Longtime “SEC on CBS” play-by-play announcer Verne Lundquist will step down from his role following the 2016 college football season, per a press release from CBS Sports. He will continue to call college basketball games and golf, including the Masters and the PGA Championship.
Veteran announcer Brad Nessler will succeed him.
“Verne has set the standard for college football broadcasting,” said CBS Sports Chariman Sean McManus. “Together with Gary Danielson he has played a key role in making the SEC ON CBS the highest-rated college football package in America. After an incredible 17 years, he will be handing the reigns off to Brad, who in his own right is highly acclaimed and respected as one of the premier play-by-play broadcasters in the business.
“I am very pleased that Verne will still have a prominent role in our college basketball and major championship golf coverage. We are fortunate to have one more football season to appreciate Verne’s one-of-a-kind storytelling as we pave the way for a seamless and smooth transition to Brad.”
Lundquist was named lead play-by-play announcer for the SEC ON CBS in 2000. He has served as play-by-play announcer for CBS Sports’ coverage of NCAA basketball, including the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship for 31 years.
“Being a part of the SEC ON CBS since 2000 has been the most significant assignment I’ve been given in my more than five decades in this business,” said Lundquist. “Now, it’s time to step back and take in the aroma of those tulips, those roses, and those daffodils that friends have been telling me about for years.
“In 2017, I’ll happily step aside from college football and welcome Brad to the booth. I’ve known Brad for more than 30 years and have always admired his work ethic and his on-air presence. He shares the same passion for college football that I do. The SEC ON CBS is in great hands. Brad and Gary will form a great partnership in the years ahead.”
In succeeding Lundquist as the lead play-by-play announcer for the SEC ON CBS, Nessler will join lead analyst Gary Danielson and reporter Allie LaForce beginning with the 2017 season.
Tyler Waddell is a member of the Saturday Down South news team. He brings over five years of professional journalism experience and is closing in on a Bachelor's in sports management. Follow him on Twitter (@Tyler_Waddell).
