A professional football game, much like any event that is broadcast on TV, is so much different when seen in person. That is especially true the closer you get to the action. A football game seen from the sideline is much different than being at the stadium watching from the top row. The farther you get from the field and higher you go the more you can see the big picture and the whole field.
Coaches and knowledgeable fans who enjoy the tactics of the game plan may prefer that view because you can see the play unfold before your eyes on offense and defense. From that vantage point you get a video game type of viewpoint. You don’t hear the sounds of the game and the speed of the game is not as evident.
The general’s view of the battlefield is far different than that of the foot soldier in the battle. On or near the sideline restricts your view of the whole field. You can only see one side if you are close to the ball. You can see more of the field if you have the freedom to move farther back from the offense or defense. The sounds of the game are fascinating. Players making calls to one another not only verbally, but with hand signals in what would seem to be a foreign language to most fans. Hand signals that are so subtle, but can describe a whole play for the players on the field.
The size and speed of the athletes is much more noticeable on the sidelines when you see players next to the average person. When they are on the field together it is not as noticeable since most are similar in size relative to their position. The speed of the game is amazing and frightening at times even for a veteran of the sideline. There are some violent collisions and the sound of those collisions is a heavy thud of bodies, pads and helmets!
There is little communication during the play, just the noise of shoes on turf or grass and the sight of turf being kicked up or the rubber granules of field turf letting loose. Most players are focused on their job and don’t want or need the distraction.
When you are on the sideline you must be aware at all times. Many players make their way to the sideline and if you are not attentive to the action or don’t have the ability to quickly get out of the way you can easily be hurt. Although the sideline’s view is restricted, there is nowhere else you can appreciate the real game!!
