‘Ed Sheeran Effect’ May Have Given Lions Monday Night Opener

In what USA Today's Charles Curtis refers to as the 'Ed Sheeran Effect', eight NFL teams found their schedules affected this season by British singer/songwriter Ed Sheeran.

Starting in June, Sheeran will launch a massive tour that will span across five months and several North American cities.

Sheeran's tour includes a Sept. 8 stop at Ford Field.

Also happening that weekend? The NFL's Week 1, in which the Detroit Lions could either play on the road or open the season on a day other than Sunday.

With the Sheeran concert happening the night before, it would be too much of a strain on the Ford Field grounds staff to get the turf into playing condition in time for a Sunday game.

In case, anyone needs a reminder of what a concert can do to a field, here's an example of Comerica Park last season after a Metallica Concert:

As a result of the tour scheduling, the Lions will play their home opener on Monday night against the Jets in a less-than-appetizing prime time match up.

The list of other teams affected by Sheeran's tour includes the New England Patriots, New York Giants/Jets, Tennesee Titans, Kansas City Chiefs,Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys and the Atlanta Falcons.