As the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Buffalo Bills to advance to the AFC Championship Game for the sixth consecutive year, football fans were treated to an electric scene that spanned beyond the playing field. From Bills fans shoveling out Highmark Stadium from 30 inches of snow in the days preceding the matchup to the tailgate scene ahead of the game, there were plenty of moments to take in throughout the week.
While the Bills fanbase was disappointed towards the loss that was effectively sealed on a missed field goal attempt in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter, the Chiefs have now extended the lifespan of what has become a dynastic run. Viewers watching the game on CBS or streaming on Paramount+ also saw live camera shots of a suite featuring Chiefs family and friends, including Brittany Mahomes, Jason Kelce and Taylor Swift.
Swift has attended several Chiefs games throughout the season to support her boyfriend, star tight end Travis Kelce. On Sunday night, Kelce scored two touchdowns and the broadcast frequently televised the reactions of the award-winning singer/songwriter during the contest. A WFAN listener called into the Boomer & Gio morning program on Monday to ask Giannotti his thoughts pertaining to Kelce’s celebration after a touchdown where he shaped his hands like a heart, presumably for Swift.
“I don’t have a problem with them dating,” Giannotti said. “I think that it’s nice, [and] I think that they’re both good people [and are] very successful. I’m glad that they found one another, and if he wants to do that up to the box to his girlfriend that he’s in love with, then that’s great. The thing that bothers me is that I can’t get away from her; I just can’t.”
Swift is one of the most popular artists in the world, releasing songs and albums that customarily soar to the top of the charts. Co-host Boomer Esiason understands her appeal, conveying that she is popular and beautiful on Monday morning. Giannotti has been unable to escape Swift over the last several weeks, whether it is through listening to music on radio or streaming a playlist, along with watching football games.
“Here’s the deal,” Esiason said. “If they make it to the Super Bowl, she’s going to be front and center.”
NBC Today digital reporter Drew Wiesholtz recently wrote a story detailing how Swift’s presence at football games is forming a bond between fathers and daughters around the country. With a perceived gravitational effect towards her presence, there is evidence that Swift is bolstering viewership of the games as a whole. Esiason wondered if the actions of Kelce’s brother, Jason, which involved jumping into the stands with the crowd and drinking beers without a shirt on, influenced any viewership on Sunday night as well.
“I think they’re into it,” Giannotti said regarding Swift’s fanbase. “I think that they don’t care what’s around her. They’ll find out that’s the fun brother of Travis, [and] they love Travis. I don’t think that bothers them.”
