Over the past few decades, technology has had a relentless drive to make better products available to more people for less money. Relative to inflation, the quality of the TV I own today compared to 30 years ago is infinitely better, yet the cost is way lower.

The inverse is true for sports. The product hasn't changed all that much, but the costs are way higher and the experience is worse. By any objective measure, the stadium entry experience today is worse. Parking is more expensive and less available. Lodging costs are worse (there didn't use to be 2 night minimum stays). Stadium food prices were relatively lower and fans didn't get hassled as much if they dared to try and bring a snack or beverage in to a stadium. Good tickets were available for big games and you didn't have to pay mega bucks for them (let alone pay for a seat license or a massive donation just for the ability to purchase them).

For many decades both college and pro sports have relentless gouged fans at every opportunity and have prioritized revenue streams over butts in seats. The chickens are now (gradually) coming home to roost. When VR or something close to it because available on a widespread basis- and it will- stadiums will become more empty.

I say all of this as someone who loves college sports and still attends 2-3 live games per year. But it is no mystery why attendance is declining.
[Post edited by Gobbler Guru at 07/27/2018 2:14PM]