MULTICHANNEL NEWS' Jeff Baumgartner noted Comcast has "implemented some new Super Bowl LII features and enhancements" to its X1 TV and internet platform. X1 has "added a series of voice commands tied to Super Bowl LII, enabling users to pull up an on-demand destination tied to the matchup by uttering 'Super Bowl' or 'The Big Game' into the X1 voice remote." Customers can also "pull up new 'X1 sports knowledge cards’ with quick access to stats and standings by saying things such as 'Tom Brady vs. Nick Foles,' or 'Eagles vs. Patriots'" (MULTICHANNEL.com, 1/31).
DA BEARS: The documentary "'85: The Greatest Team in Football History" was released this week, and in Chicago, Richard Roeper wrote there has "never been a more impressive lineup of interviewees, from former players to the likes of President Barack Obama and Bill Murray." The film is "essential viewing for any Bears fan, and for that matter any football fan." It is a "great time capsule about a team that dominated the sport for one season, and then fell apart all too quickly due to a variety of factors" (CHICAGO SUN TIMES, 1/27).
A REAL PRO: In Minneapolis, Rachel Blount writes NBC's Cris Collinsworth’s ability to "interpret an often-complex game for a wide audience has made him one of the network’s most enduring -- and endearing -- personalities." Collinsworth’s appeal "comes largely from his ability to explain the game engagingly to both experts and neophytes." Unlike many former athletes or coaches, he also "saw broadcasting as a unique challenge to be mastered" (Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE, 2/1).
COACH SPEAK: Ravens coach John Harbaugh will join NBC Sports' Super Bowl LII pregame, halftime and postgame coverage as a guest analyst (NBC Sports).
