Channel 5 launches NFL show with scandal: host on a mechanical bull.

Unsuccessful NFL broadcast format on Channel 5

According to The Sun: Channel 5 decided to take a risk and introduced a new show format about the NFL, but this move did not receive approval from the audience.

The channel secured the rights to broadcast the NFL in the UK, but chose a format that resembles game shows instead of a traditional analytical approach.

The show titled ‘NFL: Big Game Night’ is positioned as “a new way to enjoy the biggest moments of the game.”

“Every week,” the description states, “Dermot will be alongside Sem [Kweka] and Osi [Umenyiora] in a specially created studio for an entertaining format that will be broadcast alongside important NFL games at 6 PM.”

“When the match stops in the USA, Channel 5 offers continued entertainment in the form of a unique ‘game within a game’.”

“Two teams of friends and family from the UK will participate in various quick and fun games.”

This format attempts to significantly change the traditional approach to sports broadcasting, introducing mechanical bulls and game elements from family shows.

However, NFL fans in the UK did not appreciate this approach when the show first aired on Sunday.

If you aren’t watching Channel 5's NFL coverage you’re missing out on Partridge levels of cringe. Every time the play stops it cuts to a studio where Dermot O'Leary hosts the cheapest American football-themed game show you've ever seen. Bucking broncos and everything pic.twitter.com/LpReLIFVQx

— Chris Scullion (@scully1888) September 7, 2025

One user on X commented on a picture of host Dermot O’Leary on a mechanical bull.

They noted: “So Channel 5 Sports are really doing this during the game. It’s shameful, and NFL fans in the UK deserve better.”

“Whoever approved this format should be fired.”

Another user said that the channel missed the opportunity to introduce a new audience to the NFL through educational content.

“Channel 5 had a real chance to help people get to know the NFL and provide analysis for new fans. Instead, they are doing games and interviewing Joel Dommett. Disappointed.”

This format will become a regular offering from Channel 5 on NFL evenings, so it will be interesting to see if any changes are made in response to the negative feedback.

This is not the only innovation in NFL broadcasting this season.

YouTube has also introduced new ‘Watch with’ broadcasts, where fans can watch games alongside their favorite content creators on the platform.

Despite Channel 5 trying to bring novelty to the broadcasts, criticism from fans suggests that not every experiment will be successful. It’s important to take audience opinions into account to meet their expectations and standards.

The situation with ‘NFL: Big Game Night’ may serve as an important lesson for other channels seeking innovation in sports content.