A few years ago, critics accused the NFL of racism, inadequate player safety, and lax punishments for players accused of domestic violence. But thanks to savvy PR, more people are buying game tickets, and Rihanna's headlining the Super Bowl on Sunday.
Just a few years ago, the NFL seemed to be facing compounding existential crises. New studies revealed that playing football put people at a significant risk of severe degenerative brain damage. Players were committing acts of shocking criminal violence.