The highly anticipated Super Bowl clash between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs turned into a forgettable affair, both as a sporting contest and a television spectacle. Despite the Eagles emerging victorious, the game's lackluster nature left fans and commentators underwhelmed. Criticisms were not just limited to the on-field action; the broadcast itself, aired by Fox, faced its own share of negative feedback, particularly regarding its presentation and commentary.
Critics slammed the Fox scorebug for its outdated and amateurish design. One observer humorously remarked that it resembled something created by someone just beginning to learn Photoshop back in 1998. Such criticisms were emblematic of broader dissatisfaction with Fox's handling of the event.
Tom Brady, a key figure in Fox’s broadcast team, faced his own challenges. His commentary, particularly his interactions with Mike Pereira, often seemed lackluster and devoid of enthusiasm. Brady’s delivery came off as flat, with an intonation that seemed to deflate rather than energize. His remarks after a questionable on-field call reflected this tone.
“Oh, I don’t like that one bit. What do you think Mike?” – Tom Brady
Brady's presence on screen was described as "squeaky" and lacking the charisma one might expect from such a prominent sports figure. This sentiment is concerning for his future in broadcasting, as he is set to continue in this role for nine more seasons, leaving some viewers dreading the need to mute the television during his segments.
In an attempt to promote inclusivity, the NFL announced a change in messaging for this year’s Super Bowl. The familiar "End Racism" sign was replaced by "Choose Love" and "It Takes All of Us." While well-intentioned, these changes failed to significantly impact the overall perception of the event.
The presence of former President Donald Trump at the game added another layer of intrigue. Trump received cheers from sections of the crowd whenever shown on the big screens. Notably, he saluted during the national anthem, a gesture typically associated with veterans, despite his history of avoiding military service.
The commentary team, comprised of seasoned broadcasters dubbed as "sideline elders and wiseheads," appeared less than enthralled by their duties. Their lack of engagement was evident, with some seemingly disinterested in the game's outcome. Mike Pereira, called upon to provide insights into contentious officiating decisions, often appeared unprepared or even asleep during his segments.
Jon Batiste delivered a unique rendition of the national anthem, opting for an understated, cabaret-style performance. While pleasant, it set a relaxed tone that perhaps foreshadowed the uneventful nature of the game that followed.
The Eagles' victory over the Chiefs was overshadowed by what many described as one of the most forgettable Super Bowls in recent memory. The match lacked the excitement typically associated with such high-stakes games. Fans and critics alike decried it as a "galactically bad" game.
Fox’s broadcasting team, including notable figures like Brady and Kevin Burkhardt, struggled to find their footing throughout the broadcast. Their interactions came across as awkward and uncomfortable, compounding viewers' sense of disconnection from the event.