Today is the last day to cancel DirecTV NFL TICKET

[KAPA]

I just cancelled mine, felt pretty good. Sounds like they have been taking cancellations all day at a big clip.

Not watching doesn't hurt them, but not funding them will get noticed.

[hurley842002]

Awesome!

[Gunner]

Good thing I never signed up for it or anything. I'll stick to watching my few college teams and that's about it

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[Bailey Guns]

The NFL can go bankrupt and disappear for all I care.

[KAPA]

The NFL can go bankrupt and disappear for all I care.

Not knocking you but I see that as a defeatest, retreating attitude. I grew up watching pro football and refuse to let liberals ruin it. If it were up to them they would shut it down and you are helping them. The NFL just needs to be reminded who pays their bills. It ain't liberals!

Admire the effort but ypu are playing right into their hands.

[KAPA]

Here is a list of sponsors from today's Broncos game. While virtually impossible to boycott them all, you can write them on social media with something along these lines:
This American is boycotting your products as long as you support the NFL that allows employees to disrespect the national anthem.

Southwest
Geico
Verizon
Taco bell
Buffalo wild wings
Energizer
Pizzahut
Car gurus
Apple
Hyundai
Progressive
Sonic
Home depot
Pepsi
Priceline
Mercedes
Modelo
Chantix
Snickers
Dickies
Corona
Dominoes
Lowes
Jaguar
AARP
Cricket
Quicken loans
Bud light
Smashburger
Autonation
Old spice
Sony
FedEx
Toyota
Lincoln

[Skip]

Thank you gents for doing this!!!

[Beer]


If the NFL goes best maybe an American league can take its place?

[Gman]

Everyone has the right to free speech. This does not mean that what you say doesn't have consequences.

It's too bad that the media, the left, and the NFL can't understand the difference.

[Scanker19]

Meanwhile over in the NHL, the Penguins will be going to the White House. As usual the NHL shows they have the most class in all of professional sports. You know when their not beating up cab drivers. Come regular season however the Pens can go to hell. And the Avs can eatadic. Go Wings!

[Bailey Guns]

Not knocking you but I see that as a defeatest, retreating attitude. I grew up watching pro football and refuse to let liberals ruin it. If it were up to them they would shut it down and you are helping them. The NFL just needs to be reminded who pays their bills. It ain't liberals!

Admire the effort but ypu are playing right into their hands.

Or...and I know this may sound crazy...but football just does nothing for me.

I haven't paid attention to football since the days of Roger Staubach...when I was a LOT younger. I have more important things to do now than waste time watching football. YMMV. The fact that entire teams are now refusing to come on to the field during the national anthem just reinforces my opinion that football does absolutely nothing to enrich my life. Again, YMMV.

So if the NFL was no more, my life wouldn't change in the slightest. I couldn't care less. If that's a "win" for liberals, so be it.

[Bailey Guns]

Here is a list of sponsors from today's Broncos game. While virtually impossible to boycott them all, you can write them on social media with something along these lines:
This American is boycotting your products as long as you support the NFL that allows employees to disrespect the national anthem.

Southwest
Geico
Verizon
Taco bell
Buffalo wild wings
Energizer
Pizzahut
Car gurus
Apple
Hyundai
Progressive
Sonic
Home depot
Pepsi
Priceline
Mercedes
Modelo
Chantix
Snickers
Dickies
Corona
Dominoes
Lowes
Jaguar
AARP
Cricket
Quicken loans
Bud light
Smashburger
Autonation
Old spice
Sony
FedEx
Toyota
Lincoln

That's a helpful list.

Most of those companies will never see a dime of my money. GEICO, Verizon and Home Depot see a fair share. I'll drop them a note.

ETA: BTW...I don't do social media, either. FB, Twitter and all that ranks right up there with the NFL to me. This site is as close as I come to social media.

[KAPA]

Or...and I know this may sound crazy...but football just does nothing for me.

I haven't paid attention to football since the days of Roger Staubach...when I was a LOT younger. I have more important things to do now than waste time watching football. YMMV. The fact that entire teams are now refusing to come on to the field during the national anthem just reinforces my opinion that football does absolutely nothing to enrich my life. Again, YMMV.

So if the NFL was no more, my life wouldn't change in the slightest. I couldn't care less. If that's a "win" for liberals, so be it.

I can respect that, to each his own...

Speaking of the entire team coming out, it was not the entire team actually. One guy a former Army Ranger came out on his own:
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23AlejandroVillanueva&src=tyah&lang=en

Hat is off to Alejandro Villanueva!

[Bailey Guns]

^^ 1 player from 3 teams. Pretty pathetic. But at least he had the balls to do it.

[Bailey Guns]

Almost makes me wish I had Sunday Ticket just so I could cancel it. Almost.

[Shooter45]

Of all day's to show their asses, it was Gold Star Mother's Day to top it off. Yet another year I will never watch or support the NFL.

[OtterbatHellcat]

I'm really disappointed in any American who would take a knee during our Anthem.

Anybody who would do that..........can suck a bag O dicks.

[ray1970]

I'm really disappointed in any American who would take a knee during our Anthem.

Anybody who would do that..........can suck a bag O dicks.

Like.

[Gman]

I bet if I went to work and spoke my mind, they wouldn't be able to hold that against me, right? Maybe I'll just take a knee on the front row when the CEO starts talking at an all employee mtg. I can do that with no fear of losing my job, because it's my right. [Sarcasm2]

I've got an idea, just get rid of all penalties in the game. They're just expressing themselves, and they have a right to do it.

NASCAR owners warn teams: Anthem protests could get you fired (http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/motorsports/nascar-owners-warn-teams-anthem-protests-could-get-you-fired/ar-AAspFNX)


Unlike their NFL and NBA executive counterparts, NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series team owners did not support those within their organization to protest during the national anthem before Sunday's race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

Richard Childress team owner of drivers Ryan Newman, Austin Dillon and Paul Menard and longtime car owner of Dale Earnhardt, said any protest of the anthem will "get you a ride on a Greyhound bus.”

"Anybody that works for me should respect the country we live in. So many people gave their lives for it. This is America," Childress, a NASCAR Hall of Famer said, via the Associated Press (https://apnews.com/dc7ba43160d049eca3a0460d093ad8e1/The-Latest:-NASCAR-owners-discourage-anthem-protests).

President Donald Trump's controversial remarks Friday, calling national anthem protesters in the NFL "sons of b—" and saying they should be "fired," have sparked anger among NBA and NFL players this weekend. Trump said Sunday that standing with locked arms during the anthem is fine but kneeling is not acceptable.

Hall of Fame driver Richard Petty and current team owner of the No. 43 Cup Series team of Aric Almirola agrees with Trump.

“Anybody that don’t stand up for the anthem oughta be out of the country. Period. What got ’em where they’re at? The United States," Petty said, adding that any protester within his organization would be fired.

“If they don’t appreciate where they’re at … what got them where they’re at? The United States.”

Veteran motorsports owner Chip Ganassi said he agreed with “Mike Tomlin’s answer,” to the anthem controversy. The Steelers coach stood on the field Sunday in Chicago as the majority of his players and staff remained in the locker room.

[MrPrena]

Here is a list of sponsors from today's Broncos game. While virtually impossible to boycott them all, you can write them on social media with something along these lines:
This American is boycotting your products as long as you support the NFL that allows employees to disrespect the national anthem.

Southwest
Geico
Verizon
Taco bell
Buffalo wild wings
Energizer
Pizzahut
Car gurus
Apple
Hyundai
Progressive
Sonic
Home depot
Pepsi
Priceline
Mercedes
Modelo
Chantix
Snickers
Dickies
Corona
Dominoes
Lowes
Jaguar
AARP
Cricket
Quicken loans
Bud light
Smashburger
Autonation
Old spice
Sony
FedEx
Toyota
Lincoln

I bet Amish can. :D

[KAPA]

I bet Amish can. :D

Well yeah, that's about where boycotting this entire list leaves you.

[68Charger]

I missed the memo on why Libs win if NFL goes away... obviously some of the teams are run by them (owners supporting the players sitting out)

I would think all that disposable income currently spent on Tickets, PPV, cable/Satellite plans would get spent on another sport.

I'm in the "my life wouldn't change in the slightest if the NFL ceased to exist" category.

[Great-Kazoo]

Here is a list of sponsors from today's Broncos game. While virtually impossible to boycott them all, you can write them on social media with something along these lines:
This American is boycotting your products as long as you support the NFL that allows employees to disrespect the national anthem.

Southwest
Geico
Verizon
Taco bell
Buffalo wild wings
Energizer
Pizzahut
Car gurus
Apple
Hyundai
Progressive
Sonic
Home depot
Pepsi
Priceline
Mercedes
Modelo
Chantix
Snickers
Dickies
Corona
Dominoes
Lowes
Jaguar
AARP
Cricket
Quicken loans
Bud light
Smashburger
Autonation
Old spice
Sony
FedEx
Toyota
Lincoln


That's a helpful list.

Most of those companies will never see a dime of my money. GEICO, Verizon and Home Depot see a fair share. I'll drop them a note.

ETA: BTW...I don't do social media, either. FB, Twitter and all that ranks right up there with the NFL to me. This site is as close as I come to social media.


Outside of driving a yota and having verizon for a phone, we don't use any of the above companies products. We don't watch American football, or any other sport

[68Charger]

I bet if I went to work and spoke my mind, they wouldn't be able to hold that against me, right? Maybe I'll just take a knee on the front row when the CEO starts talking at an all employee mtg. I can do that with no fear of losing my job, because it's my right. [Sarcasm2]



The CEO of the company I work for thought he saw somebody wearing company garb at Charlottesville, apparently on the "wrong side" (when there were bad actors on both sides)... it launched an internal investigation- trying to match photos to employees, so he could "take disciplinary action"

Yeah, I work for a liberal shit storm... I didn't choose this company, they bought out the company that nearly destroyed the company I chose. (I've been working here way too long)

[KAPA]

I missed the memo on why Libs win if NFL goes away... obviously some of the teams are run by them (owners supporting the players sitting out)

I would think all that disposable income currently spent on Tickets, PPV, cable/Satellite plans would get spent on another sport.

I'm in the "my life wouldn't change in the slightest if the NFL ceased to exist" category.

They are trying to push soccer to replace American football.

[KAPA]

Outside of driving a yota and having verizon for a phone, we don't use any of the above companies products. We don't watch American football, or any other sport

The actual list of nfl sponsors is much longer. This is just the ads i saw during one half of a game. If you use a phone or computer, that is on the list too.

[Aloha_Shooter]

I can respect that, to each his own...

Speaking of the entire team coming out, it was not the entire team actually. One guy a former Army Ranger came out on his own:
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23AlejandroVillanueva&src=tyah&lang=en

Hat is off to Alejandro Villanueva!

... and now the head coach is frothing at the mouth because one team member felt it was more important to honor the flag and the country he risked his life for than to support politically correct but ignorant ideology instead of wondering why his team got beat handily.

[wyome]

That Packers game was pretty good....

[Eric P]

I wish all companies would stop all sponsorship of pro sports.

These grown adults gets paid more in one year them what most make in a lifetime. Yet they contribute nothing to society. They play children's games. In reality, they should be paid minimum wage since their contribution is far less than any fast food worker.

They don't feed us, they don't build anything, they don't make anything, all they do is provide a few hours of entertainment.

[DavieD55]

I wish all companies would stop all sponsorship of pro sports.

These grown adults gets paid more in one year them what most make in a lifetime. Yet they contribute nothing to society. They play children's games. In reality, they should be paid minimum wage since their contribution is far less than any fast food worker.

They don't feed us, they don't build anything, they don't make anything, all they do is provide a few hours of entertainment.



That's right. It has become anti American bread and circus bullshit.

[blm28]

Ours was free this year as part of a new service package, but cancelled it anyway.

[SamuraiCO]

What they think they are kneeling for is their perception of injustices done to minorities. The players are not understanding their posturing is being used for larger game of taking down the NFL and anything that represents right leaning America.

The NFL has had a great history of pushing forward in player support to undo the injustices of the past. We supported the NFL for the sheer joy of seeing the best in sportsmanship and competition while providing a venue for those with the God given athletic talents to succeed and hopefully provide the role models needed for so many still in poverty.

When Limbaugh expressed sheer joy in the opportunity to join an ownership group for the St Louis Rams he was drummed out because of his challenge of progressives and generally anti-american left who are outright supporting socialists, marxists and anarchists with the goal is to tear down our Republic for a socialist democracy. The attack on him was as much an attack on everyone who listen or agree with his politics.

Shootings in any Dem run s*** hole city it is our fault because we are gun advocates. Trump, Milo, Rush, Hannity or any right leaning public figure are all racist, fascists Nazis and all those who support them are as well. The press will never stop reminding us of this.

We all work hard to support our families and do our best to raise good children but in every venue from Hollywood to nightly news we are what is wrong. Nothing ever is done to address the issues of poor populations not finishing high school, having kids out of wedlock, not working to support their families. Somehow it is our fault.

My wife said to me she will not be attending any more home games and wished to just sell the rest. We have owned and supported Broncos since 96 and even attended SB#50 for our 30th anniversary. It is up in the air if we purchase season tics next year.

That is what their kneeling says to me and I am tired of doing the right things but being blamed for others not.

[Skip]

What they think they are kneeling for is their perception of injustices done to minorities. The players are not understanding their posturing is being used for larger game of taking down the NFL and anything that represents right leaning America.

[snip]

Likely this. But you know what? If you want to have a conversation about something don't insult the majority of the country that has jack shit to do with the nature of your complaints.

I read it more like virtue signaling... These are millionaire minorities enjoying more success than any other country in history has provided them (including countries run by other minorities). So well they have it that if they decided they'd like to study instead of play ball, we will yank a "white" person out of higher ed and happily give them the spot.

Now they aren't going to write the check to make it all fair. Libtarded bastards never do! So what can they do that is nearly free and says "I'm down with the people?"

Same reason NFL management from the teams all the up to Goodell are so confused over this. And you're right, Libs are mouth-foaming at the chance to take down the NFL. What will all those disadvantaged millionaires do then?

If there is a real issue and a discussion to be had, let's have it. I'll listen and I'll make them listen to me/us. But don't shit on the country that gave you so much!

---

In case anyone is confused and thinks this is a free speech issue...

http://ftw.usatoday.com/2017/09/nfl-steelers-national-anthem-protest-mike-tomlin

That's a coach, deciding for every player, that they will not "participate" in the national anthem.

And one (a vet) still said "fuck you"...

http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2017/09/25/alejandro-villanueva-national-anthem/


Wonder what will happen to him after practicing his First Amendment rights?

[Gman]

Sales Of Alejandro Villanueva Jerseys Skyrocket After Being Only Steeler To Stand For National Anthem (http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2017/09/25/alejandro-villanueva-national-anthem/)

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Alejandro Villanueva jersey sales are skyrocketing after he was the lone member of the Pittsburgh Steelers to stand for the national anthem before Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears.

On Fanatics.com Villanueva’s jersey is now the top selling Steelers jersey, and one of the top selling jerseys in the entire NFL.

The rest of the Steelers remained in the locker room and tunnel behind Villanueva during the national anthem.

NFL fans were moved by Villanueva’s decision to emerge from the tunnel and stand for the anthem with his hand over his heart.

[Martinjmpr]

You have to wonder how long it's going to be before the NFL decides that saluting the flag and having other patriotic symbolism at NFL games is "too divisive" and just drop the practice altogether in order to avoid the "controversy."

Which, come to think of it, would be just fine with most of the SJW's out there.

Now, I don't think this was their agenda when this whole thing started (I don't give them that much credit) but it seems likely that that would be the outcome. If the issue of standing/kneeling/doing the hokey-pokey during the National Anthem is going to cause controversy, what better way to deal with it than to just stop doing the Anthem?

Problem solved, right? [facepalm]

[Gman]

If you feel that there is social injustice, then do something to improve the situation. Taking a knee is akin to 'slacktivism'. You want people to think that you care, but you're not doing anything effective to change the situation. Maybe they should have a patch on their uniforms with a certain colored bow, just to show that they care more than the next guy? [facepalm]

By dissing the National Anthem, they're not sending the right message. Instead of getting a clue, they've doubled down and pissed off more of their customer base. They're entertainers. If you want to make the most coin by being an entertainer, don't go political. If you want to divide your potential earnings by half, go political.

'BURN THE NFL': Americans are destroying football jerseys after players kneel in protest during the national anthem (http://www.businessinsider.com/nfl-fans-burn-football-jerseys-after-anthem-protest-2017-9)

I've been reading that the Cowboys intend to show some form of protest during the Anthem on MNF. I won't be watching. I think the NFL having some abysmal ratings might finally get someone's attention.

[sellersm]

You have to wonder how long it's going to be before the NFL decides that saluting the flag and having other patriotic symbolism at NFL games is "too divisive" and just drop the practice altogether in order to avoid the "controversy."

Which, come to think of it, would be just fine with most of the SJW's out there.

Now, I don't think this was their agenda when this whole thing started (I don't give them that much credit) but it seems likely that that would be the outcome. If the issue of standing/kneeling/doing the hokey-pokey during the National Anthem is going to cause controversy, what better way to deal with it than to just stop doing the Anthem?

Problem solved, right? [facepalm]

I give them more credit than you, after all, they've been in somebody's pocket for a long time (thus their tax exempt status, etc.).

Keep your eyes open for the re-branding of patriotism as 'white supremacy' or some other 'movement' which they can then demonize and vilify... Me thinks the noose is tightening around the neck of the God-and-country-loving American. The NF-Hell is just one piece of the puzzle...

[Bailey Guns]

Villaneuva may not be the hero some are making him out to be. Sounds like he didn't mean to go out on to the field after all. The story is a little confusing, though.

http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2017/09/25/steelers-alejandro-villanueva-on-standing-for-anthem-made-my-teammates-looks-bad.html

[Bailey Guns]

Dinesh D'Souza nails it.

Colin Kaepernick's Big Lie (http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2017/09/25/dinesh-dsousza-colin-kaepernicks-big-lie.html)

[Skip]

Villaneuva may not be the hero some are making him out to be. Sounds like he didn't mean to go out on to the field after all. The story is a little confusing, though.

http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2017/09/25/steelers-alejandro-villanueva-on-standing-for-anthem-made-my-teammates-looks-bad.html

Bullshit! He knew exactly what he was doing. The rest of the team wasn't even on the field. Did he walk straight past them? Miss the pre-game hate America briefing?

He was threatened because (as I posted above) coach said no one was going to participate.

[Alpha2]

"Not knocking you but I see that as a defeatest, retreating attitude."

Let's see if I have this correct...So, you're not knocking him...but you say he has a defeatest, retreating attitude. Nope, you're knocking him. You know, for having a defeatest, (BTW, it's "defeatist", with an "i") attitude. I'm not the grammar police, but then, I'm not the one splitting hairs, here.
Frankly, I agree with him. I have opinions I can't share with my employer's clients. I'm on their time, wearing their uniform, such as it is, and their reaction to my opinion may, probably would, affect their standing with said clients. Not the proper venue. On my time, sure, no problem, their time, at their venue, an opinion that likely will negatively affect their bottom line, it's not a "free speech" issue.

[hurley842002]

Bullshit! He knew exactly what he was doing. The rest of the team wasn't even on the field. Did he walk straight past them? Miss the pre-game hate America briefing?

He was threatened because (as I posted above) coach said no one was going to participate.
I agree, I call bullshit on him "throwing his team under the bus".

[sniper7]

Meanwhile NASCAR owners said stand or be fired!

I'll be watching racing and hockey. Fuck these pussified little bitches. Be an American and stand for the anthem. If not get the fuck out as you are disrespecting the country that has given you the opportunity to get where you are at.

[flogger]

So,... whats everyones thoughts about the way they handled the National Anthem tonight ? A 'both teams group kumbaya kneel' before the ceremony, lots of audience disapproval.

I guess it was better than I thought would happen but still pissed-off at the players/owners/NFL for ever letting it get this far. Clueless lemmings.

[Skip]

I agree, I call bullshit on him "throwing his team under the bus".


Part of the reason Villanueva pushed for change: he’d received texts from wounded veterans asking him to stand for the anthem.

http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2017/09/25/alejandro-villanueva-steelers-national-anthem-protest/stories/201709250175


He picked the right team on Sunday.

[Bailey Guns]

Bullshit! He knew exactly what he was doing. The rest of the team wasn't even on the field. Did he walk straight past them? Miss the pre-game hate America briefing?

He was threatened because (as I posted above) coach said no one was going to participate.

Then he's still not the hero everyone's making him out to be (in reference to the game only). As a matter of fact, if he just won't own doing what he did, and has to make some bullshit excuse for it, that's even worse than not coming out at all.

[Skip]

Then he's still not the hero everyone's making him out to be (in reference to the game only). As a matter of fact, if he just won't own doing what he did, and has to make some bullshit excuse for it, that's even worse than not coming out at all.

It is.

My guess is some heavy threats were made.

[hurley842002]

So,... whats everyones thoughts about the way they handled the National Anthem tonight ? A 'both teams group kumbaya kneel' before the ceremony, lots of audience disapproval.

I guess it was better than I thought would happen but still pissed-off at the players/owners/NFL for ever letting it get this far. Clueless lemmings.
I didn't watch it, I thought the Cowboys owner said his team wouldn't be kneeling? So much for that I guess, eff'em all.

[Bailey Guns]

You had me at


eff'em all.

[OtterbatHellcat]

http://www.9news.com/news/local/next/this-iraq-war-veteran-real-men-don-t-take-a-knee-for-what-they-believe-in-/478605913

hope this works...

[Bailey Guns]

http://www.9news.com/news/local/next/this-iraq-war-veteran-real-men-don-t-take-a-knee-for-what-they-believe-in-/478605913

hope this works...

Now that's a powerful statement. Any National Football Loser player who watches that and still drops to his knees deserves nothing but scorn and contempt for his pathetic weakness.

[TRnCO]

was real easy for me not to "tune in" for the game tonight. Won't be tuning into any other games in the future either. I got better things to do. Hope the NFL ratings tank. screw em.

[Martinjmpr]

OK, serious question: Except for a car and motorcycle race in Zimbabwe in 1995, I've never attended a sporting event in another country.

So for those who have, do they normally do the National Anthem? My guess is probably not. For one thing, in Europe it's common for teams from different countries to play each other. So who gets to have their anthem first? I doubt it. And yes, I know NHL games between US and Canadian teams always feature both anthems, but the US and Canada are culturally almost identical. Also the US and Canada never fought a war (do French soccer fans really want to hear "Deutschland Uber Alles" when the team from Cologne visits Bordeaux? Do the Spanish really want to hear "God Save the Queen?")

My point with all this is that there seems to be an assumption that every football game or baseball game will start with a national anthem and presentation of the colors. But I don't see it as something that always has to be that way.

As I stated earlier in the thread, I could very easily see NFL owners, broadcasters, sponsors, etc, all getting together and saying "look, this is a lose/lose proposition for us. If we allow the athletes to not stand, we anger 48% of the country. If we order them to stand or be fined, we anger the other 48%. What if we just did away with the national anthem, the presentation of colors, the soldiers/sailors/marines/airmen marching in and just started the game? Sure, some people would be pissed, but they'd get over it. More importantly, we wouldn't be caught in the middle of this political power struggle."

Before you say "that would never happen", consider that as recently as 25 - 30 years ago it wasn't common for many public events (not just sporting events but many, many types of events and even some that took place in public schools, colleges and universities, etc) to start with a prayer, most of them openly Christian.

But over the years people started bickering about it "you're ignoring my religion" "don't shove religion down our throats" "you're using this event to promote your religion at the exclusion of others" "Establishment Clause!" etc etc etc..

And what finally happened? They just largely did away with the whole thing, and pretty much nobody missed it.

So who's to say the same thing won't happen with the national anthem? Just come out, say "welcome to the game" and start playing.

[OtterbatHellcat]

My GF found this on Fox Insider under Judge Jeanie Blasts Goodell/ Anti Trump Players.....we both teared as she read this out loud to me.



Thought I would share

Not mine - I found this and find it profound....and yes, it's their right and these are a few examples of how we were privileged to receive this right. Just because it's your "right" doesn't mean it is right.

Just wanted to share this reply I read on Facebook this morning, after several NFL players took a knee during the National Anthem at the start at the game being played in London. Let us educate you, for those that protest the American Flag and Anthem.

TAKE A KNEE.
Take a little trip to Valley Forge in January. If you don't know where that is, just Google it from the sidelines. Hold a musket ball in your fingers and imagine it piercing your flesh and breaking a bone or two. There won't be a doctor or trainer to assist you until after the battle, so just wait your turn. Take your cleats and socks off to get a real experience. Then take a knee.
Then, take one at the beach in Normandy where man after American man stormed the beach, even as the one in front of him was shot to pieces...the very sea stained with American blood. The only blockers most had were the dead bodies in front of them, riddled with bullets from enemy fire.
Take a knee in the sweat soaked jungles of Vietnam. from Khe San to Saigon... Anywhere will do. REAL Americans died in all those jungles. There was no playbook that told them what was next, but they knew what flag they represented. When they came home, they were protested as well..and spit on for reasons only cowards know.
Take another knee in the blood drenched sands of Fallujah in 110 degree heat.. Wear your Kevlar helmet and battle dress... Your number won't be printed on it unless your number is up! You'll need to stay hydrated but there won't be anyone to squirt Gatorade into your mouth. You're on your own.
There's a lot of places to take a knee. Real Americans have given their lives all over the world. When you use the banner under which they fought as a source for your displeasure, you dishonor the memories of those who bled for the very freedoms you have. That's what the red stripes mean. It represents the blood of those who spilled a sea of it defending your liberty.
While you're on your knee, pray for those that came before you, not on a manicured lawn striped and printed with numbers to announce every inch of ground taken....but on nameless hills and bloodied beaches and sweltering forests and bitter cold mountains...every inch marked by an American life lost serving that flag you protest.
No cheerleaders, no announcers, no coaches, no fans...just American men and women...delivering the real fight against those who chose to harm us...blazing a path so you would have the right to "take a knee."
You haven't an inkling what it took to get you where you are; but your "protest" is duly noted. Not only is it disgraceful to a nation of real heroes, it serves the purpose of pointing to your ingratitude for those who chose to defend you under that banner that will still wave long after your jersey is issued to another.



Some religious stuff followed this that I left out, but this was the heart of the message. I also didn't try editing how it was typed or formatted, all of that is how it was originally posted.

[Great-Kazoo]

Anyone else see the hypocrisy of those taking a knee during the anthem and the ones who support them. They were the same ones condemning Tim Tebow when he took a knee and thanked god.

[KAPA]

One thing no one is talking about is how do they succeed? Even if everyone else gave in to the kneelers, at what point would they feel like they won and got what what they wanted?

You all realize they are protesting the treatment of Mike Brown and Travon Martin right? The cops should just let these thugs take their guns and kill them with it? I still think that Zimmerman guy is a POS human but Travon poked a bear that day and lost. This latest guy in Huntington Beach rushed the cop and tried to take stuff off his belt in a fight. What if the guy grabbed his tazer? The kneelers expect him to take a tazing, and drop his gun so the bad guy can get it?

This "protest" has no end game thus it can only die out over time so the NFL is going to have to figure out something here soon because November is coming with the salute to veterans month.

[Gman]

This "protest" has no end game thus it can only die out over time so the NFL is going to have to figure out something here soon because November is coming with the salute to veterans month.
They'll have to figure out something before November. The NFL is a business. Sponsors paid money to get eyes on their commercials. I think they're going to find they're not getting what they paid for...and they'll demand the NFL do something about it damn quick.

Most of what they seem to be protesting was predicated on lies and distortion of the truth.

[OtterbatHellcat]

Anyone else see the hypocrisy of those taking a knee during the anthem and the ones who support them. They were the same ones condemning Tim Tebow when he took a knee and thanked god.

Yes that is ironical, and I had not thought of that....but it's very true.

[KAPA]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8qCjz8Cjl4

I like how Derek Wolfe addresses white privilege at the end of the clip there.

[wyome]

I've never been to a pro, college or high school game that didn't start with the National Anthem. I used to stand with my hand over my heart, then after I enlisted I stood at attention, and continue that still.

Game tonight got off to a slow start, but got better in the end...glad to see my COWBOYS win

[GilpinGuy]

OK, serious question:

My point with all this is that there seems to be an assumption that every football game or baseball game will start with a national anthem and presentation of the colors. But I don't see it as something that always has to be that way.



I never really thought about the "why" of the Anthem before any game. Why is it done? It's just a game after all. Do they sing the National Anthem before a national ping pong match?

[StagLefty]

I never really thought about the "why" of the Anthem before any game. Why is it done? It's just a game after all. Do they sing the National Anthem before a national ping pong match?

Or a Pokemon game ?

[CS1983]

The National Anthem involvement with sports has a been more of a storied history than the leftists would like to be known (it kills their falsehoods).

http://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/6957582/the-history-national-anthem-sports-espn-magazine

http://mentalfloss.com/article/22150/why-do-we-sing-national-anthem-sporting-events

pre-9/11 article showing its presence before sporting events, thus cutting off the DOD recruiting effort trope at the knees:
http://www.cnn.com/COMMUNITY/transcripts/2001/07/03/molotsky/

[Aloha_Shooter]

o for those who have, do they normally do the National Anthem? My guess is probably not. For one thing, in Europe it's common for teams from different countries to play each other. So who gets to have their anthem first?

No, we didn't invent the national-anthem-before-games no matter what kind of silliness and tropes the Left pushes. I believe there's a protocol for playing the national anthems in multinational games.

[MED]

I'm pretty much dumbfounded by this whole thing; what a nightmare of three stooges comedy gone wrong. The NFL has no backbone, Trump's continuous sound bites should be on reality TV not in the white house, and the players are a bunch of disrespectful worthless pricks who should not be supported at all.

The NFL as well as all professional sports teams have two choices; they either clarify their code of conduct regarding what is acceptable during the national anthem or remove it from their games.

Trump needs to be a man of action not a man of sound bites. If the NFL isn't respecting the country, and the men and women who serve it, then remove our military from those games...no more colour guards, no more flyovers, no more involvement in any way.

I don't think there is any hope for the players and the people who believe in that shit, which is why this country will face great tribulation in the future.

[Martinjmpr]

Trump needs to be a man of action not a man of sound bites. If the NFL isn't respecting the country, and the men and women who serve it, then remove our military from those games...no more colour guards, no more flyovers, no more involvement in any way.



[Beer]

Well said. And in addition to withdrawing the flyovers of jets, he can also withdraw the millions of $$ the DoD spends advertising and otherwise supporting the NFL. And the thing is, Trump could do that with a phone call.

[Bailey Guns]

https://i.imgur.com/mdyjMNR.png

[Gman]

Funny, but I've never seen Brokeback Mountain...and never will.

[MrPrena]

Funny, but I've never seen Brokeback Mountain...and never will.

I just used search engine to see what that was. It was a movie.........

[Squeeze]

The NFL can go bankrupt and disappear for all I care.

I second this.

[Gman]

I just used search engine to see what that was. It was a movie.........
You should get some interesting popup ads now. [Coffee]

[68Charger]

Technically, the characters in that movie were sheep herders, not cowboys...

That's what cattle ranchers tell me...


Oh, and they extended the deadline to cancel...

http://www.dailywire.com/news/21589/backfire-nfl-fans-demanding-refunds-over-national-amanda-prestigiacomo?utm_source=dwemail&utm_medium=email&utm_content=092717-news&utm_campaign=position1

[OtterbatHellcat]

I edited as well, adhering to a previously professed standing on political statements.

It was funny though.

:)

[MrPrena]

You should get some interesting popup ads now. [Coffee]

Glad that I safely clicked imdb and wiki. :)

[Gman]

NFL protests are protected speech but 'misguided': U.S. House speaker (http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl/nfl-protests-are-protected-speech-but-misguided-us-house-speaker/ar-AAszPZg)

U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan on Thursday said National Football League players' protests were constitutionally protected free speech, but their decision to kneel while the national anthem played at games was "misguided."

"Clearly people have a right to express themselves," Ryan told reporters at a news conference. But doing so in front of the U.S. flag, "it looks like you're protesting against the ideals of America... I think it's misguided," he added.
Bingo.

Lions' Akeem Spence says his protest during anthem cost father job opportunity (http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl/lions-akeem-spence-says-his-protest-during-anthem-cost-father-job-opportunity/ar-AAsAjy4)

Akeem Spence said his protest during the national anthem cost his father a job.

According to a tweet Thursday by the Lions defensive tackle, a contractor refused to hire his father because Spence kneeled during the national anthem on Sunday.

Spence's father, Floyd Spence, operates Spence Concrete Contractors in Navarre, Fla.

Spence was among eight Lions players to kneel during the anthem. He even took to his Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/p/BZd3LZfFBs4j2aVHXm7QL8MdUxXItDxjEhzLm00/) to post a picture of him kneeling with his teammates, which included Ameer Abdullah and Tahir Whitehead.

He has also been vocal on Twitter about the protests, calling out President Donald Trump and reiterating he won't just stick to sports.
Must be tough not learning that actions can have consequences until your mid-20s.

[Bailey Guns]

I think Paul Ryan needs to brush up on his definition of "constitutionally protected free speech". What a dumbass. No wonder nothing's getting done in congress. It's led by idiots.

He probably thinks the Constitution gives us rights, too.

[Gman]

He probably thinks the Constitution gives us rights, too.
Isn't our Government our Creator? [Sarcasm2]


http://youtu.be/YKjPI6no5ng

Yeah, the 1st Amendment applies to restrictions on federal government, not NFL pre-game practices. My agreement was that the way they're 'protesting' is not sending the correct message.

[hurley842002]

I think Paul Ryan needs to brush up on his definition of "constitutionally protected free speech". What a dumbass. No wonder nothing's getting done in congress. It's led by idiots.

He probably thinks the Constitution gives us rights, too.
Yup, that article lost all credibility once it quoted US House speaker Paul Ryan.

[buffalobo]

I think Paul Ryan needs to brush up on his definition of "constitutionally protected free speech". What a dumbass. No wonder nothing's getting done in congress. It's led by idiots.

He probably thinks the Constitution gives us rights, too.Like Chuck Todd. Maybe they can study the constitution together. Morons.

If you're unarmed you are a victim

[Bailey Guns]

Yeah...I heard what Todd said. King-sized moron.

[roberth]

I cannot resist.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DK2KL4VXoAE1YCM.jpg

[Bailey Guns]

That about sums it up.

[68Charger]

I think Paul Ryan needs to brush up on his definition of "constitutionally protected free speech". What a dumbass. No wonder nothing's getting done in congress. It's led by idiots.

He probably thinks the Constitution gives us rights, too.

Actually, speaking as a US Congressman- he can't draft a law to stop them... so in that regard, it is constitutionally protected speech...
But just because the 1st amendment protects your speech from being unlawful doesn't mean there won't be consequences. If you're an asshole, expect people to treat you like one.

[Gman]

Mike Rowe, as eloquently as ever, has addressed the issue; https://www.facebook.com/TheRealMikeRowe/posts/1670661956277274


Hey Mike - I know you avoid politics, (thanks!) and I remember your rant on the Colt’s leaving Baltimore. (As a former Brown’s fan, I feel your pain.) But I gotta ask – what’s happening to professional football, and what do you make of Trump’s comments about those who refuse to stand during the national anthem?
Robert Amon

Hi Robert
In democracies, we the people get the government we deserve. We also get the celebrities we deserve, the artists we deserve, and the athletes we deserve. Because ultimately, we the people get to decide who and what gets our attention, and who and what does not.

Right now, The NFL, the players who choose to kneel, the networks who choose to broadcast their protest, the advertisers who sponsor the games, and the President of the United States, are all eager for our attention. And they are all using football to get it. That's all well and good, right up to the point where it isn't. In my view, the real controversy here isn’t about patriotism, social justice, racial inequality, or free speech. It’s not even about the flag or the national anthem. It’s really only about one thing – what we will tolerate, and what we won't.

I was disappointed last night, to hear President Trump encourage owners to fire players who refuse to stand for the anthem. Not because I dispute the owners right to do so, or the players right to protest. I was disappointed because the President’s comments presuppose that the owners are in charge of the game. They’re not. We are. We decide what to watch, and that decision - far more than any other consideration - will determine the what the owners choose to do. And that in turn will affect what the players choose to do.

As the leader of the country, the President had an opportunity to remind us that The NFL, the networks who broadcast their games, and all of the players – standers and kneelers alike - work for us. He might have also used the occasion to remind us that he too, serves at our pleasure.

I felt a similar bemusement when the Commissioner issued his response, followed by the President of the Player’s Union. Their comments – along with the comments of many of the players themselves – were perfectly reasonable, perfectly understandable, and perfectly in keeping with their first amendment rights. But they were also perfectly arrogant. Because they too, presuppose that millions of fans will continue to watch them play a game - no matter what.

Perhaps they’re right. Historically, football fans have shown a collective willingness to ignore and enable all sorts of dubious behavior. The players have agents and unions, the owners have money and power, and the fans are always caught in the middle. The resulting strikes and the constant uprooting of teams from broken-hearted towns proves beyond all question the overall lack of regard for fans in general.

But here's the thing, Rob. The fans of professional football are not powerless – they're just not yet offended enough to turn the channel. Should that ever change in a meaningful way – if for instance, a percentage of football fans relative to those players who chose to kneel during today’s games, chose to watch something else next Sunday – I can assure you...the matter would be resolved by Monday.

Mike

PS. If you’d like to spend a few minutes with some actual heroes - combat veterans who made sure today’s athletes have the right to kneel for our flag, or honor it – might I suggest the first episode of Returning the Favor? Twenty-five million people have already approved of this segment, and my hope, is that you will, too.

By the way, his new show, Returning the Favor, looks to be a good one.

[Bailey Guns]

Actually, speaking as a US Congressman- he can't draft a law to stop them... so in that regard, it is constitutionally protected speech...
But just because the 1st amendment protects your speech from being unlawful doesn't mean there won't be consequences. If you're an asshole, expect people to treat you like one.

But that's not the issue. The issue is can the employer still censor speech or require certain behavior and the answer is undoubtedly "yes". Far too many people shout "free speech" when it doesn't apply.

[ray1970]

This whole thing is just another example of how consequences for ones actions just don't exist in our society anymore. The NFL already has rules in place stating something to the effect that players on the field or the sidelines during the national anthem will stand at attention. One player violated his companies official policy and suffered no official consequences and once others realized that the rule wasn't going to be inforced I'm sure they figured why not. The commissioner needs to put on his big boy pants and enforce the rules of the league and this thing will go away. Obviously, suspensions or terminations would hurt the business. Dishing out substantial fines and hitting these douche bags in the wallet would likely make them lose interest in the "equality" BS pretty quickly.

[68Charger]

But that's not the issue. The issue is can the employer still censor speech or require certain behavior and the answer is undoubtedly "yes". Far too many people shout "free speech" when it doesn't apply.
I think you misunderstand my point (and possibly Rep. Ryan's as well)
If you were to ask Paul Ryan to "do something about it, you're a congresscritter for cripe's sake"
IN THAT CONTEXT, it IS constitutionally protected speech... any action Congresscritter Ryan took in official capacity as a congresscritter to stop it would be unconstitutional. Because the constitution limits gov't powers, and therefore the powers of all who work for it.

Now the NFL owners can tell the players to respect the flag or be fired... and that's fine, they can take a knee in the unemployment line... not a constitutional issue.

I doubt many politicians would state that, because it's taking a side on a hot issue... they'd be advised to not "fall on that sword"

[Dave_L]

Im not a fan of the NBA but I'm impressed by the commish.

http://www.nba.com/article/2017/09/28/nba-commissioner-adam-silver-expects-players-stand-during-anthem


“It's been a rule as long as I've been involved with the league, and my expectation is that our players will continue to stand for the anthem,” Silver said.

Asked if there would be a penalty if a player or team were to violate that rule, Silver said: “All I can say is if that were to happen, we’ll deal with it when it happens.”


“Sports historically, and in the NBA in particular, has been a unifying force,” Silver said. “While there's always been disagreements in society, sports arenas have been places where people from all walks of life have come together and for a common experience.”


“I have a general concern as a citizen that there's a huge gap – call it a gulf – in our society right now, and it's incredibly divisive,” he said. “And I believe this league can play a role in attempting to unify people.


“It’s always been an opportunity in our arenas for both teams to come together and have a moment of reflection,” the NBA commissioner said. “Clearly for the non-American players, it's not necessarily a moment of patriotism for the United States, but it's about respect. It's about respect for the country they play in. It's about respect for the principles that underlie this country."

[MED]

But that's not the issue. The issue is can the employer still censor speech or require certain behavior and the answer is undoubtedly "yes". Far too many people shout "free speech" when it doesn't apply.

^^^^this

This is old case law; the NFL can choose to legally amend their code of conduct and enforce it or not. By not doing so, they are by default adopting the position that what the players are doing is acceptable. What the players do on their own time and not representing the NFL is their own business; however, if they act like asses they will suffer the consequences with their reputation. Any company can decide whether a new contract with such an individual is a good idea or not. So many of the problems come from the inability of people to accept there are consequences for their actions. A business/business owner knows what the cost of their reputation is worth as well as the associated risk with different actions...at least the ones that actually stay in business.

Personally, I don't see what is so damn hard about understanding the first amendment (CONGRESS shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.), but all kinds of dumb stuff gets said enough that people accept it as truth.

EDIT: This is not a political issue. The president, congress, or any state official should stay out of it other than deciding whether or not personnel and/or resource participation in events. This is a something for the NFL to address with the fans. All the other political chatter is BS, and just gives air time to what the players are doing.

[Bailey Guns]

I think you misunderstand my point (and possibly Rep. Ryan's as well)
If you were to ask Paul Ryan to "do something about it, you're a congresscritter for cripe's sake"
IN THAT CONTEXT, it IS constitutionally protected speech... any action Congresscritter Ryan took in official capacity as a congresscritter to stop it would be unconstitutional. Because the constitution limits gov't powers, and therefore the powers of all who work for it.

Now the NFL owners can tell the players to respect the flag or be fired... and that's fine, they can take a knee in the unemployment line... not a constitutional issue.

I doubt many politicians would state that, because it's taking a side on a hot issue... they'd be advised to not "fall on that sword"

I understand clearly what you're saying and I agree. But I still contend that is not the issue here so it's a moot point. But I don't think Ryan was putting it in that context, either. Not from just reading the quote from him anyway. We're on the same page.