J.J. Watt, the former Houston Texans legend, absolutely shined in the CBS broadcast booth alongside Jim Nantz during Sunday’s electric Dallas Cowboys versus Baltimore Ravens game from Rio de Janeiro. This “Trio in Rio” experience had fireworks, drama, and some serious shenanigans, putting the broadcasting duo’s real-time chemistry on full display.
Watt Takes the Mic for Romo in Brazil
Watt has been holding down the No. 1 color commentator spot for CBS, filling in for former Cowboys star Tony Romo, who is on indefinite leave after an arrest earlier this summer. Through the first two weeks of the NFL season, Watt and Nantz have had their ups and downs, but the atmosphere inside Maracanã Stadium in Rio brought out some truly electric moments on the mic. The game itself was a back-and-forth slugfest, with both teams battling for the lead deep into the fourth quarter, setting the stage for an unforgettable finish that Watt was perfectly positioned to call.
“What Did We Just Watch?!” The Ravens’ Wild Finish
The drama exploded with just seven seconds left on the clock. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson connected with Zay Flowers for a clutch 27-yard completion in six seconds, putting Baltimore in game-winning field goal range. After officials confirmed one second remaining, Watt yelled, “Oh baby Jim! Oh, baby!” He even referenced a hugely controversial finish between Michigan and Western Michigan, asking if the broadcast was “synced.” Then, Nantz queued up Lucas, Texas native Tyler Loop for a monstrous 56-yard game-winning kick. Loop nailed it! “Loop’s kick! Oh my goodness!” Nantz shouted in elation. “A trio in Rio! And the Ravens with a walk-off winner!” Watt, completely stunned, chimed in with, “What did we just watch?! Wow!” He even joked that the Ravens might be passing “Cervezas” Loop’s way on the flight home.
Brazilian Vibe and What’s Next for the Duo
Beyond the game’s insane finish, the broadcast captured the incredible Brazilian fan culture. Midway through the third quarter, “Evidências” by Chitãozinho & Xororó blasted through Maracanã Stadium, and fans swayed their arms and sang their hearts out. Watt was all in, telling Nantz, “I haven’t understood a word of it, Jim, but I have enjoyed it thoroughly. I’m waving my hands in the booth, and I have no clue what I’m waving ’em to.” Nantz, comparing it to Americans singing “Sweet Caroline,” perfectly capped the moment. Watt has a long 10-hour flight back home, but it’s currently unclear where he and Nantz will head next for their broadcast duties. One thing’s for sure: after that performance, we’re all looking forward to it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply