Michael Strahan Faces Challenge Hearing Colleague on FOX NFL Sunday Before Exit
Michael Strahan faced significant challenges during a pregame segment on FOX NFL Sunday as he communicated with Howie Long. This occurred before the NFC Championship Game featuring the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks.
Intense Atmosphere at Lumen Field
Seattle’s Lumen Field, known for its deafening crowd, showcased why fans are referred to as the “12th Man.” The sheer volume produced during games often creates challenges for players and commentators alike.
Strahan’s Experience with the Noise
During the broadcast, Strahan struggled to hear Long over the crowd noise. This echoed his own experiences as a player, recalling a game where his team, the New York Giants, faced 11 false starts due to the overwhelming sound.
Seattle’s Design Impact
- The stadium was designed by late owner Paul Allen for sound amplification.
- Strahan emphasized that Lumen Field is among the loudest in the NFL.
- Veteran teams, such as the Rams, typically manage the noise better during games.
Pregame Insights
Strahan highlighted how vital it is for teams to rely on their quarterback’s cadence and the team’s offensive rhythm to navigate the noise. He noted the Rams’ experience would be crucial in mitigating the challenges posed by the energetic crowd at Lumen Field.
Communication Challenges
As Strahan attempted to conclude his thoughts, he noted the unique struggle that players encounter on field communication amid such noise. Long pointed out that he could not hear Strahan properly, further highlighting the difficulty of broadcasting from the venue.
Tom Brady, who provided commentary, explained how quarterbacks adjust their communication strategies when playing in notoriously loud stadiums like Lumen Field. This pregame segment underscored the challenges faced by teams and broadcasters during high-stakes games in Seattle.
