Sometimes, reporters have to get down and dirty to cover a story.
ESPN sideline reporter Harry Lyles Jr. followed that strategy Thursday night at Appalachian State’s Kidd Brewer Stadium, as the Mountaineers hosted South Alabama.
Late in the first half, with App State trailing 28-0, play-by-play announcer Matt Barrie checked in on Lyles.
“Let’s check in with Harry, see what he’s been up to,” Barrie said.
“I’m just rolling around, you know,” Lyles replied. Standing at the top of a muddy slope, wearing black-and-gold striped Mountaineers overalls, surrounded by chanting App State fans, it was clear things were ready to go off the rails.
Lyles launched himself down the slope, still holding his mic.
As Barrie and color analyst Dan Mullen chanted “Oh!” and “Nooooo!” Lyles slid down the slope and came to his feet in a throng of thrilled fans.
ESPN reporter Harry Lyles Jr. (@harrylylesjr) and cameraman Jason Greenberg went above and beyond (technically downhill, in a lot of mud) at App State.
Matt Barrie and Dan Mullen were very impressed with the effort. 🏈📺🎙️ pic.twitter.com/ZskEn6TR8S
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 20, 2024
But wait, cameraman Jason Greenberg slid down the hill right behind him, holding his camera, showing the crowd of Mountaineers fans growing ever closer.
“Now that is commitment to excellence by Harry Lyles,” Mullen said.
Barrie mentioned that the Emmy Awards might be interested in the video clip.
Game action rudely interrupted at that point, as South Alabama punted, but a minute or so later, Barrie cut in, “Now to our top story,” as the camera cut to Lyles sliding down the hill a second time.
“Much smoother the second time,” Mullen said.
Don’t worry, Lyles brought a change of clothes.
Getting back into uniform brb pic.twitter.com/gkB4IuffHi
— Harry Lyles Jr. (@harrylylesjr) September 20, 2024
[ESPN]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.