How have the NFL groups’ radio announcers accomplished calling the 2025 season thus far? We requested Terrible Saying readers to judge every workforce’s radio sales space, and acquired greater than 3,500 particular person votes.
As with our NFL nationwide TV sales space rankings and all of our different rankings (nationwide CFB, native NHL, native NBA, native MLB, native MLB radio, native CFB radio, and extra), we requested readers to grade cubicles from A to F and, if desired, present feedback on particular person groups. We then transformed the letter grades from these responses to numerical grades, assigning A = 4 and F = 0, and ranked the cubicles by common grade.
That is the primary time we’ve accomplished this for NFL radio groups. We acquired extra particular person votes than we did within the faculty radio workforce ballot, which implies many extra votes for many groups (since this ballot had 32 groups as a substitute of 68). Nonetheless, we acquired far fewer votes than we did for the native MLB radio groups, so particular person ballots can have a extra minor common affect right here than they did within the prior ballot.
With out additional ado, let’s get to the grades and chosen reader feedback (typically calmly edited for spelling and grammar).
32. Miami Dolphins (Jimmy Cefalo, Joe Rose): 1.98
Most typical grade: C (31.2% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 64.5%
This workforce drew 29 Cs on 93 votes. Additionally they earned 17 As. However their 16 Ds and 17 Fs gave them a low share of A/B/C grades, and that helped place them on the backside right here. (Nonetheless, in these polls throughout totally different sports activities, a 1.98 is without doubt one of the increased grades we’ve seen for the lowest-ranking sales space.)
The feedback right here noticed important negativity about Cefalo specifically. Some strains there included “the worst within the enterprise for the final 20 years,” “has been doing play-by-play for years and by no means will get any higher,” and “Cefalo is a horrible play-by-play man, makes means too many errors. I really feel unhealthy for Rose, he’s good.” However one reader discovered him “a professional’s professional.” Many mentioned the absence of former play-by-play voice Invoice Zimpfer (who labored in that position from 1994-2001) and former analyst Jim Mandich (who labored on these broadcasts for many years, first with Zimpfer, then alongside Cefalo and Rose).
Some total strains on the published included criticism that it doesn’t at all times inform listeners of the in-game scenario. These included “At the least Cefalo performed, however the remainder of the published is ineffective; zero thought what’s happening. This isn’t a chat present, however they sound prefer it” and “You haven’t any thought what’s occurring.” There have been additionally remarks going after their perceived homerism, together with “Their play-by-play is abysmal and boring. The evaluation is 100% homerism, which is ok, besides they’re simply not superb at what they’re employed to do: excite and inform the fanbase.”
31. Jacksonville Jaguars (Frank Frangie, Jeff Lageman): 2.01
Most typical grade: C (30.9% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 67.0%
The Jaguars’ sales space earned 29 Cs from 94 votes. They recorded solely 13 As however completed forward of the Dolphins because of a better share of A/B/C grades, bolstered by 21 Bs (versus 14).
These feedback included intense criticism, particularly of Frangie. That included strains resembling “Frangie must go,” “Embarrassment to the career, it’s a disservice to listeners. Worst technical play-by-play announcer in soccer. Disagreeable screaming voice, and no thought the place the ball is in play. Even his ardour feels compelled to overcompensate,” and “Frangie is possibly the worst in main sports activities to have this job. Untrained broadcaster, he purchased his place when his radio station secured the standing because the official broadcast companion. He has a stutter, a stammer, and the worst/slowest name you’ll ever hear. Purely terrible.” And there have been individuals who praised Lageman over him, with feedback together with “solely Frangie, Lageman is nice” (on a D grade), “Lageman is an A+++. Frangie not a lot” (on a F)
30. Tennessee Titans (Taylor Zarzour, Dave McGinnis): 2.07
Most typical grade: C (37.4% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 73.6%
The Titans’ sales space cleared the underside two ones because of an improved share of A/B/C grades. They drew simply eight As from 91 votes, however 25 Bs and 34 Cs.
This asserting workforce has a brand new play-by-play voice this 12 months in Zarzour. He changed Mike Keith (who moved to the Tennessee Volunteers’ job this season, and was a part of that sales space that positioned seventh out of 68 in our CFB radio workforce rankings this 12 months), however many weren’t keen on his debut. Feedback there included “Large downgrade from Keith to Zarzour,” “Broadcast is a shell of its former self since Mike Keith departed for Tennessee Vols. Zarzour is uninspired and a rah-rah cheerleader whereas having no success to hawk,” “Massive sneakers to fill,” “Had decide of the litter as the one job open final offseason, might have accomplished higher,” “McGinnis A, Zarzour F,” and even “Zarzour has an amazing agent.” However one reader who gave a B grade famous, “Mike Keith grated on my nerves for years.”
29. New England Patriots (Bob Scocci, Scott Zolak): 2.15
Most typical grade: A (26.3% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 66.1%
This group acquired probably the most As (31 of 118 votes) however completed decrease due to a low share of A/B/C grades. They picked up 16 Ds and 24 Fs.
These feedback usually revolved round Zolak, and most incessantly in a important means. Among the remarks there included “Scott Zolak steps on all of Bob’s calls and is overdramatic, he must go,” “Scott Zolak is at all times making these bizarre groaning noises throughout vital performs and it ruins the second…as well as, he stated Cam Newton was a nasty quarterback as a result of he listened to rap music earlier than video games,” “The jock-washer Zolak is continually leaping Scocci’s calls,” “Zolak is nails on a chalkboard,” “he actually talks over Scocci your complete recreation,” and “screams unintelligible rubbish.” However he did obtain plaudits resembling “Zo brings all of the power. He’s the general public voice of the Patriots’ turnaround this 12 months,” and “simply the most effective shade analyst. Large homer who tells it like it’s—supremely entertaining.”
For Scocci, lots of the remarks had been reward for him relative to Zolak. That included “Scocci is strong, has been for years; he’s the one cause this isn’t a F” (on a D grade), “knowledgeable play-by-play man,” and “strong.” However the total feedback on the sales space had been nonetheless usually damaging, together with “Unbearable hear, insane homerism” and “One of many worst within the league, most partisan of any workforce.”
28. Las Vegas Raiders (Jason Horowitz, Kirk Morrison): 2.16
Most typical grades: B and C (31.3% of votes every)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 74.0%
For the Raiders, the Bs and Cs (30 every from 96 votes) had been nearly all of votes.
The feedback right here had been largely about Horowitz. A few of these had been constructive, together with “Jason is a star. They’re fortunate to have him.” However there was additionally some criticism, together with “Horowitz must let the sport breathe. His voice grinds on you as a listener.” And there was one line of “Kirk Morrison? Actually, they couldn’t discover anybody else?” (on a D grade).
27. New York Giants (Bob Papa, Carl Banks): 2.20
Most typical grade: A (31.2% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 64.7%
This was a extremely polarizing sales space, and one many wished to weigh in on; the 173 whole votes they acquired had been the very best of any workforce on this ballot. Though they acquired 54 As, additionally they drew 51 Fs.
These feedback noticed loads of criticism for each particular person figures. Strongly important strains about Banks there included: “would be the dumbest NFL participant ever to exist,” “so boring,” “wouldn’t know what analytics is that if it hit him within the head with a brick,” and “would kick a FG on third down.” However there have been extra reasonable notes about him as effectively, together with “Too unhealthy Banks is so soft-spoken; his information is sweet however not his supply” (on a B grade). And a few most well-liked him to Papa, with strains resembling “Carl Banks aight. Bob Papa will get a Z. So I’ll accept an F,” “I’m a giant Giants fan however have made the selection to overlook video games fairly than topic myself to Bob Papa. Banks deserves higher,” and “Bob Papa F, Carl Banks A.”
There have been additionally many feedback blasting Papa individually. A few of these included “a condescending a**gap,” and “a shill for the Giants’ possession.” Extra reasonable strains included “anticipates the motion a bit an excessive amount of” and “I simply don’t take pleasure in Papa’s broadcasting voice.” However many preferred him too (and most well-liked him to Banks), providing strains resembling “Papa is rock strong, however Banks is simply meh” (on a B grade), “strong play-by-play,” and “a professional’s professional.”
The announcers’ choice to debate followers by way of their podcast and on social media additionally drew flak. That included “They’re imply to the followers that disagree with them” and “They each act like a**holes, and their podcast sucks too.”
However there was additionally important total reward for them, together with “Finest within the enterprise. An ideal pairing. By no means overly excited, let the sport stream” and “Strong crew, coming from a Jets fan” (each on A grades).
26. Baltimore Ravens (Gerry Sandusky, Rod Woodson): 2.20
Most typical grade: C (33.6% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 77.0%
The Ravens’ announcers earned 38 Cs from 113 votes. Additionally they drew 15 As and 15 Fs. They edged the Giants with a 2.204 to a 2.202.
There weren’t loads of feedback on this workforce, however there was some dialogue of Sandusky’s recurring “the hay’s within the barn” phrase (which he beforehand wrote about right here, saying he bought it from his former faculty coach Phil Albert). One remark there was “Sandusky stole his phrase ‘The hay’s within the barn.’ He additionally doesn’t provide the time, rating, or downs.” Different remarks right here included “Sound description, HOF-level evaluation,” and “Advantageous.”
25. Washington Commanders (Bram Weinstein, London Fletcher, Logan Paulsen as sideline analyst): 2.23
Most typical grade: B (26.4% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 71.7%
This asserting workforce drew 22 As and 28 Bs from 106 votes. Nonetheless, 18 Fs saved them from rising increased.
The feedback right here had been notably cut up on Weinstein. One voter discovered him “nice,” however one other opined, “Bram Weinstein is the worst play-by-play announcer—he should put on blinders in the course of the recreation. He by no means interacts together with his co-hosts Fletcher or Paulsen.” Past that, one other D voter stated the sales space “tries too exhausting,” and a C voter wrote in reward of some previous workforce voices, saying “God, these guys make me miss Herzog, Jurgensen and Huff.”
24. Indianapolis Colts (Matt Taylor, Rick Venturi): 2.23
Most typical grade: C (35.2% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 76.9%
The Colts’ sales space picked up 32 Cs from 91 votes. Additionally they earned 13 As and 25 Bs. Their share of A/B/C grades helped them narrowly beat out the Commanders’ workforce, 2.231 to 2.226.
This group didn’t obtain many feedback, however the ones they did obtain had been extremely laudatory. These included “Finest within the enterprise,” “Taylor has the prospect to be the most effective announcer within the NFL at some point, and he’s already among the many greatest play-callers within the biz. Indy followers are fortunate,” and “I believe these guys are the most effective pair within the league. Taylor is a good play-by-play man, and Venturi brings a coach’s view of the sport as an analyst.”
23. New Orleans Saints (Mike Hoss, Deuce McAllister): 2.23
Most typical grade: C (33.7% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 77.9%
This was one other group within the tight cluster of groups round 2.23, edging out the Colts’ sales space because of a 2.233 versus a 2.231.
McAllister drew some reward within the feedback. That included “Underrated=Deuce McAllister” (on a B grade) and “Deuce is nice. Mike Hoss is unhealthy” (on a D grade). However one other respondent criticized him, writing “A lot better when Hokie Gajan was the analyst” (on a C grade). And one Saints’ fan voter who gave this workforce an F famous a choice for listening to their opponent’s radio broadcasts over this group.
22. Houston Texans (Marc Vandermeer, Andre Ware): 2.24
Most typical grade: B (34.8% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 75.0%
The Texans’ sales space recorded a 2.239, whereas the Saints’ recorded 2.233. Their 32 Bs had been essential to that.
Vandermeer noticed notable plaudits within the feedback. These included “nice voice” and “very strong,” though one respondent stated “Generally Marc will get too excited, however he doesn’t rise to Gus Johnson ranges,” and one other stated he “sounds previous.” As for Ware, he drew reward like “professional,” but in addition criticism resembling “not good” and “barely follows the workforce.” One voter did criticize the perceived bias of the general sales space, saying, “They fight means too exhausting to be cool. Over-the-top homers.”
21. Pittsburgh Steelers (Rob King, Max Starks): 2.30
Most typical grade: C (34.0% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 79.4%
The Steelers’ sales space jumped away from the cluster of groups beneath them attributable to a better share of A/B/C grades. They acquired 16 As, 28 Bs, and simply 10 Fs.
There weren’t many feedback on this group, however the ones there have been centered on King, who was named to the play-by-play position forward of final season following Invoice Hillgrove’s retirement after 30 years. One A-voting respondent opined, “King is a large improve over Invoice Hillgrove,” however one other reader who gave this workforce a D wrote, “Common. Might have seemed outdoors of their TV sports activities anchor.”
20. Buffalo Payments (Chris Brown, Eric Wooden): 2.33
Most typical grade: C (37.4% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 80.8%
This workforce drew 17 As and 26 Bs from 99 votes. Additionally they solely pulled in eight Fs.
These feedback noticed loads of criticism for Brown. That included “Chris Brown is unbearable,” Eric Wooden is an effective analyst, Brown appears like a highschool announcer,” and “Eric Wooden is nice, however he’s introduced down by the brutal play-by-play voice of Brown” (all on D grades). A barely milder model (from a C voter) was “Love how a lot Chris loves and embodies the workforce, however his precise broadcasting abilities are a bit of lackluster for the NFL degree.” However an A voter praised the sales space’s “nice power.”
19. Los Angeles Chargers (Matt “Cash” Smith, Daniel Jeremiah): 2.34
Most typical grade: C (27.6% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 75.2%
The Chargers’ sales space earned 29 Cs from 105 votes, but in addition 28 As. Their 16 Fs prevented them from rising increased, although.
The feedback right here acquired loads of criticism for Smith. Three feedback from F voters included “Smith is admittedly boring. Painfully boring,” “Dangerous grade primarily as a result of Smith has an amazing radio voice, however he’s not a play-by-play man,” and “I’ve completely no thought the place the ball is or the sport scenario with Smith calling the sport. Simply the worst within the NFL.” A D voter discovered the group “tries means too exhausting to work in pre-staged strains,” and a C voter preferred Jeremiah however not Smith. However there have been additionally folks with excessive reward for the sales space, resembling “Each are glorious. Smith has actually grown into the job.”
18. San Francisco 49ers (Man Haberman, Tim Ryan; additionally Justin Allegri, Troy Clardy, Carlos Ramirez, and Jack Smith on play-by-play, all filling in for Greg Papa): 2.34
Most typical grades: B and C (28.0% of votes every)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 76.3%
The 49ers have maybe probably the most uncommon radio sales space in the intervening time, tabbing all kinds of play-by-play figures to fill in for Greg Papa as he battles most cancers. This group edged the Chargers 2.344 to 2.343.
Many feedback expressed sympathy for Papa and wished he might return quickly. Of his replacements, Smith drew particular person reward (“A++++”), however some disliked the wide-ranging substitute technique, with one D voter writing, “Rotating voices won’t ever grade extremely.” Ryan acquired notable compliments himself, although, together with “Tim Ryan is ideal. Intense and passionate and an actual ball-knower” and “Tim Ryan is type of a meathead, however he is excellent at explaining the sport and why issues occurred.”
17. Carolina Panthers (Anish Shroff, Jim Szoke; additionally rotating analysts together with Jake Delhomme, Luke Kuechly, Jordan Gross, Kurt Coleman, Jonathan Stewart, and Kevin Donalley): 2.37
Most typical grade: B (32.7% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 74.0%
The Panthers even have many figures listed right here, however most are rotating analysts who typically be a part of the principle workforce of Shroff and Szoke. There are different occasions the place it’s Shroff with two of those visitor analysts, although. This group acquired 34 Bs out of 104 whole votes.
The feedback right here noticed loads of debate over Shroff. One A voter discovered him “a wonderful addition, with the correct mix of ardour and data” (he’s held this position since 2022), however others had been extra important. Traces there included “the weak hyperlink; wonderful for TV, not an excellent match for an area radio ‘homer’ position” and “one other double-duty announcer working quite a bit on Fridays in CFB, however gentle on character.”
Different respondents criticized this total setup as “too many individuals” and “too inconsistent.” However there was some reward for Delhomme and Kuechly. One F voter took exception to the sales space’s total homerism, although, saying, “The best way the asserting workforce at all times talks about ‘us’ and ‘we’ in-game versus saying Panthers or Carolina is totally unprofessional. Terrible to hearken to.”
16. Los Angeles Rams (J.B. Lengthy, Maurice Jones-Drew): 2.38
Most typical grade: B (30.1% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 78.5%
A better share of A/B/C grades was essential to getting the Rams away from the Panthers, 2.376 to 2.365. This group drew 28 Bs and 27 Cs from 93 votes.
The feedback on this sales space had been restricted. One A voter discovered them a “very robust workforce total” and praised Lengthy for balancing this position together with his faculty soccer work, however a B voter stated he “wants to present down and distance faster.”
15. Seattle Seahawks (Steve Raible, Dave Wyman): 2.38
Most typical grade: C (31.4% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 80.2%
The Seahawks’ sales space narrowly beat out the Rams, 2.384 to 2.376. They pulled that off regardless of having extra Cs than Bs, because of a excessive variety of As.
The dialogue round this workforce largely centered on Raible. Commendations for him included “Excessive-level play-by-play, particularly for a former participant and TV anchor” and “Raible’s the GOAT.” However a C voter stated he’s “misplaced a step,” and an F voter stated, “Raible stumbles by way of broadcasts, and makes up for errors by yelling much more.”
As for Wyman, a D voter stated, “Wyman is nice, and the one factor that pushes this group over an F,” and a B voter referred to as him “a enjoyable analyst with a singular participant perspective.” However he took criticism as effectively. One notable comment was “A fantastic speak present host, however brings subsequent to nothing to the published sales space. He’s been a giant step again from Warren Moon. Massive disappointment.”
14. Kansas Metropolis Chiefs (Mitch Holthus, Danan Hughes): 2.42
Most typical grade: A (31.9% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 74.3%
The Chiefs’ group was extra polarizing than many on this ballot. They earned 36 As on 113 votes, together with 12 Ds and 17 Fs.
A lot of the dialog in these feedback was about Holthus. There was a good bit of reward for him, together with: “I’ll by no means be unbiased on this, however Mitch’s voice holds a foundational place in my mind and coronary heart,” “Mitch is the GOAT,” “strong play-by-play description,” and “nonetheless pretty much as good as they arrive.”
Nonetheless, others had been extra important of Holthus. Traces there included “Mitch has been unhealthy endlessly. Simply yelling and foolish catchphrases” and “At one cut-off date, Holthus was in all probability an excellent announcer, however that point is lengthy, lengthy, previous. He has devolved right into a one-man circus of shouting nonsensical catch phrases like he’s attempting out to be on SportsCenter in 1995.” As for Hughes, one voter stated he’s “a step down from former analyst Kendall Gammon,” noting that the published additionally misses long-time studio host Artwork Hains, who retired after final season.
13. Cincinnati Bengals (Dan Hoard, Dave Lapham): 2.46
Most typical grade: C (29.5% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 80.4%
In distinction to the Chiefs’ sales space beneath them, the Bengals’ group acquired fewer extremely polarizing grades. They drew 27 As and 11 Fs from 112 votes.
The feedback right here noticed important accolades for the duo. That included “Hoard is the most effective within the enterprise, and Lapham’s unbridled enthusiasm is an ideal match,” “No person higher than Dan Hoard, and Dave is a wealth of soccer information,” and “Love listening to Dan Hoard paint an image and Lap’s enthusiasm.” Some additional constructive remarks included “Dan Hoard and Dave Lapham are the best sales space within the nation. Dan is the most effective within the enterprise, and Dave is so keen about this workforce,” and “Hoard is the last word professional, and Lapham is polarizing, however the ardour works if you happen to assist the workforce.”
Others weren’t as excessive on Lapham, although. Some damaging remarks there included “Lapham must cease yelling mid-play,” “Lapham can’t assist himself speaking over Hoard at any time when the Bengals have an amazing play,” and “Lapham simply screams throughout Hoard and appears like a drunken fan at a bar.” As for Hoard, that final commenter (who gave a F) additionally opined, “Hoard doesn’t have a soccer voice.”
12. Denver Broncos (Dave Logan, Rick Lewis): 2.54
Most typical grade: B (32.1% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 83.0%
The Broncos’ sales space earned 36 Bs from 112 votes. Additionally they pulled in 27 As and 30 Cs.
These remarks had been primarily filled with reward for long-time Broncos’ voice Logan. A few of that included “Dave Logan is insightful, skilled, and passionate concerning the workforce. Higher to hearken to him than anybody on the community broadcast,” “Dave Logan is implausible, a Colorado establishment. Not a homer, however a person with a radical information of soccer,” and “a professional.”
Nonetheless, Lewis took extra criticism. Some strains there included “a basic rock DJ who offers no perception or soccer experience, only a horrible rent by KOA,” “Rick Lewis brings nothing to the desk, he’s a radio DJ; must discover a soccer knowledgeable,” and “Rick Lewis gives zero true insights into the sport. If the position is to have considered one of Dave’s buddies within the sales space, so be it. The printed suffers due to it.” Nonetheless, some discovered this total workforce “nice” or “legendary,” and one voter referred to as it “a Denver treasure.”
11. Cleveland Browns (Andrew Siciliano, Nathan Zegura): 2.57
Most typical grade: B (32.3% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 79.2%
This sales space earned 130 whole votes, tied with the Eagles for second-highest on this ballot (and behind solely the Giants). 36 of these had been As and 42 had been Bs.
A lot of the commentary right here centered on Siciliano taking on for longtime voice Jim Donovan forward of final season; Donovan retired attributable to a most cancers battle and handed away final October. Some remarks there included “Andrew could be very strong, nevertheless it’s exhausting to comply with within the footsteps of the late, nice Jim Donovan,” “Andrew needed to comply with a Cleveland icon within the late nice Jim Donovan, however thus far he’s maintaining the power,” and “Jim Donovan was excellent and considered one of a form, and Andrew is first rate, nevertheless it’s by no means been the identical since Jimmy retired after which handed.”
Others had been extra important of Siciliano, although. Some didn’t assume he’s made the shift from his previous NFL RedZone work effectively, with one voter commenting, “Andrew Siciliano was nice on NFL RedZone, however boy, he’s not an NFL recreation announcer” (on a F grade) and one other giving a C regardless of noting how they’d loved Siciliano in that different position. Some additional voters discovered him “horrible” and “the worst.”
As for Zegura, he took his personal warmth. A few of that included “Siciliano is unimaginable – Zegura, meh” (on a B grade), ” “A for Siciliano, D for Zegura” (additionally on a B grade), and “Zegura is a homer. He’s so unhealthy. Ruins calls” (on a F grade). However some felt the opposite means, providing strains resembling “Love Nathan, however Andrew is common at greatest. Can’t dwell as much as Jim Donovan or Nev Chandler’s legacy. Crew employed him when Jim was sick, however wants a serious improve.”
10. Minnesota Vikings (Paul Allen, Pete Bercich): 2.59
Most typical grade: A (38.3% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 71.9%
Getting into the highest 10, we now have a extremely polarizing sales space. They acquired 49 As on 128 votes, and 18 every of Ds and Fs.
These feedback usually revolved round Allen. There have been loads of compliments there, together with “That is an leisure enterprise and Paul Allen is without doubt one of the most entertaining play-by-play announcers within the recreation,” “Paul Allen is implausible, no announcer lives and dies together with his workforce’s efficiency like Paul does,” and “Paul Allen is the GOAT.” And a few who aren’t followers of this workforce weighed in with strains like “I believe Paul Allen is the most effective native radio play-by-play man within the NFL, and I’m not a Vikings fan,” and “Paul is so invested within the workforce by way of the ups and downs. My favourite announcer that isn’t my very own.”
Nonetheless, there have been much more criticisms of Allen. A few of these included “Paul Allen’s homer shtick will get in the best way of calling the sport. …There are lengthy patches of gameplay the place I don’t know the time left, down, distance, rating, and so on., after simply handing over” and “You’re both extremely entertained by Paul Allen, or extremely aggravated by Paul Allen. I’m extremely, extremely aggravated by Paul Allen.” And one F voter wrote a protracted remark blasting Allen’s perceived homerism, together with “Paul Allen has been gifted with an impressive voice and distinctive command of language that has put him within the place he holds as voice of the Vikings. However he’s, with out query, probably the most biased play-by-play broadcaster within the NFL. It doesn’t come shut. And it negatively impacts his potential to name the sport and provides the listener a high quality, clever broadcast.”
9. Chicago Bears (Jeff Joniak, Tom Thayer): 2.61
Most typical grade: A (34.2% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 78.3%
The Bears’ group earned 52 As from 152 votes. Nonetheless, 17 Ds and 16 Fs prevented them from rising increased.
Thayer drew extra reward than criticism in these feedback. A few of these strains included “I am going out of my method to hear on the radio due to Tom Thayer” and “nice as a shade commentator, very educated.” One other respondent discovered him “strong, if a little bit of a homer,” however one other voter stated, “Thayer’s evaluation is ok, however he lacks the character wanted to be among the many greatest.”
For Joniak, there have been some excessive plaudits as effectively. These included “an area treasure,” ” has labored diligently to develop into among the best,” and “has grown immensely into the gig and paints an amazing image.” However he drew intense condemnation from some as effectively, together with: ” the worst, after a play he takes endlessly to provide the new down and distance,” “provides an amazing flowering description of the play but no helpful data,” and “Joniak has at all times been miscast as a play-by-play man.” However others preferred the general sales space, providing strains resembling “greatest within the enterprise” and “very cohesive.”
8. Atlanta Falcons (Wes Durham, David Archer): 2.65
Most typical grade: B (37.6% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 82.1%
Whereas the Falcons’ sales space noticed a most typical grade of B (44 of 117 votes), additionally they acquired 30 As. Additionally they solely pulled in seven Fs.
The feedback right here had been largely lauding Durham. A number of praised how he balances this work together with his CFB play-by-play for the ACC Community, saying, “Durham works double obligation with ACC TV Saturday nights, however is the constant sound of the Falcons,” and “Wes Durham on TV and Wes Durham on radio each are treats to hearken to.” One other voter most well-liked him on this position, saying, “Durham’s bread and butter is radio, a lot better than his TV stuff.” Different strains included “Wes is a professional. Love his cadence, doesn’t overtalk,” “Wes paints an incredible image and is extraordinarily skilled,” and “Wes is just the most effective within the enterprise and I’m not a Falcons fan.”
7. Dallas Cowboys (Brad Sham, Babe Laufenberg): 2.66
Most typical grade: A (32.8% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 81.9%
The Cowboys narrowly edged out the Falcons, 2.655 to 2.650. This group drew 38 As and 34 Bs from 116 votes.
A lot of the reward right here was for Sham’s almost 5 many years on these broadcasts. He began with the Cowboys’ radio workforce in 1976 as the colour analyst alongside Verne Lundquist, then shifted to play-by-play in 1984 (after Lundquist left for CBS) and has held that position since, besides for 3 seasons within the Nineties. Traces on him included “a legend each in Dallas and nationally.” He additionally drew reward for his candor, together with “Brad has reached the purpose the place he says what he thinks unfiltered, and it’s so entertaining” and “Brad is getting cranky in his previous age, and it’s a pleasure to hearken to.” However some did opine that he’s not at his peak.
Laufenberg, who has usually labored on these broadcasts since 1996 with a one-year break in 2006, additionally acquired particular person compliments. A few of these included “persistently strong together with his observations” and “an amazing analyst.” And a few voters most well-liked Laufenberg to Sham, saying “Babe is nice, however Sham has dragged this broadcast down for a decade” (on a D grade) and “Babe is fabulous and drags Brad as much as a C” (additionally on a D grade). However many preferred each of them, with one explicit standout remark of “Sham and Laufenberg are doing a radio present, there simply occurs to be soccer on within the background. Essentially the most entertaining broadcast within the NFL and presumably all {of professional} sports activities.”
6. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Gene Deckerhoff, Dave Moore): 2.80
Most typical grade: A (34.3% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 83.8%
There was a giant grade soar for this sales space from the No. 7 Cowboys. A key a part of that was that they drew solely six Fs from 86 votes. Additionally they earned 34 As and 33 Bs.
Many of those feedback centered on Deckerhoff’s lengthy tenure on these broadcasts, which dates again to 1989. Some remarks on him included “Gene doesn’t get almost sufficient respect for a way lengthy he’s accomplished this job at such a excessive degree,” “I can hearken to Gene Deckerhoff all day lengthy,” “a legend, at all times strong,” “an absolute treasure within the sales space,” and “the GOAT, endlessly entertaining.” However some criticized him as effectively, with varied voters opining that he’s “shedding his fastball a bit of,” is “making too many errors lately,” and “ought to have retired 10 years in the past.”
5. Detroit Lions (Dan Miller, Lomas Brown, T.J. Lang): 2.80
Most typical grade: B (33.1% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 87.1%
The Lions barely beat out the Buccaneers for a top-five slot, 2.7984 to 2.7980. This sales space earned 40 As and 41 Bs from 124 votes, and simply six Fs. Of word, Lang started working with this workforce as a sideline reporter in 2021, however many commenters famous that he’s now often within the sales space alongside Miller and Brown.
Miller drew loads of particular person reward. A few of that included “brings tons of pleasure,” “excellent,” “the most effective within the enterprise,” “nice description, excellent tone and timing and consciousness,” and “It has been a pleasure seeing Dan Miller name a sustained run of success after so many lean seasons.” Brown took extra criticism, together with “unlistenable” and “brings nothing to the published.” However Lang acquired plaudits, together with “a pleasant addition” and “nice.”
4. Philadelphia Eagles (Merrill Reese, Mike Fast): 2.98
Most typical grade: A (50.8% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 83.8%
The Eagles’ sales space earned a large 66 A votes out of 130 whole ballots. Additionally they drew 30 Bs. However 13 Fs had been a part of the rationale they didn’t rise any increased.
A lot of the dialogue right here was concerning the longevity of Reese and Fast. Reese has been engaged on these broadcasts since 1977 (initially as a shade commentator, however he switched to play-by-play earlier than the top of that 12 months following the loss of life of Charlie Swift), whereas Fast has been paired with him since 1998. Many expressed appreciation for his or her many years of labor, with strains resembling “Extremely, Merrill Reese can nonetheless do that at such a excessive degree; at 83 years previous, he’s barely misplaced a step. … Mike Fast can be an amazing shade commentator, they usually work so effectively as a workforce (which shouldn’t be shocking after 27 years).”
A few folks steered Reese could not be at his peak, however even these feedback had been usually constructive concerning the tandem. Different strains in reward of them included “Merrill Reese is just considered one of one. An amazing broadcaster with a basic sound and nice learn on the sport. He stays as sharp and as elegant as ever,” “Reese is the gold commonplace,” and “Merrill Reese is a Philly icon. Whereas he’s an unapologetic fan and homer, he additionally doesn’t hesitate to name the workforce out for poor play or teaching. Merrill and Mike paint an excellent image of what’s occurring on the sphere and deal with their listeners with respect.”
3. New York Jets (Bob Wischusen, Anthony Becht): 3.03
Most typical grade: A (44.6% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 89.3%
The important thing to this sales space’s top-three putting was the restricted variety of low grades they acquired. They drew simply six Ds and 7 Fs from 121 votes. Additionally they drew 54 As.
Most of the feedback right here provided excessive reward for Wischusen. A few of that included “In what’s a deep expertise pool of native radio NFL play-by-play voices, Bob Wischusen is the perfect, and he’s been the most effective factor concerning the Jets group for a protracted, very long time,” “Wischusen is superb doing faculty and the NFL,” and “Bob is the most effective. It sucks the workforce can’t play effectively sufficient for him to name playoff video games.” Becht, who stepped into this position forward of final season following Marty Lyons’ transition into an envoy position, additionally drew some reward.
2. Arizona Cardinals (Dave Pasch, A.Q. Shipley): 3.10
Most typical grade: A (45.1% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 92.6%
The Cardinals’ group acquired the very best share of A, B, and C grades on this ballot. They earned 55 As from 122 votes. Additionally they picked up simply two Ds and 7 Fs.
Pasch drew a number of explicit compliments in these feedback. A few of these included “as strong as they arrive” and “elite.” However one reader stated he’s “a horrible announcer on no matter he’s doing, interval.”
As for Shipley, who’s in his first season on this position, changing Ron Wolfley (who retired in February after 20 years within the sales space), he additionally drew some notable reward. Traces there included “Nobody ‘replaces’ R. Wolfley, however A.Q. appears like a seasoned professional already” and “AQ brings loads of intelligence to his recreation evaluation.”
1. Inexperienced Bay Packers (Wayne Larrivee, Larry McCarren): 3.11
Most typical grade: A (49.6% of votes)
Proportion of A/B/C grades: 87.6%
The Packers topped this ballot because of receiving probably the most As, 68 from 137 ballots. Additionally they drew 44 Bs. Nonetheless, 11 folks gave them Fs. This sales space narrowly beat out Arizona’s workforce for first, 3.109 to three.098.
Many feedback right here centered on lauding Larrivee, who has been calling these Packers’ broadcasts since 1999, following earlier work for the Chiefs and Bears. Some strains there included “nonetheless has his fastball, and I’d name him the most effective total native announcer within the NFL,” “prime notch,” and ” a top-tier play-by-play man who hits the large moments so effectively and brings each ardour and poise with how he calls the sport.”
Among the feedback on McCarren, who has been on these broadcasts since 1995, weren’t as constructive. A couple of remarks to that impact on B grades included “The one factor that stops this from being an A is Larry, who will get in the best way a bit too usually in huge moments and will do extra with the evaluation” and “Larrivee continues to be an ‘A,’ however McCarren drags the entire enterprise down by mumbling his evaluation and shouting over Wayne’s huge calls.”
Nonetheless, the general sentiment concerning the sales space was nonetheless robust, with feedback resembling “an establishment in Wisconsin” and “These guys are increased grade than A.”
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