It’s more entertainment than sport. Has been for a long time.
It really clicked for me being at the MNF game last week. It’s totally WWE. The “good guys” vs. the “bad guys”, with a sprinkle of some “heel” teams. The games are swayed from the top. The storylines are manipulated for dramatic effect as well.
And I don’t say this because we’ve generally been a “heel” team. I say it because I’ve just accepted it as entertainment, nothing more, nothing less. Years ago I’d be upset at losses, take it personal, let it ruin my day. Now that I know it’s just a show it’s a lot easier to just watch and enjoy, and appreciate the day at the stadium or the gathering to watch on TV no matter the outcome.