Sean McDonough didn’t really vibe with Jon Gruden but always had to remember Gruden was also a big reason why his show was pulling millions of viewers.
With Gruden taking the Raiders head coaching job, McDonough was left to ESPN’s mercy, & it’s looking like they aren’t having much, as they’re reportedly already considering replacing him for next season:
Via, Andrew Marchant (NY Post):
While lead play-by-player Sean McDonough is currently in place, ESPN executives have considered a total reboot of their Monday Night booth, sources said. There was a feeling that McDonough lacked chemistry with Gruden, plus NFL officials have not been fans of some of McDonough’s critiques on officiating, among other topics.
“If you were going to do it, this is the time,” one source said of the MNF total reboot idea.
The three internal possibilities are Joe Tessitore, Steve Levy and Dave Pasch.
McDonough & Gruden’s lack of chemistry was obvious throughout their two-year partnership, & the word in the media streets is they didn’t really like each other behind the scenes.
To be real, ESPN was never able to re-create the chemistry Gruden & Mike Tirico had naturally. McDonough was in a tough position from day one trying to replace that duo.
Well…if he is replaced, CLICK HERE for a viral memory from the 2018 National Championship game you can always remember McDonough by.