The Fox Sports broadcast team closed Sunday’s NFL pre-game pontifications and predictions with something of a political statement: Former NFL great Howie Long addressed the issue of the government shutdown and how it’s affecting the Armed Forces Network and U.S. troops’ ability to watch professional football.
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On the segment called “Extra Points,” Long wrapped up the show with a brief statement.
“Due to our government shutdown, our games today will not be seen on the Armed Forces Network, preventing thousands of men and women overseas from enjoying NFL football,” he said. “Over the years here at Fox, we’ve been fortunate enough to spend time with the troops both here and abroad. So we know firsthand how these games bring a welcome piece of home and a much-deserved respite from the dangerous work they do protecting our liberty. Regardless of politics, I know we all hope the shutdown ends soon and our troops can once again watch the game we all love.”
Long’s statement seemed to mirror the sentiments of many on social media who were tweeting and posting their displeasure with the shutdown of the service.
