John Ourand, a seasoned sports business journalist at Puck, delves into the intricate world of the NFL on Thanksgiving Day. He weighs in on Tom Brady's potential as a broadcast analyst and debates Netflix's readiness for NFL games. The conversation covers the dynamics of Thursday Night Football on Amazon, the Cowboys' firm grip on Thanksgiving media, and the challenges streaming platforms face in live sports broadcasting. Prepare for a mix of nostalgia, analysis, and holiday spirit as they dissect the evolving media landscape in football.
Tom Brady's transition to broadcasting has been met with skepticism about his engagement and effectiveness compared to more dynamic analysts like Greg Olson.
Netflix's challenges with live sports streaming, highlighted by past technical issues, raise doubts about their readiness for a high-profile Christmas Day NFL broadcast.
Deep dives
Tom Brady's Broadcasting Performance
Tom Brady's transition to broadcasting raises questions about his effectiveness as an analyst, as he reportedly earns $37.5 million annually, making him the highest-paid in the field. While some believe he brings a unique perspective, criticism suggests he has yet to stand out among analysts, leading to a consensus that his performance is forgettable. There’s a contrast drawn between his style and that of Greg Olson, who was well-regarded for his passionate commentary and ability to engage viewers. Brady's focus has shifted towards discussing leadership and intangibles, which some producers believe may not resonate with audiences expecting deeper insights on gameplay.
Netflix's Challenges with Live Broadcasting
Netflix's recent foray into live sports broadcasting has faced scrutiny, especially following technical issues during the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight, which left many viewers frustrated. Questions arise regarding Netflix's ability to manage larger live events, particularly with their upcoming Christmas Day NFL broadcast amid reports of significant glitches impacting viewer experience. The podcast discusses the discrepancy between Netflix's viewer claims for the fight and Nielsen's estimates, igniting debates about the transparency of streaming viewership metrics. The conversation highlights the tension between traditional networks and streaming platforms in accurately measuring and reporting viewership.
NFL's Decision to Flex Games
The NFL's decision to flex out a lackluster game between the Browns and Bengals in favor of a more competitive matchup reflects their goal of maximizing viewership during prime time slots. Such decisions aim to prioritize games with playoff implications, ensuring that audiences remain engaged with thrilling matchups. This flexibility is a first for Thursday Night Football, leading to discussions about how it may affect fans who had planned to attend the original game. The implications of these scheduling decisions extend to both advertising opportunities and audience satisfaction, showcasing the NFL's strategic approach to its broadcast partnerships.
John Ourand joins Peter on a special Thanksgiving episode to break down the complicated business of the NFL. They candidly assess Tom Brady's broadcasting chops, debate whether Netflix is truly ready for its Christmas Day NFL debut, scrutinize the current state of Thursday Night Football on Amazon, and much more.