I always thought it would be fun to be a sideline reporter for a football or baseball game – to be closer to the action on the field, interview players and coaches and be a part of a live televised sporting event.
While sideline reporters have become commonplace on most network broadcasts, particularly ESPN, it’s been all but eliminated on CBS, according to a report on Chicago Tribune. After Bonnie Bernstein left the network after last season, CBS decided not to replace her. So there has been no sideline reporter for NFL games on CBS this season.
CBS Sports President Sean McManus says the move is intended to put the focus back on the broadcasters in the booth. He added that his crews have access to the same information as the sideline reporters and get all the information they need from the NFL and the teams. “To hear a sideline reporter say something the analyst also has access to, we thought that takes away from the overall presentation. If I want to hear a perspective on the game, I’d prefer to hear it from Phil Simms than a sideline reporter.”
Bernstein says the first inclination is to take it personally, but “ultimately, you have to view it as a business decision. A good sideline reporter, if you keep your eyes and ears open, can offer some valuable insights,” she says.
McManus thinks most viewers have not noticed. He’s probably right. I know I haven’t noticed, but then I watch most of the pro games on Fox.
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