-by Brian Fein

It seems like only a few days ago. We cheered, we laughed, we cried. We watched the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate their first ever Super Bowl title. Since that moment of copious jubilation, there has been a void. A hole so large, it could only be filled by the behemoth that left it there.

Since January, people nationwide have been awaiting the return of the greatest entertainment since the three-ring circus. Like a teenager who just got dumped, NFL football left us lonely with nothing to do. No where to turn. Nobody to comfort us on Sundays afternoons.

Chris Berman's analysis, "Jaws'" Playbook, John Madden's telestrator skills - all mainstays in our lives from September to January. When will you come back, and fulfill our lives once again?

Well, the time for lament is over, my friends. FOOTBALL IS BACK! After months of watching free agency, mini camp, quarterback school, training camp, and preseason, NFL football is back in full force! And it's a great feeling. NFL Europe is great, and Arena football is only tolerable for so long, but nothing compares to the NFL.

The Redskins and Jets kicked off the 2003 NFL season tonight with a barnburner of a game. Classic NFL style. The game is won on a field goal with just seconds left. What more can you ask for to welcome the Sunday mainstay back to our lives?

Why does football have such a hold on us? Maybe because I'm a red-blooded American male. What man doesn't want to watch guys pound the ball into defenders, acrobatic one-handed catches, strategic coaching…the whole nine yards? Who wouldn't spend every waking moment living, eating, breathing football?

But for now, enjoy the time you have. It won't last. Football is back, for now. We've missed you, old friend. We wish you could stay longer, but we know it won't last. We'll have to make the most of it while you're around!

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The Dolphins Make Me Cry
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