St. Louis, once the proud home of the NFL’s Rams and Cardinals, has seemingly moved on from the ghosts of its illustrious football past. In the wake of the NFL’s departure, which saw the Rams return to Los Angeles in a move orchestrated by owner Stan Kroenke, the city has redirected its boundless energy towards supporting the UFL’s St. Louis Battlehawks. Despite having major league teams in MLB, MLS, and NHL, the question looms: did the NFL err in leaving this vibrant Midwestern metropolis not just once, but twice?
St. Louis’ Love for Football: More Than Just Nostalgia
The transition from NFL to UFL is a testament to the city’s enduring passion for football. The Rams, who were once celebrated as the “Greatest Show on Turf,” eventually became a symbol of disappointment during their last decade in the city.
However, the shift in focus to the UFL’s Battlehawks has rejuvenated the local sports scene, as evidenced by impressive attendance numbers and palpable excitement in games, especially notable during their Week 10 face-off against San Antonio.
The thunderous cheers within the Dome at America’s Center were a stark reminder of the city’s capacity to rally behind their teams, prompting a reflection on whether the loss of an NFL franchise was indeed a misstep.
This fervor is not just confined to St. Louis but mirrors a larger trend across cities like Birmingham, Memphis, Portland, and Salt Lake City—all large metro areas devoid of NFL teams yet brimming with potential and passion for football.
The Battlehawks Phenomenon: Indicative of a Deeper Craving for Football
The overwhelming support for the Battlehawks suggests a deeper, untapped market for professional football in America. City’s enthusiastic embrace of the UFL franchise underscores its readiness and eagerness for top-tier football, raising questions about the NFL’s decision-making and the city’s potential as a football hub.
While Kroenke’s move to Los Angeles was influenced by several factors—including the allure of a new stadium and the financial prospects of the market—it arguably left the city in a sports void that the UFL has adeptly filled. This scenario has sparked discussions about the feasibility of a secondary tier of professional football that could serve cities that the NFL overlooks.
Future Prospects: St. Louis and the NFL’s Return?
The NFL’s return to Louis remains a topic of speculation and hope among local fans and sports analysts alike. The prerequisite, however, is clear: the city would need a new state-of-the-art stadium to lure the NFL back. Observations from recent visits to the city reveal a stark contrast between the vibrant life at Busch Stadium and the somewhat forlorn former homes of the Rams.
For now, St. Louis continues to cherish and support the Battlehawks, showcasing the city’s undying love for football. The success of the UFL in St. Louis not only revitalizes the city’s sporting landscape but also holds promising implications for the future of professional football in similar markets across the United States.
In conclusion, while the NFL’s return to St. Louis is not imminent, the city’s ongoing support for the Battlehawks could eventually pave the way for its reentry into the NFL scene. With strategic planning and timing, St. Louis could once again become a beacon of professional football in America. Until then, the city revels in the success and excitement that the UFL has brought, marking a new chapter in its rich football heritage.
Source: Fansided
