The highly anticipated rivalry showdown between Deion Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes and the Colorado State Rams became even more electrifying thanks to ESPN play-by-play announcer Mark Jones.
Right from the start, Jones drew attention by comparing the intensity and hype surrounding the college football game to the vibrant atmosphere of the BET Awards.
“The energy here at Folsom Field has been very unique,” said Jones. “It’s a combination of the BET Awards, when you look at the luminaries on the sidelines, and a football game.”
Sure enough, there were plenty of stars out in Boulder on Saturday night.
All the stars are out in Boulder, Colorado pic.twitter.com/2ESF1KhHYT
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 17, 2023
When Shilo Sanders intercepted a pass and ran it back for a touchdown, Jones seized the opportunity to blend his love for hip-hop with the unfolding action.
Cleverly dropping some Lil Wayne lyrics while Lil Wayne himself observed from the sidelines, Jones added a touch of musicality to his play-by-play commentary.
— go to ➡️ collegefootballnetwork.com (@PickettsPool) September 17, 2023
During a pivotal moment in the game when Colorado recovered a fumble, Jones skillfully weaved in an interview with hip-hop star Offset conducted by sideline reporter Quint Kessenich.
I want Mark Jones arrested pic.twitter.com/4cuZ3X6iLP
— CJ Fogler account may or may not be notable (@cjzero) September 17, 2023
“They literally offset,” said Jones, “just like the guy that Q just interviewed.”
Throughout the evening, Jones employed alliteration and lyrical discussions to keep the atmosphere lighthearted and entertaining.
While some of his attempts at wordplay might have been hit or miss, they nonetheless demonstrated his creativity and commitment to engaging the audience.
Calm down, Mark Jones pic.twitter.com/S3Y44BzjC8
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 17, 2023
In addition to the light-hearted banter, Jones and color commentator Louis Riddick engaged in a thoughtful discussion about Jay Norvell’s comments earlier in the week, which were perceived as a veiled shot at Deion Sanders.
Mark Jones and Louis Riddick discuss Jay Norvell's "take my hat off and my glasses off" comments earlier this week. pic.twitter.com/UUF91YPTNL
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 17, 2023
Amidst the hilarity and musical references, Jones rose to the occasion during critical game-changing plays. His commentary during Colorado’s game-tying touchdown in the fourth quarter exemplified his ability to captivate the audience and provide the excitement and suspense required for such pivotal moments.
