I disagree with much of this.
Buffalo is a unique case study IMO. They're a small city that has two major sports teams. However, unless their teams are winning consistently, the national media pays minimal attention to them (this is mostly directed at the Bills). And while local media is important for all teams/cites whether it be NYC or Milwaukee, its especially important in places like Buffalo. Just look at this thread, there's people that are hate-reading the BN. When they cease to move the needle, then I'd worry.