Fans want one tradition back before kickoff this playoff weekend.

NFL playoff football returns this weekend with four Divisional Round games. CBS, NBC, ESPN, and FOX will broadcast these. Fans expect big plays, loud crowds, and intense moments. But many fans are talking about something that happens before the game starts.

During recent playoff games, some networks did not show the national anthem. In some cases, they only showed a quick clip. In others, they skipped it completely. That choice upset many viewers who feel the anthem is an important part of playoff football.

The issue has grown online over the past week. Fans shared their frustration on social media. Many said playoff games should include full pregame coverage. They believe the anthem helps set the mood for the game. With four intense games coming up, the complaints have now taken a huge form.

This weekend’s games include Bills vs. Broncos, Seahawks vs. 49ers, Patriots vs. Texans, and Bears vs. Rams. All four games carry high stakes, and now everyone is asking networks to show the anthem again.

Fans Speak Out Ahead Of NFL Playoffs

A general view inside the stadium during the national anthem (Photo By Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images)
So now, fans are showing their anger across social platforms after recent games.

One fan wrote, “NFL you make billions in America but can’t show the national anthem.You suck.”

Another added, “No National Anthem? That’s honestly terrible.”

A third fan kept it simple. “why no national anthem on any game today. F***ed up!”

The complaints did not stop there. Many fans tied the anthem to playoff energy. They said it builds emotion before kickoff. They said it matters more in the postseason. One fan summed it up with a clear demand. “@NFL@nflnetwork needs to show the full National Anthem this weekend. No excuses!!!!”


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Networks have not explained the choice. They often adjust pregame coverage to fit ads, analysis, and timing. Still, fans see the anthem as more than filler. They see it as tradition.

The NFL has dealt with national anthem debates for years. Recently, the league is getting hate after announcing that Charlie Puth will sing the anthem at the Super Bowl on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium. For many fans, this feels different. They are not asking for speeches or commentary. They simply want the national anthem shown in full, from start to finish.

Fans now wait to see if CBS, NBC, ESPN, or FOX respond. The networks control the broadcast. The league sets the stage. The audience watches closely.

Divisional Round games draw huge ratings. Millions tune in. Fans hope the networks listen. They believe the anthem belongs in the playoffs.