In the early ’80s, Pat Summerall was among those initially against anointing ... Pat Summerall.
The San Francisco 49ers’ stunning snatched-from-the-air victory over the Dallas Cowboys 40 years ago was, at the time, the high point in the franchise’s history. But in the broadcasting world, calling the 1981-82 NFC championship game was just a consolation prize.
Before Madden’s third year on the job, CBS executives knew they had a rising star who needed the right partner to help revive the network, which was criticized for its uninspiring broadcasts and outdated technology. The open secret became official near the start of the 1981 NFL season, when a compromise was made between CBS Sports President Van Gordon Sauter, who preferred Scully, and new executive producer Terry O’Neil, who preferred Summerall. Scully would work the first four games with Madden and Summerall the next four, and whoever won the cook-off would keep going with Madden.
Summerall was upset about being in the running for the Madden gig for the opposite reason: He already had a partner he liked. CBS broke him up from his close friend and analyst of six years, Tom Brookshier, who was demoted to calling play-by-play on regional games.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Tony Romo Explains Dak Prescott’s Mistake in Wild-Card GameThe CBS broadcaster says the quarterback gave the ball to the wrong person.
Read more »
George Booth’s “Around the Clock”The artist talks to his daughter about retaining a childish sense of humor and capturing the voices of his youth.
Read more »
Philadelphia Restaurants No Longer Accepting Negative COVID Test For Indoor DiningAre you fully vaccinated? If not, you can no longer dine inside restaurants in Philadelphia.
Read more »
Lies Fitness Trainers Tell Their Clients All The TimeThey haven’t, and they’re absolutely panicking inside about what the fuck to do with you.
Read more »
The Walking Dead Boss Shares Intimate Details of First Rick & Michonne Love SceneTheWalkingDead showrunner shares an intimate, inside look at the first 'Richonne' love scene between Rick Grimes and Michonne:
Read more »