Football has faced many scandals and controversies over the last few years. Thanks to issues like concussions, cheating, domestic violence, and racism, the all-American pastime has become a complicated game.
Despite all of its problems, writer Gregg Easterbrook argues football should not be abandoned just yet. However, he isn't blinded by love of the game and suggests reforms before rejection, starting with limiting youth teams.
Concussions and brain injuries are one of the many problems football and its players face, but as Easterbrook points out, our concern should be for children instead of professionals. He argues that NFL players are adults who make the decision to play football and receive huge benefits. Children, on the other hand, still have developing brains and earn no such million dollar compensation. With 200,000 concussions affecting children per year, raising player ages to 12 and decreasing the number of games high school teams play could decrease the risks without hurting the game.
As Easterbook says, football is an integral part of American identity. In addition to its cultural prominence and importance, our nation's focus on power can be clearly seen in the game. But ultimately, football is not just a reflection of ourselves--it's also fun.
Guest:
- Gregg Easterbrook, author of The Game's Not Over: In Defense of Football