NFL Blackouts Could Be Ended with Your Help, Today Is Last Day to Petition

Blackouts suck. There is no denying it.

It is an antiquated rule that just doesn't seem to make sense anymore with the NFL. Fans of smaller market teams that can't afford inflated ticket prices in today's economy are routinely punished by not being able to watch their favorite team on TV on Sundays.

The majority of these teams' stadiums were built with taxpayer dollars, but the taxpayers aren't able to watch their favorite team play in that stadium without certain provisos being met. That fact is infuriating to many NFL fans.

In 2011, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers,  San Diego Chargers, Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals all had home games blacked out on television in their surrounding markets.

As of today, NFL teams are required by law to black out a game unless it is sold out 72 hours before kickoff.

However, a lobbying group called the Sports Fan Coalition has managed to get the FCC to sit up and listen. They have filed a petition for the government to end the blackout rule forever.

The FCC has asked for comments regarding blackouts from fans. They want to hear from you.

If blackouts have ruined a Sunday or two in your past, this is your opportunity to be heard by the powers that be.

Today is the last day to file comments on the blackout petition. You can do so on the FCC's electronic commenting system. The proceeding number you must enter is "12-3."

So, just fill out your name and address and unleash your fury.

For the less motivated fan, there is a website called endblackouts.com that has typed up a nice little rant for you, which you can attach your name to if you wish.

Remember, today is the last day the FCC is accepting comments on this issue. If you want to be heard, this is your last opportunity.

It's also important to note that even if the FCC decides to reverse the decades old blackout rule, NFL owners will still be able to black out any games they wish.

But, at least they won't be able to blame the FCC for the policy anymore.

This change would be a step in the right direction.

So come on, NFL fans. Bang on that keyboard and let's end the NFL blackout rule for good!