I’m sure you’ve noticed the increase in Patriots merchandise across Boston stores. Along with the falling leaves, it’s one of the biggest signs we are approaching NFL football season. As enthusiastic as many football fans are about the potentially successful season ahead, another group is equally excited by the idea of rewatching a certain TV show ahead of next season’s release in spring 2027.
The show is none other than the viral Heated Rivalry, originally released in fall 2025. As many know, this queer hockey romance exploded in popularity, primarily among young women, and went viral across social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. Interest in the show stems from the easily consumable portrayal of hockey and its culture, as well as its creative use of forbidden romance tropes and intimate cinematography.
What specifically draws female viewers in? It’s hard to pinpoint what infatuates the audience; however, a notable example is the “foot-tapping” motif that occurs throughout the entire season. Ilya and Shane’s shoes touch under tables during press tours, presentations, and award shows, building tension and letting viewers feel the intense slow burn the characters are experiencing.
The show’s release triggered the first cycle of popularity, similar to the revival we are witnessing now, resonating particularly with women who identified as “lover girls,” as the romance between Shane and Ilya felt relatable, yet raunchy. Additionally, the show featured a fresh concept that, combined with the cozy fall season, made it the perfect romance show for women to fawn over.
With rumors of a second season, the romance between Shane and Ilya has once again become the subject of TikTok edits and trends. Alongside acoustic versions of Frank Ocean, Taylor Swift, and Cannons, clips from the show are amassing thousands of reposts, likes, and comments, triggering a chain reaction of watching and rewatching the show. This online trend of creating video edits to sounds or song clips is also prevalent in the football community, especially with popular players such as Antonio Brown.
Football fans and Heated Rivalry fans get the same thing: appointment viewing, anticipation, and a new season to look forward to. Football fans get 17 weeks of hoping this may be the year that their team wins, and Heated Rivalry fans believe the upcoming season may end in a happy ending for Ilya and Shane, connecting both groups in a wholesome way.
Over the next few months, new merch, trending videos, and excited communities will keep the momentum going. Ultimately, both groups aren’t simply craving a show or a game; they’re looking forward to being part of something again. The Patriots jerseys and the Heated Rivalry edits stem from the same impulse: an experience to look forward to together.
So whether you’re readying up for Sunday football or counting down to Season 2, everyone’s waiting on something good this fall.
Which will you tune in to?
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