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CBS Sports Airing ‘You Are Looking Live!’ Special on Super Bowl Sunday

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CBS Sports Airing ‘You Are Looking Live!’ Special on Super Bowl Sunday

CBS Sports will premiere You Are Looking Live! The Show That Changed Sports Television Forever, an hour-long original special detailing the history and evolution of The NFL Today. The studio program helped redefine the sports television landscape when it debuted in 1975 with host Brent Musburger and analysts Irv Cross and Phyllis George. Musburger hosted the show for 15 seasons before leaving CBS Sports, but the indelible legacy he left on the program and sports television as a whole remains palpable to this day. Musburger recently starred in a promo for the special presentation, which includes a recreation of the original studio for The NFL Today.

Musburger also coined the catchphrase, “You Are Looking Live,” which came from a friend of the father of Bob Fishman, the director of the show. Since his friend liked to bet on totals for the game, he wanted to see the weather at locations around the NFL. As a result, the show began airing live shots of footage from stadiums where the games were being played – the first of which was from Soldier Field in Chicago, Ill.

“We just shot the one stadium, and then it went from there,” Musburger said. “The only thing that we insisted on is that they had to be live shots, and that’s how we came up with, ‘You Are Looking Live.’”

After Musburger departed the program, Greg Gumbel took over as its host for the ensuing years before the network lost the broadcast rights to the league. Upon reacquiring a package of AFC games, Jim Nantz was at the helm for six seasons and has fond memories of his time on the set. He considers it an honor to be linked with the other hosts and the show, feeling somewhat intimidated by Musburger from the beginning because of the reverence and esteem he has for him. While auditioning for the show, Nantz remembers a manifestation of the moment and how surreal it was for him to embark on the endeavor.

“I stepped up – there was an actual little step-up on the set – and there was Brent’s chair,” Nantz recalled. “On the back of that chair was a little thin steel rod with just masking tape, and it said ‘Brent;’ somebody had just written it with a Sharpie.”

James Brown currently hosts The NFL Today and considers it a great honor to continue the program that Musburger, Gumbel and Nantz worked to establish and collectively maintain. All four hosts participated in a media conference call on Monday, and Brown took the time to reflect on his relationship with each one of his predecessors.

He has had friendships with both Gumbel and Nantz for many years; in fact, he continues to welcome Nantz onto the show to preview games which he is calling alongside Tony Romo. Moreover, Brown affirmed that Musburger served as a prime example of how to handle the highs and lows of the business equally.

“I just wanted to say I appreciate the way that you carried yourself and modeled yourself because excellence is in your DNA,” Brown said to Musburger.

“The way he directed his way through a show and traffic-copped it to a flawless level that can’t ever be repeated,” Nantz said regarding Musburger. “We’ve got to remember that in that day and age, there was no ESPN. We waited all week for the show and it was 30 minutes, and the rating on it was double digits.”

When Gumbel took over for Musburger, he felt somewhat frightened to attempt to take the position with which Musburger had become synonymous. Viewing it as if he was going to take Mickey Mantle’s position in the batting order, he worked to thrive in the role while having an understanding of the standard that had been left.

“It was daunting because Brent wrote the book on it,” Gumbel said. “I don’t think that anybody has ever done it better, and I don’t know what framework he was working from but it worked. The fact that I got to sit in the same chair and do the same thing or try to do the same thing that he did was an incredible honor.”

Musburger recognized the popularity of the show when someone extemporaneously requested his autograph while out to dinner with his wife. Reminiscing on his days hosting the show, he feels that he worked alongside the best crew possessing synergy that made the show work. Additionally, he explained how the show served as an effective precursor to other programming from CBS, including 60 Minutes, which had aired in the middle of the week before moving to Sundays.

“Mike Wallace was a big football fan; he used to come by the studio,” Musburger said. “We laughed about it through the years, but the lead-in the NFL gave to shows like 60 Minutes – it became what it is today. It’s the No. 1 entertainment vehicle in the world.”

CBS Sports is set to broadcast the AFC Championship Game next Sunday when the Kansas City Chiefs go on the road to face the Baltimore Ravens. The winner of that game will face the NFC champions in Las Vegas, Nev. on Sunday, Feb. 11 from Allegiant Stadium for Super Bowl XLVIII, which will be presented live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.

As a whole, the NFL on CBS attained its most-watched regular season since reacquiring broadcast rights to the league in 1998, averaging 19.345 million viewers, which is up 5% from last year. The broadcast property notched three of the top five most-viewed games this season, led by the Washington Commanders’ matchup against the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving with an average of 41.762 million viewers. Paramount+ also garnered its most-streamed NFL regular season on record, which was paired with double-digit year-over-year (YoY) growth in households, minutes and average minute audience (AMA).

You Are Looking Live! The Show That Changed Sports Television Forever will premiere on Sunday, Feb. 11 at 1 p.m. EST/10 a.m. PST, which leads into a four-hour edition of The NFL Today prior to the network’s broadcast of Super Bowl LVIII. James Brown will host Super Bowl coverage for the 12th time in his broadcast career, and Jim Nantz, Tony Romo and Tracy Wolfson will be on the call for the championship game with Evan Washburn, Jay Feely and Gene Steratore.

Audacy Planning Subscription Streaming Service as Part of Restructuring

BNM Staff
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As Audacy undergoes a restructuring after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection earlier this month, one interesting note gives the industry a look at the company’s future.

According to a business plan, Audacy is looking toward a subscription streaming service that it hopes could deliver $20 million in annual revenue in the next three years.

“We anticipate that like other traditional media, over-the-air listening erosion will persist while reach remains strong, and consumption continues to fragment and shifts toward digital devices,” the company says in its most recent business plan, according to Inside Radio.

Audacy would look to utilize partnerships with outlets like TuneIn to increase revenue in the digital space, hoping to grow from 1.4% to 2.0% of its overall streaming revenue.

“We believe that our on-platform personalized, interactive radio experience will allow us to further leverage and exploit Audacy’s unique spoken-word content advantage and increasingly earn more listening occasions and more time spent listening as users get more of what they want, when they want,” the previously confidential document says.

Paul Finebaum with Richard Deitsch: I Think Nick Saban Would Enjoy Doing Games over GameDay on ESPN

BSM Staff
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Paul Finebaum, host of The Paul Finebaum Show, was a guest this week on the Sports Media Podcast with Richard Deitsch. One of the main topics for the first half of the show was Nick Saban and his retirement. The two, specifically, talked about the prospect of Saban ending up at ESPN.

“I think we all know he’s probably going into tv,” Finebaum said, and then added, “Hate to break it to anyone, but being on TV is not quite being the head coach at Alabama.”

Deitcsh stated very clearly, “I would be absolutely stunned if Nick Saban were not at ESPN in short order. I would probably be stunned if he’s not on College GameDay.”

Deitsch continued, saying “Nick Saban is one of the people they have wanted to hire forever, its sort of a dream hire for them. I think they would love him to be on College GameDay, but they would obviously take him as a studio analyst, they would take him as a game analyst, they’d take him as the cohost of First Take,” he joked.

Finebaum then went in to a story which took place more than 10 years ago, where ESPN executives were courting Saban, having heard he was contemplating his future as a coach. Deitsch then asked Finebaum if he thought GameDay would be what Saban would be interested in, as opposed to potentially working in the studio breaking down games.

Finebaum talked about his time with GameDay and television work in general, saying, “There is mostly boredom waiting to go on. I wonder how (Saban) would handle that.”

As for studio work, Finebaum said, “I think Saban would like it to a degree, but I don’t know if he wants to sit around and have somebody say, ‘Hey Coach, we need you on the 8 o’clock SportsCenter.'”

Finebaum then gave his opinion on which specific role he thought Saban might like. “I think he would probably…enjoy doing games more,” he said. “(He would) get to look at film all week, get to dig down on Friday and will talk to the coaches. As opposed to GameDay which is totally unorthodoxed at times.”

In wrapping up on the topic, Finebaum added, “He’s going to be great. He’s analytical, I ve seen him be very funny, he’s just not a very patient person.”

Soledad O’Brien Returning to Host Golden Mic Award Gala for Broadcasters Foundation of America

BNM Staff
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The Broadcasters Foundation of America has announced Soledad O’Brien will return to host the organization’s Award Gala and Fundraiser later this year.

O’Brien hosted the Golden Mic gala in 2023, her first time leading the event.

“The Broadcasters Foundation has an incredible impact on the people in our business who face serious illness or catastrophe and need help,” noted Soledad O’Brien. “I’m honored to lend my support as the host of their fundraising gala and to pay tribute to this year’s award recipients.”

“Everyone wanted Soledad to come back for a second year,” said Scott Herman, Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation. “She is a well-known and highly respected broadcaster, and we are grateful that she is giving her time and talent to supporting our charitable mission.”

The 2024 Broadcasters Foundation of America 2024 Golden Mic Award gala and fundraiser is scheduled for Monday, March 4th, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.

NewsNation Announces Launch of Audio Network

BNM Staff
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NewsNation has announced the launch of a new audio network, which will provide news/talk radio stations around the nation access to the cable network’s audio.

The NewsNation Audio Network will “offer an ongoing daily service of audio clips featuring coverage from its reporters and breaking news stories from across the nation and around the globe”, according to a press release from the network.

The new network will give stations access to the newsgathering provided by the upstart cable news outlet. Currently, more than 5,500 journalists in 110 newsrooms across the country provide content to NewsNation.

The network will provide ready-to-air clips from its newscasts, news stories, breaking news coverage, and interviews procured by its stable of journalists.

Those stations interested in signing up for access to the content can do so at NewsNationAudio.com. Audio can be downloaded from the website, or be immediately sent directly to newsrooms via the NewsBoss system.

John Catsimatidis on Building 77WABC: ‘It Doesn’t Feel Like Work If You Enjoy What You’re Doing’

BNM Staff
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John Catsimatidis on Building 77WABC: ‘It Doesn’t Feel Like Work If You Enjoy What You’re Doing’

John Catsimatidis has gone to great lengths to build 77WABC into a ratings powerhouse in New York. However, he says it hasn’t ever felt like work.

While appearing with Sid Rosenberg Monday morning, Catsimatidis joked he should become the next sparring partner for Anthony Weiner on WABC’s weekend lineup, replacing Curtis Sliwa. When told that would make him work seven days a week on the news/talk station, Catsimatidis joked he hadn’t done that in a while.

After Rosenberg lauded Catsimatidis for recently elevating his son — John Catsimatidis Jr. — to President and CEO of Red Apple Group, the host joked “John, you basically work seven days a week anyway now”.

Currently, in addition to still working with Red Apple Group, Catsimatidis hosts Cats & Cosby with Rita Cosby on 77WABC, as well as the nationally syndicated Cats Roundtable on Sunday mornings. But Catsimatidis says being busy isn’t a bad thing.

“It doesn’t feel like work if you enjoy what you’re doing,” the billionaire remarked.

Sid Rosenberg agreed, saying he feels the same way hosting a four-hour morning show each weekday.

Lotus Broadcasting Executives Tony Bonnici and Jesse Leeds Part of Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2024

BSM Staff
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Lotus Broadcasting Executives Tony Bonnici and Jesse Leeds Part of Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2024

Retired Lotus Broadcasting executives Tony Bonnici and Jesse Leeds have been named as part of the 2024 Hall of Fame class for the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame. Both served as General Manager for the Lotus properties in Las Vegas, which includes The Las Vegas Sports Network. Stations in the network include Fox Sports Las Vegas, ESPN Las Vegas, 1230 The Game, Raider Nation Radio and Deportes Vegas.

The Hall of Fame notes that “Since creating the first partnership with Don Logan and the Las Vegas Stars, Bonnici and Leeds’ commitment to delivering top-notch sports coverage has been unwavering and featured the latest updates, analysis, and live broadcasts of all of Las Vegas’ favorite teams and events.”

Lotus Broadcasting continues to serve as the flagship radio partner for the Las Vegas Raiders (in both English and Spanish), Vegas Golden Knights (in both English and Spanish), the Las Vegas Aces, the Las Vegas Aviators, UNLV Football and Men’s Basketball, the Henderson Silver Knights, G League Ignite, and the Vegas Knight Hawks.

Colin Cowherd had his first radio show with Lotus Broadcasting. In addition, the second NHL Stanley Cup Playoff game broadcasted in Spanish was done with the Golden Knights and Lotus Broadcasting.

Gregg Giannotti After Bills-Chiefs: ‘I Can’t Get Away’ From Taylor Swift

BSM Staff
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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.”

Denver Broncos, Colorado Buffaloes Broadcaster Larry Zimmer Has Died

BSM Staff
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Denver Broncos, Colorado Buffaloes Broadcaster Larry Zimmer Has Died

Larry Zimmer, who called more than 500 Denver Broncos games and over 1,000 University of Colorado events, died this weekend. Zimmer was 88 years old.

Colorado historian David Plati said Zimmer had been hospitalized for 10 days. While there, many of his friends in the media and former players from both teams came.

Zimmer started with Broncos games on KOA as the color analyst and was in that role from 1971-1989. Zimmer than moved over to the play-by-play position until 1996. In 1998, Zimmer was honored for being the only broadcaster in the country to broadcast the same professional team and the same college team for 25 years on the same radio station.

Zimmer was inducted into the Broadcast Professionals of Colorado Hall of Fame in 2009. The Colorado Sports Hall of Fame followed in 2010 and then the CU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012.

Colorado athletic director Rick George said Zimmer was, “A CU institution.  His voice was synonymous with our athletic program and he was most beloved by our coaches, players and fans.  Whether it was calling games on KOA or serving as a master of ceremonies for many of our functions, Larry Zimmer was CU.   He is truly a part of our overall athletic history.  We will miss Zim and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”  

The Broncos released a statement saying, “The Broncos are deeply saddened by the passing of legendary radio broadcaster and longtime Ring of Fame committee member Larry Zimmer.  During his 52-year association with the Broncos, Larry called some of the franchise’s most iconic moments and helped honor some of our greatest legends.  Our thoughts go out to Larry’s wife, Brigitte, and his entire family.”

The Joe Pags Show Adds Four New Affiliates

BNM Staff
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Joe Pags has added four new affiliates for his nationally syndicated show. The program is now cleared in more than 160 markets nationwide.

After flipping away from Spanish news/talk back to its Impact Radio branding, WHNZ in Tampa has added the program syndicated by Compass Media Networks. Additionally, KVOI in Tucson, and KNDK-AM/FM (Langdon) and KXPO-AM/FM (Grafton) in North Dakota have picked up the evening show.

“I’m incredibly excited to welcome Tampa, Tucson, and North Dakota listeners to the show to start off the 2024 presidential election year,” Pags said in a release.

“When we were looking at shows to add at KVOI, Joe rose to the top of the list quickly.  His humor and energy are just amazing,” added KVOI Operations Manager Gregg Gehringer. “Plus, the content is smart and relevant.  It’s so evident how much prep work he puts in before every show. Pags hits it out of the park daily.  And did I mention those pipes of his?”

“We are thrilled to have The Joe Pags Show as part of our on-air lineup! He is engaging, insightful, and will bring a unique perspective on the news of the day,” said iHeartMedia West Central Florida Vice President of Programming Tommy Chuck.

The announcement of four new affiliates comes on the heels of Pags announcing he has inked an extension to remain with WOAI in San Antonio — the flagship home of the syndicated show — through 2026.

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