This Sunday’s edition of NFL RedZone declined to show the split-screen ads which caused a furor among viewers last week. But the question about whether the popular show will truly remain “commercial-free” remains open.
NFL Network remains “undecided” on whether it will employ RedZone ads in the future, said a source with knowledge of the league’s strategy. That means the league could test the double-box ads again during Weeks 17 and 18. Or wait until the 2025 regular season, then bring them in more widely.
On Sunday, host Scott Hanson sparked speculation that viewers were in store for more ads by amending his famous opening—“Seven hours of commercial-free football starts now”— to “Seven hours of RedZone football starts now.”
Many RedZone viewers were waiting to see how Hanson would kick off the show. When the popular host tweaked his opening, they erupted on social media.
“Commercials during NFL RedZone: the final death blow to Western Civilization,” wrote Doug Kramer on X/Twitter.
The ads never materialized. Still, Hanson was obviously troubled by the bait and switch pulled on longtime RedZone watchers last week. On Friday, he apologized to fans via X/Twitter.
“I just want to take a quick second and apologize for using the commercial-free catchphrase at the top of last show,” said Hanson, who’s hosted RedZone for 16 seasons. “I was conflicted about it beforehand. I had a tough decision to make. I made the wrong decision. And I’m sorry.”
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