When ESPN Monday Football Executive Producer Jed Drake told me that “we think that Ron ‘Jaws’ Jaworski has the potential of being the next John Madden,” I had already been sold on Jaws’ talent.
There is no doubt that Jaws is clearly one of the best analysts in broadcasting. He is a blue collar kind of a guy who loves to talk football and does it with a passion and enthusiasm that is unmatched by his rivals.
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Jaws told me that he is having fun doing MNF but thinks that this season will be even better.
“I know that ESPN is giving me some tools that will enhance my ability to explain plays to the fans,” Jaworski said. “That means I get to really breakdown a number of plays. I can even look at how a play that did not work in the first quarter then shows the viewer later in the game why it hit for a TD in the fourth quarter.”
OK, we know about Jaws’ role in the MNF team, but what other changes can we look forward to starting with Packers-Vikings?
Talking to the ESPN Monday Night Football crew this week they could not be happier to be back. The network has done some serious research and they are going back to basics. It will be more football with no guests dropping by the booth or sideline reporters. Tony Kornheiser will be taking on a bit of a different role and, as always, the glue will be Mike Tirico, one of the best hosts in the business.
Kornheiser said of his comfort level in year three, “I really am beginning to feel comfortable in my role and it is because of Jaws and Mike. Last season Jaws and I had fun, but this season we have worked together to get better. Also, I look at the game not as analyst but as a writer and observer. It is less of the PTI role and more of the commentary that I did as columnist. I am someone who you know does not have fun, but I must say I am having fun now.”
Tirico is also looking forward to a fun season: “I have a great job. I simply call the game and then interact with Jaws and Tony. It is fun and to be able to do MNF. This show is something very special.”
I like the ESPN MNF “less is more” approach and they feel will be a big hit with the fans. On this one I must agree they took a good show and made it better.
Jim Williams is a seven-time Emmy Award-winning TV producer, director and writer. Check out his blog, Watch this! on dcexaminer.com.
