Should NFL have a team in Canada?

[NinerRider]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2791831

McGahee also created a stir when he was quoted in a magazine article suggesting the NFL consider moving the Bills to Toronto, a comment he later said was taken out of context.

What do you guys think about McGahee's idea? I don't mean the Bills necessarily. And I don't think an expansion team would work either since there are already enough teams. But should teams looking into relocating consider Canada as a destination? MLB, NBA and NHL all have Canadian teams, maybe the NFL should do the same?

I wouldn't mind the Vancouver Raiders, lol. Or maybe the Ontario Saints. I know Tagliabue wanted to take the game International, maybe we start with the country up North. And then eventually a Mexico City team or something.

[daredevil2-5]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2791831



What do you guys think about McGahee's idea? I don't mean the Bills necessarily. And I don't think an expansion team would work either since there are already enough teams. But should teams looking into relocating consider Canada as a destination? MLB, NBA and NHL all have Canadian teams, maybe the NFL should do the same?

I wouldn't mind the Vancouver Raiders, lol. Or maybe the Ontario Saints. I know Tagliabue wanted to take the game International, maybe we start with the country up North. And then eventually a Mexico City team or something.I think McGahee was more concerned about the green in Toronto, and I don't mean the green w/ dead people on it.

[Eaglesfandan]

not a chance, its dumb and they have their own football league. the team would not be able to bring in top FA's because these guys will not want to live in Canada let alone be paid in stupid canadian dollars.

Yeah, but you could trick dumb players like Gore into thinking he is getting paid 20 million a year when really he is only making five...........:fishing:

[DallasNiner]

not a chance, its dumb and they have their own football league. the team would not be able to bring in top FA's because these guys will not want to live in Canada let alone be paid in stupid canadian dollars.

:rolleyes2: Dude, they wouldn't be paid Canadian Dollars...it's still the NFL...they'd be paid in the same currency as everyone else...Please tell me you were kidding and didn't actually think that. And obviously some wouldn't mind living in Canada since MLB and NBA players do it. Shoot I wouldn't mind living in Canada.

[Nevyn]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2791831



What do you guys think about McGahee's idea? I don't mean the Bills necessarily. And I don't think an expansion team would work either since there are already enough teams. But should teams looking into relocating consider Canada as a destination? MLB, NBA and NHL all have Canadian teams, maybe the NFL should do the same?

I wouldn't mind the Vancouver Raiders, lol. Or maybe the Ontario Saints. I know Tagliabue wanted to take the game International, maybe we start with the country up North. And then eventually a Mexico City team or something.


Toronto could support a team, and things wouldn't change that much (althought there are taxation/labour law issues with going niternational), BUT this will not be happening for a long time yet.

Here is what Toronto has going for it:

- Potential Owners: Ted Rogers and Larry Tanenbaum would both love to bring the NFL to town.

- Stadium: While they would probably want to do a new one with more seats and boxes later on, an NFL team could easily be accomodated at the Rogers Centre.

- Demand: There is absolutely no question that such a franchise would have the corporate support and fan base it would need to get off the ground.

Why it WON'T happen:

- The Buffalo Bills: As long as the Bills are less than 2 hours away and attracting THOUSANDS of Ontarians to each home game, you can expect a big stink from Ralph Wilson (and I think he can actually block it the teams would be so close) if Toronto tries to get an expansion franchise or moved team.

That leaves the most likely scenario being the Bills themselves being bought by Tanenbaum/Rogers and moved to Toronto. That WON'T happen while Ralph Wilson is alive, and would probably cause an uproar if whoever inherits the team turns around and moves them

- Local politics: While an NFL team would be incredibly popular and a potential source of revenue, it is also a political hot potato because it would in all likelyhood kill the CFL, which has 2 franchises within 45 minutes of each other in Toronto and Hamilton. This isn't a huge deal, but it means on things like approvals, land acquisition, and public funding for a new stadium the owners would be S.O.L.

- Los Angeles: No one's getting the ok to move a team anywhere else or expand until LA has at least one franchise again.


I am ambivalent towards Toronto getting a team since I already have an NFL team to cheer for. One would think it will happen at some point, but I think it could be 10+ years off still.

[Canadian Niner]

HEEEELLLLLLLL YEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Let move the 49ers here!! :dance3:

HAHA

GO NINERS!!

[DallasNiner]

they would get paid the same amount but converted in canadian money. why would you live in canada and get paid in american dollars only to have to exchange your money when you wanted to spend it?

You're assuming they have to live in Canada. What would actually happen is this...they'd get direct deposit..and it would be deposited into their accounts as American dollars. Now at your bank you could get either American Dollars or Canadian...so yes they would be paid in American Dollars.

Very much like when I was in Germany in the Military we were paid in American Dollars.

Oh, and regardless of where your bank is...if you use your ATM card in a different country it gives you local currency. I used my American ATM card in Europe where you get Euro's, Zlotty(Poland), Swiss Francs (Switzerland) ect.

[Hesh24]

You're assuming they have to live in Canada. What would actually happen is this...they'd get direct deposit..and it would be deposited into their accounts as American dollars. Now at your bank you could get either American Dollars or Canadian...so yes they would be paid in American Dollars.

Very much like when I was in Germany in the Military we were paid in American Dollars.

Oh, and regardless of where your bank is...if you use your ATM card in a different country it gives you local currency. I used my American ATM card in Europe where you get Euro's, Zlotty(Poland), Swiss Francs (Switzerland) ect.

Exactly. All NHL player are paid in American dollars and there are 6 franchises in Canada. The Toronto Raptors, Blue Jays, all of the players are paid in American currency. There's no problem with respect to getting their American dollars.

[Ace Matherton]

:rolleyes2: Dude, they wouldn't be paid Canadian Dollars...it's still the NFL...they'd be paid in the same currency as everyone else...Please tell me you were kidding and didn't actually think that. And obviously some wouldn't mind living in Canada since MLB and NBA players do it. Shoot I wouldn't mind living in Canada.

No they are not, they are paid in canadian currency, no different than the NBA. You sign a contract with the dollar figure and each paycheck you recieve will be converted per the current exchange rate. Its a bummer deal when the two currencies fluctuate as much as they do. I dont think the canada location is an issue but its murder for the orgaization to try to keep up with the US ones because of the disrepancy in buying power.

[DallasNiner]

No they are not, they are paid in canadian currency, no different than the NBA. You sign a contract with the dollar figure and each paycheck you recieve will be converted per the current exchange rate. Its a bummer deal when the two currencies fluctuate as much as they do. I dont think the canada location is an issue but its murder for the orgaization to try to keep up with the US ones because of the disrepancy in buying power.

By comparison, most player salaries paid to players on Canadian major sports teams are paid in U.S. dollars, in fact this is now mandated in the NHL...

Oh Really Beaumont?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salary_cap

[NinerRider]

Oh Really Beaumont?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salary_cap

owned.

[Ace Matherton]

Oh Really Beaumont?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salary_cap

Wikipedia is written by non qualified postors be wary of what you get off there, this is correct but be carefull its not fact checked.

Do you think they are going to the local store with american cash to buy supplies? Of course not they have to transfer the money into what currency the country they are in either before they purchase the item or when they get the change back (at an even higher exchange rate). Over the span of a 5 year contract you could lose upwards of 5-10 %, No matter how you spin it those players MUST operate off the exchange. Its doubly as bad for the teams because they are locked into this contract that suddenly becomes more than what they originally bargained for.

You sign a contract with the dollar figure and each paycheck you recieve will be converted per the current exchange rate.
Their check amount (at least per NBA standards) must be in dollars, once they go to spend it, its in loonies. If they happen to cash it on a bad day they lose more.

[#1Canadian49er]

Personally, I think the NFL should buy out the CFL and build it up into a development league for the NFL. They could have a longer season, normal rules (none of this three down crap) and run in the NFL offseason.

Once the transformation is complete, throw that NFLE POS in the garbage where it belongs. It's azz.

Clearly you haven't watched a CFL game. I love the NFL and I spend hours on end watching it and I play football on my towns team im 18. We play with the nfl rules and to be honest Cfl is much more exciting then the NFL higher scoring and there is none of this run every first down and milk the clock at the end of games. Also anyone can correct me if I'm wrong but i think professional football happened in Canada before the States. I know the Toronto Argonauts just celebrated there 135th season.

[aryall]

Personally, I think the NFL should buy out the CFL and build it up into a development league for the NFL. They could have a longer season, normal rules (none of this three down crap) and run in the NFL offseason.
There's a reason the CFL runs from summer to fall - most CFL stadiums are open air, and there's no way anyone is playing any football from December - March in those stadiums. My city was a CFL city until the team went under. Open air stadium. Right now, it's -15 (celsius), and that's not even taking into account the wind chill.

[aryall]

not a chance, its dumb and they have their own football league. the team would not be able to bring in top FA's because these guys will not want to live in Canada let alone be paid in stupid canadian dollars.
I'd be pretty bitter too if I had to live in Buffalo, knowing a better life was only a river crossing away.

People other than knobs, please note - this post is no way intended to say living in America is inferior. It's fully intended, however, to say living in Buffalo is inferior. Staying there for a weekend is depressing enough, I can't even imagine living there.

[krueger70]

It's obvious that the NFL needs to expand, especially in Canada and Mexico!! I say add two more teams, put them in Canada like baseball did with the Expos and Blue Jays. This will allow a thinner draft, a couple half empty stadiums on Sunday and hopefully if we cross our fingers another round or two of playoffs, which will drag the Super Bowl into March!

[aryall]

What's a Kermit? I saw Edge on WWE call people in some parts of Canada that.
I have no idea, I've never heard the term. I have a feeling that if I ask some random teenagers on the bus on the way home, they'll think I'm strange.

[aryall]

Nah, I'm talking more like May to August. Besides, if people can sit in Denver and Green Bay in December... I bet Canada would have a "Barrel Man" in no time!
Nice!

I'm not sure what the ideal season would be. It actually might be too hot to play outside in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal in some of July and maybe August - temperatures are typically around 30, with humidex in the mid 30s around then. We really have a climate of extremes in southern Ontario. Something like April - July might work a little better. Semantics, I know. Or, if it's condensed from an NFL season, end just as training camps start.

Less related to this piece of the discussion; lots of Canadians love the CFL, but lots of Canadians think it's a joke. For every one who says the CFL is "more exciting", I'm sure you'd find a couple who would laugh at the thought. I'm an above average NFL fan (I would say anyone who reads these boards regularly in the offseason probably is), and I've been to a grand total of 1 CFL game. I've been to more NFL games than CFL games. Even some of my more casual NFL fan friends have seen more NFL than CFL. And until last season, there was a CFL franchise in my city. It died because it was losing so much money. Edited to add: my perspective is that of someone in Ontario, though. In Atlantic Canada, the CFL is a joke. In Ontario, it has its fans, I would say particularly in the more blue-collar areas (like Hamilton). It's much bigger in the prairie provinces and Alberta. I have a younger brother living in Edmonton, where the Eskimos are a much bigger deal than the Renegades ever came close to being here in Ottawa.

Toronto could definitely support a CFL franchise, but the implications laid out by Nevyn are on point.

[kavaholic]

Canada could get a NFL team before L.A get one...LOL!!

[DallasNiner]

Wikipedia is written by non qualified postors be wary of what you get off there, this is correct but be carefull its not fact checked.

Do you think they are going to the local store with american cash to buy supplies? Of course not they have to transfer the money into what currency the country they are in either before they purchase the item or when they get the change back (at an even higher exchange rate). Over the span of a 5 year contract you could lose upwards of 5-10 %, No matter how you spin it those players MUST operate off the exchange. Its doubly as bad for the teams because they are locked into this contract that suddenly becomes more than what they originally bargained for.

The check in most cases goes in as American Dollar. If you go to an ATM in canada it will withdrawl the money at the American Exchange rate...but it still went in as American dollar so in most cases you are not being paid in CDN.

Not to mention that much of what they purchase will probably be purchased in America.

Oh and much of wikipedia is verified. You're right, anyone can change it but they do try and verify everything...and like you said..what was stated there was correct.

[Nevyn]

Personally, I think the NFL should buy out the CFL and build it up into a development league for the NFL. They could have a longer season, normal rules (none of this three down crap) and run in the NFL offseason.

Once the transformation is complete, throw that NFLE POS in the garbage where it belongs. It's azz.

Sorry, but I think that this is an awful idea.

The CFL has trouble marketing itself already. To just be the NFL minor leagues would further marginalize it and take away it's cachet. It may work out for the NFL to have a higher profile development league, but if the NFL wanted that in North America it could just create its own instead of pissing all over an independant league with its own rules, records, and history.

And the CFL DOES run mainly in the NFL offseason, and plays a longer season.

While the NFL is in bigger markets, has better marketing and TV contracts, and has a wider variety of teams, as well as the very best players, there is nothing wrong with the CFL's rules.

[DallasNiner]

Sorry, but I think that this is an awful idea.

The CFL has trouble marketing itself already. To just be the NFL minor leagues would further marginalize it and take away it's cachet. It may work out for the NFL to have a higher profile development league, but if the NFL wanted that in North America it could just create its own instead of pissing all over an independant league with its own rules, records, and history.

And the CFL DOES run mainly in the NFL offseason, and plays a longer season.

While the NFL is in bigger markets, has better marketing and TV contracts, and has a wider variety of teams, as well as the very best players, there is nothing wrong with the CFL's rules.

That's completely wrong. :stirthepot:

[Godlovesthe49er]

canada licks *****

[bsy]

The first documented football match in Canada was a game played at University College, University of Toronto on November 9, 1861. A football club was formed at the university soon afterwards, although its rules of play at this stage are unclear.

In 1864, at Trinity College, Toronto, F. Barlow Cumberland and Frederick A. Bethune devised rules based on rugby football. However, modern Canadian football is widely regarded as having originated with a game of rugby played in Montreal, in 1865, when British Army officers played local civilians. The game gradually gained a following, and the Montreal Football Club was formed in 1868, the first recorded non-university football club in Canada.

Rugby soon became popular at McGill University. It is from this varsity play that the game now known as American football entered the United States, after McGill challenged Harvard University to a game, in 1874.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_football

Will not happen so might as well start looking into Mexico.

The CFL is what it is and like it or not, it's here to stay. We have the best of both worlds as the NFL is also very widely watched. If people want to see NFL live, it's usually not a very long trip to Buffalo, NYC, Boston, Seattle, Chicago, etc.

They're two different games and while it's unquestionable that the level of talent in the NFL is miles ahead of the CFL, that's not always all that counts. Hence why do people watch college ball.

There's a lot of history and tradition and it's part of the social fabric. I like both.

[Eric 80]

Canada could get a NFL team before L.A get one...LOL!!

God will strike you down for saying that.

[Eaglesfandan]

They're two different games and while it's unquestionable that the level of talent in the NFL is miles ahead of the CFL, that's not always all that counts. Hence why do people watch college ball.

.

Because division one college teams could smoke all of the CFL teams??:spy:

[bsy]

That's certainly possible as the skill sets of many college players is high but it would also be a case of men vs. boys but that wasn't really the point.

[NinerRider]

They're two different games and while it's unquestionable that the level of talent in the NFL is miles ahead of the CFL, that's not always all that counts. Hence why do people watch college ball.




People watch college ball because that's where the future superstars of the NFL play.

But it's not as if all of college ball is hugely popular, when was the last time you saw Middle Tennessee State vs San Jose State on ESPN Thursday night?

The major feeder schools like Miami, Florida, USC etc. get the most attention because they've got the most talent. That's just how it goes.

If it was just the sport itself that drew the crowds, then Pop Warner games would be nationally televised.

[TheGoldStandard]

I don't know... I've lived near Toronto my whole life and while the local media does care about the Argos, the Bills get almost as much coverage. I think the real reason we won't get an NFL team in Toronto is because they want to protect the Bills. Frankly, the CFL offers a different product than the NFL. If it wasn't for the concern over the Bills, I think Toronto would be ideal for an NFL franchise. It would be the third largest city in the NFL (after NY and Chicago) and it would draw fans from the whole GTA and beyond (I currently live two hours east of Toronto, but I'd definitely travel in to see a game).

[TheGoldStandard]

Because division one college teams could smoke all of the CFL teams??:spy:

Ricky Williams couldn't. And plenty of CFL-level talent players have had success in the NFL.

[bsy]

People watch college ball because that's where the future superstars of the NFL play.

But it's not as if all of college ball is hugely popular, when was the last time you saw Middle Tennessee State vs San Jose State on ESPN Thursday night?

The major feeder schools like Miami, Florida, USC etc. get the most attention because they've got the most talent. That's just how it goes.

If it was just the sport itself that drew the crowds, then Pop Warner games would be nationally televised.

Perhaps on a national level yes. That's not the only reason. If you go watch a San Jose St game how many people are in the stands? 60,000 - 70,000. Sure a lot of students but also a lot of locals, alumni, and people who just love the game. They have their own reasons for following the team and game and it's not only based on skill level of the players. There's tradition, local community spirit, and a general love of the game that also factors in.

Football in Canada has a long tradition, as long as or even longer than in the US.

[NinerRider]

Perhaps on a national level yes. That's not the only reason. If you go watch a San Jose St game how many people are in the stands? 60,000 - 70,000. Sure a lot of students but also a lot of locals, alumni, and people who just love the game. They have their own reasons for following the team and game and it's not only based on skill level of the players. There's tradition, local community spirit, and a general love of the game that also factors in.

Football in Canada has a long tradition, as long as or even longer than in the US.

LOL, 60,000-70,000 for a SJSU game??? I think the average was more in the 5,000-10,000 range give or take a few.

[remeastbay]

i think there should be a team in LA before a team in canada, but eventually yes the NFL should keep expanding

[Nevyn]

canada licks *****

So does your mom but I would let HER have a football team!

[Eric 80]

So does your mom but I would let HER have a football team!

Trust me she's had one. :whistling:



Sorry GLT4, I had to. It was the perfect set-up.

[Nevyn]

The Grizzlies didn't stay long and the Expos have had trouble while in Montreal. Outside of that I think the NFL should look at expansion into more major markets in the US before going to Canada and it should consider Canada for expansion before it should play a single game in Europe.

Both were ill conceived notions. While the expos fan base was loyal, it was never big and they lacked corporate support. The grizzlies were a PR expansion but no candian city except Toronto should have been asked to support an NBA team (in about 10 years maybe Calgary can).

But there is no question a franchise in Toronto would be viable. It just wont be happening any time soon. The nfl should not bother with anywhere else in Canada, though.

I forgot to mention before that TV contracts are another major stumbling block to such a deal.

[afrorouge]

I'm willing to bet the tax issues for players would be a major issue for any canadian team. Players might get paid in American dollars, but they'd be paid by a Canadian entity and would have to pay Canadian income tax, which is considerably higher than American income tax. I don't think any NFL team could be competitive in that situation.

It's not like hockey, where national pride would override such issues in large part because players are happy to be where they are and the marginal difference in terms of tax dollars isn't as big a deal (especially because there are other clubs with the same issue). It's also not like baseball where owners can pay as much as they want.

The only way it'll happen is if the league departs from its revenue sharing plan so a big spender can make up the difference. Any fan who wants that to happen is out of his mind.

[bsy]

LOL, 60,000-70,000 for a SJSU game??? I think the average was more in the 5,000-10,000 range give or take a few.

SJSU averaged 18,000/game in 2006 so you were closer than I was. I think I had SDSU state in mind.

But that doesn't take away from the fact that people don't watch football to only to watch top skilled players. There's a lot more to it.

[Nevyn]

No need to apologize for your opinion. But your take reminds me of my feelings of the Disneyland Hotel. My wife and I used to go over there to have dinner and just hang out because it was quaint and kind of small time. We liked it because it was kind of a hidden gem that hadn't yet been tainted by all the commercialism. But lo and behold, Disney ripped out all of the things that made it quaint and put in "Downtown Disney" with House of Blues, ESPN Zone, and every other big name place you can think of. Totally ruined what was but I'm sure they're making a ton more money. Such is life.

Point I'm making is that it doesn't sound to me like you're saying the NFL can't be successful in that space, just that they would trample something you love on their way to big dollars. Since you probably never had an appreciation for the Disneyland hotel long ago, you probably don't give a frog's fat arse about the difference. I'm kind of that way about the CFL.

Do you really think a canadian minor league would be big dollars for the NFL? The CFL doesn't make big money but it does have national TV contracts and a highly watched championship game as well as established rivalries. You think TSN and CBC are going to bid to broadcast minor league games? You think fan bases of teams like Saskatchewan and Winnipeg will react nicely to new rules?

NFLE is an investment in growing the game to a part of the world that hardly knows it. Canada is very familiar with football, and those who like the NFL can watch actual NFL games. A minor league would not go over. I don't think it would be a money drain, but certainly not a cash cow either.

And I don't really appreciate the CFL being labelled as "quaint". It may be to outsiders but there are still a great number of Canadians who consider it THE game. They've grown up in families rooting for these teams, just as Americans have with NFL teams, and they identify with them. Wanna tell the Green Bay Packers that their team is moving to LA because LA is a money center and Green Bay is quaint?

[DallasNiner]

Do you really think a canadian minor league would be big dollars for the NFL? The CFL doesn't make big money but it does have national TV contracts and a highly watched championship game as well as established rivalries. You think TSN and CBC are going to bid to broadcast minor league games? You think fan bases of teams like Saskatchewan and Winnipeg will react nicely to new rules?

NFLE is an investment in growing the game to a part of the world that hardly knows it. Canada is very familiar with football, and those who like the NFL can watch actual NFL games. A minor league would not go over. I don't think it would be a money drain, but certainly not a cash cow either.

And I don't really appreciate the CFL being labelled as "quaint". It may be to outsiders but there are still a great number of Canadians who consider it THE game. They've grown up in families rooting for these teams, just as Americans have with NFL teams, and they identify with them. Wanna tell the Green Bay Packers that their team is moving to LA because LA is a money center and Green Bay is quaint?

This is still wrong. :stirthepot:

[bsy]

Both were ill conceived notions. While the expos fan base was loyal, it was never big and they lacked corporate support. The grizzlies were a PR expansion but no candian city except Toronto should have been asked to support an NBA team (in about 10 years maybe Calgary can).

But there is no question a franchise in Toronto would be viable. It just wont be happening any time soon. The nfl should not bother with anywhere else in Canada, though.

I forgot to mention before that TV contracts are another major stumbling block to such a deal.

Indeed, the Expos lacked corprorate support. Some other factors that killed them were their stadium (ugly, cold, cavernous olympic stadium), inability to win the pennant at least once, and a moron named Jeffrey Loria. Though they survived from 1969-2004, the franchise never recovered from losing game 5 of the 1981 NLCS against the Dodgers in the top of the 9th and in 1994 when we were a MLB best 74-40 before the strike ended the season.

[bsy]

Canadian teams dont have the appeal American teams have. they won't survive because smaller fan base and almost no appeal for FA's. i don't see it as a real option.

I agree. One MLB team is enough for demand and as for the NFL, it ain't going to happen.

[Eric 80]

O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

[bsy]

Whenever corporate America makes a big move, there is usually someone who is adversely affected... but they usually eventually get over it.

The Iraqis don't seem to be getting over it. :biggrin:

They get over it or more quicky if those adversely affected are americans.

[bsy]

O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Hey! Get yer hands out of yer pants when you sing the anthem!

[bsy]

You mean the Canadians or the Iraqis... or both? :tung:


No, I meant americans. :sam:

[BrentJones84]

Hey, if the Raiders want to move to Ontario, I say let 'em go.

[Eric 80]

Hey, if the Raiders want to move to Ontario Canada, I say let 'em go.

fixed

[BrentJones84]

fixed

Right, that's what I meant.

Not Ontario, CA.

[Eric 80]

Right, that's what I meant.

Not Ontario, CA.

I know. I just really don't want them back down here. I may be a little paranoid.

[BrentJones84]

I know. I just really don't want them back down here. I may be a little paranoid.

I don't want them in the state.

The Vancouver Raiders has a nice ring to it. :smile:

[Eric 80]

I don't want them in the state.

The Vancouver Raiders has a nice ring to it. :smile:

Lets get them off of the left coast. I say send them to Montreal.

[Godlovesthe49er]

Trust me she's had one. :whistling:



Sorry GLT4, I had to. It was the perfect set-up.

LOL all good buddy :laugh:

[Nevyn]

Do I think TSN and CBC are going to bid to broadcast minor league games? Yeah. Isn't that what they're doing already?
Broadcasting the games of the players who aren't quite good enough for the NFL? What would be the difference? I'm not trying to be offensive but isn't that in effect what the CFL is? Jesse Lumsden was a beast as a Canadian collegiate. What was the first thing he did when he came out? Headed for the NFL. Didn't make it, went to the CFL. Redskins said they'd give him a chance, back to the NFL. And if the NFL were managing a version of the CFL, it would stand to be much more profitable than it is now. So yeah, I think they'd go after it. But that's not the only place the money would be. If it was a replica of the American game with the NFL running and marketing it, I bet you could get quite a few die hard Americans to watch it on ESPN.

No. The CFL is not a minor league. Neither is the Swedish Elite league in hockey. Not having the same budget and therefore not attracting keeping the best players does not make you a minor league. The Grey Cup has been around for the better part of a century. The CFL since the fifties. For much of that time the league was much more popular in Canada than the NFL.

And it isn't player sharing or a subordinate role in player contracts that is the sticking point. The CFL and NFL already have agreements in place about moving contracts and rights back and forth.

But that is a far cry from changing the league's rules and structure. It is a far cry from having your championship game be meaningless because it is a battle of "farm teams" and prospects just waiting to be called up.

And you are dead wrong about the CBC. Once you make it the NFL's summer league, they'd want nothing to do with it anymore, because it wouldn't be Canadian sport. The other broadcast networks wouldn't have time for it either, they want NFL games. TSN and Sportsnet might show it, but only on off times and replays the same way other minor leagues are shown.


And I think you're dead wrong. NFLE is certainly an investment in growing the game to a part of the world that hardly knows it but the fact that Canada is very familiar with it would be an advantage, not a hinderance. Yes, those of us that like the NFL can watch the NFL and yet amazingly we find time to watch the NCAA too. Is the NCAA not a minor league? Of course it is.

Not so much, no.

The point of NFLE growing the game is that people in Germany watching the Rhein Fire isn't the endgame. You get them interested in the sport, and then you have more global interest in the NFL (the big league). And that type of promotion is not needed in North America. If you want to see the NCAA as a minor league, be my guest, but then I hope your one of the people who thinks college athletes should be paid and they should drop the ridiculous notion of being "amateur".

If we can find time to watch a NFL farm league DURING the NFL season, I'm sure those who are aching for the return of the season would find time to watch HIGH QUALITY broadcasts of NFL organized Canadian football.

Again, but here you don't even care that it is Canadian football. You just want offseason minor league football. That's great. The NFL can form its own minor league in the states for the diehards to watch.

Hell, I bet there'd even be fantasy leagues poppin' up all over. Yeah, the Canadians might be bent out of shape at first and protest. But just like all of us L.A. fans that swore off watching football after the NFL took both teams, I bet they'd come back around as soon as their team had a serious shot at the Grey Cup (or equivalent).

No, they'd just watch the NFL and/or Hockey, or someone would just start up another Canadian pro league with Canadian rules.

Sorry that you don't like the label but it doesn't make it any less true. People in Topeka, KS who do theater probably don't like it being referred to as "small town theater" but when you compare it to Broadway, what other name is there for it? It's not to say that the people don't work hard or that it has no place, but it is in fact "quaint".

It's not that I don't like the label, its just that its an outsiders' label. Lifelong residents of Topeka probably don't consider their theatre quaint, it is viewed that way by outsiders. You're an outsider, you see it as quaint, that's fine. But I doubt broadway would by out that local theatre, and ship struggling actors in from New York until they proved themselves, and try to tell the locals "you're theatre group was too quaint".

And thats what you're talking about. You don't care about the CFL. You hardly watch it. You apparently consider the rules silly. So why would the fans of the league particularly care about your opinion about how the league should operate. They like it fine how it is.

Once again, if you think there is a profitable place for American minor league football, no problem. But it should be its own league. You might even get a Canadian minor league franchise or two as part of it. That makes sense. Buying out a league that has operated for 50+ years under its own rules and likes them just fine, and which has a loyal fanbase, and then TRANSFORMING it into an americanized version, is a bad idea.

I mean, you're sitting here talking about how american die hard fans would watch the canadian teams duke it out so they could track prospects and have something to do! You're basically saying "cute league you have, but it should be made to entertain US!".

[fanfromcan]

they would get paid the same amount but converted in canadian money. why would you live in canada and get paid in american dollars only to have to exchange your money when you wanted to spend it?

1.15$ exchange for every dollar made??? Sounds pretty good to me?

Truthfully, I don't think an NFL team in Canada is a good thing. People support the CFL pretty heavily and everything is second rate compared to hockey in people's eyes up here. (not in mine, though)

[fanfromcan]

Personally, I think the NFL should buy out the CFL and build it up into a development league for the NFL. They could have a longer season, normal rules (none of this three down crap) and run in the NFL offseason.

Once the transformation is complete, throw that NFLE POS in the garbage where it belongs. It's azz.


The NFL could not buy the CFL if they tried. There would be a MAJOR uproar in the fans. We as Canadians do not take too kindly to american companies purchasing Canadian institutions and it would never be allowed to happen. Canadians are not very patriotic, but if there is one thing we all identify with, it is that we are not american and have many differences to americans.

(not trying to start a fight here, I've got nothing against the USA, its just that we like to think of ourselves as similar but different)

[bsy]

Lets get them off of the left coast. I say send them to Montreal.

Even the quebecois would say 'just no' to Al Davis. And you'd have to change the team's name to 'Les Raiders' else the language police will nail you.:cop:

[fanfromcan]

Clearly you haven't watched a CFL game. I love the NFL and I spend hours on end watching it and I play football on my towns team im 18. We play with the nfl rules and to be honest Cfl is much more exciting then the NFL higher scoring and there is none of this run every first down and milk the clock at the end of games. Also anyone can correct me if I'm wrong but i think professional football happened in Canada before the States. I know the Toronto Argonauts just celebrated there 135th season.

I've watched it lots and I feel that we as Canadians let our patriotism for our game cloud our judgement. I mean, come on man, the NFL has WAY more speed, power, and skill in their players. The field in the CFL allows for too much room and all the motion before the snap looks sloppy as heck. At least with clock control there isn't a punt every three minutes. And becuase of the bigger ball, the guys can't hold on to the darn thing and they fumble it all the time. The guys that play in the CFL are a bunch of bums, period. I've been to games in the CFL and to 4 niners games and the atomosphere isn't even close. 65000 die hard screaming, tailgating, loyal, jersey wearing NFL fans to 23000 somber CFL fans??? Not even close. There is a reason its the #1 sport in the states.

[Nevyn]

I could have this conversation with you for the next week but at the end of the day, you're going to end up back at the same place - offended. I think you've expressed your opinion clear enough as have I and they're just differing viewpoints. I think we should probably leave it there because I can see where three posts from now, this probably won't be a friendly conversation.

Yes, I'm an "outsider" which, so that we're clear, is less about being American and more about not being a fan of the sport (very much like hockey, soccer and a few others). I'm hoping that you're not taking this as a cultural insult (although I think you are). If it helps any, I think that American soccer is "quaint" and could probably use someone from Europe, Mexico or some other country that absolutely gives a shyt about soccer to come in and make it real in this country... not that I'd ever watch it anyway but I'm sure that fans of the sport would and might actually enjoy the increased funding and attention that their favorite sport got. Ultimately, it would probably help the sport grow in this country.

Lucky for you, my opinion is just that. I don't expect anyone to come uproot your years of vast tradition just because I said to.

And yes, I do believe that college athletes are entitled to something in return for the millions that are made in college football. But it has nothing to do with the idea that they are IN FACT a farm/minor system for the NFL, but more to do with the fact that they're making millions for the Universities. However, I do believe that a free education that would otherwise cost them tens if not hundreds of thousands of dollars qualifies as payment.

I'm not offended that this is coming from an American. I'm not calling you an outsider because you are an American. What is bothering me is that you want something that you don't like or don't value to be "fixed" in such a way as to entertain you, and don't seem to be giving a thought to the fact that the people that it is there for and who support it like it the way it is. Why should it be ruined for them just so that you can be entertained?

Point of fact, I am a CFL outsider too. I occasionally watch the Grey Cup and thats about it. But I know a great many rabid CFL fans, I still follow Canadian university football (go Mustangs), and I do have an appreciation for the Canadian rules and for the history of the league.

[fanfromcan]

I don't blame you. You guys are pretty much viewed as America Jr. and that has GOT to suck. Canada is a beautiful place with great culture. You guys are just so danged quiet that nobody remembers you're their. You need to go out and get yourself an ***** to run your country like we have. Then people will remember you. They'll hate you, but they'll remember. :tung:

Oh we've had lots of idiots run our country, they are just passive idiots!

[Captain America]

I say yes, move the Cardinals there!!!

[TheGoldStandard]

I'm not offended that this is coming from an American. I'm not calling you an outsider because you are an American. What is bothering me is that you want something that you don't like or don't value to be "fixed" in such a way as to entertain you, and don't seem to be giving a thought to the fact that the people that it is there for and who support it like it the way it is. Why should it be ruined for them just so that you can be entertained?

Point of fact, I am a CFL outsider too. I occasionally watch the Grey Cup and thats about it. But I know a great many rabid CFL fans, I still follow Canadian university football (go Mustangs), and I do have an appreciation for the Canadian rules and for the history of the league.

Ha ha... I'm a U.W.O. alumnus too. Small world (or message board).

[bsy]

However I make no guarantees that President Bush won't. He has intelligence that the Argonauts have weapons of mass destruction.:tung:

And that the Golden Fleece is hidden in Ottawa's parliament and Jason's father, Aeson, the rightful king of Lolcus is exiled in Montreal but must be restored to power. :penguin:

[DallasNiner]

O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

No,blame Canada, blame Canada
With all thier beedy little eyes have packed thier heads so full of lies, blame Canada, blame Canada,
we need to form a full assault its canadas fault

Mrs. Marsh: Don't blame me for my son Stan he saw the darn cartoon and now hes of to join the klan

Ms. Cartman: And my boy Eric once had my picture on his shelf but now when I see him he tells me to **** myself

Shelia: Well? Blame Canada, blame Canada, it seems that everythings gone wrong since Canada came along, blame
Canada, blame Canada

[Eaglesfandan]

No,blame Canada, blame Canada
With all thier beedy little eyes have packed thier heads so full of lies, blame Canada, blame Canada,
we need to form a full assault its canadas fault

Mrs. Marsh: Don't blame me for my son Stan he saw the darn cartoon and now hes of to join the klan

Ms. Cartman: And my boy Eric once had my picture on his shelf but now when I see him he tells me to **** myself

Shelia: Well? Blame Canada, blame Canada, it seems that everythings gone wrong since Canada came along, blame
Canada, blame Canada

Alright I just saw the Terrance an Phillip movie who wants to touch me?

I SAID WHO WANTS TO ******G TOUCH ME!!!!:angry:

[MrGriz]

:rolleyes2: Dude, they wouldn't be paid Canadian Dollars...it's still the NFL...they'd be paid in the same currency as everyone else...Please tell me you were kidding and didn't actually think that. And obviously some wouldn't mind living in Canada since MLB and NBA players do it. Shoot I wouldn't mind living in Canada.

Yeah, but you live in Texas. If I lived in Texas I'd be looking for anywhere else on the planet to live as well. Beirut? Kandahar? Baghdad? At least they don't have any cowgirl fans.....

[DallasNiner]

Yeah, but you live in Texas. If I lived in Texas I'd be looking for anywhere else on the planet to live as well. Beirut? Kandahar? Baghdad? At least they don't have any cowgirl fans.....

You're in what New Mexico? I don't love Texas but at least we have some big cities. :laugh:

[jrs4280]

Yeah, but you could trick dumb players like Gore into thinking he is getting paid 20 million a year when really he is only making five...........:fishing:

Or maybe even you.....wrong exchange rate ....TOOL

[Eaglesfandan]

Or maybe even you.....wrong exchange rate ....TOOL

Uhhhh, I wasn't going for the exact one, but maybe you could enlighten me oh wise one. Go back to the Red Zone where you belong........:fishing:

[NinerRider]

Uhhhh, I wasn't going for the exact one, but maybe you could enlighten me oh wise one. Go back to the Red Zone where you belong........:fishing:

Who says TOOL these days anyway?

Anyway, it's Friday, the day is dying down, time to...


:shots: