NBC Sports’ Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth are gearing up for the Super Bowl next month, expressing their enthusiasm and admiration for the NFL’s broadcasting landscape. This marks Tirico’s debut as the play-by-play announcer for the Super Bowl. In a recent interview, he remarked on the strength of NFL on-air coverage, stating, “I love listening to Joe [Buck] and Troy [Aikman] on Monday nights. Love listening to Kevin [Burkhardt] and Tom Brady on Sundays, and same with Jim [Nantz] and Tony [Romo]. Of course, Kirk [Herbstreit] and Al [Michaels] on Thursday nights. I don’t think our business has ever been done any better.”
Collinsworth, who partners with Tirico on Sunday Night Football, highlighted the distinct storytelling approach necessary for a prime-time broadcast. While early afternoon games cater to fantasy leagues and betting audiences, he emphasized that Sunday Night Football must deliver a cohesive narrative. “Sunday night has to be more of a show, and has to be more of a story that has like a beginning, a middle and an end,” he explained.
As Tirico prepares for the Super Bowl, he shared insights on connecting with viewers in such a large setting. He believes that effective broadcasting involves treating each viewer as if they are the only one listening. “You can’t broadcast to 100 plus million people at the same time and think they’re all absorbing,” he said. He encourages a personal connection, acknowledging that each viewer engages differently.
Despite his extensive experience, Tirico admits to feeling the usual nerves ahead of his first Super Bowl. “Is there the build-up different for Super Bowl? Of course it is… I’m gonna try to treat it the same way and just try to be relaxed and enjoy and talk to people. Hopefully my partner gets me through it. So I am nervous,” he said.
As NBC readies itself for this significant sports broadcast, Tirico and Collinsworth’s perspectives illustrate the dedication, preparation, and reverence necessary for both Sunday night games and the Super Bowl. Their insights reflect that these moments transcend mere games; they are experiences designed to engage and captivate audiences across the country. Such an approach bodes well for the viewership and excitement surrounding one of the most-watched events in sports.