Deaths on April 16

Pat Summerall, American football player and sportscaster (b. 1930)

George Allen "Pat" Summerall, born on May 10, 1930, and passing on April 16, 2013, was a truly iconic figure in American sports, seamlessly transitioning from a respected professional football player to one of the most beloved and recognizable voices in television sportscasting. His distinguished career spanned decades, during which he brought his calm, authoritative, and distinctive style to audiences across major networks including CBS, Fox, and ESPN. While primarily celebrated for his immense contributions to football commentary, Summerall’s versatility also saw him lend his gravitas to major golf and tennis events, cementing his status as a broadcasting legend. His remarkable career statistics include announcing an unparalleled 16 Super Bowls on network television, far more than any other individual, alongside covering 26 Masters Tournaments in golf and 21 US Opens in tennis. Furthermore, his insights were a staple on CBS Radio, where he contributed to 10 Super Bowl broadcasts as a pregame host or analyst, showcasing his deep understanding and passion for the game across multiple platforms.

The Voice of a Generation: A Broadcaster's Journey

From the Gridiron to the Broadcast Booth: Pat Summerall's Playing Career

Before his voice became synonymous with American football weekends, Pat Summerall was a participant in the sport's highest echelons. He honed his skills as a player for the Arkansas Razorbacks in college, laying the groundwork for a professional career in the National Football League (NFL) that spanned from 1952 through 1961. Initially drafted by the Detroit Lions, he had the experience of playing alongside legendary quarterback Bobby Layne. However, it was during his tenure as a kicker for the New York Giants that Summerall truly found his stride and had his most impactful playing years, contributing significantly with his reliable foot in a league where field goals were increasingly critical. This firsthand experience on the field, understanding the nuances and pressures of professional football, would later provide an invaluable foundation for his insightful commentary, allowing him to connect with the game on a profound level.

An Iconic Voice in Sports Broadcasting

Summerall’s pivot from playing field to broadcast booth was a seamless and ultimately historic one. He joined CBS in 1962, initially serving as a color commentator, bringing a player's perspective to the unfolding drama of NFL games. His early broadcasting career saw him paired with Tom Brookshier, forming a well-regarded duo that laid the groundwork for his eventual rise to prominence. However, it was his legendary partnership with analyst John Madden that truly cemented his place in broadcasting lore. For over two decades, first at CBS and then at the fledgling Fox network, Summerall’s smooth, understated play-by-play complemented Madden’s exuberant, analytical style perfectly. Their chemistry was unparalleled, creating a unique and entertaining experience for millions of football fans every Sunday. Their calls became the soundtrack to a generation of NFL football, with Summerall’s concise descriptions providing the perfect canvas for Madden’s colorful breakdowns and "telestrator" drawings. This dynamic duo not only became the voice of the NFL but also played a pivotal role in establishing Fox as a major player in sports broadcasting when the network acquired NFL rights in the mid-1990s, lending instant credibility to its nascent sports division.

Beyond the gridiron, Summerall demonstrated remarkable versatility, becoming a familiar and trusted voice for other major sporting events. His composed demeanor and deep understanding of athletic competition made him a natural fit for the refined atmosphere of golf’s Masters Tournaments and the high-stakes drama of tennis’s US Opens. Covering 26 Masters and 21 US Opens, he brought the same level of professionalism and engaging narrative to these iconic events, showcasing his ability to transcend individual sports and connect with a broader audience of sports enthusiasts.

After a storied career that spanned more than four decades, Summerall officially retired after the 2002 NFL season. However, his love for the game and his distinctive voice couldn’t be silenced completely. He occasionally returned to the booth to announce games, particularly those geographically convenient to his Texas home, a testament to his enduring passion for sports and his connection with the fans.

A Legacy of Excellence and Integrity

Pat Summerall’s profound impact on sports journalism was widely recognized and celebrated throughout his career. In 1977, he was honored with the prestigious National Sportscaster of the Year award by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association (NSSA), a testament to his rising influence and skill. His contributions were further enshrined when he was inducted into the NSSA Hall of Fame in 1994, the same year he received the esteemed Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This particular award celebrates "long-time exceptional contributions to radio and television in professional football," making it a highly fitting tribute to Summerall's unparalleled career in broadcasting the sport. Rounding out his array of accolades, he was also inducted into the American Sportscasters Association Hall of Fame in 1999, acknowledging his enduring legacy among the giants of sports broadcasting.

The Pat Summerall Award: Honoring a Standard

His influence extends posthumously through the "Pat Summerall Award," which was established in 2006. This significant accolade is presented annually during Super Bowl weekend at the NFL’s headquarters hotel, serving as a beacon to honor individuals who embody the values Summerall represented. It recognizes "a deserving recipient who through their career has demonstrated the character, integrity and leadership both on and off the job that the name Pat Summerall represents." This award ensures that Summerall's legacy of excellence, professionalism, and unwavering moral compass continues to inspire future generations in the competitive world of sports media.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pat Summerall

What was Pat Summerall best known for?

Pat Summerall was best known for his iconic, understated play-by-play commentary for NFL games, particularly his legendary partnership with John Madden. He also had a distinguished career as a professional football player and announced major golf and tennis tournaments.

How many Super Bowls did Pat Summerall announce?

Pat Summerall announced 16 Super Bowls on network television, a record for any individual sportscaster. He also contributed to 10 Super Bowl broadcasts on CBS Radio.

Who was Pat Summerall's most famous broadcasting partner?

Pat Summerall's most famous and enduring broadcasting partner was John Madden. Their unparalleled chemistry and distinct styles made them the most beloved NFL broadcast duo for over two decades.

Did Pat Summerall play professional football?

Yes, Pat Summerall played in the National Football League (NFL) from 1952 to 1961, primarily as a kicker for teams including the Detroit Lions and his most impactful years with the New York Giants.

What other sports did Pat Summerall cover?

Beyond football, Pat Summerall was a prominent voice for major golf events, announcing 26 Masters Tournaments, and tennis, covering 21 US Opens.

What is the Pat Summerall Award?

The Pat Summerall Award, established in 2006, is presented annually during Super Bowl weekend to an individual who exemplifies the character, integrity, and leadership that Pat Summerall demonstrated throughout his career, both on and off the job.