Seahawks vs. Rams: Why It Remained a Non-Prime Time Game
The upcoming clash between the Seattle Seahawks and the Los Angeles Rams holds significant implications for the NFL landscape. Both teams boast impressive 7-2 records, making this matchup crucial for determining first place in the NFC West and potentially impacting playoff positioning. Yet, despite its importance, the game will be relegated to a non-prime time slot, airing at 1:05 PM PT on FOX.
Understanding the Non-Prime Time Scheduling of Seahawks vs. Rams
This NFL matchup is steeped in rivalry and history, yet it faces restrictions on its scheduling. The reasons for keeping this game out of a prime time slot are multifaceted.
Flex Scheduling Rules
The NFL has specific rules governing when games can be flexed into prime time slots. Each night has its own flex window:
- Sunday Night Football: Flex window begins in Week 5.
- Monday Night Football: Flex window runs from Weeks 12-17.
- Thursday Night Football: Eligible for flexing from Weeks 13-17.
Since Week 11 is outside of these flex windows for MNF and TNF, Seahawks vs. Rams cannot be shifted to prime time without breaching scheduling regulations.
Protection of Broadcast Rights
Another critical factor is the NFL’s decision to protect major networks like CBS and FOX from losing their premier matchups. Recently, a rule was established preventing two divisional games from both airing in prime time. Since the Seahawks and Rams will face each other again in Week 16 on Thursday Night Football, it prevents this game from being scheduled for Sunday Night or Monday Night Football.
Impact of Other Key Matchups
This week, CBS will feature the Kansas City Chiefs against the Denver Broncos in a high-profile game. As a result, Seahawks vs. Rams won’t be able to gain a spot in CBS’s late doubleheader slot, keeping it firmly in the 1:05 PM time frame.
Conclusion
Despite the intense rivalry and high stakes, the Seahawks vs. Rams game will remain a non-prime time matchup due to NFL scheduling rules and protections for major broadcasting networks. Fans can tune in at 1:05 PM PT on FOX to catch the action.
