It’s a whole new world for the beloved whip-around show NFL RedZone.
Two weeks ago, the famously commercial-free program decided to experiment with a double box that featured a game on one side of the screen and an advertisement on the other. Viewers were outraged, especially considering that longtime RedZone host Scott Hanson recited his regular catchphrase of “seven hours of commercial-free football,” at the beginning of the show.
Hanson’s accidental deception led him to issue an apology to fans later that week. Since then, reporting has surfaced that NFL Media is experimenting with the inclusion of advertisements on RedZone, but is ultimately undecided as to whether commercials will be a permanent fixture. RedZone did not air any advertisements last week, nor does it plan to for the remainder of the season per reporting by Sportico.
The commercial kerfuffle did lead to one immediate change to RedZone‘s program, however. Instead of saying “seven hours of commercial-free football” to begin his program, Hanson is now saying “seven hours of RedZone football.” That slight alteration was said again on Sunday when Hanson kicked off the show.
It’s go time for seven hours of RedZone football pic.twitter.com/LnDdlS3oLx
— Mr Matthew CFB (@MrMatthew_CFB) December 29, 2024
Hanson’s continued use of the phrasing would seem to indicate that the NFL is still strongly considering adding ads to the program, even if not this season. There’s no other reason Hanson would continue to use the altered phrase if not.
NFL Media has made several moves in the past year to cut costs and generate more revenue, including significant layoffs, canceling shows, and syndicating its flagship morning program Good Morning Football. The league’s media arm is certainly leveraging its premier properties to make more money — RedZone included.
Whether the show begins the 2025 season with commercials will be something to monitor in the year ahead.
[X/@MrMatthew_CFB]
About Drew Lerner
Drew Lerner is a staff writer for Awful Announcing and an aspiring cable subscriber. He previously covered sports media for Sports Media Watch. Future beat writer for the Oasis reunion tour.