Fan Controlled Football Reaching New Heights With Dazn

Madden Franchise Mode Comes to Life

Kevin C. Cox/Fan Controlled Football / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The world of streaming has revolutionized how fans watch sports on a screen. Improvements in fan engagement have taken platforms like Twitch to the forefront of streaming, where fans of video games (and also sports) are able to connect with the content they view.

Enter the Fan Controlled Football League. After just completing its inaugural season, we saw a very ambitious combination of sports and entertainment. Here’s a quick summary:

7 on 7, 50-yard field

1-hour games, no time stoppage for quick matchups

All games streamed on Twitch

Drafts on Wednesday, Fan votes determine the rosters

All plays on offense are voted on by fans

Special badges and activations for fans to “unlock” certain power-ups during the game

Ultimately, the fans have complete control over the game, in an arcade-style fashion that allows fans to stay dialed in and engaged. One of the changes we have seen with the world of streaming is how fans engage with their teams. Those who watch games on twitch (or other websites that Dana White doesn’t approve of) know that the in-game chats are where fans unite and talk about the game - as if they’re watching it together.

The FCF is leading the way in how digital platforms can drive fan engagement. Although this model is not feasible for professional sports leagues (NFL, NHL, etc.), it does help these leagues. The more eyeballs on the sport of football will certainly drive fans to watch the top quality content of the NFL. As discussed with the NFL’s international marketing strategy, the NFL is looking to grow the sport globally - and working with the FCF might be another avenue to do so.

The FCF is already backed by multiple NFL players, including Richard Sherman, Austin Ekeler, and Dalvin Cook. Steve Aoki is also a co-owner of one of the franchises. I’m reminded of the conversation Chris and I had about this on the white whale marketing (wwm) pod - we looked at how fantasy sports allows fans to take control of their favourite players and be even more invested in the outcome of NFL games. Sports betting needs no introduction in its role in getting fans invested. We alluded to how the FCF, and the control fans have in understanding the rules, strategy, and plays will allow for casual fans to potentially improve their knowledge and become more invested as they understand the fast-paced NFL games they see on TV. A very interesting connection, and something that the NFL should see value in.

And now, the FCF is taking things to another level. Earlier this week, it was announced that DAZN will be the new global broadcast partner for the FCF’s second season. DAZN’s business continues to grow as it adds more unique sporting events and leagues to the platform. Fans who are looking for something to watch when their favourite EPL or NFL team isn’t playing will notice the FCF on DAZN, and potentially gravitate towards checking it out. It is clearly a great sign for the FCF to be on DAZN, and only time will tell how many eyes will be on the league in its second season.

Published: December 17, 2021 - Issue 18 of The Sport Marketeer