Phil Simms, the legendary Giants quarterback, is making a comeback to broadcasting following his departure from CBS.
Simms, who has been a familiar voice for NBC and CBS games from 1995 to 2016, will take part in three Big Ten college football games this season on Peacock through NBC Sports. The announcement was made on Tuesday.
He’s been assigned to cover games for Illinois on August 29, Rutgers against Miami (OH) on September 6, and a third undecided matchup, teaming up with play-by-play announcer Paul Burmeister.
“I’m really thrilled to be back in action, calling college football games for NBC Sports. I’ve always enjoyed working with Paul Burmeister, so I expect it to be fun and dynamic,” Simms expressed. “Thanks to NBC for this chance. I can’t wait for the season to kick off.”
Simms, who was named MVP of Super Bowl XXI, transitioned to ESPN as a studio analyst after his playing days with the Giants in 1993.
During his time with NBC, he was part of the leading broadcast team with Dick Enberg and Paul Maguire for three seasons, and they covered notable events like the 1995 Notre Dame-Texas game.
His experience extends to announcing weightlifting during the 1996 Olympics and serving as a sideline reporter for NBA games.
After CBS acquired the AFC package from NBC in 1998, they brought Simms on board, pairing him with Greg Gumbel and later with Jim Nantz.
He has provided analysis for eight Super Bowls but was eventually replaced by Tony Romo in the booth.
Simms also anchored CBS’s “The NFL Today” from 2017 until 2023, stepping away as part of a major network reinvention when his contract expired.
Having spent 26 years at CBS, he concluded his tenure alongside former Bengals quarterback Boomer Esiason, with Matt Ryan and J.J. Watt taking over in 2024.
No one, as Simms said, had directly inquired about his departure. He shared in a podcast, “No one asked me; they spoke to me or something like that.”
Phil’s son, Chris Simms, also a former NFL quarterback, will join him in calling the Big Ten games this season.
“We’re eager to connect with everyone now that we’re part of the broadcast,” said Sam Flood, executive producer at NBC Sports. “Phil is an exceptional analyst who provides viewers with insightful commentary while keeping the entertainment factor high.”
