Al Michaels Fires Back at Critics Who Have Been Upset With His ‘TNF’ Calls

Legendary play-by-play broadcaster Al Michaels fired back at critics in an interview with New York Post media reporter Andrew Marchand.

Michaels, 78, has been criticized for his Thursday Night Football broadcasts being low-energy, with many calling for the longtime former Sunday Night Football broadcaster to retire. But Michaels says there’s “no question” in his mind that he’ll continue broadcasting games for Amazon next season to complete his three-year contract with the network, and pushed back on the assertions that he isn’t bringing his ‘A’ game.

Al Michaels walks on the field before the game between the Tennessee Titans and the Dallas Cowboys at Nissan Stadium.

Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

“I don’t think I’m a lot different than I have been through the years,” Michaels said. “And if people you know want to say that, ‘Al doesn’t sound as excited.’ Hold on a second, folks. I’m doing the same game I’ve always done.”

Michaels asked Marchand himself what he thought of the job he was doing. Marchand likened him to a former hard-throwing pitcher now throwing about 85 miles per hour, which Michaels called “fair” but did push back on somewhat.

Whether Michaels is slowing down or not, don’t expect a retirement tour when he does walk away from calling games.

“No, no, no, no, no,” Michaels said. “Look, when I’m done, it’s the way John Madden was done. Two words and a contraction: ‘It’s time.’ I don’t need any parade or that nonsense.”