Players and fans expressed concerns over the slippery field at Neo Quimica Arena in Sao Paulo, Brazil, during the NFL's first international game of the 2024 season between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers.
The inaugural NFL game in Brazil proved to be a test of balance as slippery field conditions plagued the gridiron at Neo Quimica Arena in Sao Paulo.
Slippery Field Conditions Mar NFL's First Brazil Game
The Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers played on a surface not conducive to football, leading to numerous slips and near-misses. Players on both sides struggled to maintain their footing, and the issue persisted throughout the first half.
Saquon Barkley, making his Eagles debut, suffered a major setback on his first carry, slipping for a five-yard loss. However, he eventually regained his composure and scored two touchdowns for Philadelphia.
Slippery Field Conditions Mar NFL's First Brazil Game
The Packers also had their fair share of missed tackles due to the slick field. Quarterback Jordan Love narrowly avoided disaster with just over five minutes remaining in the first half when he slipped on 1st and 10 and was nearly picked off after throwing the ball to avoid a sack.
Fans at home were equally unimpressed with the field conditions. Social media platforms were abuzz with expressions of frustration and calls for better preparedness for future international games.
Slippery Field Conditions Mar NFL's First Brazil Game
Former Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt weighed in on the issue, offering a player's perspective. He pointed out the differences between soccer fields and football fields, emphasizing that soccer fields are not designed to withstand the size and force of NFL players.
"Soccer fields are made for speed and agility. Smaller bodies gliding across the surface with minimal contact," Watt wrote. "They are not properly conditioned to have the size & strength of NFL players cutting, pushing and driving all game on them."
Slippery Field Conditions Mar NFL's First Brazil Game
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has expressed his desire to expand the league's international presence, hoping to have as many as 16 international games per season. However, the slippery field conditions in Brazil raise questions about the suitability of certain venues for NFL play.
The incident highlights the need for meticulous planning and preparation for international games to ensure player safety and a high-quality experience for fans. The NFL will likely review the conditions at Neo Quimica Arena and consult with stadium officials to address any necessary improvements before scheduling future games in Brazil or other international locations.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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