The whole "automatic first down" thing is the means

[IronEagle]

by which McMahon and the Zebras control the outcome of games.

[PackWest]

close

Its the means by which they control the conduct of the game- on behalf of the paying sponsors. The actual outcome is irrelevant so long as they get enough commercials in....$$$.

More first downs= more offense= more scoring= better ratings and more commercials.

[Drama Queen]

3rd downs. That's the sweet spot.