ESPN has made significant adjustments to its Thanksgiving programming, leading to the absence of the popular Pat McAfee Show from its usual slot. Typically airing from 12 PM to 2 PM ET on weekdays, McAfee’s show will not be seen on ESPN from Wednesday through Friday, a change that has fans buzzing.
What’s Happening This Thanksgiving?
This Thanksgiving, ESPN is opting for live sports over its regular talk show format. On Thursday, college basketball will take center stage, while Friday will feature college football. In light of these changes, the Pat McAfee Show will only air on Monday and Tuesday in its regular time slot, before being pushed to ESPN2 on Wednesday. This means that loyal viewers will miss out on their daily dose of McAfee’s lively commentary on Thanksgiving and Black Friday.
Why the Change?
So, why is ESPN making these adjustments? The network aims to cater to sports fans who are eager to enjoy live action during the holiday season. It’s a time when families gather around to watch games, and ESPN is keen to capitalize on that enthusiasm. By prioritizing live sports, ESPN is ensuring that fans have plenty to cheer for as they celebrate the holiday.
Programming Highlights
Despite the absence of McAfee’s show, ESPN will maintain its regular programming schedule for other popular shows. First Take, hosted by Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith, will continue to air in its usual time slot throughout the week. Additionally, Get Up! will kick off the mornings at 8 AM ET on both Thursday and Friday.
Fans of McAfee can still catch him on College GameDay on Saturday at 9 AM ET, where he will bring his signature energy and insights to the college football landscape. However, his co-star, Kirk Herbstreit, is in for a hectic weekend.
Kirk Herbstreit’s Busy Schedule
Kirk Herbstreit, a key figure in college football broadcasting, will be juggling multiple commitments this Thanksgiving weekend. He typically calls Thursday Night Football on Amazon Prime, but due to a scheduling change, NBC will take over that slot. This means Herbstreit will have to hustle from Arrowhead Stadium, where the Kansas City Chiefs will face the Las Vegas Raiders on Black Friday at 3 PM ET, to the site of College GameDay the following morning.
Imagine the late-night commute! It’s a testament to the dedication of these sports commentators who work tirelessly to bring fans the best coverage possible.
Looking Ahead
After the holiday weekend, ESPN will return to its regular programming on Monday, December 2. The Pat McAfee Show will resume its midday slot, providing fans with the entertaining and insightful commentary they’ve come to love.
In addition to McAfee’s return, ESPN will feature its usual studio shows in the afternoon, leading up to a thrilling Monday Night Football matchup. Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, and their crew will be in Denver, where the Broncos will take on the Cleveland Browns.
Pat McAfee’s Legacy
For those unfamiliar with Pat McAfee’s background, he enjoyed a stellar career as an NFL punter before transitioning to media. Drafted in the seventh round in 2009 out of West Virginia, McAfee played for the Indianapolis Colts for eight seasons, earning Pro Bowl selections in 2014 and 2016. He holds the unique NFL record for the highest career net average punting yards at 41.4 yards, with his longest punt reaching an impressive 74 yards.
This journey from the field to the studio has allowed McAfee to connect with fans in a new way, showcasing his personality and knowledge of the game. His show has become a staple for many football enthusiasts, blending humor with insightful analysis.
What’s Next for Fans?
As Thanksgiving approaches, fans are left wondering how they will fill the void of the Pat McAfee Show during the holiday. While it may be a disappointment for some, there’s still plenty of football action to enjoy. The college basketball and football lineups promise to deliver exciting moments for sports fans across the nation.
Moreover, the return of McAfee’s show on December 2 will surely be met with enthusiasm, as fans eagerly await his take on the latest NFL happenings. With the holiday season upon us, there’s no shortage of thrilling matchups and engaging content to keep fans entertained.
In summary, while the absence of the Pat McAfee Show during Thanksgiving may be felt, ESPN is committed to bringing live sports to its viewers. With a packed schedule of college basketball and football, fans can still enjoy the excitement of the holiday weekend. So, gather your family, grab some snacks, and get ready for a fantastic lineup of sports action!
