NBC removes Al Michaels from NFL playoffs coverage
Sportscaster Al Michaels Excluded from NBC’s NFL Playoff Coverage
In an unexpected move, Al Michaels will not be part of NBC’s playoff broadcasts this postseason, according to NBC Sports Vice President Greg Hughes. The decision comes after Michaels and former head coach Tony Dungy faced criticism for their lack of enthusiasm during a playoff game last season. The game saw the Jacksonville Jaguars come from behind to beat the Los Angeles Chargers.
For NBC’s playoff games, sportscasters Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth from “Sunday Night Football” will be calling two of the games. The third game will be crewed by NBC’s top college team, Noah Eagle and Todd Blackledge, along with sideline reporter Kathryn Tappen.
From @TheAthletic: NFL broadcasts will be without Al Michaels’ classic commentary voice for this season’s playoffs. Michaels, 79, has called 11 Super Bowls. https://t.co/mHN9ryU7Mz
— The New York Times (@nytimes) December 13, 2023
Michaels has been a prominent figure in football coverage, having been a staple of ABC’s “Monday Night Football” and later on NBC. He also took over play-by-play announcing for “Thursday Night Football” when it moved to Amazon Prime Video.
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Although the move had been in the works for some time, Michaels had previously referenced his contract when asked about the possibility in November.
“It’s in my deal,” Michaels told the Post. “Where are you hearing that from? That’s part of my deal. Are you hearing something that I’m not hearing?”
NBC had previously replaced Michaels on “Sunday Night Football” with Mike Tirico. With his exclusion from NBC’s playoff coverage, Michaels is now tied with the late legendary sportscaster Pat Summerall for calling 11 Super Bowls on TV.
Michaels is renowned for his iconic sports calls, including his historic “Miracle on Ice” at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. It was during this event that the U.S. Olympic hockey team shocked the world by defeating the Soviet Union.
“Do you believe in miracles? Yes!” exclaimed Michaels.
What was the reason behind the decision to exclude Al Michaels from the playoffs?
Ne reporter Michele Tafoya.
Al Michaels, a renowned sportscaster, has been a staple in NBC’s NFL playoff coverage for years. His voice and expertise have provided football fans with insightful commentary and memorable moments during some of the most intense games in NFL history. However, this year, viewers will be deprived of Michaels’ presence as he has been excluded from NBC’s playoff broadcasts.
The news shocked fans and industry professionals alike, as Michaels has been one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting. His witty remarks, deep understanding of the game, and ability to captivate audiences have made him a favorite among NFL fans. Michaels’ absence from the playoff coverage will undoubtedly leave a void in the broadcast team.
The decision to exclude Michaels from the playoffs stems from an incident during last season’s playoff game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Los Angeles Chargers. Michaels, and his broadcast partner Tony Dungy, faced criticism for their perceived lack of enthusiasm during the game, particularly when the Jaguars made a remarkable comeback to beat the Chargers. The duo’s subdued and understated commentary was in stark contrast to the excitement on the field, drawing the ire of viewers.
NBC Sports Vice President Greg Hughes addressed the exclusion of Michaels from this year’s playoff coverage, stating that the decision was made in response to the criticism received after last season’s game. Hughes explained that the network wants to ensure that the commentary team provides the energy and enthusiasm that fans expect during playoff games. While Hughes acknowledged Michaels’ illustrious career and contributions to the sportscasting industry, he emphasized the need to make adjustments to maintain high-quality broadcasts.
Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth, known for their work on “Sunday Night Football,” will take over the role of calling two of the playoff games. Both sportscasters have a wealth of experience and are well-regarded in the industry. Their chemistry and dynamic style of commentary have made them a popular duo among football fans. The third playoff game will feature NBC’s top college team, Noah Eagle and Todd Blackledge, along with sideline reporter Michele Tafoya. This mix of experienced broadcasters and fresh talent aims to provide viewers with diverse perspectives and insightful analysis.
The absence of Al Michaels from NBC’s playoff coverage will undoubtedly be felt by football fans. His distinctive style and immense knowledge of the game have set him apart from his peers. However, NBC’s decision to make changes to its broadcast team demonstrates a commitment to providing viewers with an engaging and enthusiastic commentary experience. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming NFL playoffs, it remains to be seen how the new sportscasting lineup will fare and whether they can live up to the high standards set by Michaels.
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