NFL logoThe NFL is a paradigm of parity, and that, in part, makes it as popular as it is.
Gamblers are hooked on that fact. Fantasy football players are confounded by that knowledge. The drama and unpredictability from a television standpoint make it the best reality TV going.
That said, this year there seems to be a cream rising and the dead weight falling more pronouncedly than in previous years. And with that divide comes clarity.
And cause for TV trepidation.
Since the NFL is territorial in its broadcast patterns and since the Falcons and the Titans — the two closest franchises to the 423 and the ones that we get shown weekly on Sundays — stink, we are going to be delivered a steady diet of meaningless games for the foreseeable future.