Jon Gruden, the former coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, has recently made headlines again, particularly regarding his views on the NFL”s Thursday night games. Gruden last took the field as a head coach in 2021 and briefly returned to the league in a consulting role with the New Orleans Saints two years later. Speculation is rife about his potential return to coaching, although his name has been more frequently linked to college football opportunities.
Despite the buzz surrounding his future, Gruden has been vocal about his disdain for Thursday night matchups. He shared his thoughts shortly after the Las Vegas Raiders faced off against the Denver Broncos, a game that ended with the Raiders winning 10-7. Gruden”s comments reflect a broader sentiment among fans, analysts, and players who have voiced concerns over the scheduling of games midweek.
Many argue that the quick turnaround from Sunday games to Thursday contests leads to a host of issues, including increased turnovers and lower scoring. Coaches and players have limited time to prepare, which can impact game strategy and player performance. Furthermore, player health is a significant concern, as the compressed schedule often leaves athletes fatigued and at greater risk for injuries.
As the New England Patriots prepare for a Thursday game against the New York Jets, both teams are facing a short week. The Patriots are aiming to extend their winning streak, while the Jets hope to achieve their third consecutive victory. However, the challenges posed by Thursday night games persist, with many believing the nine or ten days off after these matchups do not adequately compensate for the grueling schedule.
Gruden”s perspective highlights the ongoing debate about the fairness of the Thursday night format, particularly for coaches and players who must compete without sufficient preparation. Nevertheless, the likelihood of a shift in this scheduling format seems slim, as the NFL benefits significantly from its partnership with Amazon, which pays over $1 billion annually for exclusive broadcasting rights until 2033.
As discussions about Gruden”s potential return to coaching continue, his criticisms of Thursday night games may contribute to the ongoing dialogue about player welfare and the future of the NFL”s scheduling practices.
