Kel MacDowell & Roberto Escamilla
The brand new XFL kicked off on Saturday, Feb. 8, between the Seattle Dragons and the DC Defenders. The Defenders won 31-19, in a well fought XFL opener. The XFL is a brand new, fan-first league that’s reimagining the game of football, and offering fans an opportunity to experience more access, action, and amusement. People ask, “Why are they launching the XFL?” The league’s answer was, “For the love of football. It’s as simple as that. For the Love of Football is why our coaches coach, players play, and why we invite new fans and the tried-and-true to be part of it all. If you’ve been a football fan all your life, you’ll love the XFL. If you’ve never been to a professional football game, you’ll love the XFL (our ticket prices are affordable and family-friendly!). What brings us all together is the love of America’s most popular sport and the desire to share more of it together” (XFL For the love of football page).
The XFL’s website features links that redirect you to their brand new shop that allows you to purchase merchandise of your favorite team. The league is quite competitive. Even the Buffalo Bills’ front office began observing the league in hopes of finding free agency opportunities. As the NFL season came to an end, the XFL took center stage for football fans. Although the XFL’s viewership dipped, the number of fans is growing and could make it an outstanding league.
Unfortunately, the XFL suspended its season on March 15. A Seattle Dragons player tested positive for due to COVID-19. The league is closely monitoring the Dragons and all who have come into contact with them.