It has been a busy week at ESPN. In addition to launching a new show with Ahmad Rashad, covering the NBA Finals and extending contracts for Joey Galloway and Paul Finebaum, the network has expanded its Monday Night Football broadcast crew. Over the next three seasons, Peyton Manning and Eli Manning will lead an alternate Monday Night Football broadcast crew on ESPN 2.
“This partnership with ESPN and The Walt Disney Company reflects an ongoing, shared commitment to offering fans fun, innovative content,” Peyton Manning said about the new venture.
“ESPN+ has been a terrific partner for Omaha Productions [Manning’s production company] as we built out The Places franchise and we’re excited to co-create a new MegaCast format that will have something for everyone.”
The alternate broadcast will feature a cast of former players, celebrities and ESPN talent discussing football, culture and more throughout ten games of each of the next three seasons. ESPN has yet to name a host for the alternate broadcast.
On its main network, ESPN will continue to have Steve Levy, Brian Griese, Louis Riddick, Lisa Salters and John Parry provide “traditional” coverage.
“Offering multiple Monday Night Football viewing options for the next three seasons continues our innovation efforts and provides additional value for our fans,” ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro added.
“Peyton and Eli will bring a different approach, delving into conversation about broader, big-picture topics while also honing in on the game, much like fans do when watching with their family and friends.”
The alternate broadcast will debut on September 13 as the Baltimore Ravens visit the Raiders in Las Vegas.
Peyton and Eli Manning will headline a Monday Night FootballMegaCast on ESPN2 and ESPN+ for three seasons through their new agreement. ESPN will produce it in conjunction with Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions. It’s slated for 10 games each season, starting this year. pic.twitter.com/sYSdjzhn0I
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 19, 2021
