The XFL has had its share of ups and downs since the first game, back in February.
In the beginning of the new league, fans seemed to come out of the woodwork.
Television ratings were fairly high and people were turning out to support their teams in the stadiums.
As the new league nears the end of its freshman season, things have changed.
Lately, there has been a lot of talk about NBC dropping the XFL from their Saturday line-up because of lack of viewers.
NBC signed a two-year contract with the new league, but because of extremely low ratings, the network is looking to break off the deal.
"Obviously, NBC Sports is getting some pressure from the entertainment business because of the low ratings," Tim Clodjeaux, director of public relations for the Memphis Maniax said.
According to Clodjeaux, XFL founder Vince McMahon is not fazed by the possibility of NBC breaking off ties with the XFL.
"He's (McMahon) going to work with NBC," Clodjeaux said, "but if NBC doesn't decide to air the games, he'll find another network."
While the new league seems to be struggling on the national level, Clodjeaux said that the XFL is thriving in Memphis.
"We're very pleased with the loyalty that Memphis fans are showing," Clodjeaux said.
"The support of the Memphis fans at the ticket gate and as a television audience shows that they have followed the XFL and the Maniax."
This Sunday the Maniax (3-5) will play their last home game against the Los Angeles Xtreme. The Maniax will have Fan Appreciation Day.
The big prize will be a cut of the Maniax pool money adding up to $2,500. The catch, of course, is the Maniax must win the game in order for the fan to get the bonus money.
It is very unlikely that the Maniax will be seeing any post-season play. The Maniax will have to win the final two games in regular season play, plus make up for a 49 point differential between them and the Las Vegas Outlaws.
Despite the not-so-successful team, Memphis seems to be standing by the new league. Much of the reason Maniax fans have fared so well is because of the organization's association with The University of Memphis.
Thirteen U of M alumni are involved with the Maniax.
There is still the question of the league surviving.
Former Tiger lineman, Tim Seymour said he feels confident in the new league.
"I think it will last," Seymour said. "It's football and it's entertaining. I think it will have a long life."
Fans are asked to come out to the Liberty Bowl Sunday to cheer on the Maniax in the last game of the regular season.
Clodjeaux hopes that a 3 p.m kickoff will bring more fan support.
"Being an afternoon game, we're hoping more families can get out there to watch the game."
