In a study performed by Mike Lewis and Manish Tripathi at Emory Sports Marking Analytics, the determination was made that the Dallas Cowboys have the best fans. The study defines “best” as “The most avid, engaged, passionate and supportive fans.” This would certainly justify why the Cowboys earned the nickname America’s Team.
The study is also based on market factors such as attendance, revenue and ticket prices. Basically, if the fans spend more money on their team, its fan base earns a higher ranking. Obviously, this means larger cities with more affluent populations tip the scale in their team’s favor.
Following Dallas for the best fans are the the New England Patriots. Rounding out the top five are the New York Giants, Baltimore Ravens and New York Jets. This indicates that fans like winning teams as well. Since 2000, the Giants, Ravens and Patriots have racked up a total of eight Super Bowl victories.
Surprisingly, the Seattle Seahawks ranked 26th in this study. However, they can take credit for having the loudest fan base in the NFL.
Coming in last here are the Miami Dolphins. The study claims that the hot, humid weather and Florida’s transplant population negatively impact their fan base. Additionally, the Dolphins haven’t really been exciting since Dan Marino played with the team from 1983-1999.
Coming in 28-31 as far as having the best fans are the Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders and Cleveland Browns. This group has accomplished a total of six playoff appearances since 2000. This dismal fact reaffirms that fans enjoy winning teams.
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