QuoteIf Jaguars fans want to see the team play at home this year, they’re probably going to have to buy a ticket.
The Jaguars may be forced to blackout most, if not all, eight regular season home games on TV.
The Jaguars need to sell 50,000 non-premium seats at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium to lift the blackout, but they’re not close to that figure after finishing their season ticket renewal campaign.
Tim Connolly, the team’s senior vice president for business administration, declined to release the figure of how many non-premium seats they’ve sold, but a league source put the figure in the 35,000-range.
“It’s going to be challenging,’’ Connolly said of the possibility of avoiding blackouts although he’s not giving up and is starting a multifaceted campaign to sell tickets.
In the past, the Jaguars have waited until July to sell halfpacks of five games each for prices starting at $200 a halfpack.
They’ll start to sell them Sunday when they stage their open house select-a-seat event. They’re also having a seat relocation plan for current ticket holders this weekend.
The Jaguars aren’t the only team having problems selling tickets in this sluggish economy. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers reported they had thousands of fans on their waiting list just two years ago, but the list has now evaporated and they have tickets available.
Joel Glazer, the son of Bucs’ owner Malcolm Glazer, told the St. Petersburg Times, “Around the league, there’s no question we are feeling the effects (of the economy) like a lot of other teams.’’
The Jaguars plan to stress group sales. Although they’re usually targeted to corporate clients, the Jaguars are pointing out that if 10 friends or family members get together and buy tickets for a game, they can buy $50 tickets for $40. And they have a family plan for families that buy four tickets that includes food coupons for a hot dog, nachos and a soft drink.
Connolly said the team is even starting a 12-month payment plan next month for fans who want to buy tickets for the 2010 season.
Connolly also stressed the Jaguars have some of the lowest ticket prices in the league and didn’t raise prices this year. They have season tickets on sale for as low as $390 a ticket.
Still, the odds are against the Jaguars selling 15,000 non-premium tickets between now and the start of the season. Last year, they avoided blackouts, but had sold about 43,000 non-premium season tickets at this point. And last year, the schedule included the Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers, whose fans follow them in droves on the road. Neither team is on this year’s schedule
http://jacksonville.com/sports/football/jaguars/2009-05-14/story/jaguars_behind_in_ticket_sales_blackouts_loom (http://jacksonville.com/sports/football/jaguars/2009-05-14/story/jaguars_behind_in_ticket_sales_blackouts_loom)
lots of sports teams are having problems...MLB attendance is down about 10% (even w/ new stadiums in NYC), and the NBA got $175 million in loans to help out 10-12 teams.
from what I hear, some other NFL teams are also struggling...and I would not be surprised to see the league be a bit more lenient on te blackout rules this year.
I say leagues need to stop expanding for the next 30 years. Especially the NBA. As far as NFL goes, how are ticket sales in Baltimore, Charlotte, San Diego or Seattle? Just listing random cities with the same type of fan base the Jags have. Jags are not the youngest franchise so if the Rams, Ravens, Texans & Titans are doing ok Jags should do ok as well.
The recession + a horrible season last year = significant slump in ticket sales.
I never understood why the NFL goes by tickets REMAINING instead of tickets sold. Jacksonville actually does pretty good in ticket sales. I mean, we sell more tickets than the steelers, but because our stadium is so big we run the risk of blackouts. The NFL is way too greedy.
The list of sales for 2008 is here:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/attendance
Why does Den and SF have a zero for their home att in 2008?
Ticket sales has been an issue with the Jaguars since 1998. After the initial 3 year contract were up, alot of people did not renew. This will continue to be an issue. It took Seattle and Tampa over 20 years to start selling out on a regular basis.
Quote from: coredumped on May 14, 2009, 10:21:46 PM
I never understood why the NFL goes by tickets REMAINING instead of tickets sold. Jacksonville actually does pretty good in ticket sales. I mean, we sell more tickets than the steelers, but because our stadium is so big we run the risk of blackouts. The NFL is way too greedy.
The list of sales for 2008 is here:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/attendance
that's easy...it is based on stadium size...if there are seats remaining, they want to fill thjem before showing the game on TV.
If you want season tix in Green Bay your parents must sign you up as an infant... :) Every year they send a postcard taunting you with your new place on the wait list... :'(
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/d/de/Waitlist_Postcard.jpg/800px-Waitlist_Postcard.jpg)
Looking at the avg. attendance from the link, we seem to be doing OK given the youth of our franchise. It's definitely unfair the way black outs are determined. We have a tremendous stadium and a small market. If we can get a couple of really good seasons then we may see a good sized rise in our attendance numbers.
QuoteThe Jaguars need to sell 50,000 non-premium seats at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium to lift the blackout, but they’re not close to that figure after finishing their season ticket renewal campaign.
Tim Connolly, the team’s senior vice president for business administration, declined to release the figure of how many non-premium seats they’ve sold, but a league source put the figure in the 35,000-range.
Fear sells tickets. We were behind in ticket sales this time last year too. Soooo we need to sell 15,000 season tix before September - the seat relocation / sign up event is still this weekend. I know a few people going to buy season tix at the event and test drive the new seats. I'm going tomorrow to see if I can move up in my section and maybe pick up a 3rd ticket together. They haven't even released the half pack's yet either.
Saying "most if not all" games will be blacked out is a bold faced lie. We have the Colts on Thursday night - guaranteed sell out - we're hosting last year's NFC champ - the divisional games sell well (except for maybe vs. Houston) - and don't forget about opposing fans. We play Buffalo on Nov.22 - FL is a nice destination when tickets to see your team are available and it's shorts weather too.
I know the fear is that the team will relocate to LA but considering Oakland, San Diego, St Louis and Minnesota are also facing similar blackout concerns but also have stadium issues, I don't think we are the most likely to move.
I've been to Jags games that were blacked out but the stands still full. The problem is selling season tickets. Its too easy to head to a game on the specific day you want to go and get tickets at the stadium versus buying them ahead of time.
I truly don't understand how we cannot sell 50,000 season tickets. Before I hear all the times are tight talk, let me preface this by saying I am a 27 year old condo home owner. I am upside down in my home, working in real estate for goodness sake. However, I support this team through and through and have managed to buy a season ticket. I am in a lower bowl section and the ticket cost me $660, which I pay in five monthly installments of $132. I won't be able to attend every game, but feel it is a priviledge and a huge boost for our local economy to have this team here, so I can justify the purchase. I understand it is just not feasible for some people with families to purchase, but to the fans who use the performance of the team excuse, GIVE ME A BREAK. Support the team, good or bad, winning and losing...that's what true fans do.
IMO...the Jags are going to suprise the league this year, be much improved and make a playoff push. So if you can afford it, buy a ticket and support this team.
QuoteI know the fear is that the team will relocate to LA but considering Oakland, San Diego, St Louis and Minnesota are also facing similar blackout concerns but also have stadium issues, I don't think we are the most likely to move.
This is brought on by fear mongering dick-head sports writer's.
Just recently I read an article that the Jaguars are fighting the rule making them report publicly when they were in the red or lost money over the previous year. They're fighting it because it stirs up the "moving to L.A." rumors. They also stated emphatically that they're not moving the team. They have too much invested in this city and they know that this will be a great NFL market... soon.
Jacksonville has a huge population of transplant fans that still support their old teams. Their children being born here are the future season ticket holder's and fan base... the organization knows that, that takes time.
Quote from: Coolyfett on May 14, 2009, 08:34:21 PM
I say leagues need to stop expanding for the next 30 years. Especially the NBA. As far as NFL goes, how are ticket sales in Baltimore, Charlotte, San Diego or Seattle? Just listing random cities with the same type of fan base the Jags have. Jags are not the youngest franchise so if the Rams, Ravens, Texans & Titans are doing ok Jags should do ok as well.
I'd rather see the expansion, as every team brings in huge money to their respective citys. Jacksonville without the Jaguars is simply Mobile on Streroids. Without the Jags we'd go from being on the cusp of "America's Logistics Center" to "The unfinished metal building capitol of the world."
Not only that but there are a great many LARGE cities that have no team and often not even a "State" team. Think about the rivalrys when Jacksonville vs:
PORTLAND, OR
BIRMINGHAM, AL
LITTLE ROCK, AR
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
ALBUQUERQUE, NM
MEMPHIS, TN
OMAHA, NE
RALEIGH, NC
NORFOLK, VA
SACRAMENTO, CA
LAS VEGAS, NV
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
I could see a lot of fantastic gridiron rivalrys... Something that would help all of the teams and cities out. OCKLAWAHA
I agree Ock that an NFL team can make a small town a big city and it carries great economic impact. However, the talent pool could not support many more teams. If you were to spread out the college draft to an expanded league like you've listed, it would become a league of below mediocre teams with the major market's controlling all the talent. Remember the NFL is headed to the next generation with no salary cap.
If that happened, we would basically be a minor league team for markets like Dallas, Washington, New England and Denver.
QuoteThink about the rivalrys when Jacksonville vs:
PORTLAND, OR
BIRMINGHAM, AL
LITTLE ROCK, AR
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
ALBUQUERQUE, NM
MEMPHIS, TN
OMAHA, NE
RALEIGH, NC
NORFOLK, VA
SACRAMENTO, CA
LAS VEGAS, NV
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
That really doesn't sound exciting at all. That would completely water down the league.
Quote from: tufsu1 on May 14, 2009, 08:11:38 PM
lots of sports teams are having problems...MLB attendance is down about 10% (even w/ new stadiums in NYC), and the NBA got $175 million in loans to help out 10-12 teams.
from what I hear, some other NFL teams are also struggling...and I would not be surprised to see the league be a bit more lenient on te blackout rules this year.
The economic turmoil is finally biting the NFL. Sign of tough times guys.
Heights Unknown
QuoteThe economic turmoil is finally biting the NFL. Sign of tough times guys
But the teams can sign #1 draft picks to 40 million in guaranteed money? I'll take the tough times of the NFL any day!
Yeah tell the tough times to the Cowboy's opening their new 90K seat stadium with tickets starting at $1000 per season.
Quote from: coredumped on May 14, 2009, 10:21:46 PM
I never understood why the NFL goes by tickets REMAINING instead of tickets sold. Jacksonville actually does pretty good in ticket sales. I mean, we sell more tickets than the steelers, but because our stadium is so big we run the risk of blackouts.
Quote from: Deuce on May 15, 2009, 09:51:46 AM
It's definitely unfair the way black outs are determined. We have a tremendous stadium and a small market.
Guys, just remember that only non-premium seats count towards the blackout rules. I don't have the actual numbers to prove this, but I've seen it written many times that Jacksonville has one of the lowest number of non-premium seats in the league. Therefore the argument that we have a huge stadium in a small market is weakened. Still a relatively young franchise though...the next few years are critical.
Lowest price tickets are $390.00, who doesn't have this lying around, burning a hole in your pocket? Come on, you don't need to eat, you don't need shoes on your feet, you don't need to have insurance for your car or house, but you do need to keep all those toys you bought over the years.....help a Jaguar out.
Quote from: mtraininjax on May 15, 2009, 04:26:39 PM
QuoteThe economic turmoil is finally biting the NFL. Sign of tough times guys
But the teams can sign #1 draft picks to 40 million in guaranteed money? I'll take the tough times of the NFL any day!
Yeah they're paying out all that money to new draftees and sign ons, but I'll bet they are also mortgaging their souls and betting on those season tickets to help bail them out in paying the new draftees, rookies, sign-ons and veterans.
Heights Unknown
QuoteLowest price tickets are $390.00, who doesn't have this lying around, burning a hole in your pocket? Come on, you don't need to eat, you don't need shoes on your feet, you don't need to have insurance for your car or house, but you do need to keep all those toys you bought over the years.....help a Jaguar out.
Jacksonville has enough high income citizens to sell out the 50K non-premium seats. You say it like Wayne Weaver brought an NFL team and erected a stadium in the middle of a giant trailer park.
The homeowners of Marsh Landing alone could buy up the remaining tix.
Look around the league and compare their lowest ticket cost's, PSL fee's and then take notice of their economic standpoint.
What about 12 month financing offered by the Jaguars and the half season packages? Is $32.50 per month going to make anyone go hungry?
It's an outlandish characterization to make the team into blood thirsty monster who takes food of Jacksonvillian's plates... how much did they donate to the St John's River keeper fund?
Quote from: Ocklawaha on May 15, 2009, 12:04:59 PM
I'd rather see the expansion, as every team brings in huge money to their respective citys. Jacksonville without the Jaguars is simply Mobile on Streroids. Without the Jags we'd go from being on the cusp of "America's Logistics Center" to "The unfinished metal building capitol of the world."
Quote from: Shwaz on May 15, 2009, 12:20:53 PM
I agree Ock that an NFL team can make a small town a big city and it carries great economic impact.
I love the Jags as much as anyone. But to say they are a panacea to all the economic, image, or other "issues" Jax may have, is wrong. Study after study has shown sports teams have little, if any, real effect on local economies one way or the other. It is mostly urban myth that civic investments in stadiums, etc. for sports teams ever pay back anything other than psychic dividends. As to boosting the way of life in a city, there are lots of successful cities in this country with equal or better qualities of life than many NFL or other major sports cities.
Sports teams are "entertainment" and have an appeal to a segment, albeit a large one, of the population. When teams lose they are likely as much a "drag" on the "image" of a city as they are a "boost" when they win. Since all teams go through cycles, it all eventually cancels out.
Did Jax grow because of the Jags or did the Jags come because Jax was already going to grow? I say the latter. Jax was already on a tear when we got the Jags. And the Jags certainly didn't keep Jax's growth from being hard hit by the current economy. One really has nothing to do with the other. I have never heard of one person or company that moved here because we have the Jags. They come for jobs, economics, resources, location, relatives, educational infrastructure, weather, price of housing, and overall quality of life, which includes culture and recreation of which the Jags are but just one slice.
To me, the Weavers are the biggest byproduct of the the Jags for our community. Their substantial support of the community sets the pace for the rest of us to get involved. Communtiy leaders do come from most of our companies headquartered here but such leaders are unable to serve as brightly in our community because they are not connected to a public persona in the league of the Jags. As such, the Weavers do have a special role in our community as leaders and role models.
The 35k figure does sound low but that number doesn't include the 9500 club seats the jags sell on a regular basis. I feel like part of the problem is that that Jags don't go after big name free agents like Terrell Owens or Chad Johnson. I know these guys have some character problems but they bring with them instant coverage to the franchise and an immediate boost in ticket sales. As far as the list of rival cities, I feel that theses are the cities the Suns should be playing, not cities with populations of 50k. Go Jags!
Quote from: Shwaz on May 15, 2009, 05:25:19 PM
Quote
Is $32.50 per month going to make anyone go hungry?
That's per person. So factor in that most don't want to go alone, a couple or family that $32.50 adds up. Then add in parking, food and drink.
One way to not have to pay for parking is to park at the courthouse lot and walk. Yes I know that some people cant but it does cut out $25 from the cost of going to a game.
Even still at $60 or 2 ticket's that's a great deal for a product like the NFL. As for food & drinks, the prices are comparable to every movie theater across the country. You can compare alchohol prices to night out at a concert or show. As for parking, I park downtown and walk the mile or two over for free.
I'm a season ticket holder and I did the 6 month payment plan. To cut down on the cost of going to the games, me and my friends meet up at the parking lot over by Plush and car pool to the stadium and park at the fairgrounds... which averages to paying 5 bucks per person to park. Then we drink and tailgate before the game, so that minimizes the urge of buying a bunch of food and drinks while you're inside the stadium. Like someone said before, I know it can quickly get expensive if you're talking about a family of 3 or more going to the games, but as a single person or couple, it's more affordable that most would think it to be.
Just got back from the seat relocation event at the Stadium. It was absolutely dead up there. The last time I did the relocation I waited in line for almost 2 hours. Today I checked out available seats 3 different times and was able to come right back to the table. The blackout possibilities are worse than I thought. On the bright-side I'm excited for my new seats! Section 133!!
For what its worth, the relocation event this year was spread over the weekend, and season ticket holders were given a time window. This helped, but yes I agree, season tickets will be rough this year.
However we most likely won't be the only ones this year. Tampa's waiting list was at 170,000 not too long ago - it is now 0. Blackouts are probably going to occur in St Louis, San Francisco, and Cleveland.
The one city that has surprised me is Nashville - I can never understand how they can support their team so much better than ours. We have the smallest blackout number in the league (just over 50K), and it's not like the Titans have excited their fans all that much over the years, save for last year. They are newer than we are, plus they have Vandy football to contend with (a bit different than the Gators, but still). Any thoughts on this?
Vanderbilt football isn't supported as much as you'd think. Even being in Nashville, UT Vols are still much bigger. The Titans are the biggest thing in the state sports wise, and is loved dearly. However, I can't explain how they're supported so much, I guess being the only NFL franchise in the whole region there helps.
Quote from: Steve on May 17, 2009, 01:39:10 PM
The one city that has surprised me is Nashville - I can never understand how they can support their team so much better than ours. We have the smallest blackout number in the league (just over 50K), and it's not like the Titans have excited their fans all that much over the years, save for last year. They are newer than we are, plus they have Vandy football to contend with (a bit different than the Gators, but still). Any thoughts on this?
My guess is that Nashville has a more stable, "local" population than we do. Jax has become like much of the rest of Florida over the last 20 years, where most of our population has shallow or recent roots here. As such, I don't think they are as easily excited by, or invested in, the Jacksonville banner and often preserve their loyalties to whence they came. Also, I suspect people in Jax have a lot more "recreational" options due to our climate than those in Nashville, particularly during the football season. Lastly, Nashville may be a larger, possibly more prosperous, area overall than Jax at the moment. And, their team may have the edge at being more consistently competitive year in and year out over the last few years.
Nashville isn't the only market the Titans pull from. They cover all of Tennesse and Kentucky, as well as much of Alabama and Mississippi. Florida shares 3 teams and is chock full of transplants for the northeast. IMO, the Titans fanbase surely spreads far and wide.
Found this diddy titled "
Why The Jacksonville Jaguars Should Play Games In Orlando" on The Bleacher Report (pardon me while I vomit):
QuoteThe Jacksonville Jaguars from their existence have had trouble selling tickets and filling seats. They currently play in a stadium which seats over 76,000, however, many seats must be covered with tarps. This not only makes the stadium look fuller, but it aides in the avoidance of television black outs. Here's an outside the box solution, move some or all of the games to Orlando.
Orlando is in the Jaguars NFL market, and the city gets their games weekly, even over the more popular Miami Dolphins. If the NFL considers Orlando-Jacksonville one market why not play games in both places? Conventional thinking would be that an NFL team should stay in one city, and one stadium. Yet, we see in Toronto and Buffalo that the Bills will play in both cities this year. This will surely boost overall ticket sales, and outpace last years attendance.
My proposal is that the Jaguars play 2-4 games in Orlando's Citrus Bowl once renovations are complete. Orlando is an untapped sports market with only the NBA's Magic and UCF athletics to compete with. The move would solidify the Jaguars place in Central Florida, and push the Bucs back into the Tampa area. Growing the fan base will also alleviate the calls for the Jaguars to move to Los Angeles.
The Jags can't sell their stadium naming right, can't sell season tickets, can't avoid blackouts, and Wayne Weaver is all that stands between them and relocation. Something must be done to avoid this relocation train before it leaves the station.
So move the Jaguars to Orlando for a few games a year, maybe Orlando will build them a new fan base along with a new stadium that they can share with the Rays(a future article) and we can keep 3 NFL teams in Florida.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/198678-why-the-jacksonville-jaguars-should-play-games-in-orlando
The Packers used to play three of their home games in Milwaukee at the old County Stadium. This had to stop when they tore down county stadium for the new baseball only park. It can work... :)
Maybe Tampa should consider this option... they're not sold out either. And closer.
Quote from: Jason on May 18, 2009, 12:52:52 PM
Nashville isn't the only market the Titans pull from. They cover all of Tennesse and Kentucky, as well as much of Alabama and Mississippi. Florida shares 3 teams and is chock full of transplants for the northeast. IMO, the Titans fanbase surely spreads far and wide.
This is true, and it seems to me that Nashville has more corporate money in town too.
Also, Nashville sold permanent seat licenses for the stadium, and if you put that kind of expense into buying a PSL you're likely to continue to buy season tickets on top of that sunk costs. Charlotte did the same. This is a big reason why Tennessee and Carolina habitually sell out and why the stated paid attendance for their games is always the exact seating capacity of the stadium.
12 month payment plan rolling out for 2010
http://jaguars.com/news/article.aspx?id=7952 (http://jaguars.com/news/article.aspx?id=7952)
The Jacksonville Jaguars announced today that they will become the third team in the National Football League to offer the noncredit-based payment option, eLayawaySPORTS, for season ticket purchases.
“We have found that many of our fans want payment flexibility. They want to pay for their tickets over a six-month or 12-month span,†said Tim Connolly, senior vice president of business development for the Jaguars. “eLayaway makes it easy for them to do just that, and we are pleased to offer this convenient option.â€
eLayawaySPORTS will give Jaguars fans the opportunity to pre-pay for their 2010 season tickets through an automated weekly or monthly payment schedule that meets their individual lifestyle and budget. Ticket holders will have up to 12 months â€" through July 1, 2010 â€" to pay for their 2010 season tickets. As with traditional eLayaway transactions, season tickets will be delivered once the order is paid in full.
Ticket holders who utilize this payment technology for the 2010 season will pay a flat 1.9% transaction fee when they set up their order through eLayawaySPORTS.
“The Jaguars are a perfect example of a team that truly cares about their fans in these economic times. We are very excited to see the full potential of eLayawaySPORTS being offered over a 12-month period for both new and existing season ticket holders,†said Sergio Pinon, CEO for eLayaway.
For details, please visit jaguars.com or call 877.4.JAGS.TIX. For more information on the eLayawaySPORTS payment option, please contact the eLayaway Merchant Relations Team at 877.352.9292 or visit eLayawaySPORTS.com.
About eLayawayâ,,¢
eLayaway is an online layaway payment solution that lets shoppers pay over time for their purchases on a schedule that fits their lifestyle and budget. Charged a small, flat 1.9% transaction fee, the consumer receives their merchandise once all payments are made in full. For more information visit www.eLayaway.com.
Sounds like a great program... NOW MARKET IT!!!!!
Just wondering what happens when the company goes under (say about month 10 or 11) and all that money is gone? and so are your season tickets?
People can't afford their rent, their JEA, the food on the tables....so what, the Jags are a crummy product anyway. They will NEVER make it to the Super Bowl with Del Rio as coach. Now is as good of a time to prove it as ever!
Nice way to have any speck of optimism there dude.
Optimism, hell I'm a realist. He sucks as a head coach and as a leader. The last few years were proof.
He could not find his way out of a paper bag.
Quote from: mtraininjax on June 17, 2009, 09:23:58 PM
People can't afford their rent, their JEA, the food on the tables....so what, the Jags are a crummy product anyway. They will NEVER make it to the Super Bowl with Del Rio as coach. Now is as good of a time to prove it as ever!
Optimism, hell I'm a realist. He sucks as a head coach and as a leader. The last few years were proof.
He could not find his way out of a paper bag.
:D :-\ I can almost see the breadlines forming in your post.
I suppose taking a team out of financial & personnel ruin, 2 playoff appearances and a winning record (50/46) is considered a failure. ::)
Quote from: mtraininjax on June 17, 2009, 09:27:37 PM
Optimism, hell I'm a realist. He sucks as a head coach and as a leader. The last few years were proof.
The last few years are proof? 2007 the team was one Northcutt drop from being tied with a 16-0 New England team.
MTrain, did someone pee in your cornflakes this morning? :)
mtrain-is there any thing in life that you do like? You are quite possibly the most negative person I've ever talked to.
With regard to the jags-I think they will surprise some people. My prediction is 9-7, but I think this year will be more successful because of rookie development.
BTW-if you compare the jags record over the last 5 years to the rest of the league, and you find that we are in the top quarter of the league.
I don't know if mtrain is a college football fan, but it wouldn't surprise me. Many college football fans can't seem to understand that the records of the big programs is a HECK of a lot better because they get a couple of games against the north central Missouri school for women, or some division II school that has no business being on the same field. Those folks don't, and may not ever get it, and I sense that our good friend mtrain is one of those.
Quote from: Steve on June 18, 2009, 11:34:46 AM
north central Missouri school for women
LMAO!!!
That one school that's just a lil' south from here plays them. LOL
Seriously - on November 21st last year, one game from the end of the regular season, did Florida have any business playing Florida International?
What I like about the NFL is that each and every week, either team really can with each game (save for maybe the 2008 Lions). Imagine if every Gators opponent was against a top 25 team - I think that we would look at wins and losses a bit differently.
I don't get what the problem is. I grew up watching both college football and the NFL, and I think I have perfectly rational expectations for my teams on each level. I guess it would be different if you were a fan of one and then the other, but I just can't empathize.
To defend the Gators for a second, their schedules recently have been particularly strong (by virtue of the SEC's recent success). I understand you are speaking about the problem with college football in general and just using UF as an example, but I've got to defend my college team, even if it is preemptive.
All Steve is saying is two or three of those wins are gimmees. The Jags get no such luxury.
Bring back the locker room chopping block!
Quote from: BridgeTroll on June 18, 2009, 07:12:27 PM
All Steve is saying is two or three of those wins are gimmees. The Jags get no such luxury.
True. I knew what Steve was saying. I meant that I don't see why it's hard to understand that. And differentiate between the two standards of success.
Quote from: JaxNole on June 18, 2009, 07:31:55 PM
Bring back the locker room chopping block!
The axe was fine until Chris Hanson got his hands on it. I blame Hanson more than the axe. After all, he was the same guy that could not handle fondue.
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/jaguars/2002-06-27-fondue.htm (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/jaguars/2002-06-27-fondue.htm)
Just keep choppin' wood!
Quote from: copperfiend on June 19, 2009, 08:30:03 AM
The axe was fine until Chris Hanson got his hands on it. I blame Hanson more than the axe. After all, he was the same guy that could not handle fondue.
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/jaguars/2002-06-27-fondue.htm (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/jaguars/2002-06-27-fondue.htm)
Dear God, facepalm.
Anyone reading this who loves Jacksonville and has the means, please consider purchasing tickets. Whether you care about football or this team or not, the Jaguars are a critical part of Jacksonville's national image and are a positive economic contributor to the city. Although Wayne Weaver--who, I might add, has been a tremendous benefactor to the area--has shown a great commitment to Jacksonville, this team is not going to be in his family forever and we almost certainly need strong ticket sales or a future owner is likely to move the team. There are a number of sportswriters and reporters who clearly have it in for Jacksonville (possibly due to their dismissive attitude of the expansion and Super Bowl hosting efforts, as well as regional bias) and have heavily marketed the meme that Jacksonville doesn't care about its team and that it should be moved elsewhere. I know this is not accurate, that the passion is there but the passion for seeing live football isn't necessarily all the way there yet, and the economy is difficult. If you don't care to attend games, please consider buying and donating tickets. Worthwhile community organizations like the USO, Historical Society, Boys & Girls Club, and Jaguars Foundation (which provides tickets to underprivileged families) will accept ticket donations and provide you with the proper tax documentation. The Jaguar ticket office is very helpful in assisting with this. Not to mention that there are many in the community who would love the opportunity to attend a game but do not have the means. I live in Virginia but donate tickets because I love Jacksonville and never want to see this city embarrassed with the loss of a pro franchise. I will never forget how hard the city fought for so many years to obtain a team, against the ridicule of many outsiders, and it would be an image disaster and a financial hit to lose this team.
Preface: I love the Jags. So now they've gone ahead & mailed it in. Blacking out the preseason. I swear the back office decisions are so haphazard. THEY JUST CHANGED UNIFORMS IN AN EFFORT TO FOSTOR SOME EXCITEMENT! I mean, EVERYONE knows that preseason NFL football is a bad bad product - it's without question, the biggest ripoff in professional sports - charging full price for exhibition games & keeping your starters off of the field for 85% of the "contest". None of the pageantry of the "game day" experience is evident - be it the game itself, the broadcast, lack of half time entertainment, the field partially painted, no flyovers, etc. It is garbage - Keep frisbee dog at home & out of the heat - we'll be fine.....Make some money: The 2 preseason "Home" games should immediately move to Orlando and/or Tallahassee - better yet, London or Mexico City.
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/2009-07-16/story/jaguars_preseason_home_games_will_be_blacked_out
The games shouldn't be moved and they should not be televised either. I believe the article states the same blackout rules apply to preseason games as apply to regular season games. Why should the Jaguars or someone else buy up all the tickets for the terrible product you cite? Why should they lose money to put it on tv? I think its a good thing. I have decided I don't care about the blackouts in a negative context anymore (of course, I don't live in Jax at the moment and so I have access... but if I did live there I'd have season tix, so I still dont care). I think blackouts are just what we need. If the Jaguars do create some excitement by winning a few early games, people will really be chomping at the bit to see them. The blackouts will work. If the Jaguars are 3-2 or 4-1 somehow when St. Louis comes to town, will it be a sellout? No. And people won't get to see it. It will be blacked out. This will cause people to be upset they couldn't see the Jags and maybe some of them will actually get off their rear and buy a ticket.
It makes me sad that this decision has been made. Blackouts will not be a rare thing in the NFL this year. St. Louis, Minnesota, Miami, Tampa, Seattle, Minnesota, San Diego, Oakland, Buffalo will all struggle also. But blackouts are one thing. This decision to not even produce a preseason broadcast is disheartening. I was in high school when the Jaguars started playing. I remember kids used to brag when they got tickets and were able to go to a game. Even a preseason game. Now, for some games, you cannot give tickets away.
Exactly. The new wore off and people got lazy. If they can't see the game from the couch, maybe just maybe they will buy tickets. The away games will still be broadcast, just not the home games.
It seems unless it is Kenny Chesney or Toby Keith that nothing sells out in this town.
^^Don't forget the Florida Gators! maybe the Jags should stack the team with ex-Gator players I bet that would fill the stadium!
The Georgia Bulldogs sell out the stadium every year too.
The Jags just need to win there games and people will get off there buns.
well, i am going to buy tickets this year...win or lose.
They simply want everyone to know they mean what they've been saying all offseason. People around town still think this year will be like years past, when the Jags filed extensions and ate unsold tickets to get the games on TV.
For years, Mr. Weaver has allowed the non-sellout preseason games to be broadcast, so maybe fans get excited and buy tickets. It hasn't worked. They're getting the word out early and often that this year won't be like years past.
The onus is on the folks in this city to buy tickets if they want to be guaranteed a chance to see the game.
Quote from: Shwaz on July 16, 2009, 03:21:41 PM
The Jags just need to win there games and people will get off there buns.
They have won in the past and not sold out. The first year that ticket sales was an issue was 1998. After two straight playoff appearances. They had a game in 2004 where they were 8-6 and had a shot at the playoffs and less than 50k showed up. I go to as many games as possible and I love the team but people in this town have excuse after excuse for why they don't go. I have heard people say they didn't go because Leftwich was the QB or because they didn't have cupholders. After both were no longer an issue, all I saw was more excuses.
^Agreed - this is a business. The other 31 markets are in a recession as well, and are dealing wtih the same economics. Bottom line - we need to put asses in the seats.\
The key is that we need to be able to put butts in the seats in a losing season. Yes, it's tough to explain losing to a bunch of college football fans (where 4 losses is a terrible season), but the NFL is a league of parity, unlike college.
You guys are exactly right. I was at that Houston game. If there were more than 35k people there I am the King of Prussia. Nobody on Earth is more of a Jaguars fan than I am.. and I applaud the way they are handling themselves relative to the ticket issue. It's time everyone stepped up and actually gave active support to the team, other than cussing at Del Rio from the couch and calling Prisco to whine and moan.
I agree we've had troubled sales even during winning times but I still believe a strong season or 2 will help ticket sales most.
I was at that Houston game too and boy was that miserable! It was litterally the coldest day I'd ever experienced in Jax. I remember drinking brandy to try and defrost my bones. I believe we were shut out and lost some thing like 7-0.
Ahh... another embarrassing fact associated with Jacksonville. I guess I can halfway understand what some feel about preseason games. But being a die-hard football fan, I don't care if it's pre, regular or post season, I'm going to have fun just with the gameday experience alone. For the past few years, me and about 10 others have gathered for Jags games and tailgate for each and every game. I applaud all the people that have and continue to support OUR team. I understand not everyone has cash to spend on going to the games. On the other hand, I think alot of people make excuses and textbook Fair Weather Fans.
Many people say they cant afford the tickets. I try to make all home games only missed two last year. Someone said they still have trouble selling tickets when they are winning. People are cheap and lazy, especially here. I believe most of the fan base our bandwagoners. Winning might not fill all the seats, losing sure wont either.
I've been wondering about this blackout business. Would it be possible to use a video camera and then put the result on the Internet?
Quote from: macbeth25 on July 16, 2009, 10:05:29 PM
I've been wondering about this blackout business. Would it be possible to use a video camera and then put the result on the Internet?
Anything is possible, but expect a visit from some NFL lawyers. They don't appreciate pirating.
Quote from: civil42806 on July 16, 2009, 10:23:48 PM
Quote from: macbeth25 on July 16, 2009, 10:05:29 PM
I've been wondering about this blackout business. Would it be possible to use a video camera and then put the result on the Internet?
Anything is possible, but expect a visit from some NFL lawyers. They don't appreciate pirating.
Yep, they make it known on every game talking about unauthorized telecasts w/o permission, blah, blah, blah.
I happen to agree with the NFL's policy. There is absolutely no reason to give the product away for free when there are seats in the stands.
Quote from: macbeth25 on July 16, 2009, 10:05:29 PM
I've been wondering about this blackout business. Would it be possible to use a video camera and then put the result on the Internet?
You can find the broadcasts streaming live for any NFL game if you know the right sites. I am a fan of an out of market team, and if I can't see them on TV, I can find the game online somewhere.
Vic Ketchman on the Jaguars website also live blogs every game. Not the same as watching, but usually entertaining, especially for preseason.
The Tampa game not being televised is going to deprive local residents of seeing the return of Leftwich.
I hear there are plenty of tickets... buy some and boo heartily!
So, so, so many excuses in this town. As I die hard fan and season ticket holder and eternal optimist, I hate saying this.....but one day this team may truly leave. To all those citizens who in some warped manner of thought think we will be better off without the Jags, I pity them. In regards to the insignificance of preseason games I get it, but every NFL team charges for them. Why should a small market and low revenue team do any different? Furthermore, if there were ever a reason to get excited about preseason games it would be this years with all the roster turnover and additions. There are 10 guys competing in the secondary, which I am excited to see everyone of them play.
If they leave, they leave. Life goes on. I am sure they bring some element of business and such to town, but maybe all the millions we give to the Jaguars would be the cities again and then it would be an even wash? I love the Jaguars and try to go to at least one game a year, and watch it on TV when I can, but to me there are just much more important things in life. I like that theya re trying to market lower ticket packages and all and I think that will help them out with half packs, and flexible payments and free food. I think they are on the right track. Maybe we need an entire year blacked out to build up the ticket base again.
Given the limited size of Jax and the economy, I would add that the Jags need to expand their "geographic footprint" and attract more fans from South Ga. up to Savannah, the panhandle to Pensacola, and south to Daytona/Melbourne and Orlando.
I was on vacation in Flagler Beach just north of Daytona recently, and all the "local" stations and most of the periodicals were the Orlando ones. If an area is not under our spell, then they don't get the ongoing dose of news and marketing to make them identify with, and follow, a Jax area enterprise. This hurts all Jax area businesses but especially ones like the Jags. Flagler Beach, being apparently closer to Jax than Orlando, shows just how hard it is for Jax to get respect in its own back yard!
The Jaguars had caravans that went to places like Orlando, Daytona and Savannah. I assume if they had been successful, they would not have stopped them.
Quote from: Dapperdan on July 17, 2009, 11:51:41 AM
If they leave, they leave. Life goes on. I am sure they bring some element of business and such to town, but maybe all the millions we give to the Jaguars would be the cities again and then it would be an even wash? I love the Jaguars and try to go to at least one game a year, and watch it on TV when I can, but to me there are just much more important things in life. I like that theya re trying to market lower ticket packages and all and I think that will help them out with half packs, and flexible payments and free food. I think they are on the right track. Maybe we need an entire year blacked out to build up the ticket base again.
Losing an NFL team would be devastating for the city. How many events does Jax host that are shown on a national / global level. TPC / FLA vs GA are the only 2 that come to mind… I’m sure I may there are more but probably none that showcase our city at least 10 times per year.
Quote from: Shwaz on July 17, 2009, 12:28:31 PM
Quote from: Dapperdan on July 17, 2009, 11:51:41 AM
If they leave, they leave. Life goes on. I am sure they bring some element of business and such to town, but maybe all the millions we give to the Jaguars would be the cities again and then it would be an even wash? I love the Jaguars and try to go to at least one game a year, and watch it on TV when I can, but to me there are just much more important things in life. I like that theya re trying to market lower ticket packages and all and I think that will help them out with half packs, and flexible payments and free food. I think they are on the right track. Maybe we need an entire year blacked out to build up the ticket base again.
Losing an NFL team would be devastating for the city. How many events does Jax host that are shown on a national / global level. TPC / FLA vs GA are the only 2 that come to mind… I’m sure I may there are more but probably none that showcase our city at least 10 times per year.
We usually only have 1 or 2 games televised nationally with the Jaguars per year at the most. I have never been watching a football game being played in Indy and said" You know what, this game makes me want to move to that great city and start a business."
I am sure a Jaguars game played in October that is being shown nationally doesn't hurt tourism when they show shots on people on the beach.
I thinks so to Shwaz... A blow to the citizens morale... the loss of more than a few millionares... the loss of national prestige... the loss of national exposure... a reputation that Jax wants to play with the big boys... but simply cant... :-[
QuoteI am sure a Jaguars game played in October that is being shown nationally doesn't hurt tourism when they show shots on people on the beach.
But they dont... not that I can remember seeing. The beach is not exactly Jacksonville.
Quote from: Dapperdan on July 17, 2009, 12:43:13 PM
Quote from: Shwaz on July 17, 2009, 12:28:31 PM
Quote from: Dapperdan on July 17, 2009, 11:51:41 AM
If they leave, they leave. Life goes on. I am sure they bring some element of business and such to town, but maybe all the millions we give to the Jaguars would be the cities again and then it would be an even wash? I love the Jaguars and try to go to at least one game a year, and watch it on TV when I can, but to me there are just much more important things in life. I like that theya re trying to market lower ticket packages and all and I think that will help them out with half packs, and flexible payments and free food. I think they are on the right track. Maybe we need an entire year blacked out to build up the ticket base again.
Losing an NFL team would be devastating for the city. How many events does Jax host that are shown on a national / global level. TPC / FLA vs GA are the only 2 that come to mind… I’m sure I may there are more but probably none that showcase our city at least 10 times per year.
We usually only have 1 or 2 games televised nationally with the Jaguars per year at the most. I have never been watching a football game being played in Indy and said" You know what, this game makes me want to move to that great city and start a business."
Why would you... are the beaches in Indy nice in the fall? Copperfiend is right... how many people with the NFL ticket or during nationally televised games see the beautiful showcase of Jacksonville, the bridges lit up at night and the kids playing in the ocean next to the pier and say "wow that looks nice... I'd like to vacation there" - what other event does Jax have that's shows the city in this way. You don't have to be a rocket surgeon to understand losing that is bad for the city.
They show plenty of shots of the beach from what I remember. Usually it involves waves and a seagull.
Quote from: BridgeTroll on July 17, 2009, 12:51:32 PM
QuoteI am sure a Jaguars game played in October that is being shown nationally doesn't hurt tourism when they show shots on people on the beach.
But they dont... not that I can remember seeing. The beach is not exactly Jacksonville.
I've seen it on more than one occasion of the Beaches being shown, whether it be on CBS, NBC, or ESPN.
Quote from: BridgeTroll on July 17, 2009, 12:51:32 PM
QuoteI am sure a Jaguars game played in October that is being shown nationally doesn't hurt tourism when they show shots on people on the beach.
But they dont... not that I can remember seeing. The beach is not exactly Jacksonville.
I've seen this... I remember laughing at people swimming that late in the year which is too cold for me.. I believe I called those swimmers Canadians :D
It's not Jacksonville... it's Jacksonville Beach and in an HD broadcast it looks like heaven.
There are more than a few sportswriters who have been chomping at the bit for the opportunity to ridicule Jacksonville for losing the Jaguars. They treated Jacksonville as the joke in the expansion race in 1993, and when Jacksonville got one of the teams, reacted not with respect but with an endless stream of recycled Waffle House, Hooters, no indoor plumbing jokes so they didn't look like idiots for dismissing the expansion effort throughout the process. When ticket sales shortfalls arise, Jacksonville's are trumpeted; other teams' occasional or recurring ticket sales issues receive little play. They make tons of references to the tarps without any recognition of the fact that it was a reaction to a stadium built too large for the market, or to the fact that the Jaguars generally have had respectable attendance compared to other cities (28th or 29th largest market, no real secondary market, 20th in attendance).
It will be a tremendous embarrassment to the city if the team leaves, because of all the reasons BridgeTroll mentioned, and compounded because these individuals in the press will make it their business to do an end-zone dance about it.
The good news is, I see no reason at all to disbelieve in Wayne Weaver's patience and commitment to the city. The danger for Jacksonville will be what happens when he passes away or sells. Now is the time to rebuild that base of support. If you can buy tickets--please consider doing so. It is tremendously important to Jacksonville's image and community bonds. If you have no interest in football, donating to worthy local organizations like the USO, Boys & Girls Clubs, and Historical Society is an option.
All the more reason for the Jags to stay... while not "the end of the world"... It would be a huge blow.
I love having the Jags and hope they stay, but I have to agree the sun will still rise if we ever lost the team.
Los Angeles, Orlando, Las Vegas, Memphis, San Antonio, Salt Lake City are just a few of the major and/or successful cities that don't have NFL teams and seem to do just fine with attracting business and tourists. On the otherhand, Detroit, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Buffalo, Oakland, New Orleans represent troubled and/or low or no growth cities with NFL teams.
Many reported studies have concluded that having a professional sports team is more a matter of civic pride than economic development. People will locate to Jax based more on our education system, recreational opportunities, climate, healthcare options, jobs, and other local indicators of our quality of life than on whether we have a sports team playing 8 regular season games a year here. If people moved here because we had the team, the Jags likely wouldn't have any problem selling out all their games. But, this just isn't the case. As already stated, TV provides plenty of football, etc. for the die hard fan. You don't have to live where the team plays to take it all in.
I find it odd that people will pay hundreds and thousands of dollars for game tickets but won't invest $100 more a year in taxes to support such vital needs as education.
I can't disagree with many parts of that, but I am concerned about the psychological impact. Losing a pro sports team creates the impression of being a lower-tier city unable to compete with larger markets, as BridgeTroll mentioned. That (not the mere fact of having a team or not) may have a deleterious impact both on potential relocations to Jacksonville and locals' decisions on whether or not to stay in the area.
I thought Jax was a wonderful place before football just as I do now, but the national image impact of having a professional sports team and losing it due to apparent lack of support is likely to be significant.
Quote from: Dapperdan on July 17, 2009, 11:51:41 AM
If they leave, they leave. Life goes on. I am sure they bring some element of business and such to town, but maybe all the millions we give to the Jaguars would be the cities again and then it would be an even wash? I love the Jaguars and try to go to at least one game a year, and watch it on TV when I can, but to me there are just much more important things in life. I like that theya re trying to market lower ticket packages and all and I think that will help them out with half packs, and flexible payments and free food. I think they are on the right track. Maybe we need an entire year blacked out to build up the ticket base again.
You do realize the Jaguars are tenants at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium. The pay the City who owns the stadium to lease it. With the exception of the money the City dolled out to do the much needy stadium renovations, the Jaguars do nothing but bring money to this town. I got it (and excuse my sarcasm) if we lose the Jags, then maybe we can have 10 monster truck rallies a year to make up the money the Jags would have generated. It would bring a "higher class" of people Downtown and supplement the lost income of leasing the stadium....brilliant!!
I realize you might think they're not as important as the Jags, but the Jacksonville Dixie Blues are quite a good team and don't get anywhere near the publicity they merit. (http://www.jaxdixieblues.com/main.html?src=%2F) Part of the Women's Football Alliance http://www.wfafootball.com/ (http://www.wfafootball.com/), they recently defeated the Austin Outlaws 55-14 to win the WFA's Quarter-Finals. They'll play the St. Louis Slam in St. Louis on July 25 in a Semi-Final and then the winner of the other Semi-Final in August. When they're in Jacksonville, they play at Bolles High School, 7400 San Jose Blvd. They have quite a record and you really have to see them in action to believe what they can do. I think watching them can be just as exciting as watching the Jags or any other professional or college team.
Macbeth, thanks for your dedication in keeping the board aware of the Dixie Blues. I don't get to Jax but a few times per year, I'm sorry to say, so I'm sorry I haven't been to see them. How well have their games been attended?
I know I have read of a few NFL players (Marvcus Patton comes to mind) whose inspiration for playing football was that their mothers played in women's professional leagues.
I've only been to several games recently but they have quite a record. From what I understand, attendance is growing but not nearly enough. They won't have any more home games this season but, like the Terminator, they'll be back. I'll try to keep the board posted on their activities. You might check the websites I mentioned earlier if you'd like more information. I'm not sure if I posted their myspace address before but here it is. I apologize if this is a repeat. http://www.myspace.com/jaxdixieblues (http://www.myspace.com/jaxdixieblues)
Maybe the Suns will have more in attendance this year than the Jags? Ouch!
Quote from: mtraininjax on July 17, 2009, 08:13:44 PM
Maybe the Suns will have more in attendance this year than the Jags? Ouch!
Per game, I don't think so.... Go Jags!!!!!! Whatever with the Haters.....
From today's Ask Vic column on jaguars.com:
Brandon from Jacksonville Beach, FL
You have already said the preseason home games will not be available on TV and that away games will depend on the hosting teams. Do we know if the Dolphins are broadcasting the game on Monday and, if so, will we be able to see it here in Jacksonville?
Vic: This is one of those do you walk to school or carry your lunch kinds of questions, isn’t it? You’ve taken several bits of information and intertwined incorrectly to form a nearly unanswerable question. Here’s all you need to know: Monday’s game will be televised back to Jacksonville by a Jaguars broadcast crew. The following week’s game, against visiting Tampa, will not be shown on live local television and the replay of that game, as it’s expected to appear on NFL Network, will likely depend on Tampa’s telecast of that game to Bucs fans.
Jacksonville is a hard city to be a team for
Quote from: mtraininjax on July 17, 2009, 08:13:44 PM
Maybe the Suns will have more in attendance this year than the Jags? Ouch!
Ouch? Try again dude. 60k > 6k