AP staff documents NFL’s first foray into France with depth, variety and insight

AP sports writers Kenneth Maguire and Jerome Pugmire, and photographers Aurelien Morissard and Steve Luciano, covered the NFL’s first game in Paris with depth, variety and insight — all against the backdrop of civil unrest in the French capital. The game coverage was fast and detailed, and competitors did not dive as deeply into some of the wider aspects of the event, such as its resonance in France and the historical links between Paris and New Orleans, the city the Saints call home. The team also provided coverage for readers interested in other topics, such as the effects of ongoing protests, a feature on how important fashion has become for players, the NFL and brands, and even a story explaining how the field was prepared and where it came from. Another story provided insight into where American football stands as a growing sport in France, and AP took a historical look at the Stade de France.