Hey football fans: do you prefer to watch pro or college?

[darkstar]

That is, if you don’t have a specific rooting interest, do you have a preference?

I’m only recently a gotten back into watching (my Dad was an absolute college game junkie, so even though the game has changed a lot, I know beyond the mere basics.). Retired now, it gives me something to pass the time while I do my longer treadmill routines these past couple of years.

Anyhow, I am kind of surprised that I like NFL games more than college. I think maybe it is because the athleticism is higher, ie, the best of the best. And then there’s the increased experience I suppose. (However, it does strike me that there are more penalties in the pros and this surprises me given their addition experience; I find this kinda frustrating as I’d think it would be the other way around.)

So I ask you in this High Holy Week for the sport, what’s your cup of tea?

[rurallib]

1. college - seldom watch the NFL

College still has the enthusiasm and joy - money will finally ruin it in a couple of years I think.

Haven't watched more than few minutes NFL in decades.

Same goes for basketball - actually I am watching mostly women's basketball anymore.

[darkstar]

3. I'm with you on women's college basketball

Far more entertaining to me. And if you’ve followed it awhile, you probably know for the Louisiana Tech legacy. Ruston, the home of Tech, was my extended family’s home on both sides.

[bamagal62]

2. College

Although, the more it turns NFL lite, the less I’m
Apt to watch. It’s like the Wild West out there right now!

[elleng]

4. College

BASKETBALL! Had a dream about it last night! (Georgetown!)

[sinkingfeeling]

5. I only watch college.

[Brainstormy]

6. wouldn't walk down to watch football

if the Super Bowl was played at the end of my driveway.

[Emile]

7. I watch both, but I prefer pro.

At the same time, I prefer college basketball over the pros.

[ProfessorGAC]

8. Pro, By A Mile

Well, it's all professional football, but the fastest, strongest, smartest players are in the NFL.
Also, college coaches have turned me off forever.
I can hardly think of one I'd actually want to know, let alone work or play for.

[Irish_Dem]

9. Only college, only one team.

I am an alum of a Big Ten school.
I learned about college football in grad school.

Basically I think football is a boring game but it is quite interesting if
you are emotionally invested in a certain team.

Certain parts of the game are also interesting,
but to keep watching one game after another all weekend.

Insanity I think.

[debm55]

10. College especially my college. Penn State. that is the only one I watch. Used to watch the Steelers during the Steel

Curtain days.But not any more.

[msongs]

11. what's the dif? nt

[malthaussen]

23. There are a few rules differences...

... and college players are paid much less than pros.

-- Mal

[broiles]

12. College, especially one I went to.

[Wiz Imp]

13. College football IS pro football

College players are paid.

[MichMan]

14. Used to be college, but not any more

Sick and tired of players being courted by whatever school will pay them the most money and entering the transfer portal annually in case they get offered a better deal. Pretty certain going to class is now optional as no school is going to pay a QB several million dollars and then give him a failing grade. Players committing crimes and being given a slap on the wrist while continuing to play because the local DA is an alumni.

At least the NFL has actual contract obligations and terms, not this dark under the table payment system. The only sports I enjoy anymore is Hockey and Auto Racing.

[Tikki]

15. College...We watch the Mountain West Conference most often..

The husband is a total Boise State fan and I follow San Diego State University.

The two will probably battle it out this season for play-off and Championship.
Hope they both make it to a Bowl Game.

The Tikkis
p.s. we are both Oregon Ducks fans..

[LogDog75]

18. I follow SDSU football

Being from the San Diego area, it's natural I'll support SDSU.

[Brother Buzz]

26. You must be excited about the 'New and Improved' Pac-12 Conference in 2026

Boise State and San Diego State University are making the jump, along with Fresno State. Those three teams were on my dream list for the ‘New and Improved’ Pac-12 Conference.

I’m a little disappointed San Jose State balked.

I’ve been a huge fan of Boise State for, like, forever.

[beaglelover]

16. Pro for sure.

[Iggo]

17. Pro.

College Coachball is boring. Too many teams. Not enough playoffs. And all the media cares about is coaches.

[LogDog75]

19. I prefer pro football then college football

I've followed the Chargers in pro football since 1966 and mainly pay attention to the other AFC West teams.

I follow San Diego State University football because they're the local team.

I prefer pro over college football because there are too many college football teams to keep track of. With pro football, there are only 32 teams.

[GP6971]

20. Only Pro. Only college game I watch is Army/Navy

[Wounded Bear]

21. Pro all the way...

but I fall into your "specific rooting interest" category, so maybe I don't count in this survey.

Hardly ever watch college ball. Too many teams and too many blowouts.

[malthaussen]

22. I prefer to watch video of 60's and 70's pro football.

The modern game is not to my taste.

-- Mal

[Borogove]

24. I've given up on Division 1A college football. I stick with Division 1AA, 2 and 3. Plus high school football.

As for the NFL, I only watch the Eagles.

[Floyd R. Turbo]

25. College! Except for the CFL, I haven't watched a pro game in its entirety in years.

[Americanme]

27. I started watching pro football back in the 60s, with my dad.

I still watch NFL every week. I will sometimes watch college ball, but I didn't go to a university, so I don't have a connection to any school, like some people have. Pro football has changed over the decades, some of the rules changes I don't like, but I still love my Detroit Lions.

[OldBaldy1701E]

28. I watch football.

That is where the distinction ends.

College, pro, American, or traditional... I like football.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

29. It's all pro football.

Yes, the NFL has higher salaries and higher ticket prices, but it's all professional.

[WestMichRad]

30. Premier league.

Real football !

[CTyankee]

31. Ivy League. Smart kids playing other smart kids.