The primetime clash between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams drew national attention, but not only for what happened on the field. Millions tuned in expecting a high-quality broadcast experience.

Instead, the postgame conversation quickly shifted away from player performances and coaching strategies. Viewers across social media voiced their frustrations, calling out commentary they felt was inconsistent, flat, and at times distracting.

It was veteran broadcaster Al Michaels and analyst Kirk Herbstreit who found themselves at the center of the backlash. The pair, expected to deliver a polished product, instead faced a storm of criticism.

One frustrated fan summed up the reaction bluntly: “It felt like the game was being narrated without energy, without insight. For such a high-stakes rivalry, the commentary just didn’t match the atmosphere.”

Others echoed the sentiment, pointing out that key moments were underplayed, with minimal excitement injected into big plays. Some also suggested that chemistry between the voices in the booth still hasn’t fully developed.

The timing of the criticism adds weight. With streaming platforms investing heavily in NFL rights, every broadcast is under a microscope, and fan reactions can shape perceptions of the entire production team.

For Michaels, a legendary figure in the industry, the scrutiny is especially sharp. Herbstreit, meanwhile, continues balancing NFL coverage with his established college football duties, raising questions about overextension.

While the game itself delivered drama, the spotlight has now turned off the field. The question remains whether the booth will adjust quickly—or if fan patience for this broadcast duo is running thin.