Stewart and Simmons to the Rescue?

Since the World Cup garnered impressive ratings in the U.S., plenty of us have wondered whether soccer's popularity will continue to grow in America and eventually grow into more than a niche sport. An article on the Yanks Abroad website argues that the media ought to exploit two men, Jon Stewart and Bill Simmons, in marketing of the MLS and the USMNT.

It's an interesting idea considering the popularity of these two individuals among young men. After all, young men tend to double as sports fans. If the media truly shapes public opinion, then Simmons and Stewart speaking to the positive aspects of the beautiful game could well convince some skeptics that soccer is more than a low-scoring bore.

Plus, people like funny. We've all sat on the couch with friends during the Super Bowl making fun of stupid plays and bone-head ballplayers. That's what Simmons does on paper. He could make it cool to sit around watching soccer and making fun of headbutts and overpaid underacheivers (he'll find the A-Rod of the EPL).

In a recent column, Simmons revealed plan to throw his support behind Tottenham Hotspur this season. If his comedy translates to soccer, and it should, he will certainly attract his fans to watch a game or two. And maybe someday they'll enjoy watching the Champions League final like watching the Super Bowl.