Football season is in full swing and for students, that may mean it’s time to watch and support their favorite NFL (National Football League) teams.
To get a better sense of who students are rooting for, Common Sense surveyed 81 students to find out what NFL team they support. The results show a strong local bias, with students backing the Washington Commanders and the Baltimore Ravens, the two nearby NFL teams. The Commanders topped the survey with 28% of students declaring their support. The Ravens weren’t far behind, earning 24% of the votes. “I am a Ravens fan because my family grew up in Baltimore and I have always loved watching them play,” sophomore Isabelle Weiner said.
Students also support teams from across the country. Coming in third with 9% of the votes is the Pittsburgh Steelers, a team known for its loyal nationwide fans and rich history. “Being a Steeler fan, it’s more than just fanbase, it’s a culture and community. Me and my entire family have been Steeler fans our whole lives. I wanted to be a Steeler fan as soon as I started watching football,” senior Charlie Balian said.
Beyond these top three, the survey showed a wide range of teams all over the country with just one or two supporters each. These included the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Miami Dolphins and the Los Angeles Rams. This spread of teams shows the influence of family and friends in shaping a student’s team loyalty. “I’ve always liked the Chargers because my dad is a big fan and he would take me to games if they came to Washington or Baltimore,” sophomore Noah Hurwitz said.
Students who grew up watching the Ravens or Commanders with their families might be more inclined to cheer for them, while those who have lived outside the area or had family ties to other regions may support teams from other parts of the country.
It’s clear from the survey that while the Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens dominate the fan base at this school, NFL fandom here is as diverse as the students themselves. Whether it’s local pride or loyalty to teams from afar, NFL allegiances show the deep connections students feel to their teams — no matter where they’re from.
Of course, as any NFL fan will tell you, supporting a team goes beyond just watching the games. It’s about tradition and a sense of community. Whether you’re celebrating a win or talking trash with your friends who support a rival team, for students, the NFL isn’t just a sport; it’s a culture and personal identity.
