NBC to Air Madden-Themed Alternate Broadcast for Chiefs vs Texans Game

Peacock will launch a Madden NFL-themed altcast during Week 16, blending video game broadcasts with live sports games. The show will stream on the platform, showcasing the rising trend of alternate reality altcasts, with the highly anticipated game between the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs as a highlight. Additionally, a Madden-themed telecast featuring The Simpsons will air on Disney+ and ESPN+ on December 9th. ESPN and Disney have previously collaborated on altcasts featuring Toy Story, Big City Greens, and a Mickey Mouse themed broadcast for the NBA on Christmas Day.

NBC will televise the very first Madden altcast during its primetime Thanksgiving Day coverage, it will dedicate  it to the legendary name of John Madden and his immense impact on the NFL. Madden's legacy continues to thrive through the popular Madden NFL video game series. In a unique collaboration between NBC, EA Sports, and GeniusIQ, live Madden simulations will be reimagined as part of this special altcast. The game will incorporate Madden's traditional overlays like route trees and player ratings, alongside the NFL's Next Gen stats, offering fans an innovative and immersive way to experience the game.

According to NBC NFL producer Fred Gaudelli, “We are excited to work with the NFL, EA SPORTS, and Genius Sports to offer fans the ability to watch Madden NFL come to life like never before exclusively on Peacock, which has established itself as a home for premium live sports and innovative viewing experiences. This first-ever Madden NFL Cast marks a new milestone as Peacock’s first sports alt-cast.” 

Further, he added, “Not only are the Texans and Chiefs in first place in their respective divisions, but they have star players at multiple positions whose avatars will help us analyze the game’s biggest plays through the Madden NFL 25 lens. It has long been a point of pride for John and the Madden family that their video game has helped generations of fans and gamers learn and enjoy football, and we are thrilled to continue that tradition.” 

The broadcast will have a unique announce team, with Paul Burmeister providing play-by-play commentary and Kurt Benkert offering analysis. Chad Ochocinco will take on the role of a real-time "Madden ratings adjustor," while Henry Leverette will act as the Madden champion. Completing the team is former NFL quarterback and Madden content creator Kurt Benkert.