For those who wished the NFL Network would do away with Matt Millen and Joe Theismann in the broadcast booth, your prayers have been answered.
According to Richard Deitsch of SI.com, Mike Mayock has been added to NFL Network’s Thursday Night Football broadcast team, effectively replacing Millen and Theismann.
Neither NFLN or the NFL could be reached for comment. A formal announcement isn’t expected for “a number of weeks.”
Mayock, considered by many as one of television’s best and most respected draft analysts, was passed over by the network last year in favor of Theismann. To put it bluntly, it was a bad move on their part, as Theismann once again showed why he’s not cut out for commentating duty.
NFL Network is also looking to upgrade their play-by-play man.
Bob Papa, the local voice of the New York Giants, has held the job for the last two seasons, but could soon be replaced by CBS’ ever-exciting announcer, Gus Johnson.
Johnson, who covers NFL and NCAA basketball telecasts, has gained popularity for his intense personality and sensationally loud calls. In addition to working with CBS, Johnson was also the play-by-play announcer for EA Sports’ Madden 2011 video game.
Assuming there’s a season to begin with, it’d be every NFL fans’ dream to hear the Johnson-Mayock tandem. Not only would it be a monumental step up from last year’s monotonous trio, but their personalities — and specialties — would complement one another perfectly.
Hopefully we don’t have to mute the television on Thursday nights anymore.
