It was the most pivotal play in a game that lacked energy or excitement. The Colts, faced with a 4th-and-9 deep in their own territory, lined up to punt the ball away — only for Jonathan Jones to rush the line of scrimmage and block the kick. New Patriots special teams ace Brendan Schooler recovered the ball at Indianapolis’ 8-yard line, making it all the way to the goal line.
Unfortunately, CBS commentators Greg Gumbel and Adam Archuleta seemingly had no idea what was transpiring on the field. Gumbel said Brendan “Face-In” (or something like that) blocked the punt, which was wrong on multiple levels, beginning with the fact that he didn’t block it.
On replay, Gumbel correctly identified Jonathan Jones, but it was too late. Another play got away from CBS’ D team.
Gumbel has enjoyed a great multi-decade career in the booth. The eldest Gumbel even served as CBS’ lead NFL announcer for a stretch, working two Super Bowls.
But at 76 years old, his best days are behind him. He struggled to keep up with the action Sunday, much like when he and Archuleta called a Patriots game last season against the Titans.
At least this time, Gumbel didn’t confuse any Patriots defensive backs with “Justin Bethel.”
Archuleta was confused enough for both of them. The clueless color analyst kept putting emphasis on the wrong syllable in Matthew Ju-DON’s name.
It was quite annoy-ING.
The duo also struggled to pronounce center James Ferentz’ surname, and Archuleta called Mac Jones “Zach” on at least one occasion.
The most entertaining part of the telecast was the passive aggressive banter between Gumbel and Archuleta, such as when Archuleta said Indy wideout Paris Campbell should’ve dropped a pass that he caught several yards behind the line scrimmage.
“That goes against all of your instincts as a football player, does it not?,” Gumbel asked.
Archuleta verbally shrugged. “Yes,” he said, exuding the same defeatist attitude that viewers at home were experiencing as well.
This game, and broadcast, were quite forgettable.