Phil Simms Returns to the Broadcast Booth: Exciting College Football Season Ahead

Giants legend Phil Simms is stepping back into the spotlight as he joins NBC Sports to cover Big Ten college football games this season. Known for his impressive career as a quarterback and his extensive broadcasting experience, Simms is poised to bring his expertise back to fans eager for thrilling football action.

Phil Simms’ New Role at NBC Sports

• Game Schedule: Simms will be an analyst for three Big Ten matchups:
  • Illinois vs. Western Illinois on August 29
  • Rutgers vs. Miami (OH) on September 6
  • A third game announcement is to be made, alongside play-by-play announcer Paul Burmeister.

A Warm Welcome Back

“I am very happy to be working again for NBC Sports doing college football games," said Simms. "I have had a great relationship with Paul Burmeister over many years, so I know it will be fun and exciting to work with him. I appreciate NBC for giving me this opportunity and can’t wait for the college football season to start.”

Phil Simms: A Brief Career Overview

Simms, who led the New York Giants to victory in Super Bowl XXI and was named Super Bowl MVP, has a rich history both on the field and in the broadcast booth.

• Playing Career: His stint as a player ended in 1993, after which he transitioned to broadcasting.
• Broadcasting Journey:
  • ESPN: Served as a studio analyst in 1994.
  • NBC Sports: Became part of NBC’s lead broadcast crew alongside Dick Enberg and Paul Maguire.
  • During CBS’s acquisition of the AFC package in 1998, Simms joined CBS and worked with acclaimed announcers such as Greg Gumbel and Jim Nantz.

Extensive Experience in Major Events

Simms’s broadcasting portfolio includes:

• Commentating on eight Super Bowls.
• Serving as a sideline reporter during NBA games and announcing weightlifting at the 1996 Olympics.

Departure from CBS and New Beginnings

After spending 26 years at CBS, Simms departed alongside former teammate Boomer Esiason in 2023. This change comes amid a significant overhaul at CBS Sports, leading to new talents like Matt Ryan and J.J. Watt taking over the reins.

“Nobody asked me, talked to me, or anything like that,” Simms remarked on the Front Office Sports Today podcast in May 2024 regarding his exit. "The longer you wait, the more you know it’s not gonna work out in your favor.”

Father and Son in the Booth

Interestingly, Simms will not be the only family member calling Big Ten games this season. His son, Chris Simms, a former NFL quarterback, will also contribute as an analyst.

Reactions from NBC Sports

“We’re excited to welcome Phil back to the NBC Sports team,” stated Sam Flood, executive producer at NBC Sports. “Phil is an elite analyst who gives the viewers the ‘why’ of the game while ensuring a captivating viewing experience. We look forward to having him back on the call for Peacock.”

What This Means for College Football Fans

Phil Simms’s return is generating excitement among college football fans. NBC Sports is committed to delivering engaging and insightful coverage of the Big Ten, and Simms’s vast experience will undoubtedly enhance the viewing experience.

As the college football season approaches, fans can anticipate a fresh perspective and in-depth analysis from one of the game’s most seasoned commentators.

For more exciting updates regarding the Big Ten and college football coverage, visit NBC Sports and stay tuned for the upcoming games featuring Phil Simms.