Let’s address this first: Commentating on an NFL game is no easy task. Even seasoned football observers find it challenging to follow the action on each play, let alone analyze it in real time before the next snap. Authenticity is key, and those play-by-play announcers and color analysts who are well-prepared and knowledgeable truly stand out.
For several years, Jim Nantz and Tony Romo were considered among the best. Romo, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, entered the CBS booth in 2017, immediately gaining acclaim for his enthusiastic reactions, detailed breakdowns, and knack for predicting plays. However, their reputation took a turn. In 2022, they dropped to fourth place, and in 2023, they slipped to sixth, with increased criticism directed at Romo and his broadcasting style.
The recent Kansas City Chiefs’ win over the Buffalo Bills in the AFC divisional round brought some peculiar moments during Nantz and Romo’s call. Examples include Romo’s attempts at humor, confusing football plays, and making references that raised eyebrows.
RELATED: Tony Romo Raised Some Eyebrows Following His ‘Sexy’ Comment To Jim Nantz
Now, it seems that the dissatisfaction with Romo’s announcing skills is growing. Mad Dog Chris Russo criticized Romo, and the New York Post’s Andy Marchand joined in, highlighting issues with chemistry, storytelling, strategy, and levity in the broadcasts.
Now, though, not even halfway through Romo’s decade-long deal, CBS Sports executives have an issue because Romo and his partner, Jim Nantz, are manning broadcasts that lack chemistry, storytelling, much strategy and levity. It’s routinely discombobulated.
This has left the duo endlessly searching for lifelines. Gene? Tracy? Jay? Anyone?
Gene Steratore is called in for officiating. Tracy Wolfson is on the sideline. And Jay Feely is on call for special teams. It is a lot of support for a booth that approaches $30 million a year in annual pay.
Despite the criticism, the broadcasts still draw a massive audience, with over 50 million viewers for the recent divisional-round game. As they approach the AFC Championship game and the Super Bowl, the duo is under scrutiny, with Romo’s charm appearing to wear thin, and critics getting louder each year.
While the Super Bowl is anticipated to be enjoyable, some viewers express concerns about Romo’s continuous rambling.
