Is Gridiron the New Code on Australia's Football Block?

It's the United States' most-watched television event - the Superbowl - and it's on today in Santa Clara, California. Image: San Francisco 49ers running back Jarryd Hayne is stopped by Detroit Lions defensive end Darryl Tapp (AAP)

The showpiece event for gridiron's National Football League is more than just a grand final - it's a cultural event, of sorts.

 

Overseas, the game has struggled to grow.

 

But, since rugby league convert Jarryd Hayne joined the San Francisco 49ers, a group of Australian gridiron loyalists is trying to change perceptions of the game they love.