Finally, Football

Some quick thoughts on the return of the NFL. Let's start with the obvious: I am happy that the NFL has at least begun to get itself back together in time for there to be football in 2011, though it remains to be seen just what kind of football it will be. It's good, in my opinion, that the league and players' association are dedicating $1 billion in additional funds over the lifetime of the agreement to retired players -- the lack of care for men who sacrificed their minds and bodies for our entertainment has been shameful. I'm also relieved that the 16-game schedule has been preserved. Anything more, in my opinion, is asking to see someone die on the field of play, and no, I don't think that's an exaggeration. Teams barely survive the attrition of 16 games as it is. Selfishly, as a fan who roots for the laundry, I'm glad the franchise tag remains in place, though I have been able to understand individual players' objections to it. I'm still n...