As for the stoppage of play, while those not familiar with the game see the stoppage as boring, that is part of what makes it the best game for fans.

It's because the game is as much about strategy as it is about athletics. It is far more complex than any other sport. Thus, it is far more "participatory" for the fans than any other sport.

As for the "padding" and helmets. (Yes, I love rugby, the game they play in heaven... the game that takes leather balls to play... etc). The nature of NA football requires safety equipment. Each "play" is at full speed and full contact. Blocking is part of of this game... imagine a man of 18 stone running 40 yards in 4.4 seconds and slamming into you with the intent of putting you on the pitch on your ass. Or, a man of 15 stone that can run 100 yards in ten seconds leaping into the air to catch a ball and being contacted by a similar opponent with the same intent, and worse, to hit you so hard that you lose the ball.

As for which sport is more macho or entertaining, I suggest they are equal. I have played both and enjoyed each. But, if I had to choose which to watch, NA football would be the easy option... it takes intelligence to play it... and leather balls.