I think it's a pipedream to believe that Cleveland would ever be considered for a Super Bowl, BCS Championship Game, or even NCAA Championship (hoops).  Even with a roof, CBS is still a dump compared to the other immaculate facilities that these events usually go to.  Beyond that, I just don't think that Cleveland has the allure to get one of these events.  Maybe Haslam has some pull (money) to get one of them as a one-time thing, but I wouldn't get my hopes up.

 

More realistically, I think that Cleveland could have a shot things like an NCAA hoops regional tournament, minor bowl games, etc.

 

You label these "immaculate" facilities?  Have you been to any of these stadiums/arenas? 

 

I have been to and inspected many arenas and stadiums/domes and let me tell you The Q and CBS are on par with any stadium outside of Dallas, Lucas and Phoenix Stadium.  I haven't seen Phoenix in person.  The problem isn't our stadium infrastructure it's the lack of hotel rooms.

 

 

err, you failed your metlife stadium inspection there inspector detector. now drop and give me twenty!

 

I think it's a pipedream to believe that Cleveland would ever be considered for a Super Bowl, BCS Championship Game, or even NCAA Championship (hoops).  Even with a roof, CBS is still a dump compared to the other immaculate facilities that these events usually go to.  Beyond that, I just don't think that Cleveland has the allure to get one of these events.  Maybe Haslam has some pull (money) to get one of them as a one-time thing, but I wouldn't get my hopes up.

 

More realistically, I think that Cleveland could have a shot things like an NCAA hoops regional tournament, minor bowl games, etc.

 

You label these "immaculate" facilities?  Have you been to any of these stadiums/arenas? 

 

I have been to and inspected many arenas and stadiums/domes and let me tell you The Q and CBS are on par with any stadium outside of Dallas, Lucas and Phoenix Stadium.  I haven't seen Phoenix in person.  The problem isn't our stadium infrastructure it's the lack of hotel rooms.

 

I should have clarified.  Many of the facilities that host these events are, indeed, dumps.  However they're in the right locations (i.e. Southern cities).  Lucas Oil Field is indeed immaculate and it seems to be the only Northern venue that is able to compete on a consistent basis with Southern venues in getting these events (and LOF has already been mentioned as a strong candidate to host the BCS National Championship Game in the future).  The MetroDome has been out of the mix for over a decade, and the Edward Jones Dome is not slated to receive anything for the foreseeable future.

 

In my opinion, particularly in regards to hosting the BCS title game or Super Bowl, Cleveland would already have a significant strike against it being a Northern city.  I've read stories of disgruntled visitors who took issue with the fact that it snowed during the weekend when Detroit last hosted the Super Bowl in 2009.  Fair or not, even with a dome, this will be a consideration.

^I mean but there were also disgruntled visitors in Miami because it rained all weekend and the venue was miles from Downtown and South beach. Event planners for a Superbowl in Cleveland could push the fact that most of Cleveland's attractions and restaurants and a good deal of hotels are downtown and some even connected via a rail line from the stadium. I think the biggest issue with Cleveland hosting a Superbowl is that it does not have enough hotel rooms and has no roof over its stadium.

We can walk and chew gum at the same time. It's not a choice between a dome and more hotel rooms. We NEED both

We can walk and chew gum at the same time. It's not a choice between a dome and more hotel rooms. We NEED both

 

And we need climate change to accelerate, too.

And we need climate change to accelerate, too.

 

So we can be as attractive to conventions as Chicago, Toronto or Calgary (where the temperatures at this moment are 8, 16 and 18F, respectively)?

And we need climate change to accelerate, too.

 

So we can be as attractive to conventions as Chicago, Toronto or Calgary (where the temperatures at this moment are 8, 16 and 18F, respectively)?

 

Exactly, KJP. They wont mention those cities cause it goes against the "we suck" narrative.

Its sad that we're so used to losing that we're unwilling or unable to do what's necessary to win. Host cities don't become host cities overnight. They become attractive by adding amenities. If u don't add the amenities, you don't become attractive. So, yes that includes adding hotel rooms and yes that includes getting a freaking dome. Does it guarantee that you'll get the events we're talking about? No. But I can guarantee You that you won't win if you do nothing. If people here are content with being irrelevant on the national stage, be my guest. I'm not.

And we need climate change to accelerate, too.

 

So we can be as attractive to conventions as Chicago, Toronto or Calgary (where the temperatures at this moment are 8, 16 and 18F, respectively)?

 

And between the three of these cities, there is collectively one dome--which I know many in Toronto, and even more so in Buffalo, are not terribly fond of beyond the engineering marvel that it is (was).

Its sad that we're so used to losing that we're unwilling or unable to do what's necessary to win. Host cities don't become host cities overnight. They become attractive by adding amenities. If u don't add the amenities, you don't become attractive. So, yes that includes adding hotel rooms and yes that includes getting a freaking dome. Does it guarantee that you'll get the events we're talking about? No. But I can guarantee You that you won't win if you do nothing. If people here are content with being irrelevant on the national stage, be my guest. I'm not.

 

I agree there's no reason Cleveland couldn't become a first class host city. Aiming for anything less makes no sense imho.

 

You think of even modest versions of the lakefront plan, combined with the changes we expect to see downtown in the next 5-10 years and it's an incredible make over. This city deserves its place on the national stage every bit as much as any other.

 

That being said, I'd prefer a retractable roof where the Browns have the decision for open or closed games. Though I'm certain the NFL wouldn't allow this for some reason.

 

 

I think it's a pipedream to believe that Cleveland would ever be considered for a Super Bowl, BCS Championship Game, or even NCAA Championship (hoops).  Even with a roof, CBS is still a dump compared to the other immaculate facilities that these events usually go to.  Beyond that, I just don't think that Cleveland has the allure to get one of these events.  Maybe Haslam has some pull (money) to get one of them as a one-time thing, but I wouldn't get my hopes up.

 

More realistically, I think that Cleveland could have a shot things like an NCAA hoops regional tournament, minor bowl games, etc.

 

You label these "immaculate" facilities?  Have you been to any of these stadiums/arenas? 

 

I have been to and inspected many arenas and stadiums/domes and let me tell you The Q and CBS are on par with any stadium outside of Dallas, Lucas and Phoenix Stadium.  I haven't seen Phoenix in person.  The problem isn't our stadium infrastructure it's the lack of hotel rooms.

 

I should have clarified.  Many of the facilities that host these events are, indeed, dumps.  However they're in the right locations (i.e. Southern cities).  Lucas Oil Field is indeed immaculate and it seems to be the only Northern venue that is able to compete on a consistent basis with Southern venues in getting these events (and LOF has already been mentioned as a strong candidate to host the BCS National Championship Game in the future).  The MetroDome has been out of the mix for over a decade, and the Edward Jones Dome is not slated to receive anything for the foreseeable future.

 

In my opinion, particularly in regards to hosting the BCS title game or Super Bowl, Cleveland would already have a significant strike against it being a Northern city.  I've read stories of disgruntled visitors who took issue with the fact that it snowed during the weekend when Detroit last hosted the Super Bowl in 2009.  Fair or not, even with a dome, this will be a consideration.

I'm going to disagree and say BS!  The location/weather has nothing to do with it, it's the almighty $$$!  so there was snow in Detroit, it's Winter, what else would you expect?

There was snow in Dallas

Its sad that we're so used to losing that we're unwilling or unable to do what's necessary to win. Host cities don't become host cities overnight. They become attractive by adding amenities. If u don't add the amenities, you don't become attractive. So, yes that includes adding hotel rooms and yes that includes getting a freaking dome. Does it guarantee that you'll get the events we're talking about? No. But I can guarantee You that you won't win if you do nothing. If people here are content with being irrelevant on the national stage, be my guest. I'm not.

 

"We're"??  "We're" who?  Who are you speaking for?  I know you passionate, but I'm going to ask that you don't make general statements like this.  We have a lot of amenities.  What do Baltimore, Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas, Houston, San Diego, Atlanta, Charlotte, Portland or Seattle have that we do not??  I purposely did not include NYC, LA, DC, Vegas and Florida, the latter two because "tourism" is their major economy.

 

It's about the $$$, Cleveland's pure tourist visits have increased, so a convention sized hotel is needed in my eyes, but i'm not a developer.  I don't think the City has had a do nothing attitude, we've just not had the money to invest properly because for so many years the infrastructure was ignored.  Now the city has a balanced budget and the economy is looking better, those old blue collar jobs of yesteryear are todays service oriented jobs.  As more people move and visit the city proper, we'll need more of those jobs.  Things don't happen overnight, however, the I would like the city/county/region to step outside the box and take a chance every now and then on a project.

OK guys, thanks for the entertainment....

 

 

But let's take a breather and see what plans come out of the Browns' camp next.

 

 

Just a post Superbowl observation: After last weeks mini blackout in New Orleans, would you ever hold a Superbowl named after the company that caused the worst Blackout in US history?

Just a post Superbowl observation: After last weeks mini blackout in New Orleans, would you ever hold a Superbowl named after the company that caused the worst Blackout in US history?

 

LOL good observation. 

Updated: Browns pick architect, construction company for renovation of FirstEnergy Stadium

By NATE ULRICH

Published: July 15, 2013

 

The Browns have selected Los Angeles-based architecture firm Gensler to design a major renovation of FirstEnergy Stadium and chosen New York-based Turner Construction Co. as the general contractor for the two-year project, SportsBusinessDaily.com reported today, citing industry sources.

 

Browns CEO Joe Banner responded to inquiries about the report in a statement.

 

"We have consistently communicated that improving the fan experience is one of our priorities," Banner said in the statement. "We have engaged Gensler architectural firm and Turner Construction to explore every opportunity to help us accomplish this through a potential renovation. This process is in the early stages, so it would be premature to discuss financial parameters, but when we have specific details, we will certainly share our plans with our fans and the community."

 

The renovation is expected to cost more than $100 million, according to the report.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.ohio.com/blogs/cleveland-browns/cleveland-browns-1.270107/updated-browns-pick-architect-construction-company-for-renovation-of-firstenergy-stadium-1.413365

This will probably be similar to what Philly just announced with Gensler/Turner and about the same money at 120mil. Here is want they released.

 

• New 27' x 192' and 27' x 160' state-of-the-art high-definition video boards in the end zones. The Eagles concede they may not be as monstrous as the screen in Cowboys Stadium, but will have much better clarity due to the newer technologies (12 mm pixels).

• An in-stadium WiFi system that can accommodate 45,000 users. The WiFi will be free of charge to fans.

• Seating bowl expansion to accommodate an additional 1,600 fans. The seating expansion will close off open portions in the corners of the stadium to create a louder and more intimate setting.

• Bridges to connect the upper decks. As currently constructed, it's not possible to walk all the way around the upper deck.

• Suite, club level and touchdown club revitalization. Parts of these areas will be improved with new furnishings, additional and improved concessions and audio-visual capabilities.

• Historical imagery throughout the stadium. This includes retired jerseys and championship banners to hang from the top of the stadium, and images of Eagles legends on the walls of just about every level.

Isn't the Sin Tax expiring Soon?  Is it possible to extend it?  Let's see-  120 million hi-tech Improvements Plus - 200 million roof

serious question: can they do this while the owner is under investigation by the FBI?

serious question: can they do this while the owner is under investigation by the FBI?

 

Of course. You can't afford to rest on your laurels even with something this big hanging over the team and parent company. Besides the investigation might last another year. Can't sit around waiting for resolution. Until then it's business as usual.

Isn't the Sin Tax expiring Soon?  Is it possible to extend it?  Let's see-  120 million hi-tech Improvements Plus - 200 million roof

 

Cleveland City Councilman Brian Cummins is asking that very question. I say we use the sin tax for public transportation improvements. :-D

 

 

serious question: can they do this while the owner is under investigation by the FBI?

 

Under investigation is a long way from indictment. And even that is a long way from guilty. So business goes on.

If they want to do that, go ahead and pay for it yourself. We already put enough money into it. I'm tired of citizens subsiding sports so a few can get rich, while the rest of us are miserable watching a terrible product. If anything, our bad sports teams have hurt the city's image over the years more than it has helped it. But for some dumb reason I still like watching the games lol.

 

I'd prefer we spent the money on things with a greater return. Like helping developers build residential downtown.

^Is the city paying for this renovation?  I did not get that impression from the article and there has been no talk about it that I am aware of.

 

Of course the city is contractually bound (from day one) to pay for the majority of maintenance.

^^Especially when we're talking about a facility that gets used so infrequently.  This sounds like a colossal waste of money if it's really going to be publicly funded.

 

EDIT: and, per freethink, sounds like it probably won't be publicly funded, so nothing to complain about.

Much like the Philly project I would suspect the Browns would be using the same type of funding source available from the NFL known as the G4 program, which is this:

 

"Under the newest Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL owners and NFL Players Association, the NFL G-4 Resolution allows teams to receive matching dollars on favorable terms from a league loan pool for investments they make in renovating their stadiums. These loans could bring the total amount available per team for new stadium construction to $200 million. Specifics of G4 financing from the NFL include: up to $200 million for new stadium construction; up to $250 million for stadium renovation; and repayment of G4 financing by the team over 15 years through revenues related to premium seating. Per the collective bargaining agreement, loans will be given to teams on a case-by-case basis by the NFL. Additionally, G4 loans are available to only public-private stadium projects".

 

If they want to do that, go ahead and pay for it yourself. We already put enough money into it. I'm tired of citizens subsiding sports so a few can get rich, while the rest of us are miserable watching a terrible product. If anything, our bad sports teams have hurt the city's image over the years more than it has helped it. But for some dumb reason I still like watching the games lol.

 

I'd prefer we spent the money on things with a greater return. Like helping developers build residential downtown.

 

OH please, would you guys stop with that!  Especially those of you who have not lived elsewhere.  If you REALLY think that a city or region's reputation is damaged based on its sports teams winning percentage you're to delusional to discuss it!  It's so God----ed stupid!

Much like the Philly project I would suspect the Browns would be using the same type of funding source available from the NFL known as the G4 program, which is this:

 

"Under the newest Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL owners and NFL Players Association, the NFL G-4 Resolution allows teams to receive matching dollars on favorable terms from a league loan pool for investments they make in renovating their stadiums. These loans could bring the total amount available per team for new stadium construction to $200 million. Specifics of G4 financing from the NFL include: up to $200 million for new stadium construction; up to $250 million for stadium renovation; and repayment of G4 financing by the team over 15 years through revenues related to premium seating. Per the collective bargaining agreement, loans will be given to teams on a case-by-case basis by the NFL. Additionally, G4 loans are available to only public-private stadium projects".

If you can get up to $250 million I say add seats in the gaps like Philly is doing and build a dome. GO HARD OR GO HOME!

Seats in the gaps!  Yes!~

 

Dome?  Heck no!  Put the money into the convention center hotel and more residential downtown. 

There will not be a dome...

Much like the Philly project I would suspect the Browns would be using the same type of funding source available from the NFL known as the G4 program, which is this:

 

"Under the newest Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL owners and NFL Players Association, the NFL G-4 Resolution allows teams to receive matching dollars on favorable terms from a league loan pool for investments they make in renovating their stadiums. These loans could bring the total amount available per team for new stadium construction to $200 million. Specifics of G4 financing from the NFL include: up to $200 million for new stadium construction; up to $250 million for stadium renovation; and repayment of G4 financing by the team over 15 years through revenues related to premium seating. Per the collective bargaining agreement, loans will be given to teams on a case-by-case basis by the NFL. Additionally, G4 loans are available to only public-private stadium projects".

If you can get up to $250 million I say add seats in the gaps like Philly is doing and build a dome. GO HARD OR GO HOME!

 

Im an old school footballer.  I has to be tractable.  Football is a hearty sport meant to be played in all kinds of environments, not inside.  No full dome  I want to see kickers hone their skills and work for a field goal.  i want to see QBs work with the wind to throw a touchdown bomb!  I want to see team plan for a running game because it's too cold or windy to throw downfield. 

 

It's football damnit!  FOOTBALL!

Much like the Philly project I would suspect the Browns would be using the same type of funding source available from the NFL known as the G4 program, which is this:

 

"Under the newest Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL owners and NFL Players Association, the NFL G-4 Resolution allows teams to receive matching dollars on favorable terms from a league loan pool for investments they make in renovating their stadiums. These loans could bring the total amount available per team for new stadium construction to $200 million. Specifics of G4 financing from the NFL include: up to $200 million for new stadium construction; up to $250 million for stadium renovation; and repayment of G4 financing by the team over 15 years through revenues related to premium seating. Per the collective bargaining agreement, loans will be given to teams on a case-by-case basis by the NFL. Additionally, G4 loans are available to only public-private stadium projects".

If you can get up to $250 million I say add seats in the gaps like Philly is doing and build a dome. GO HARD OR GO HOME!

 

Im an old school footballer.  I has to be tractable.  Football is a hearty sport meant to be played in all kinds of environments, not inside.  No full dome  I want to see kickers hone their skills and work for a field goal.  i want to see QBs work with the wind to throw a touchdown bomb!  I want to see team plan for a running game because it's too cold or windy to throw downfield. 

 

It's football damnit!  FOOTBALL!

Oh I feel the same way I just want a dome so it can be used year round. Right now Browns stadium is a waste

This was debated thoroughly upthread, but perhaps most of it has disappeared.

 

The stadium as it stands is definitely a waste.  But adding a dome will only add to it.  The $200 million isn't worth the couple of events we might get to justify it.  Not when this town needs more convention hotel rooms, etc.

Much like the Philly project I would suspect the Browns would be using the same type of funding source available from the NFL known as the G4 program, which is this:

 

"Under the newest Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL owners and NFL Players Association, the NFL G-4 Resolution allows teams to receive matching dollars on favorable terms from a league loan pool for investments they make in renovating their stadiums. These loans could bring the total amount available per team for new stadium construction to $200 million. Specifics of G4 financing from the NFL include: up to $200 million for new stadium construction; up to $250 million for stadium renovation; and repayment of G4 financing by the team over 15 years through revenues related to premium seating. Per the collective bargaining agreement, loans will be given to teams on a case-by-case basis by the NFL. Additionally, G4 loans are available to only public-private stadium projects".

If you can get up to $250 million I say add seats in the gaps like Philly is doing and build a dome. GO HARD OR GO HOME!

 

Im an old school footballer.  I has to be tractable.  Football is a hearty sport meant to be played in all kinds of environments, not inside.  No full dome  I want to see kickers hone their skills and work for a field goal.  i want to see QBs work with the wind to throw a touchdown bomb!  I want to see team plan for a running game because it's too cold or windy to throw downfield. 

 

It's football damnit!  FOOTBALL!

Oh I feel the same way I just want a dome so it can be used year round. Right now Browns stadium is a waste

I have a question, just for shit and giggles, over the next two years, what would book there?  Keep in mind we just built a new convention center and do not have the appropriate hotel space.

 

Before you answer, I'll say it - A dome will not help the stadium increase revenue and make a profit.  Help the Browns, Cleveland or Cuyahoga County!

Much like the Philly project I would suspect the Browns would be using the same type of funding source available from the NFL known as the G4 program, which is this:

 

"Under the newest Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL owners and NFL Players Association, the NFL G-4 Resolution allows teams to receive matching dollars on favorable terms from a league loan pool for investments they make in renovating their stadiums. These loans could bring the total amount available per team for new stadium construction to $200 million. Specifics of G4 financing from the NFL include: up to $200 million for new stadium construction; up to $250 million for stadium renovation; and repayment of G4 financing by the team over 15 years through revenues related to premium seating. Per the collective bargaining agreement, loans will be given to teams on a case-by-case basis by the NFL. Additionally, G4 loans are available to only public-private stadium projects".

If you can get up to $250 million I say add seats in the gaps like Philly is doing and build a dome. GO HARD OR GO HOME!

 

Im an old school footballer.  I has to be tractable.  Football is a hearty sport meant to be played in all kinds of environments, not inside.  No full dome  I want to see kickers hone their skills and work for a field goal.  i want to see QBs work with the wind to throw a touchdown bomb!  I want to see team plan for a running game because it's too cold or windy to throw downfield. 

 

It's football damnit!  FOOTBALL!

Oh I feel the same way I just want a dome so it can be used year round. Right now Browns stadium is a waste

I have a question, just for sh!t and giggles, over the next two years, what would book there?  Keep in mind we just built a new convention center and do not have the appropriate hotel space.

 

Before you answer, I'll say it - A dome will not help the stadium increase revenue and make a profit.  Help the Browns, Cleveland or Cuyahoga County!

Off the the top of my head we would be able to bid for all star games (nba) and the super bowl which would bring in tons of revenue. Far fetched? Yes but hey if Detroit can get a super bowl (not a shot at Detroit its just Detroit is not the most typical city for big events like that imo) why cant we.

Detroit is a bad comparison for a Super Bowl because:

 

A.  The metro is much bigger than Cleveland with more overall hotel rooms, bigger TV market, etc etc.

 

B.  The American auto industry is based there.  They buy a lot of ads.  Especially during NFL games.  And especially on Super Bowl telecasts.  Don't discount that in the selection process. 

 

If you remember Detroit in 1984 (I think) was the last northern Superbowl for quite a few years after the game in the old Silverdome.  The weather caused a traffic nightmare and the NFL stayed away from the north for a couple decades!

^1994

^1994

 

Actually 1982, and 2006, according to this site:

 

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Which_Super_Bowls_were_played_in_Detroit's_Silverdome

Seats in the gaps!  Yes!~

 

Dome?  Heck no!  Put the money into the convention center hotel and more residential downtown. 

 

Especially when it's quite possible that football as we know it won't be around in a couple of decades.  With the lawsuits beginning to simmer initiated by the players themselves against the NFL for injuries sustained, it's only a matter of time until they drift down to the college, high school and grade school level.  What school system will want the liability of a football program?  Parents are now loath to let their kids play.  Even some ex NFL guys warn against it. 

Seats in the gaps!  Yes!~

 

Dome?  Heck no!  Put the money into the convention center hotel and more residential downtown. 

 

Especially when it's quite possible that football as we know it won't be around in a couple of decades.  With the lawsuits beginning to simmer initiated by the players themselves against the NFL for injuries sustained, it's only a matter of time until they drift down to the college, high school and grade school level.  What school system will want the liability of a football program?  Parents are now loath to let their kids play.  Even some ex NFL guys warn against it. 

 

This was said a hundred years ago as well.  Won't happen.  The game certainly hasn't lost any popularity as a spectator sport.  It's too good a metaphor for war and too perfect for the American psyche.

 

Agree on no dome.  Weather is a big part of the Browns' home field advantage. 

Football might around in the future but it sure won't look like anything from 100yrs ago.  Hell just look at the some of the rule changes in the last 10yrs.  These lawsuits are a real thing and can definitely end the game as we know it.  I have friends who coach in the NFL that won't let their sons play. 

Don't be so quick to dismiss the decline of the NFL's popularity, especially as a live event. Football is much more enjoyable to watch on TV (compared to say, basketball, which I believe is the best live sport whereas baseball is best to have on in the background or on radio). The challenge for football (outside of addressing the safety/legal issues) is to make the game more appealing in person in this era of fantasy football and social networking. One city is already acknowledging this by planning a smaller venue for football....

 

Raiders eye NFL stadium in Oakland

By Matthew Artz/MediaNews Group/

Posted:  07/17/2013 01:00:10 AM PDT

 

OAKLAND -- The Oakland Raiders want to build the NFL's smallest stadium at their current home, but the team might not be able to cover even half the costs, city and Alameda County officials learned Monday.

A team-commissioned study found enough demand in Oakland for a 56,500-seat football stadium, including 6,000 club seats, that would cost roughly $800 million, said David Stone, whose firm, AECOM, is advising Oakland and Alameda County officials on stadium construction.

 

Stone said the Raiders have proposed contributing about $300 million toward the project. If the NFL agreed to provide $200 million from its stadium loan program, that would leave an estimated $300 million shortfall, Stone said Monday during a meeting of the joint Oakland and Alameda County board that governs the Oakland Coliseum complex.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.timesheraldonline.com/sports/ci_23675693/raiders-eye-nfl-stadium-oakland

Seats in the gaps!  Yes!~

 

Dome?  Heck no!  Put the money into the convention center hotel and more residential downtown. 

 

Especially when it's quite possible that football as we know it won't be around in a couple of decades.  With the lawsuits beginning to simmer initiated by the players themselves against the NFL for injuries sustained, it's only a matter of time until they drift down to the college, high school and grade school level.  What school system will want the liability of a football program?  Parents are now loath to let their kids play.  Even some ex NFL guys warn against it. 

 

This was said a hundred years ago as well.  Won't happen.  The game certainly hasn't lost any popularity as a spectator sport.  It's too good a metaphor for war and too perfect for the American psyche.

 

Agree on no dome.  Weather is a big part of the Browns' home field advantage. 

 

Look at how quickly Baseball changed from "America's Pasttime" to the second most popular sport in the nation.  I wish the poll went back to the beginning of the 80s as I would bet baseball was the most popular sport at that time.  I have a feeling that Football could have (or will shortly) reached its zenith in popularity.

. 

Weather is a big part of the Browns' home field advantage. 

 

Some advantage. Since we are 72-147 since the return, I'll take are chances with a dome.

Couple of points here:

 

1. This is Jimmy's money being spent. Not the city's. Why do we give a damn?

 

2. We are DECADES away from football losing its prominence. If anything, I'd argue that football is going to continue to grow. I work in the entertainment/media industry so I see it first hand. Sports games are worth MORE to television companies now because its the only form of programming where viewers these days are guaranteed to sit through the commercials. In the age of on-demand, sports is the only form of destination programming left. The NFL is leading the pack on that.

 

3. MLB has lost it's popularity because, lets be honest, people stopped watching after the steroid era. Not because they were so offended by it (though some were), but because you didn't get the superstars in the league anymore. (Because the superstars in the steroid era were doing unnatural things that regular players can't compete with). Totally different situation than the NFL.

 

4. I support a retractable roof on the stadium. I have no affinity for and no allegiance to "old time football." Screw that. Build a roof.

 

5. The idea that our sports teams don't have an impact on our image is absurd. Absolutely absurd. Is it the be all, end all? No. But anyone who says it doesn't have an impact is delusional. For example, I was watching SportsNation on ESPN2 the other day and they were talking about the great offseason the Cavs had and one of the first things coming out of the mouth of Max Kellerman, one of the hosts, is to call Cleveland "The Mistake on the Lake." On national television. The ex football player who was the co-host started laughing and said "what?" And Max said "we'll that's what they call it! The Mistake on the Lake." This was LAST FREAKIN WEEK. Don't tell me every dumb decision, every bumbling mistake, every negative thing sports related that lives in the annals of history starting with the word "The" doesn't have an impact on our image. That's horseradish, in the words of one of my friends.

 

6. And finally, this is one of the things I loved about Jimmy Haslam. I knew that when he came here, he was gonna wake up that sleepy franchise, take it out of the Stone Age and bring it to the 21st century. Jerry Jones lite.

Oh and by the way, when I went to DC on business earlier this year, when people found out I was from Cleveland, only three things came up. 1. The weather. 2. The Browns. 3. Lebron. Don't tell me sports doesn't affect our image

. 

Weather is a big part of the Browns' home field advantage. 

 

Some advantage. Since we are 72-147 since the return, I'll take are chances with a dome.

 

The Seattle Seahawks in the 1970s and into the 90s had a huge advantage at the Kingdome which was one of the loudest sports venues in the NFL. They had some good teams in the 80s, but the opposing teams' players often said the noise made it very difficult for them to call plays in the huddle and change plays at the line. It was so loud it was actually unnerving to them.

. 

Weather is a big part of the Browns' home field advantage. 

 

Some advantage. Since we are 72-147 since the return, I'll take are chances with a dome.

 

I went to a game in 1999 where they played the (dome home) Colts, with a young Peyton Manning at QB.

 

The 2-14 Browns almost won in the snow.

 

The advantage kicks in late in the season, which is when you want it to.

 

With a retractable roof, the team and fans would probably prefer open during a January playoff game against the Dolphins or Chargers, but the league would say no.

 

As for the image of our fans, who really represent the city, supporting teams that don't play so well is a positive.  Most rankings put Browns fans in the top five.  During the Hiatus, Browns fans ranked up there with the Church of the Subgenius as groups you didn't want to cross online.

. 

Weather is a big part of the Browns' home field advantage. 

 

Some advantage. Since we are 72-147 since the return, I'll take are chances with a dome.

 

I went to a game in 1999 where they played the (dome home) Colts, with a young Peyton Manning at QB.

 

The 2-14 Browns almost won in the snow.

 

The advantage kicks in late in the season, which is when you want it to.

 

With a retractable roof, the team and fans would probably prefer open during a January playoff game against the Dolphins or Chargers, but the league would say no.

 

As for the image of our fans, who really represent the city, supporting teams that don't play so well is a positive.  Most rankings put Browns fans in the top five.  During the Hiatus, Browns fans ranked up there with the Church of the Subgenius as groups you didn't want to cross online.

It sucks that the NFL decides if domes are open in playoff games.  The rules should be left up to teams as it is in regular league play.