Kobe Bryant & NFL: Mike Tirico’s Most Iconic Calls
Mike Tirico has become a defining voice in sports broadcasting, etching his name into the history of countless memorable moments. While he officially took the reins as the full-time voice of “Sunday Night Football” in 2022, his impactful calls predate this role, spanning his time with “Monday Night Football” on ESPN, NBA, and college football broadcasts. Let’s revisit some of Tirico’s most electrifying calls, from Caleb Williams’ improbable playoff touchdown to the poignant final game of Kobe Bryant.
The Saints’ Emotional Return: Sept. 25, 2006
Only the third “Monday Night Football” broadcast of Tirico’s career delivered a moment of profound significance for New Orleans. The Saints returned to the Superdome for the first time in two years following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. The atmosphere was electric, and Steve Gleason’s blocked punt ignited a wave of emotion. Tirico captured the moment perfectly: “Look out! Right through! The kick blocked by Steve Gleason!” followed by, “Touchdown, New Orleans!” – a call that resonated far beyond the football field.
Saquon Barkley’s Snowy Run: Jan. 19, 2025
The Philadelphia Eagles faced a tough challenge from the Los Angeles Rams in a snowy playoff game. A 78-yard touchdown run by Saquon Barkley proved to be the deciding factor. Tirico’s call painted a vivid picture: “There goes Barkley! Into the clear, through the snow, all the way home!” The snowy backdrop amplified the drama, and Tirico’s commentary elevated the moment.
Jadeveon Clowney’s Iconic Hit: Jan. 1, 2013
Tirico, alongside Jon Gruden, called the unforgettable hit by Jadeveon Clowney against Michigan in the 2013 Outback Bowl. “What a hit! Ball’s free! South Carolina deserves to have it, and they do!” Tirico exclaimed. The line, “South Carolina deserves to have it,” became synonymous with the play, solidifying its place in college football lore.
Brett Favre’s Game-Winning Bomb: Oct. 29, 2007
In 2007, Brett Favre connected with Greg Jennings for an 82-yard game-winning touchdown in overtime against the Denver Broncos. Tirico’s reaction was pure excitement: “It is…hauled in by Greg Jennings! The Packers win in overtime! Un-be-lievable!” The emphasis on “unbelievable” perfectly encapsulated the shock and joy of the moment.
The ‘Fail Mary’ Controversy: Sept. 24, 2012
A controversial finish between the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks on “Monday Night Football” involved a disputed catch by Golden Tate. With replacement referees in place due to a lockout, confusion reigned. Tirico navigated the chaos: “The game’s final play is a Wilson lob to the end zone, which is…fought for by Tate, with Jennings simultaneous. Who has it? Who do they give it to? Touchdown!” He then added, “Seahawks win in the most bizarre finish you’ll ever see!”
Steelers’ Dramatic Win: Jan. 4, 2026
Mike Tirico received acclaim for his coverage of the Week 18 game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens. He expertly built the tension leading up to Tyler Loop’s potential game-winning field goal. His call: “Snap good, hold good, the kick IS NO GOOD! It is wide right! And the Steelers are the champions of the north!” captured the drama of the moment.
The Ravens’ Kick Six: Nov. 30, 2015
The Cleveland Browns’ attempt at a game-winning field goal against the Baltimore Ravens took a shocking turn when it was blocked and returned for a touchdown by Will Hill. Tirico’s energetic call: “And it’s blocked! And it’s picked up by Will Hill! Will Hill runs down the sideline…Hill is gonna get a block! Will Hill is gonna win the game on a blocked field goal! Unbelievable!” mirrored the disbelief of the Browns fans.
Kobe Bryant’s Final Game: April 13, 2016
Tirico rose to the occasion during Kobe Bryant’s farewell game, culminating in a go-ahead shot by the Lakers legend. “The Lakers down one. Will Kobe give them one last gamer? Bryant on the move, with the jumper…he got it! 58 points! And the Lakers lead!” Tirico exclaimed as the Staples Center erupted. When Bryant reached 60 points, Tirico simply stated, “60,” letting the moment speak for itself.
Caleb Williams’ Improbable Touchdown: Jan. 18, 2026
A fourth-down touchdown by Caleb Williams to tie the game against the Los Angeles Rams was a moment of sheer brilliance. Chased 25 yards behind the line of scrimmage, Williams heaved a 40+ yard pass to Cole Kmet. Tirico’s call: “In all kinds of trouble, put it up for grabs in the end zone…he got it! For the touchdown! They’ve done it again! Unbelievable!” perfectly captured the improbable nature of the play.
Sam Hubbard’s 98-Yard TD: Jan. 15, 2023
A fumble by Baltimore Ravens QB Tyler Huntley in a wild-card game led to a stunning 98-yard touchdown return by Sam Hubbard. Tirico’s call was a whirlwind of excitement: “Oh that ball’s live! Picked up by Sam Hubbard! The Cincinnati kid! Hubbard’s got a convoy. Chased by Andrews. At the 30! The 20! He! Will! Score!”
Damian Lillard’s Buzzer-Beater: May 2, 2014
Damian Lillard’s series-clinching buzzer-beater against the Houston Rockets was another moment Tirico delivered on. “Nine-tenths left. A three wins the series. It’s Lillard, he got the shot off! Lillard, good! Good! And the Blazers win the series for the first time in 14 years!”
Mike Tirico’s ability to capture the emotion and drama of these iconic moments has solidified his place as one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting. From the gridiron to the hardwood, his calls have become part of the fabric of sports history.
