Al Michaels Draws Criticism After Lackluster Call of Seahawks-Rams Thriller
Thursday night’s showdown between the Seahawks and Rams had all the ingredients of an instant classic - explosive plays, dramatic swings, and a wild overtime finish. Seattle edged out Los Angeles 38-37 in what many are calling the most thrilling game of the season so far. But while the action on the field delivered in a big way, the broadcast booth didn’t quite match the energy.
Veteran broadcaster Al Michaels, a name synonymous with some of the greatest moments in NFL history, found himself at the center of fan frustration after a noticeably subdued performance during the game. Despite a contest that featured highlight after highlight - including Zach Charbonnet’s jaw-dropping two-point conversion to tie the game and Rashid Shaheed’s electric punt return touchdown in the fourth quarter - Michaels’ commentary lacked the spark fans have come to expect from prime-time football.
At 81, Michaels is still one of the most recognizable voices in sports, but Thursday’s broadcast raised questions about whether his legendary run in the booth is nearing its final chapter. Viewers were quick to point out the disconnect between the game’s intensity and Michaels’ delivery, especially during pivotal moments like Puka Nacua’s go-ahead touchdown in overtime. That play should’ve been the crescendo of the night - instead, it felt more like a preseason score in August.
This isn’t the first time recently that fans have expressed concern. Just a week ago, Michaels was on the call for the Falcons’ walk-off win over the Buccaneers and drew similar criticism for a flat reaction to Zane Gonzalez’s game-winning field goal. In both games, the lack of urgency and emotion stood out, especially given the stakes and late-game drama.
Social media lit up with reactions, with fans voicing everything from concern to frustration. Some called for Michaels to consider stepping away, while others simply wished for more enthusiasm from a voice that once brought iconic moments to life with unforgettable energy.
To be clear, Al Michaels has nothing left to prove. His resume is etched into the fabric of American sports - from “Do you believe in miracles?”
to countless Super Bowl moments. He’s been the gold standard in NFL broadcasting for decades.
But as the game continues to evolve, and with younger, more animated voices entering the booth, fans are beginning to wonder if it’s time for a changing of the guard.
In a recent interview, Michaels acknowledged that his future in the booth is uncertain. He expressed a desire to continue through 2026, but admitted that it’s a “two-way street” - a nod to the reality that decisions like this often involve more than just personal preference.
For now, Michaels remains in the chair, and his legacy is secure. But Thursday night was a reminder that in today’s NFL, where every moment can go viral and every call is scrutinized, the energy in the booth matters just as much as the action on the field.