Fans tuning into Amazon Prime Video for the “Thursday Night Football” matchup between the Carolina Panthers and the Chicago Bears couldn’t help but notice a familiar sentiment regarding legendary play-by-play man Al Michaels.
Throughout the season, Michaels has faced criticism for what some perceive as a lack of enthusiasm and energy in his broadcasts. Viewers during this particular game took to social media to express their observations, pointing out Michaels’ apparent disinterest and even suggesting he seemed a bit drowsy.
Amazon has Jason Kelce in the booth right now for Panthers-Bears, as if this is a preseason game, and frankly, this picture is the happiest Al Michaels has been all season. pic.twitter.com/H8xKGIoj3k
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 10, 2023
Everyone gives Al Michaels a tough time, but these games are hard to watch. How can you expect anyone to be excited about these game? #TNFonPrime #NFL
— Clint Irle (@ClintIrle_117) November 10, 2023
Nice of Al Michaels to sound excited for that one
— #FIREHOWIE #FIREDESAI (@Schnefzel) November 10, 2023
Al Michaels was legitimately more excited about the downed punt at the 1 rather than the punt return TD. #TNF #CARvsCHI
— Nick Pennebaker (@pennebaker) November 10, 2023
You can tell Al Michaels is bored when they spend the whole game talking about another team #TNFonPrime
— Eric (@EricVeeee) November 10, 2023
Al Michaels sounds perpetually bored @NFL @NFLonPrime
— Varsity 38 (@CBW556) November 10, 2023
Sleepy Al Michaels sounds like he’s doing a broadcast for Golf.
— Somer Himpson (@SomerHimpson22) November 10, 2023
Interestingly, the game had significant implications for the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. With the Bears holding the Carolina Panthers’ first-round pick in 2024, a Panthers win would significantly boost their chances in the Caleb Williams sweepstakes.
For Al Michaels, it was a game that might not go down in history for its excitement. Hang in there, Al – chances are, you won’t be calling a more uneventful game anytime soon.