Why do sporting events start at odd times (i.e. football at 5 after 20 after 25 after, baseball playoffs at 7 after and 37 after)?

Sporting events often have odd start times for various reasons, primarily related to television broadcasting and fan experience.

  • Television Scheduling: Networks schedule games to optimize viewership during peak hours, which typically fall outside of traditional work hours. Starting games at odd times allows them to capture a larger audience.
  • Flow of Play: In sports like football and soccer, half-times and other breaks occur at specific intervals. Starting games at odd times ensures that these intervals align with commercial breaks, providing networks with ample time for advertising.
  • Fan Experience: Odd start times give fans time to finish work or other commitments before attending games. They also allow for pre-game tailgating or socializing, enhancing the fan experience.
  • Football: Games start at odd times (e.g., 1:05 PM EST) to accommodate network programming and align with commercial breaks.
  • Baseball Playoffs: Playoff games often start at odd times (e.g., 7:07 PM EST) to avoid conflicts with other sports or events and to maximize viewership.
  1. Why do start times vary for different sports? - To accommodate different game lengths, television schedules, and fan preferences.
  2. Are there any disadvantages to odd start times? - Potential conflict with other commitments, but most fans adapt to the schedule.
  3. Do start times affect game attendance? - To some extent, but convenience and fan loyalty often outweigh odd start times.
  4. How do leagues determine start times? - They consider multiple factors, including television contracts, scheduling conflicts, and fan feedback.
  5. What is the most common odd start time in sports? - 1:05 PM EST in football.
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