In the heart of New Orleans, the stage is set for a monumental event that will captivate millions of viewers across the country. Super Bowl LIX looms large, and amidst the glitz and glamor of the game, there exists a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed—the indispensable booth secret.
Behind the scenes, a crucial tool guides the narrative of the game, offering a lifeline of information to the broadcasters who bring the action to life. These tools, known as “boards,” are meticulously crafted sheets of heavy-stock paper laden with player names, numbers, statistics, and intriguing tidbits that serve as a commentator’s best friend in the heat of the moment.
As Fox prepares to broadcast the showdown between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday, the dynamic duo of Kevin Burkhardt and Tom Brady will take center stage in the announcer’s booth. While the viewers at home may not catch a glimpse of these elusive boards, their impact on the broadcast is immeasurable.
The Art of the Board: Crafting a Broadcast Masterpiece
Legendary Insights: The Anatomy of a Board
Jim Nantz, a seasoned CBS play-by-play announcer with seven Super Bowls under his belt, sheds light on the true nature of these study aids. Far from being scripts to be recited verbatim, these boards serve as gentle reminders and prompts for captivating storytelling. Nantz’s personal collection of boards, carefully preserved like prized possessions, speaks volumes about the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into their creation.
Drawing on the expertise of broadcasting icons like Troy Aikman and Dick Vermeil, it becomes clear that each commentator has a unique approach to board creation. Vermeil, in particular, is hailed as a virtuoso, transforming his boards into works of art that rival the vibrancy of a Bourbon Street king cake. His meticulous attention to detail, from team colors to injury status, showcases a level of dedication that sets the bar high for aspiring broadcasters.
Modern Innovations: From Paper to Pixels
In the digital age, the landscape of board creation has evolved, with modern broadcasters like Joe Buck and Mike Tirico embracing technology to streamline their process. Buck’s transition from handwritten reminders to digital tablets reflects a changing era in broadcasting, where adaptability and efficiency reign supreme. Meanwhile, Tirico’s reliance on laminated cards and backup tablets underscores the importance of preparedness in the fast-paced world of live sports coverage.
As broadcasting legends like Al Michaels continue to entrust their boards to trusted spotters like “Malibu” Kelly Hayes, the essence of these tools remains constant—a lifeline of essential information in a sea of sports action. Michaels’ minimalist approach to board content highlights the delicate balance between information overload and streamlined efficiency, ensuring that every detail serves a purpose in the grand scheme of the broadcast.
Curt Menefee’s humble beginnings in NFL Europe, scribbling names and numbers on torn paper bags, serve as a reminder of the journey from novice to seasoned professional. Even former NFL stars like Daryl Johnston have their share of board mishaps, from leaving them behind in hotel rooms to relying on last-minute FedEx deliveries. In the high-stakes world of live broadcasting, every detail matters, and the humble board remains a linchpin in the broadcast process.
As the countdown to Super Bowl LIX begins, the unseen heroes of the announcer’s booth stand ready, armed with their meticulously crafted boards and a wealth of knowledge at their fingertips. While the eyes of the world may be fixed on the gridiron, it’s the voices behind the scenes that truly bring the game to life, one board at a time.
