The NFL has a rich history of memorable games, and “NFL Classics: After Further Review” aims to highlight these moments with an engaging twist. Premiering on October 8, this six-part series from VICE TV focuses on legendary matchups, bringing a fresh perspective to historic moments in football.
NFL Classics: Revisit Super Bowl XXI
The premiere episode delves into Super Bowl XXI, which took place on January 25, 1987, in Pasadena, California. The New York Giants, led by quarterback Phil Simms, faced off against the Denver Broncos. The Giants emerged victorious with a commanding score of 39-20, with Simms completing 22 of 25 passes for a remarkable 268 yards and three touchdowns.
Format and Guests
The show features a unique format where a panel of well-known personalities watches original game footage and shares their thoughts. Host Kyle Brandt, who described his role as “probably the easiest job I’ve ever done,” is joined by panelists Chris “Mad Dog” Russo and Phil Simms. The dynamic between the panelists keeps the conversation lively and entertaining. Brandt noted that he often found himself listening more than speaking, given the exuberance of his co-hosts.
Previous episodes explored other iconic games, including the New York Jets’ divisional playoff victory over the New England Patriots in 2011. This game included memorable quotes, like Bart Scott exclaiming he “can’t wait” for the Steelers, despite losing in the AFC Championship Game.
Insights from NFL Legends
The series is a collaboration between VICE Sports, Omaha Productions, and NFL Films. Peyton Manning, a celebrity commentator, provides introductions and insights for each episode. This collaborative effort enhances the viewer experience and connects fans with beloved football history.
Historical Context and Modern Perspectives
Brandt emphasized the nostalgia of watching games from the ’80s. He pointed out the stark differences in broadcast visuals, noting the lack of scoreboards or play clocks, which may be jarring to younger viewers. “There’s no scoreboard on the screen. There’s no clock on the screen,” he explained, highlighting how far the sport has evolved.
Simms reflected on the calm he felt before Super Bowl XXI, despite the nervous energy of his teammates, illustrating the pressure and excitement of professional football. The format encourages spontaneous dialogue, allowing panelists to share personal anecdotes and insights, making each episode feel alive and authentic.
A New Era in Sports Documentaries
Trevor Gill, vice president of sports development at VICE TV, believes this series redefines sports documentaries. “We thought about how we can sort of flip the switch and look back at history in a more active format,” he remarked. He acknowledges the significant impact that events like the Giants’ victory and the Mets’ 1986 World Series win had on sports talk radio’s emergence.
This innovative approach draws both long-time fans and new audiences into the nostalgia of the NFL, making “NFL Classics: After Further Review” a must-watch for football enthusiasts.
