The first Army-Navy game broadcast on television was in 1945 and was seen nationally on NBC with Red Barber calling the action. The game continues to attract a large, casual fan base because of the pageantry and tradition of this unique rivalry. Since 1996, CBS has been the television home of the game, and for the third straight year the coverage will be handled by the network’s top college football broadcast team of Verne Lundquist, Gary Danielson and Tracy Wolfson. Lundquist discussed being a part of this historic game.
You have done hundreds of college football games. What makes this one special?
Lundquist » “Because the game unites the country, the records don’t matter, but who wins surely does. It is a game that is so important to the troops no matter if they are here the United States or overseas because they get a full year of the bragging rights. For those who aren’t football fans, I encourage you to watch the entering to the stadium of the cadets and the midshipmen. It is one of the most moving things you will ever see.”
Navy is not bowl eligible this year, but how have the Midshipmen turned their program around?
Lundquist » “The winning started with Paul Johnson and has continued with Ken Niumatalolo. They found a winning system that worked for them. Very few teams run the multiple-option offense that they do, and they find the athletes that make it work. I know they are disappointed they did not get to a bowl this season, but they have established a winning program, and that is not going away.”
Examiner columnist Jim Williams is a seven-time Emmy Award-winning TV producer, director and writer. Check out his blog, Watch this!, on washingtonexaminer.com.
