Tony Romo Explains Strange Performance During AFC Wild Card Game
Tony Romo shared the reason behind his unusual broadcast during the recent Bills-Jaguars AFC Wild Card Game: he was feeling under the weather.
In a chat with SiriusXM’s Adam Shine, Romo offered some context. “I’m not going to miss a playoff game,” he stated. “It’s too much fun.” His troubles began early on Sunday, as he initially compared Jacksonville’s performance to Carolina’s from the previous day. He later clarified, “The Bills are actually the underdogs, so it’s not an upset. But they’re the overachievers.”
Though that misstep was noticeable, much of the criticism stemmed from Romo’s unusual vocal reactions and the lack of commentary regarding his significant salary—around $17.5 million annually.
To add to the odd moments, late in the game, after the Jaguars secured a first down, Romo laughed in a peculiar way. He even joked about what ultimately became the pivotal play of the match.
“Any time you’re on air for three and a half hours, you try to do your best,” Romo commented to Shine. “There are always moments of brilliance, along with some not-so-great moments. That’s just how it is. You go back to work and strive to do a great job. That’s what’s enjoyable about this profession. It’s sports, and that’s what makes it fun. I aim to let people enjoy the show, learn something, and have a great time. To me, that’s what sports is all about.”
Admittedly, no one performs at their peak when sick. Yet even being unwell doesn’t fully account for Romo’s odd quietness at times when he was expected to comment, opting instead for laughter during key moments.
This weekend, Romo and his broadcast partner Jim Nantz will get another opportunity, with them serving as CBS’s top NFL team.
Romo made his broadcasting debut in 2017, bringing insights that were previously reserved for seasoned professionals. He quickly gained recognition for his ability to predict plays before they unfolded.
However, he has faced criticism over the years for seeming unprepared, with accusations of not dedicating enough time to research and perhaps spending too much leisure time on the golf course.
