NFL Jerseys 2012: Partnership with Nike Is Most Brilliant Move by League

The NFL. Nike. 

Has there ever been a more brilliant partnership between two bigger giants in the history of professional sports?

Absolutely not.

These two had to eventually align.

Starting with the days of Michael Jordan, Nike has steadily ascended to the top of the sporting apparel world.

The NFL is far and away America's most popular sport, with TV ratings soaring to new heights every season.

Both the NFL and Nike have masterfully created the highest quality products in their respective niches and done a remarkable job building anticipation around what they're trying to sell.

The strides Nike has made in performance material for training and on-field play have been transcendent. While their "lightweight" alterations may have a much smaller impact on one's training regimen or productivity on the field of play, they've made us truly believe we're better wearing the "Swoosh." 

The same goes for the NFL. 

Critical showdowns with playoff implications between divisional foes haven't changed, but the NFL's made us truly believe the "battle" they've featured in prime time that given week is the biggest game of all time. 

That's why I'd be shocked if the NFL doesn't shatter jersey and apparel sales records in 2012.

No way they don't. 

Nike won't do too poorly, either. 

The nation's most beloved sport and the most futuristic, prominent sporting apparel provider—a pair made in financial heaven.

Follow @ChrisTrapasso