Gary Danielson – CBS Analyst to Cover Final College Football Season in 2025
Gary Danielson has been a fixture in college football broadcasting for decades, bringing his expert analysis to CBS Sports since 2006. The former NFL quarterback and Purdue University standout has established himself as one of the most recognizable voices in college football as CBS’s lead analyst. Recently, Danielson announced his retirement following the conclusion of the 2025 season.
The timing of Danielson’s departure coincides with major shifts in college football broadcasting rights. CBS has already announced that Charles Davis will take over as lead analyst beginning in 2026. Danielson’s analysis has shaped how generations of fans understand the game, particularly during the network’s coverage of SEC football games, where his insights into offensive and defensive strategies have become part of the Saturday tradition for millions of viewers.
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Early Life and Playing Career
Gary Danielson started his football journey in Michigan before developing into a standout quarterback at Purdue University. His talents eventually led him to a 13-year career in the National Football League, primarily with the Detroit Lions.
College Athletics
Danielson’s collegiate career began at Purdue University, where he played quarterback for the Boilermakers. His time at Purdue helped establish the foundation for his future in football.
Before reaching college, Danielson played high school football at Divine Child High School in Dearborn, Michigan, under coach Tony Versaci. Born in Detroit in 1951, his Michigan roots would later play into his professional career.
After his time with the Boilermakers, Danielson didn’t immediately land in the NFL. He spent two years developing his skills in the World Football League, which gave him valuable playing experience before making the jump to the big leagues.
Professional Football
Danielson’s NFL career centered around his time with the Detroit Lions, where he played quarterback from 1976-1984. His Michigan homecoming proved fruitful as he established himself as a reliable signal-caller.
Over his 13-year NFL career, Danielson showed tremendous resilience, overcoming injuries while demonstrating an in-depth understanding of the game. This football IQ would later serve him well in his broadcasting career.
Though not often mentioned among the elite quarterbacks of his era, Danielson’s playing experience gave him valuable insights into the game. These perspectives would ultimately help him transition successfully to the broadcast booth following his playing days.
Transition to Broadcasting
After hanging up his cleats, Gary Danielson found his second calling behind the microphone. His football knowledge and personable delivery made him a natural fit for television broadcasting, where he would eventually become one of college football’s most recognizable voices.
From the Field to the Booth
Danielson’s broadcasting career began shortly after his 13-year NFL career ended in 1988. The former Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns quarterback quickly showed he could analyze the game as well as he played it.
He started with ESPN in 1990, where he worked as a college football analyst. His detailed breakdowns of offensive schemes and quarterback play set him apart from other commentators.
By 1997, Danielson joined ABC Sports, continuing to build his reputation as a sharp, insightful analyst. His playing experience gave him credibility, but it was his ability to explain complex football concepts in simple terms that made him valuable to networks.
In 2006, CBS Sports hired Danielson as their lead college football analyst. The network reportedly offered him a substantial contract to leave ABC/ESPN, recognizing his growing stature in the industry.
Partnership with Verne Lundquist
When Danielson joined CBS in 2006, he was paired with veteran play-by-play announcer Verne Lundquist. This partnership would become one of the most beloved broadcasting teams in college football.
The Lundquist-Danielson duo primarily covered the SEC Game of the Week, the network’s premier college football broadcast slot. Their chemistry was evident from the start.
Lundquist’s warm, grandfatherly delivery complemented Danielson’s technical analysis perfectly. While Verne brought excitement and emotion, Gary provided the X’s and O’s breakdown.
Their partnership lasted a decade until Lundquist’s retirement from college football coverage after the 2016 season. During this time, they called numerous classic SEC games, including several Alabama-LSU matchups and memorable Iron Bowls.
The duo became synonymous with SEC football during a period when the conference dominated the national landscape, winning seven consecutive national championships from 2006 to 2012.
The SEC on CBS
Gary Danielson became synonymous with SEC football broadcasting during his tenure at CBS. His deep analysis and passionate commentary shaped how millions of viewers experienced the biggest conference matchups every Saturday afternoon.
Becoming the Voice of the SEC
Danielson joined CBS in 2006 as the network’s lead college football analyst for SEC games. He formed a memorable partnership with play-by-play announcer Verne Lundquist, creating what many fans consider the definitive soundtrack of SEC football for a decade.
When Brad Nessler replaced Lundquist in 2017, Danielson maintained his role as the analytical backbone of the broadcast. His former quarterback experience gave him unique insights into the game that resonated with viewers.
The 3:30 p.m. ET timeslot on CBS became known as the premier window for college football, largely due to the SEC’s partnership with CBS. Danielson’s analysis became a staple of Saturday afternoons.
For nearly two decades, he maintained his position through conference realignment, coaching changes, and the evolution of the sport.
Coverage of Key SEC Games
Danielson called some of the most iconic SEC contests during his CBS tenure. The annual Alabama-Auburn Iron Bowl frequently featured his commentary, including the miraculous “Kick Six” finish in 2013.
His work during Alabama-Georgia matchups became particularly notable, as he analyzed the chess match between Nick Saban and Kirby Smart. The SEC Championship Games he covered often served as de facto College Football Playoff play-in games.
Danielson’s preparation for broadcasts was legendary among industry insiders. He studied film extensively and maintained relationships with coaches that provided unique insights.
| Notable SEC Games Called by Danielson | Year |
|---|---|
| “Kick Six” Iron Bowl | 2013 |
| Alabama vs. Georgia SEC Championship | 2012, 2018, 2021 |
| Florida vs. Alabama SEC Championship | 2008, 2009, 2020 |
| LSU vs. Alabama “Game of the Century” | 2011 |
CBS’s relationship with the SEC ended after the 2025 season, coinciding with Danielson’s announced retirement.
Collaborations and Colleagues
Gary Danielson’s broadcasting career at CBS has been defined by his strong partnerships with fellow commentators and production teams. His analysis skills and chemistry with others have made him a fixture in college football broadcasting.
Work With Brad Nessler
Brad Nessler and Gary Danielson have formed one of college football’s most recognizable commentary duos since 2017. Their partnership began after Verne Lundquist’s retirement, with Nessler sliding into the play-by-play role alongside Danielson for CBS’s SEC coverage.
The Nessler-Danielson booth quickly developed a rhythm that resonated with viewers. Their contrasting styles—Nessler’s smooth delivery complemented by Danielson’s detailed tactical analysis—created a balanced broadcast experience.
What makes their partnership work is mutual respect. Danielson often defers to Nessler’s timing for big calls, while Nessler provides space for Danielson’s in-depth breakdowns during replays.
Their on-air relationship will conclude after the 2025 season, when Danielson retires from his CBS role. Charles Davis is slated to replace him beginning in 2026.
Engaging with the Broadcast Crew
Danielson’s effectiveness extends beyond his booth partner to his interactions with the entire production team. His preparation involves extensive collaboration with directors, producers, and sideline reporters.
Jenny Dell, the current sideline reporter for the CBS SEC crew, has frequently credited Danielson with providing insightful questions to pursue during her pregame interviews with coaches. This teamwork enhances the broadcast’s cohesion.
Behind the scenes, Danielson works closely with the technical team to ensure his analysis is supported visually. He’ll often request specific replay angles to illustrate blocking schemes or coverage breakdowns.
The production meetings before games are where Danielson’s influence is particularly evident. He brings detailed notes and specific topics he wants to address, helping focus the broadcast’s storytelling approach to each matchup.
Directors particularly value Danielson’s ability to concisely explain complex football concepts within the tight windows available during live broadcasts.
Public Image and Fan Interaction
Gary Danielson’s tenure at CBS has created a complex relationship with college football viewers, particularly within the SEC fanbase. His commentary style has generated both loyal followers and vocal critics across traditional and digital platforms.
Fan Base and Viewer Reaction
Danielson’s relationship with fans has been largely positive despite some criticism. According to his own assessment, 99 percent of fan interactions are positive, and he doesn’t take negative feedback personally. During his CBS career spanning approximately 250 SEC games, he has built a reputation as a knowledgeable analyst with strong opinions.
“I think the fans are great. I’ve never had a problem with any of the Alabama fans, nor any other fan base in the SEC,” Danielson has stated. His approach to criticism appears measured, focusing on the quality of his analysis rather than pleasing everyone.
As he approaches retirement following the 2025 football season, Danielson has expressed a desire for a positive legacy: “I want people to say we miss CBS, these guys suck,” revealing his competitive spirit and hope that the CBS coverage stands as the gold standard.
Social Media Presence
Danielson maintains a relatively low profile on social media platforms. Many sports personalities have a more active presence, but Danielson prefers to keep things simple.
His approach to online criticism has been consistent. He acknowledges it exists, but he never lets it affect his broadcasting style or analysis.
When discussing social media criticism, Danielson focuses more on the substance of feedback rather than knee-jerk reactions. He has expressed that he’s only truly frustrated by criticism that misses the mark on his actual commentary.
As announced in March 2025, Danielson will retire following the 2025 season as CBS Sports’ lead college football analyst. This announcement generated significant online discussion among viewers who have followed his career closely.
Broadcasting Milestones
Gary Danielson has established himself as one of college football’s most recognizable voices during his extensive broadcasting career at CBS. His analytical approach and football knowledge have made him a fixture in some of the most watched games in college football history.
Conference Championships
Danielson’s work on SEC Championship Games has defined much of his CBS legacy since joining the network in 2006. He has called 19 consecutive SEC title games, providing analysis for matchups that often determined national championship participants.
His insights during Alabama’s dramatic victories and Georgia’s recent championship runs showcased his understanding of high-stakes football. Danielson developed a reputation for predicting offensive and defensive adjustments before they happened on screen.
The veteran announcer also covered Big Ten football extensively before his CBS tenure, giving him perspective on multiple conference styles. His preparation for championship broadcasts typically involved days of film study and coach interviews.
Ratings for SEC Championship Games with Danielson in the booth consistently ranked among CBS’s highest-viewed college football broadcasts, often exceeding 10 million viewers.
Playoff Commentaries
Though CBS didn’t own College Football Playoff rights, Danielson’s analysis of playoff-impacting regular season games proved invaluable to the network. His commentary during crucial late-season SEC matchups often served as de facto playoff elimination games.
Danielson announced his retirement after the 2025 college football season, meaning he’ll complete 20 seasons as CBS’s lead college football analyst. His tenure makes him the longest-tenured college football game analyst on any network.
During regular season broadcasts, Danielson developed a signature style of breaking down defensive coverages and quarterback decisions. His ability to translate complex football concepts for average viewers set him apart from peers.
Former Tennessee football player Charles Davis has been named as Danielson’s successor following his retirement.
Industry Perspective
The landscape of college football broadcasting has undergone tremendous changes during Gary Danielson’s tenure at CBS. His career spans critical transitions in how networks value and present the sport to viewers.
Evolution of Sports Broadcasting
College football broadcasting has transformed dramatically since Danielson first stepped into the booth. When he joined CBS in 2006, broadcasts featured simpler graphics and fewer camera angles. Today’s productions include sophisticated analytics, multiple camera views, and enhanced replay technology.
Danielson adapted his analysis style accordingly. He moved from basic play explanation to incorporating more complex concepts like defensive coverages and blocking schemes. His approach influenced a generation of analysts who followed.
The evolution wasn’t just technical. Broadcasts shifted from regional coverage to national prominence, with SEC on CBS becoming appointment viewing each Saturday.
Networks increasingly sought authoritative voices with playing experience. Danielson’s quarterback background at Purdue and in the NFL gave him credibility that set industry standards.
The Business of Television Deals
Danielson’s CBS career coincided with explosive growth in college football broadcast rights. When he arrived, the CBS-SEC deal was valued at approximately $55 million annually. By 2023, rights packages for power conferences reached billions.
His 20-year run at CBS spans multiple contract cycles, making him a constant during massive business upheaval. The network’s SEC package, once considered modestly priced, became one of sports television’s greatest values.
Danielson’s retirement in 2025 arrives as CBS transitions to a new Big Ten partnership worth $350 million annually. His successor, Charles Davis, inherits a dramatically different landscape.
While some critics accused Danielson of SEC bias, networks increasingly embrace conference-specific broadcasts. The analyst’s value was reflected in his estimated $2 million annual salary, competitive with top ESPN talent.
Effect on College Football Landscape
Gary Danielson’s analysis has shaped how fans and insiders understand the evolving college football ecosystem. His commentary has often highlighted power shifts, strategic innovations, and the changing economics of the sport.
SEC Dominance
Danielson’s CBS tenure coincided with the Southeastern Conference’s rise to unprecedented power. His analysis often spotlighted how SEC programs leveraged their advantages in coaching salaries, facilities, and recruiting networks to create a competitive edge.
When Alabama hired Nick Saban in 2007, Danielson was among the first analysts to recognize this as a transformative moment. His breakdown of the Crimson Tide’s methodical processes became a staple of CBS broadcasts.
“The SEC doesn’t just win championships,” Danielson noted during the 2023 season. “They’ve created a self-perpetuating cycle of success that’s difficult for other conferences to match.”
| SEC National Championships (During Danielson’s CBS Tenure) |
|---|
| Alabama: 6 |
| LSU: 3 |
| Georgia: 2 |
| Florida: 2 |
| Auburn: 1 |
Rivalries and Highlights
Danielson’s detailed analysis elevated key matchups, particularly the SEC’s marquee rivalries. His preparation for games like Alabama-Auburn and Georgia-Florida included breaking down shifting strategic approaches that often revealed larger trends in the sport.
His commentary during the 2013 Iron Bowl (“Kick Six”) remains legendary among fans. Danielson quickly dissected how special teams preparation—often overlooked by casual viewers—decided one of college football’s most dramatic finishes.
As conference realignment accelerated, Danielson became an important voice explaining the business forces reshaping traditional rivalries. He noted how television contracts, not geography or tradition, increasingly dictated scheduling decisions.
“Adaptability is vital to college sports,” Danielson emphasized recently, highlighting how schools and conferences must evolve amid the sport’s rapidly shifting landscape.
His analysis of Big Ten expansion often focused on the commercial implications rather than just on-field impacts.
Regional Foci
Gary Danielson’s broadcasting career at CBS has been deeply intertwined with specific regions and conferences that shaped college football over the past two decades. His analysis has particularly centered on the southeastern football landscape, while helping elevate the national profile of SEC football.
The Influence of Southern Football
Since joining CBS Sports in 2006, Danielson has become synonymous with SEC football coverage. His commentary has spotlighted the rise of Alabama under Nick Saban and Georgia’s emergence under Kirby Smart as national powerhouses.
Danielson’s analysis frequently highlights the distinctive traits of southern football programs—emphasizing defense, line play, and run-first philosophies. His coverage of Florida State and Miami during intersectional matchups has contrasted their speed-based approaches with SEC power football.
When Texas announced its move to the SEC, Danielson provided extensive analysis on how the Longhorns’ style would adapt to SEC competition. He often points out regional recruiting differences that impact program development.
| Team | Games Called by Danielson (2006-2024) |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 47 |
| Georgia | 38 |
| Florida | 33 |
| LSU | 29 |
| Texas | 8 |
National Relevance of SEC Football
Danielson has been instrumental in explaining to a national audience why SEC football matters beyond regional borders. His detailed breakdowns of Georgia-Alabama matchups helped viewers understand their championship-caliber qualities.
When Michigan faced SEC opponents in bowl games, Danielson highlighted stylistic differences and defensive approaches. His analysis often focuses on why SEC programs have historically dominated the College Football Playoff era.
CBS’s coverage with Danielson as lead analyst helped transform SEC football from a regional passion to a national obsession. Viewership numbers for SEC games on CBS routinely outpaced other conference broadcasts during his tenure.
Danielson’s recent preview of Illinois vs. Oregon demonstrated his evolving coverage beyond SEC territory, showing his adaptability to the changing college football landscape. His upcoming retirement in 2025 marks the end of an era for SEC on CBS.
Controversies and Challenges
Gary Danielson’s long tenure at CBS has not been without its share of contentious moments. His commentary style and occasional missteps have sparked reactions from viewers and created challenging situations during broadcasts.
On-Air Moments and Criticism
Danielson has faced significant backlash from certain fan bases who perceive bias in his commentary. Alabama fans particularly have expressed frustration with his game calls, feeling he shows favoritism toward their opponents. This perception has persisted despite Danielson’s attempts to maintain neutrality.
Technical mistakes have also plagued his broadcasting career. In a notable Week 2 broadcast, Danielson was called out for misunderstanding a basic rule during an Iowa vs. Iowa State game, leading to immediate criticism on social media platforms.
Reddit discussions have questioned whether Danielson actually holds bias toward Alabama or if it’s merely fan perception. One user noted that Danielson “spent more time talking about Alabama and their playoff fate on the B1G championship game than any team not named Oregon or Penn State.”
Danielson’s approach to addressing sensitive topics during broadcasts has sometimes created uncomfortable moments. Occasionally, critics have said that his commentary lacks appropriate gravity or sensitivity when discussing serious injuries on the field.
The evolution of college football has presented challenges for veteran announcers like Danielson. His traditional perspective sometimes clashes with modern viewer expectations. For example, topics like NIL deals, conference realignments, and playoff expansions are areas where this clash becomes apparent.
Social media has amplified criticism of Danielson’s commentary, creating real-time feedback loops during broadcasts. Unlike the pre-Twitter era when broadcasters received limited immediate feedback, today’s viewers can instantly share criticisms that gain traction during games.
Despite these challenges, CBS maintained confidence in Danielson until his decision to retire after the 2025 season. They allowed him the dignity of departing on his own terms rather than being replaced due to controversy.
