Have you ever heard someone talk about fantasy football? Or maybe overheard a group of kids discussing lines up and trades. To a non-fantasy participant, all of this talk and hype around an online game may raise some questions. What is fantasy football and why is this game so popular?
fantasy football is a game where people can create their own teams made up of real life football players. “players can make trades and different moves to improve their team throughout the season,” sophomore Stuart Hellmann, a fantasy participant, said. Players use the statistical performance of football players in real life games. To compare against other imaginary teams. “It’s really a fun way for fans of the sport to become more involved and feel like they’re managing their own team.”
Many students seem to misunderstand how inclusive fantasy football can be. “The demographic of players seem like football players” freshman Sanjay Sivakumar, a non-participant, said. However, this is a common misconception. Fantasy football is just like any other fun game that can be played by anyone.
Fantasy football truly is appealing to a wide range of people, weather that be a hardcore sports fans, or a casual fan who just wants to have some fun. When speaking to sophomore Stuart Hellmann he illustrates the broad appeal, “People’s grandparents are in it, younger siblings, so anyone can really enjoy fantasy football.”
“Now that it’s playoff time, the games are going to be a lot more competitive”
Hugo sutton, ’25
The social aspect of discussing and analyzing players and games can be a fun and engaging way for friends and family to spend time together. “I think it’s a good way for friends to interact over the course of the NFL football season, that competitive nature it builds is a good bonding experience for friends, ” senior Owen Hunter said.
Fantasy football allows players to feel more connected to the real-life game of football. “You feel like you’re almost a general manager of an NFL team, because you get to decide your players, and build a championship team that could win your league,” said freshman Lincoln Petagine.
Unlike simply watching the game on television, fantasy football allows players to feel like they are part of the action. Fantasy football can provide a sense of ownership and decision making that can impact the success of your team. These responsibilities are comparable to those of a professional general manager, which ultimately gives the game more fun and competition.
