07-20-2021, 12:25 PM
(07-20-2021, 11:23 AM)Wes Mantooth Wrote: A few things to consider...
1.) The Two Superbowl appearances. I don't think you're doing it justice when these are somewhat lost in the description of "3 playoff berths".
The 2nd Super Bowl especially was noteworthy. That team with their no-huddle offense, the Icky shuffle, their rap, they were culturally important. I won't go so far as to say they're like the '85 Bears, or the 90's Cowboys or something like that. But that was a very entertaining Super Bowl team.
2.) Not as much competition. There of course was no FC Cincinnati. UC football wasn't really a thing. UC and XU basketball were in the dumps for most of the decade. All you really had was Reds and Bengals.
3.) The economy/the cost. The economy was strong through most of the decade. Also, ticket prices (and parking, food, beer) were much more reasonable then. Prices have been steadily rising ever since.
Some people simply can't afford to go to a game anymore. It would cost a family of 4 probably a minimum of $300 to go a single game and that doesn't even leave all that much for food and drinks. You're talking over $500 dollars if everyone wants a couple things to eat and a drink, and dad has a few beers, and maybe you buy a souveneir.
4.) TV quality at home. Back in the day most people had a 19 inch TV at home, now they most likely have a 50 inch tv at home. In full high definition, with better sound quality and a TV broadcast that does a much better job of presenting the game.
I think you hit the nail with #4. The advent of large screen HDTV's is making going to the game less attractive. Sure, it's fun for the atmosphere and all that, but when I go to a game I feel like I'm really missing something without the broadcast with replays, etc. To counter this, I go to the game and enjoy it, but then watch it at home where it is recorded. A huge screen, the availability of grilling the food you want (or ordering pizza, etc) , having friends over, drinking your own drinks, no crowds or traffic to deal with, and don't have to worry about driving home after drinking at the game. I find it much more enjoyable for regular games. Still like going to the big ones though....
