I'm not here to explain basic geometry and math mate.
I admit the AFL has bigger match day crowds, don't know why I need to admit it.. the numbers are there for everyone to see but the reason for that isn't because it's more popular or bigger than league..because we have the numbers for that, more people watch RL . So why the disparity between how fans choose to watch? :
Firstly: an AFL field is larger, meaning that the immediate access to a location to view said field is greater.. the first row ( premium seating) has literally more seats which continues.. to around 100,000 seats that can see without too much difficulty to at least the edge of where play takes place.
Secondly: those seats that can view said field can witness valuable meaning play that takes place throughout the entire circumference of the playing field , making literally the entire stadium a good viewing area.
Thirdly: there's additional play that takes place across the entire playing area that isn't even possible to capture watching on TV, broader play shapes unfolding, jostling for positions, niggling, lead runs.. in particular..none of this is viewed on TV- you have to be at the game to witness those things!
Fouth: Because all seating given the structure of the game is a good spot to view the game, it makes it affordable to have a good viewing experience.
Fith: the game goes for a good amount of time where fans can make more of a day of it for the family ect, again value for money.
Sixth: and what makes this point so special is, it's the cream on top of all the other points...which is, after all the other reasons to go, gets lots of people to go...creating a great atmosphere..which makes people go..!
And there you have it, the AFL is probably the best sport..possible that exists to watch live as opposed to TV. I literally can't think of another sport that is so heavily favourable to watch live than on TV.
I went around 3 games and loved it, had a great day and would go again. Watch it on TV ? pass.
I go to some league games but rarely because it's actually better on TV.