Inside the Action: Epic Moments from the Vikings-Packers Rivalry with FOX’s NFL Crew

By Richie Zyontz
FOX NFL Lead Producer

Behind the scenes with FOX’s NFL crew, the Vikings-Packers rivalry embodies epic moments that captivate fans and broadcasters alike. The anticipation for this Week 17 matchup was palpable, especially since the crew had yet to witness the Vikings in action firsthand.

December trips to Minneapolis evoke memories of bundled layers and biting cold. Over the years, the crew has weathered blizzards and even witnessed the dramatic collapse of a stadium roof, adding to the lore of these winter battles.

A particularly memorable excursion occurred in January 1992, leading up to CBS’ broadcast of Super Bowl 26, featuring the Buffalo Bills and Washington Redskins. With a free day on their hands, Richie Zyontz proposed an ice fishing adventure to John Madden, who eagerly accepted.

Little did they know the challenges that awaited them.

Before Super Bowl 26, members of the CBS broadcast team, including the author (second from left), John Madden (far right), and producer Lance Barrow (left of Madden), ventured into ice fishing. (Photo courtesy of Richie Zyontz)

With the assistance of a local guide, they traveled 75 miles north to Mille Lacs, where hours were spent jigging lines in a hole without a single catch. Some sympathetic locals took pity on their empty bucket, filling it with walleye and perch, ensuring their day wasn’t a total loss.

John Madden had a knack for crafting unforgettable stories, and this was no exception.

[Related: More from Tom Brady | More from Richie Zyontz]

Battle of the Northland

Returning to the main event, the clash between the NFC North rivals was the most sought-after ticket in recent memory, as confirmed by Vikings officials. The excitement surrounding such pivotal games energizes everyone involved—players, coaches, fans, and broadcasting teams. With only 280 miles and a four-and-a-half-hour drive separating these cities, the stadium was a vibrant mix of purple Skol supporters and golden Cheeseheads.

The modern, glass-walled U.S. Bank Stadium contrasted sharply with the gritty, hard-hitting nature of this historic rivalry.

Imagining legendary coaches Vince Lombardi and Bud Grant sharing friendly exchanges before a game at the old Metropolitan Stadium feels surreal. Yet, just an hour before kickoff, Green Bay’s coach Matt LaFleur and Minnesota’s coach Kevin O’Connell shared a warm embrace. Their friendship and shared history were evident, but one can’t help but wonder what Bud Grant would have thought of such camaraderie.

In a past conversation, Grant, known for his straightforwardness, reflected on his rivalry with Lombardi, succinctly stating, “Lombardi was a prick.”

Matt LaFleur and Kevin O’Connell share a friendly moment, but what would Bud Grant have thought? (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

A Team Effort

The quality of a broadcast hinges on the contributions of the technical crew. Their dedicated efforts set the stage for the production team to make informed decisions. On game day, everything fell into place seamlessly.

Cameras captured the day’s intensity through a steady stream of inside-the-helmet reaction shots. LaFleur’s visible emotions added depth to the broadcast, and earlier in the season, he humorously acknowledged his wife’s concern over his on-screen demeanor.

This candidness was appreciated, as LaFleur’s facial expressions enriched the viewing experience.

A major point of discussion during the pre-game meeting was how Green Bay would manage Minnesota’s standout receiver, Justin Jefferson. This strategy was vividly illustrated through various high-angle replays showing the Packers defense effectively double- and triple-teaming him.

While it’s common for broadcasters to focus solely on the ball, shifting the viewer’s attention away often reveals a more compelling narrative.

The sounds from the line of scrimmage were remarkable, particularly when Minnesota had possession and the home crowd opted for drinks over cheers. Quarterback Sam Darnold’s commands resonated clearly, allowing Tom Brady to decode the quarterback’s language for viewers.

Brady’s expertise as a broadcaster shone through as he clarified the complex dynamics at the line of scrimmage. As the season progressed, his insights transformed the often puzzling quarterback terminology into accessible language. His perspective on quarterback performance emphasizes the importance of leadership, intelligence, and resilience.

Darnold also excelled, receiving consistent praise from Brady for his impressive performance and precision. His throws, showcased in stunning slow-motion, highlighted his skill. Before the game, the Vikings were an underappreciated team, but after their 27-25 victory over Green Bay, they emerged as a contender for the upcoming Super Bowl in New Orleans.

The focus now shifts from the fierce NFC North rivalry to the lighter tones of the NFC South, where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a chance to clinch their division against the New Orleans Saints.

As the season races toward the Super Bowl, only 39 days remain. While the specific teams are still unknown, the crew stands ready to embrace the unexpected challenges that the big game will present.

This time, however, there will be no frozen lakes to contend with, whether for fishing or otherwise.

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