NFL ranked as most popular American sport for 30th consecutive year

With young stars like Russell Wilson, the popularity of the NFL continues to grow. (David Bergman/SI) The NFL still reigns supreme when it comes to American

Bryan Rose | Apr 14, 2014

NFL ranked as most popular American sport for 30th consecutive year /

With young stars like Russell Wilson, the popularity of the NFL continues to grow. (David Bergman/SI)

The NFL still reigns supreme when it comes to American sports.

In a recent survey taken by the Harris Poll, the National Football League ranked as the favorite sport of fans, claiming 35 percent of all votes. The run at the top isn't exactly new for the NFL either as this marks the 30th consecutive year that professional football has taken the top spot.

During 1985, the first year such a survey was documented, the NFL only held a one percent lead over MLB (24 percent to 23 percent) but has pulled away with relative ease. This year MLB ranked second in the polling and only received 14 percent of the vote.

Ranking behind the NFL and MLB is college football, which brought in 11 percent of the vote. Rounding out the top five is auto racing and the NBA, which claimed 7 percent and 6 percent, respectively.

Published Apr 14, 2014

BRYAN ROSE