From the moment it was announced that Penn State’s Week 11 White Out Game against Washington was going to be exclusively streaming on Peacock instead of in NBC’s primetime slot, Nittany Lion fans knew it was going to be a disaster. However, for some who tuned in, it was even worse than expected.
I can’t believe what TV networks have done to the Whiteout.
— Producer Jesse (@JesseMyers88) November 10, 2024
It’s blasphemous that our biggest selling point/atmosphere game is on Peacock.
For starters, fans have trouble signing up for the streaming service. NBC’s plan by putting one of the most marketable games of the season on Peacock was to help build up its subscriber base, an understandable business move, but wildly disrespectful to fans. It was made even worse by Notre Dame’s 52-3 blowout win over Florida State that the network did feature in primetime.
Can we stop putting games only on certain streaming services? My senior citizen dad is struggling to sign up for @Peacock to watch PSU football. 🏈
— Janelle Howell (@Janelle3480) November 10, 2024
Some fans resorted to skipping the game, which NBC Sports called on social media, “One of the greatest spectacles in sports.” However, those who did tune in were not happy with the quality and the lack of a pregame show prior to the event’s 8:00 p.m. ET start time.
Sick pregame show, love that the White Out is on Peacock! pic.twitter.com/NfphxJP3GD
— No Names All Game (@nonamesallgame) November 10, 2024
The Penn State game ONLY being available on @peacock is shitty enough, but them rocking this hold music bullshit right until 8 is inexcusable. You can't show ANYTHING in the pregame?
— John L. (@JohnSLombardi) November 10, 2024
Once the broadcast started, instead of the familiar voice of Todd Blackledge as the broadcast’s color commentator, many Penn State fans were introduced to Colt McCoy’s career in the booth for the first time. His approval rating doesn’t appear to be nearly as high as the former Penn State quarterback’s.
Colt McCoy might be the worst commentator I’ve ever heard in the booth. I can’t believe this game is on Peacock.
— Connor Griffin (@RealCGriff) November 10, 2024
Penn State bounced back from its 20-13 loss to Ohio State with a 35-6 win over the Huskies at Beaver Stadium. Tight end Tyler Warren, who did not get a touch with the game on the line in Week 10, was featured heavily at the goalline with two rushing touchdowns on three carries. The Nittany Lions are back on a clear path to the 12-team College Football Playoff with the win and have an opportunity to climb the rankings from No. 6 with losses by No. 3 Georgia and No. 4 Miami. The only problem is that nobody saw it, maybe not even the committee.