The NFL season kicks off this week with the Seattle Seahawks, last season’s champions, facing the New England Patriots in a Super Bowl rematch. Seattle’s defense, led by British coach Aden Durde, is ready to defend their title. Durde, the first overseas coach to win the Super Bowl, is eager to continue improving and competing. The Seahawks’ main competition this season is expected to be the Los Angeles Rams, who have strengthened their team and are favorites to win Super Bowl 61. The NFL season opener, traditionally featuring the defending champions, will take place on a Wednesday for the first time since 2012 due to scheduling conflicts. This season also includes notable games such as the Rams playing the San Francisco 49ers in Australia and the Buffalo Bills hosting their first game at Highmark Stadium. American football remains a significant part of US holidays, with multiple games scheduled during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
QUESTION: How might the international expansion of NFL games, like the one in Australia, influence the global popularity of American football?
