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August 26, 2007
NBC’s NFL Half-Time Program
On Sunday, August 26, NBC debuted its new Sunday Night Football half-time program with Bob Costas, Chris Collingsworth, The Bus ( Jerome Bettis), and new addition Keith Olbermann. Refreshing, excellent. No glitzy, overdone graphics, no silly laughing, no macho kidding, no street-fashion suits, and no worn clichés about establishing the run, just intelligent, straightforward discussion.
The addition of Olbermann was an inspired choice; it raised the IQ level of the program by 20 points, and a rising tide lifts all boats. I have always felt that Bob Costas is the brightest, most articulate TV sports commentator, studio host, and play-by-play person, and this opinion was reinforced by the half-time program. It was good to see Costas complemented by someone equally bight and articulate in Olberman, and it seemed as though Costas was delighted to have someone else really smart to talk to.
The show began with a commentary by Olbermann on Michael Vick—it was articulately communicated, jargon-free, thoughtful, and thought-provoking—on a sports program no less. Chris Collingsworth was out of his depth trying to discuss the Vick situation. Chris should have stayed with football and left the intelligent discussion to Costas and Olbermann.
Jerome Bettis was refreshingly honest and unpretentious talking about is new book and some of revelations in it. What’s not to like about The Bus? Keep him and dump Collingsworth in order to give Costas and Olbermann more time to appeal to an intelligent, upscale audience.
Congratulations and thanks, NBC.
Posted by Charles Warner at August 26, 2007 11:21 PM
Comments
frankf ![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://www.mediacurmudgeon.com/nav-commenters.gif)
at October 15, 2007 11:41 PM writes:
Chris Collinsworth a soso player for the Bengals was beaten twice in the Superbowl by the 49ers, and to this day has yet to give them credit. He is the Tim McCarver of football. A soso player and a horrible announcer.
Media Curmudgeon at August 27, 2007 10:49 AM writes:
Chris Warner writes:
"I couldn't agree more. Collinsworth is a rah rah good old boy insider who was never a top tier receiver or color announcer. He was Boomer's side kick, and is lucky to be employed. Unfortunately, his job description includes opening his mouth, where he immediately inserts his foot. Lose the bum. The Bus has more than enough clout as a player.
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