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NFL RedZone Host Omitting Key Phrase From Sunday's Broadcast

Originally posted on The Spun | By Matt Hladik | Last updated Dec 29, 2024 5:32 PM ET

Scott Hanson is one of the most popular men in football media for his work as the indefatigable host of NFL RedZone.

Up until a couple of weeks ago, one of RedZone's most appealing features was its "seven hours of commercial-free football," as Hanson's weekly catchphrase says. However, two weeks ago, the channel began experimenting with audio-free ads on one screen alongside a game playing on the other, much to the chagrin of its loyal fans. The backlash was so palpable that Hanson actually had to apologize for using his phrase even though the broadcast was not commercial-free.

“I just wanted to take a quick second and apologize for using the commercial-free catchphrase at the top of last show. I was conflicted about it beforehand, I had a tough decision to make, and I made the wrong decision, and I’m sorry,” Hanson said.

“I try to be the best host I can possibly but being a great host means being accurate, being truthful and having integrity ,and so I hope you consider accepting this apology.”

Hanson omitting his catchphrase last week and he's doing the same this Sunday, even though RedZone reportedly will not use commercials the rest of the season.

What the network plans to do in 2025 remains to be seen.

KANSAS CITY, MO - APRIL 29: NFL Network host Scott Hanson presents on stage during Day 3 of the 2023 NFL Draft at Union Station on April 29, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Hanson not using the "commercial-free" tagline seems to indicate that RedZone might be breaking out the ads again at some point, possibly as soon as next season.

"Redzone shouldn’t have commercials. People already pay for cable, RZ is an add-on like HBO where the point is to pay extra to not have commercials. #commercialfreefootball," one fan said on Sunday.

"I’d rather watch commercials than the Raiders/Saints game #redzone," a second added.

"Was the biggest draw to redzone tbh, I just don’t want commercials and want all day football," a third chimed in.

"knowing the nfl will water down redzone next year with plenty of commercials just makes me mad. double dip with subscriber & ad revenue. don’t worry tho, it’s dirty streams for me next yr," a fourth said.

The fans have definitely spoken.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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