The player returning a fumble for a touchdown isn't shown missing a handful of tackles. If today's athlete is more dramatic, yesterday's was more complete. As our society becomes more inconsiderate and permissive, there no longer appears to be such a concept as bad publicity, either. More and more, TV is the public's only window to sports. Rising costs have filled stadiums and arenas with an older, white-collar fan base that cannot pass on its passion for the game to the next generation because it does not have one.
Stadiums are still pretty full.
Teams are becoming more reliant on luxury box revenue and naming rights. And, judging by sheer economics, less dependent on the average fan. Bonham noted a recent study that found pro basketball to be the most expensive for a family of four to attend. That's a monthly food bill for a family of four. It doesn't stop at the games, either.