Last updated : Saturday, 25 November 2023
Introduction
Monday Night Football (MNF) is the branding used for broadcasts of National Football League (NFL) games that primarily broadcast on Monday nights. ESPN has aired MNF games since 2006, while sister network ABC has simulcast or exclusively aired games since 2020.
The first MNF game was played on September 19, 1970, and featured the New York Jets against the Cleveland Browns. The game was a ratings success, and MNF quickly became one of the most popular television programs in the United States.
MNF has been the subject of several controversies over the years. In 1985, Howard Cosell, one of the original MNF announcers, was fired after making controversial comments about NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle. In 2006, ESPN was criticized for its decision to move MNF to cable television, away from the more widely available over-the-air networks.
Despite the controversies, MNF remains one of the most popular and watched television programs in the United States. The game is known for its high-quality production and commentary, and it has helped to make the NFL one of the most popular sports in the world.
History
The idea for Monday Night Football was first proposed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle in 1964. Rozelle wanted to create a national television game that would help to boost the NFL's popularity.
The first MNF game was played on September 19, 1970, and featured the New York Jets against the Cleveland Browns. The game was a ratings success, and MNF quickly became one of the most popular television programs in the United States.
The original MNF announcing team consisted of Keith Jackson, "Dandy" Don Meredith, and Howard Cosell. Jackson was the play-by-play announcer, Meredith was the color commentator, and Cosell was the sideline reporter.
The MNF announcing team has changed several times over the years. Some of the other notable MNF announcers have included Al Michaels, John Madden, and Chris Berman.
Broadcasting
MNF has been broadcast by several different networks over the years. The game was originally broadcast by CBS from 1970 to 1975. It then moved to ABC from 1976 to 2005. In 2006, MNF moved to ESPN, where it has remained ever since.
ESPN has simulcast MNF with ABC since 2020. This means that the game is available to viewers on both cable and broadcast television.
Sources
- Monday Night Football (Wikipedia)
- History of Monday Night Football (ESPN)
- The Story of the First-Ever Monday Night Football Game (Sports History Network)
