Study Finds Fans Have Curious Preferences On Football Fandom, COVID Attendance Requirements

A new study out of Trafalgar highlighted distinctions in sentiment toward attending a live game between college and professional football fan bases. The questioning was related vaccine mandates imposed on the crowds in attendance. Both groups held differing stances on the vaccine requirement and its overall effect on the game.

College football fans identified as the majority of the 1,804 respondents — totaling 56.4 percent of the group, compared to 43.6 percent of identified NFL fans.

The two groups were asked: Would you be more or less likely to go to a football game this season if all attendees were required to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination? 

According to the study's insights, expressed interest on behalf of college football fans dropped seven percent if vaccine mandates were in place; meanwhile, the NFL fan base proved to be a loyal group by skewing toward a higher likelihood of attending a game if vaccine passports were required.

Both football seasons are operating on different strategies, with one scoring big as the other stays benched.

The disparity between the electric start to college football versus a slightly diluted return by the NFL has fallen on a storyline of vaccine mandates, imposed on both players and fans. Key players have already been ruled out of contests over COVID tracing and testing, while others remain off rosters over vaccination status.

College football's more relaxed stance on masking and vaccines has led to ratings-backed entertainment for the past three weekends. Anticipating full stadiums of fans and a distancing from 2020's sporting seasons, CFB's brand of post-COVID play isn't interested in changing directions.

Momentum has followed college football, whereas the NFL's storylines on vaccination status and restricted venues concern NFL faithfuls on when the league and Roger Goodell will move on from COVID. The New Orleans Saints missed eight total coaches on their sidelines due to the NFL's COVID protocol — which may have had an impact on the 26-7 loss against the Carolina Panthers.

All data provided by the Trafalgar Group

NFL Fans

College Football Fans

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