NFL Blackouts: Rams In The Clear For Home Opener

The St. Louis Rams will not be forced to black out their home opener this week against the Washington Redskins. The team met the sellout requirements for the game, which means that fans unable to make it to the Dome will be able to see it via local broadcast.

Personally, the NFL blackout rule needs to go. I understand the original intent of it, but that's long since been made obsolete by technology, evolving levels of interest in the game, etc. Plus, it's kind of shitty way to treat fans. As noted in the TV ratings post yesterday, the Rams had a big uptick in audience size as last week's game against the Lions went on, with more fans tuning in for an exciting fourth quarter. Denying viewers that ability isn't going to help sell tickets.

Keep an eye on ticket sales and blackouts this season. I would expect numbers to be better, but much of that will depend on the team on the field. Last year, the Rams did not have to blackout their games, but they did have to scoop up large swaths of unsold tickets in order to meet that requirement.

And a little something for the LA-move talk, the Chargers and Raiders are both blacked out this week. (Note, the Chargers had blackout lifted this afternoon).

The Rams Vs. Redskins will be on Fox this weekend.