TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - 28 NFL teams played Sunday and players from each of those teams showed some sort of protest.
It's not just football. Players from the NBA and MLB are pushing back against President Donald Trump's criticism of those who kneel during the national anthem. Trump says it shows a lack respect for the American flag, adding that players who kneel should be suspended or fired.
For many people, this issue is bigger than just sports or politics: it's about first amendment protections.
"Maybe it's time to open up. Maybe we're part of a big change," said Tallahassee resident Francisco Varona.
"They should find another way to protest," said Christine Hall on Facebook. "They need to stand in respect for all those who fought for their freedom."
"I think we should keep politics and all that out of sports," said Tallahassee resident Branden Pratt. "We should just watch the sports, enjoy the game."
Others say, even if you don't agree with this silent protest, the players are well within their rights as Americans.
"The world's bigger than you. You could just stick to sports, which is also respectable, but if you have a message to say and you want to say it, it's okay, too," said Varona.
Ray Chamberlain agrees, saying: "To force patriotism is slipping toward dictatorship. I prefer we keep the freedoms we have."
Many team owners and coaches have also spoken out in support of their players, saying they won't get in trouble for expressing their political opinions.
"Whether you kneel or don't kneel, that's your choice," said FSU Head Football Coach Jimbo Fisher. "It's not right or wrong. That's the thing about freedom, there's not a right answer to that. That's the greatness of living in our country, you have the freedom to express yourself how you want to."
FSU football players we spoke with say when they hit the field, their focus is on the game, not politics.
"Whatever happens outside of football here, it just happens," said Cole Minshew, R-Sophomore Offensive Lineman. "When we get here, we come together as one and it's all about football."
"I feel like that's their right to do whatever they want to do," said Jalen Wilkerson, R-Sophomore Defensive End. "I have nothing against it, whether they stand or take a knee."
No matter what you think about the issue, the sheer amount of discussion and disagreement can be a lot to handle. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, Jane Marks, a local family therapist, says the best thing you can do is log out and unplug.
"We all have our opinions about it and we have very strong opinions about it, so during this time, take a break," said Marks.
What do you think about this controversial topic? You can voice your opinion in a comment on our Facebook page.
