Renowned sports broadcaster Al Michaels will not be part of the NBC Sports team for this year’s NFL Playoffs, as confirmed by People. The decision comes in the wake of growing criticism regarding Michaels’ perceived lack of enthusiasm while calling games, as initially reported by the New York Post.
The Athletic also substantiated this information, indicating that Michaels, celebrated for his historic calls, including the iconic 1980 “Miracle on Ice,” will not be part of the NFL Playoffs broadcast.
For the past two seasons, Michaels has been the voice of Amazon Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football” games, covering both regular season and playoff action alongside notable figures like Kirk Herbstreit and Tony Dungy.
A source from NBC Sports verified to People on Wednesday morning that Michaels will not be involved in calling this year’s NFL Playoffs.
Legendary Al Michaels WILL NOT Be Calling The NFL Playoffs This Year, Past His Prime?
The 79-year-old broadcaster, Al Michaels, has been under scrutiny for his perceived lack of enthusiasm, with criticisms mounting since last year’s NFL Wild Card game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Los Angeles Chargers, which marked the third-largest comeback in league history.
Throughout the 2023 regular season, Michaels has faced consistent backlash regarding his energy during broadcasts. In a recent interview with the Post, Michaels acknowledged the mounting criticism, likening himself to a baseball pitcher past his prime who can no longer throw the ball as fast. He deemed the comparison “fair.”
Michaels told The New York Post, “I don’t think I’m a lot different than I have been through the years. And if people you know want to say that, ‘Al doesn’t sound as excited.’ Hold on a second, folks. I’m doing the same game I’ve always done.”
Michaels has been one of the defining voices of the NFL for years, and it’s tough seeing him take so much backlash. Could retirement be in the future for Michaels?
What do you think? Are you a fan of Al Michaels and what do you think of his announcing? Does he still have what it takes? Let us know in the comments below.
We also cover ‘Young and the Restless’ weekdays on the CBS network. Check your local listings for times. In the meantime, let us know what you think by leaving us a line with your thoughts in our comments section below. For any other soap opera and entertainment news, please visit Daily Soap Dish again.
