbers are more distracting than helpful. This fight did well and compares well to other top sporting events. But we know that the first marquee event was at least a third smaller, if Paramount’s own data is to be believed. And it’s likely the other fights are much, much, much smaller. And then you get to the paycheck that Paramount-Skydance paid. FIFA’s World Cup cost about the same for Fox, but clearly generated multiples more total viewership. (Though it’s only every four years.) The NBA is much more expensive, but until the playoffs, they likely didn’t pay for itself. Even still, Disney, NBCUniversal and Amazon Prime Video likely overpaid. So, in that context, the NBA may be an overpay that makes the UFC look not so bad. But two overpays don’t make an underpay, to paraphrase the old cliché about wrongs and rights. And looking at UFC Freedom 250 as the likely ceiling of MMA on Paramount+, Paramount-Skydance likely paid too much. Share 1 I would love regular reports on subscriber additions by programs, but as is, it’s mostly leaked or rumored in haphazard ways.
Can 'One Man' Carry Seahawks' Super Bowl Repeat Hopes?
Last season, it was the Jaxon Smith-Njigba show on offense, but can he do it again?
Jalen Hurts Gets Reasonable Warning Before Eagles Training Camp
Like every year, there are plenty of NFL players with a lot on the line heading into the new season. For the Philadelphia Eagles, the quarterback Jalen Hurts might have more pressure than anybody. It’s nothing new for Hurts. Even months after he was named the Super Bowl MVP, the star quarterback went into the […] The post Jalen Hurts Gets Reasonable Warning Before Eagles Training Camp appeared first on HEAVY.
Eagles Urged to Sign Former Super Bowl MVP Before Season
The Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowlwith Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith and game-wrecking edge play that had Patrick Mahomes running for his life. Von Miller, the MVP of Super Bowl 50 who spent last year with the Washington Commanders, could make an interesting fit for the Eagles to upgrade their pass rush, according to Bleacher Report.
Former NFL GM blasts Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers
A former NFL general manager isn't sold on Aaron Rodgers' Super Bowl odds in what's shaping up to be his final season with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Former Super Bowl champ calls Patriots QB Drake Maye 'average'
Former All-Pro safety T.J. Ward argued that MVP runner-up Drake Maye is an "average" quarterback.
Tom Brady Smacks WWE Champion at Fanatics Fest
Longtime NFL quarterback Tom Brady recently told Cody Rhodes that he is interested in competing in “at least one” WWE match at some point. Apparently, the 7-time Super Bowl champion isn’t waiting for Paul “Triple H” Leveque to book the match before getting physical with WWE talent.During their appearance at Fanatics Fest 2026 in New […] The post Tom Brady Smacks WWE Champion at Fanatics Fest appeared first on HEAVY.
Bill Belichick's 1st college team struggled at UNC. He's hoping for more success
“Last year when we started, we were literally starting from scratch," the Super Bowl-winning coach said. “We're above that now for sure.”
World Cup final on track to be most expensive sporting event ever
The average price of World Cup final tickets is $12,751, more than $2,000 higher than the previous record set by the 2024 Super Bowl.
What could trip up Sean McVay’s Rams offense?
Is this what stops the Rams from reaching the Super Bowl? Warren Sharp thinks so
Survey: How many touchdowns will Sam Darnold throw in 2026?
Sam Darnold threw 30 TD passes for the Seahawks in year one. What does the Super Bowl champ have for an encore?
James Cook Highlights "New Energy" In Buffalo Bills Locker Room
As Joe Brady takes the reins, star running back James Cook details the revitalized atmosphere fueling Buffalo's high-stakes pursuit of a Super Bowl title following major coaching changes.
Analyst Gives His Pick for Jaguars’ Biggest Remaining Offseason Priority
Despite a loaded roster and Super Bowl aspirations, Jacksonville must address a critical defensive void. CBS Sports identifies the linebacker position as needing a vital upgrade to prevent regression.
Scripting the Cowboys ultimate return to Super Bowl glory
How legitimately possible do you think it is that the Cowboys could make a Super Bowl run?
Texans Given Honest Admission on 2026 Super Bowl Chances
Willie Colon's Aaron Rodgers Prediction Could Change Steelers' 2026 Outlook
Despite the Steelers making several significant moves this offseason, some believe bringing back Aaron Rodgers won't be enough to elevate the team. In fact, one former Steelers Super Bowl champion believes Pittsburgh still has a few surprises in store. Willie Colon appeared on Good Morning Football, where he urged the crew not to overlook the Steelers in 2026.
Seahawks Issued Compelling Take on Raiders’ Maxx Crosby
The Seattle Seahawks have one of the NFL’s most dominant pass rushes, which helped fuel their run to winning a Super Bowl last season. Nonetheless, the Seahawks were able to get to the quarterback without having a premier pass rusher. Seattle made the opposing signal-caller uncomfortable with a constant pass rush, thanks to their depth. […] The post Seahawks Issued Compelling Take on Raiders’ Maxx Crosby appeared first on HEAVY.
Seattle’s Super Bowl Repeat Could Hinge on a Rookie
Seattle owns a championship roster, but Kenneth Walker III’s exit leaves rookie Jadarian Price carrying the biggest question in the Seahawks’ title defense.
James Harrison believes Patriots stole Super Bowl from Steelers
Former defensive MVP James Harrison is still convinced that the Patriots cheated against the Steelers.
Former Steelers Super Bowl XIV champion dies at age 69
Greg Hawthorne, a former NFL running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has passed away at age 69.
Seahawks coach reportedly responds to Tom Brady Super Bowl accusations
Mike Macdonald reportedly absolved Tom Brady as the person who helped the Seahawks prepare for the Super Bowl.
Tom Brady appears to be Seattle Seahawks’ ‘conflict of interest’
Tom Brady’s claim that he didn’t have a “dog in the fight” before Super Bowl LX between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks may have just been a smokescreen. Brady irked Patriots fans and former players when he preached neutrality ahead of Super Bowl LX. Saying he had “no dog in the fight”…