I was born into a football-loving family and even though I was “DE-FENSE!” I started going to San Francisco 49ers games before I even learned how to shout. My enjoyment of the game has grown over the years, and throughout the season you’ll rarely find me cooking a big comfort food in the kitchen on Sundays, anywhere other than my sofa.
But being a football fan can be an expensive prospect, especially these last few years when inflation has increased the cost of almost everything. With so many people on such tight budgets, it can be difficult to find the extra money to spend on expensive entertainment.
With that in mind, here are a few ways to get your football fix without emptying your wallet.
1. Go for less popular games
Get ready for this: The average ticket price to an NFL game in 2023 is $377. When you consider that the first Super Bowl tickets in 1967 were $12 each (about $106 when adjusted for inflation), you can see how popular football has become in the United States. cheapest Tickets to NFL games range from $49 to $209.
That’s a huge price to pay just to get into the stadium, but if you’re determined to support your team in person, look for matches on the schedule against less exciting opponents. Ticket prices can fluctuate depending on how desirable a game is; So try to plan your match day around a visiting team that will get you in the door for less.
2. Search for local watch parties
Going to a game in person may be out of your price range, but perhaps you still want to be surrounded by other fans. In this case, look for viewing parties at bars or restaurants in your area. Some may be team-sponsored, but others may be local establishments broadcasting the game on TV and offering food and drink specials to attractive customers.
By reducing the cost of game tickets, you’ll potentially save hundreds of dollars while still celebrating or offering your condolences to your fans.
3. Sign up for a streaming service
Maybe you have a lucky spot on the couch that you don’t want to give up while gaming. If so, signing up for a service that lets you stream games at home is a better alternative than heading to the stadium or a crowded sports bar.
NFL Sunday Ticket, which allows you to watch any non-prime time game, will be available on YouTube starting this season. The lowest price is $449 per year, or $349 if you also have a YouTube TV plan. While this is definitely a big charge for your credit card, it works out to around $26 per regular season week for the standalone plan. And you can take advantage of the promotional price when you sign up – I subscribed a few months before the season and knocked $100 off the price.
NFL+ is another option for watching live local games. The current price starts at $49.99 per year, but promotions are possible here too. I signed up a few weeks ago during the 50% off sale.
4. Invite your friends to a meal
Whether you pay for a streaming service to watch All If you’re part of the games (raises hand) or just want to watch your team play on local channels, inviting your friends to watch with you is a great way to split meal costs.
Instead of providing the entire spread yourself, you can ask each guest to contribute something. Maybe you set up a Bloody Mary bar in your kitchen, a friend brings over her famous buffalo wings, and your cousin makes seven-layer dip. Just make sure you coordinate so you don’t end up with a six-pack and no food.
As much as I love watching my 49ers, it’s nice to take a break and throw the ball around myself. If you can’t get enough football, look for a flag football league in your area where you can show off your arm, or gather an informal group once a week for a scrimmage at the park.
This can be an affordable and even free way to get more football into your life, especially on those four dark days of each week when there’s no NFL on TV.
Yes, yes, I know I stole that line from him. other football, but this feeling is still valid. If you’re looking for ways to enjoy your favorite sport without spending your entire savings account balance, use these tips to keep your costs low. It will make the wins that much sweeter.
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