I'd guess much less than 8-1. Until some expansion, most football was played in more northern cities. Plus its season is in fall/winter and overlaps both basketball and hockey. And a couple of those months were a time to save up for presents for the rest ofthe family.
So even in the mid 70's, in say July I'd ride my bike to the store and get a pack or two of baseball cards or maybe wacky packs if I wasn't in a baseball mood.
But in December I went far less often and had the choice of three different sports. Or if it was one of the department stores, maybe even some baseball rack packs on closeout.
So Football probably sold better in the cities it was played in, where kids could walk past the store on the way somewhere instead of going a mile or so in snow like I usually did.
short season+bad travel+holiday saving up+competition = Slow sales.
Steve B
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