Running NFL Preseason Thread

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

Yup. It's much more likely that the owners will actually have to belly up to the table and communicate if the TV money they had counted on banking regardless of the outcome doesn't fall into their laps.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

What do people think it will take to get Palmer? A second-rounder? If I'm the Niners or the Cardinals I'd make that deal today.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

I wouldn't. he's done. There will be better QBs on the street.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

If I remember correctly, the NFL had no such set-up in place in 1987 and the owners still easily outlasted the players. Don't underestimate how cocky NFL ownership has become.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

Key words are "much more likely," OOP. Won't say, or imply, that it will force the owners to do anything.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

In 1987, the NFL put on the replacement games because the NFLPA was on strike, and so the networks had to pay, because the league was fulfilling its contract. In case of a lockout, they can't put on replacement games. Big difference.
Also, one thing that gets overlooked is that the networks didn't completely give away their store. They agreed to pay rights fees during the lockout, but the NFL then OWES them that money, with interest. So the league is postponing financial damages, not getting rid of them. More proof this dispute is about the need of the owners to exercise power rather than their need to make money. Typical sociopathic American rich people, in short.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

That's my point. I don't think it really is that much more likely. They are just too stubborn and arrogant and they have had too much success running over the players in the past.

Michael raises a good point, though, that they don't have the option of replacement games this time. I still think they have the resources to hold out longer.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

If the rumor is true that Harbaugh is content to go with Alex Smith, maybe the Niners will be tanking to get Luck next year.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

I covered the '82 and '87 strikes, OOP. In 1987, it was apparent the players were going to fold even before the strike started. I don't get that vibe now. I think the 18-game schedule gave the union an issue easy enough for their members to grasp.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

Strike v. lockout is a big distinction that the players MUST seize upon and use continuously.

I think even given for inflation, the stakes today are much higher than '82 or '87 because now the NFL reigns supreme and is a huge revenue generator.

Yes, the TV revenue had to be paid back but its like having your line of credit turned off, its got to change your thinking.

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

I don't dispute that. I'm just saying that the NFL owners are too arrogant and too spoiled by getting their way for too long to be reasonable.

I also wonder, do the players fold on everything else if the owners give up on the 18-game schedule?

 

Re: Running NFL Offseason Thread

I doubt that. I think the players, if given the proper $$ incentive, will play the 18. Sad, but probably true.