From SpongeBob to TikTok, leagues and broadcasters using many methods to attract, retain young fans

There were plenty of critics when CBS announced four years ago that it would produce a kids-centric broadcast of an NFL playoff game on Nickelodeon.

Now, if a league or network isn't doing something to appeal to younger fans, they are behind the times.

Nickelodeon will air its fifth NFL game on Sunday when the Kansas City Chiefs face the San Francisco 49ers for the Vince Lombardi Trophy. It will also mark the first alternate broadcast of a Super Bowl game.

For CBS Sports chairman Sean McManus, the progress from Nickelodeon's first game during the playoffs in the 2020 season to now has surpassed even his wildest expectations.