ManningCast Redefines Sports Broadcasting

By Eric Kasimov
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November 7, 2023

ManningCast: How Two Quarterbacks Are Redefining Sports Viewing

ManningCast has hit the sports world like a trick play. What started as two brothers chatting about the game has sparked a broadcast revolution, showing us a new way to enjoy sports – relaxed, unfiltered, and real.

The Start of ManningCast

Why ManningCast, and why now? It began in the heart of Denver, where Peyton Manning decided to do more than just watch football; he wanted to talk about it, share it, and live it with fans in a new way. Eli Manning, from his New Jersey base, joined in, and together they’ve created something that’s not just about the plays, but the players, the stories, the laughs, and the unscripted moments that make sports human.

Why It’s a Hit

ManningCast’s success is about connection. The Mannings, with their casual charm, have tapped into what fans crave: authenticity. They’re not talking at us; they’re talking with us, like old friends on the couch, diving into the game with a mix of expertise and humor that makes Monday nights feel like the weekend never ended.

Why It Works

People were ready for a change. Traditional sports broadcasting had become predictable. Then came ManningCast, breaking the mold with its laid-back vibe, giving us a window into the game through the eyes of those who’ve lived it. This authenticity is what viewers, tired of the same old commentary, were waiting for.

Media Companies: Taking Note

ManningCast’s success has sent waves across the media landscape, with companies looking to capture that same magic. But it’s tricky – not every game is fit for such a casual treatment. Sometimes, the seriousness of a playoff demands the gravity of traditional coverage. Yet, the trend is clear: people want personality with their plays, and media companies are scrambling to deliver. But the national media often consumes itself with their own corporate supply of nonsense. It leads to cringe-worthy content. Go watch the pregame shows and you’ll see what I mean.

Opportunities for the Little Guy

The Manning brothers might be NFL royalty, but their approach is something even the smallest content creators can emulate. They are an extreme example, but their production can be paired down. The key is authenticity and connection. For the YouTuber, podcaster, or blogger, it’s about turning your content into a conversation and inviting the audience to join in.

Education’s Response

But are the major institutions catching up? Schools renowned for producing the sports broadcasters of tomorrow need to pivot, teaching students not just how to report but how to relate. It’s no longer just about delivering the news; it’s about crafting a narrative and connecting with an audience on a personal level. By the way, it costs $73,000+ in tuition at Northwestern Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications.

Individuals: Seizing the Moment

For those of us without the fame of the Mannings, this is our cue. With platforms like YouTube, X, WordPress, Patreon, Substack, and even TikTok, we’ve got the stage to build our own brand of sports entertainment (or any entertainment for that matter). The key is to find your voice, your angle, and your audience – and speak directly to them, heart to heart.

Embracing the New Game

ManningCast is not just another sports show; it’s a lesson in evolution. It’s a wake-up call to the industry that the old play-by-play isn’t enough anymore. Fans are looking for a connection, for the feeling that they’re part of the game, part of the conversation. And as Peyton and Eli have shown, if you can bring that feeling home, you’ve got a hit on your hands.

Here’s how you as an individual can get in on the game:

Collaborate with a Veteran Player: Team up with a former athlete to host a live YouTube show. Share the screen and provide play-by-play commentary mixed with professional insights, personal anecdotes about the players, and strategic breakdowns.
Curate a Unique Live Tweet Experience (X): Instead of just tweeting the play-by-play, craft a unique narrative around the game. Whether it’s highlighting lesser-known player stories, offering high-level strategic insights, or just showcasing your unique humor, make your Twitter (X) feed the second screen fans don’t know they need—until they find it.
Create Your Own Game-Day Show: Whether it’s pregame predictions, halftime analyses, or post-game breakdowns, start your own live show across platforms like Facebook Live or Twitch. Encourage fan interaction by taking questions and offering shoutouts, creating a community around your content.
Run a Coach’s Corner: Focus on the tactical side of the game, specifically geared towards educating young and aspiring athletes. Break down plays, analyze techniques, and share tips through bite-sized content on Instagram stories or TikTok. Make it interactive; invite questions and provide feedback, helping viewers improve their own game.
Host Virtual Watch Parties: Use platforms like Discord or Zoom to host virtual watch parties. Provide live commentary as you watch, and create a space for fans to discuss the game in real-time. You can bring in guest speakers and build a tight-knit community of fans.
Create an Analytic Deep-Dive Series: After the game, provide in-depth analysis videos or blog posts. Use tools like game film and analytics software to break down key moments and strategies. This content can live on YouTube or a podcast, offering a more cerebral take on the usual highlight reel. Menace 2 Sports does a great job of this with their YouTube show and Patreon membership.

By taking these examples and applying your own spin to sports broadcasting, you can create a unique space in the sports media landscape. The key is engaging with your audience and providing a perspective or service they can’t get from traditional broadcasts. ManningCast redefines sports broadcasting and now the opportunity is yours, no matter your background or education.

Sources for ManningCast Redefines Sports Broadcasting:

USA Today