Written by Victor Mather at New York Times
Hey, London! You love American football? Well, great news, we’re sending you the Browns!
Don’t worry, you’ll be getting the Jaguars and the Rams, too.
The N.F.L. announced on Tuesday the teams that will be heading to London next season for a record four regular-season games. The matchups are, well, not great.
In Weeks 3 and 4, Wembley Stadium, the spiritual home of soccer, will get Ravens-Jaguars and Saints-Dolphins. In Weeks 7 and 8, Twickenham, rugby’s iconic stadium, will get Vikings-Browns and Cardinals-Rams.
Fans in Britain have shown little discernment over the N.F.L. fare served up to them over the years, generally selling out every game in no time. Perhaps that explains why the league isn’t bothering to send over Tom Brady or Dak Prescott next season.
This lineup will test even the most enthusiastic Briton’s patience.
The Jaguars have become a virtual home team for London, and they will play a game there for the fifth consecutive season. That may be in part because they have not had a winning record since 2007. At 2-11, they are staggering to another disastrous year. The Jaguars have been rumored to be the team most likely to move to London if the N.F.L. decides to put a franchise there.
Their opponents, the Ravens, at least have a winning record. But after losing to the Patriots on Monday night, the Ravens are uncertain for a playoff spot. Next fall is a long way away, but right now this quarterback matchup would be Blake Bortles vs. Joe Flacco.
Perhaps the most unpredictable game on the London schedule is Saints-Dolphins. After a run of mediocrity, the Dolphins have sprung to life this year at 8-5, although the playoffs are by no means secured. The Saints, expected by many to bounce back this year, are a sad 5-8. There is no telling what these teams will be like come September.
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