Watch CFL Football on ABC
- 2013
- 2 Seasons
CFL Football on ABC is a sports program that aired in 2013 on ESPN2. It features Canadian Football League (CFL) games from various teams across Canada. The program aimed to introduce American audiences to the sport and provide a platform for CFL players to showcase their skills to a broader audience.
The program featured live broadcasts of CFL games played on Friday nights, with commentary and analysis provided by the ESPN2 broadcasting team. The package comprised a total of 19 games from the regular season and playoffs, including the Grey Cup final, the CFL's championship game. ESPN2 commentators were responsible for bringing viewers closer to the action, sharing insights on the rules, plays, and tactics involved in CFL football.
The Canadian Football League is the highest level of professional football played in Canada, with nine teams competing in the 2013 season. The league features a unique set of rules that differ from the NFL, including a larger playing field, twelve players on each team, and only three downs instead of four. The rules and differences in gameplay make the CFL a distinct and exciting league to watch.
One of the standout games of the 2013 season was the Montreal Alouettes vs. Toronto Argonauts matchup. These two teams have a fierce rivalry, and the game had added significance as it was played on Thanksgiving Day. The Alouettes were led by standout quarterback Anthony Calvillo, while the Argonauts boasted a dominant defense led by linebacker Marcus Ball. The game was tightly contested, with both teams showing exceptional skill and athleticism. The broadcast team provided in-depth analysis of the game, highlighting the standout performances of individual players and the strategies employed by the coaches.
Another notable game was the Calgary Stampeders vs. Ottawa Redblacks match-up. This game featured the debut of the Ottawa Redblacks, who had been awarded a franchise to begin playing in the 2014 season. The Stampeders were the top-ranked team in the league, boasting a potent offense led by quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell. The Ottawa Redblacks put up a strong fight, with the game ultimately decided in the final seconds. The broadcast team provided expert analysis of the new franchise, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the team.
One of the unique features of the CFL is its fan culture, and the program regularly showcased fans' passion and dedication to their teams. The broadcast team interviewed fans, captured footage of tailgating parties, and featured die-hard supporters throughout the program. The program aimed to provide viewers with an immersive experience of Canadian football, incorporating elements of the fan culture that makes the league so unique.
Another feature of the program was the in-depth analysis of CFL players. The program provided highlights of standout players, providing context to their individual performances, and showcasing the skills that make them essential to their teams. The program also featured interviews with players and coaches, allowing viewers to learn more about the athletes and gain insight into their motivations and strategies.
Additionally, the program provided live updates from games played concurrently across the league, providing viewers with updates on scores and key plays. This feature allowed viewers to keep track of games played outside of the broadcast and provided a comprehensive overview of the league's performance on any given day.
Overall, CFL Football on ABC from ESPN2 was a strong program that showcased the excitement, athleticism, and fandom of Canadian football. The program's expert analysis, insightful commentary, and comprehensive coverage of games across the league provided viewers with an immersive experience of the sport. While the program was short-lived, it provided a valuable platform for CFL football in the United States and introduced a new audience to the unique and exciting world of Canadian football.