Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Keith Jackson

Keith Jackson (October 18, 1928 – January 12, 2018) was an American sports broadcaster best known for his folksy, authoritative voice as the lead play-by-play announcer for college football on ABC Sports over four decades. Born in the small town of Roopville, Georgia, and raised on a nearby farm outside Carrollton, Jackson developed an early interest in broadcasting while mimicking radio announcers as a child. After serving four years in the U.S. Marine Corps and playing basketball in high school, he attended Washington State University, graduating in 1954 with a degree in broadcast journalism. His professional career began in 1952 as a radio announcer for Washington State Cougars football games, followed by roles at local stations in Spokane and Portland before transitioning to national television. Jackson joined ABC Sports in 1966, quickly becoming the network's signature voice for college football amid the sport's growing popularity on television during the late 20th century. He called 15 Rose Bowl games, popularizing the nickname "The Granddaddy of 'Em All" for the event, and covered major matchups at iconic venues like Michigan Stadium, Alabama's Bryant-Denny Stadium, Ohio State's Horseshoe, and Penn State's Beaver Stadium. Beyond college football, his versatile career spanned ABC's Wide World of Sports, 10 Summer and Winter Olympics, Major League Baseball (including Reggie Jackson's 1977 World Series home runs), and the inaugural season of Monday Night Football in 1970 as its play-by-play announcer alongside Howard Cosell and Don Meredith. His signature exclamations, such as "Whoa, Nellie!" and "fuuuumbull!", captured the excitement and regional flavor of the games, endearing him to generations of fans. Throughout his 52-year career, Jackson earned widespread acclaim, including an Emmy Award, induction into the American Sportscasters Association Hall of Fame in 1994, the National Football Foundation's Gold Medal in 1999, and five National Sportscaster of the Year honors. He retired from in 2006 after calling his final game, the that year between and . In recognition of his contributions, the press box was renamed the Keith Jackson Broadcast Center in 2015. Jackson, who was married to Turi Ann Johnsen for over 60 years and resided in Sherman Oaks, California, for five decades, passed away in following complications from surgery. His legacy endures as the quintessential voice of , blending homespun authenticity with professional insight during a transformative era for sports .

Early life and education

Upbringing in Georgia

Keith Jackson was born on October 18, 1928, in the small rural community of Roopville, Georgia, to a farming family on their modest farm. His father worked as a dirt farmer, tending the land in Carroll County near the Alabama state line, while his mother served as a registered nurse, often traveling across the county for her duties, which led Jackson to spend much of his early years with his grandmother. As an only child in this close-knit household, Jackson contributed to the daily rigors of farm life, performing chores such as tending the garden, feeding livestock, and other manual tasks that instilled a strong work ethic from a young age. Growing up in this isolated, agrarian environment, Jackson developed an early fascination with through radio broadcasts that reached their remote farm. He vividly recalled huddling around the to listen to major baseball games like the and matchups, which captivated his imagination and sparked a lifelong passion for athletic . These broadcasts, often crackling over the airwaves in the quiet evenings, painted vivid pictures of distant stadiums and heroic plays, inspiring Jackson to envision a future where he could bring such excitement to others. During his high school years at Roopville High School, Jackson channeled this enthusiasm into active participation in athletics, playing on the school's championship team and contributing to several victories under the guidance of dedicated coaches. The rural school's emphasis on community and teamwork further honed his appreciation for sports as a unifying force, laying the groundwork for his later pursuits, though he would soon transition to military service after graduation.

Military service and college years

Following his high school graduation, Keith Jackson enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1946 at the age of 17, falsifying his age to qualify for service. He served for four years until 1950 in the post-World War II era, including a in that exposed him to international travel and helped instill discipline and confidence essential to his later career. Discharged in 1950, Jackson used the to attend , where he enrolled that fall and initially explored majors in and criminal science before shifting to speech communications. He graduated in 1954 with a in the field, which laid the groundwork for his pursuits. At WSU, Jackson immersed himself in communication-related activities to hone his skills. Starting in autumn 1951, he worked part-time at a small radio station in nearby Moscow, Idaho, announcing high school football games for $15 per contest. By 1952, as an undergraduate, he began covering Washington State Cougars football games, recording and announcing them for campus broadcasts, which marked his initial foray into sports play-by-play. He also took on leadership roles, serving as freshman class president and participating in a fraternity to build interpersonal and public speaking abilities. Financially strained despite the G.I. Bill's support, Jackson faced challenges covering living expenses in Pullman, Washington, prompting him to take odd jobs such as driving a garbage truck to make ends meet while balancing his studies and extracurriculars.

Broadcasting career

Early radio and TV assignments

Jackson began his broadcasting career in 1952, calling Washington State Cougars football games while a student. Following his graduation from Washington State University in 1954 with a degree in speech communications, Keith Jackson joined KOMO radio and television in Seattle. He initially focused on covering Washington State Cougars football games, providing play-by-play commentary that honed his distinctive folksy style. This role marked his transition from college radio work to paid professional assignments in the Pacific Northwest media market. From 1955 to 1965, Jackson expanded his responsibilities at KOMO-AM and KOMO-FM, serving as a general sports reporter and anchor. His duties included broadcasting a wide range of local events, such as high school sports competitions, Seattle Rainiers baseball games, Huskies football, and hydroplane races. These assignments allowed him to build versatility in live reporting and production, often juggling multiple roles including news co-anchoring on KOMO-TV's inaugural team from 1954 to 1964. A notable milestone in Jackson's early television work came in , when he provided the play-by-play for the first color TV broadcast of a game on the , featuring Washington State against Stanford. This broadcast, aired on , demonstrated his emerging prowess in visual media and contributed to the station's growing reputation for innovative sports coverage.

College football coverage

Keith Jackson joined ABC Sports in 1966, quickly establishing himself as the network's primary play-by-play announcer for , a role he held until his retirement in 2006. His folksy, authoritative style, rooted in his early radio experience, brought a sense of tradition and excitement to the broadcasts, helping to elevate the sport's national profile during an era of expanding television coverage. Over four decades, Jackson narrated more than 500 games, including numerous national championships, contributing to 's dominance in the genre. A cornerstone of his tenure was his coverage of the , where he broadcast 15 games—more than any other announcer—cementing his legacy with the event. Jackson popularized enduring phrases such as "The Granddaddy of Them All" to describe the and "The Big House" for , phrases that became synonymous with lore and enhanced the pageantry of the games. His final broadcast was the , featuring Texas's dramatic upset of in the national title game, marking the end of an era for ABC's package. Jackson often partnered with analyst , the former coach, in a collaboration that spanned nearly two decades and provided insightful, balanced commentary during ABC's primetime and regional telecasts. This duo helped define ABC's approach to the sport, blending Jackson's narrative flair with Broyles's tactical expertise to cover key matchups across conferences, from games to high-stakes bowl contests. Their work not only informed millions of viewers but also underscored Jackson's role in making a Saturday ritual, fostering widespread fan engagement and cultural significance.

Professional football and Monday Night Football

Jackson began his professional football broadcasting career in the early , covering (AFL) games for Sports, which helped establish his reputation for clear, engaging play-by-play narration. In 1970, Jackson served as the inaugural play-by-play announcer for 's Monday Night Football (), a groundbreaking prime-time series produced by , alongside color commentators and . The debut broadcast on September 21, 1970, featured the defeating the 31-21 at Cleveland's Municipal Stadium, drawing a 33% share of the prime-time audience and marking the 's first regular-season game in that slot. Under Arledge's innovative direction, employed an entertainment-oriented format with multiple cameras, dramatic slow-motion replays, and a three-person booth dynamic that blended sports analysis with personality-driven commentary, significantly elevating viewership and transforming it into a cultural phenomenon during the . Jackson's straightforward, authoritative style complemented the show's flair, though he was reassigned after the inaugural season to focus on . Throughout the 1960s to , Jackson's assignments included select regular-season games and postseason coverage, contributing to 's growing portfolio of professional football telecasts. In the , he called games for the (USFL) on , providing play-by-play for high-profile matchups that showcased the league's spring-season format and star players like . His experience from broadcasts influenced a consistent emphasis on game atmosphere and storytelling in his professional coverage.

Olympics and Wide World of Sports

Keith Jackson played a pivotal role in ABC's Olympic broadcasts, contributing to coverage of 10 Summer and Winter Games from 1964 to 1988. His assignments spanned a range of disciplines, showcasing his versatility in live international television. He provided play-by-play commentary for events at the in , where he narrated American swimmer Mark Spitz's unprecedented achievement of seven gold medals. Jackson also handled coverage at the in , capturing key moments in athletics, and called at the in Lake Placid, including Eric Heiden's record five gold medals. Additionally, he participated in opening ceremonies broadcasts, helping to set the tone for these global spectacles. A notable aspect of Jackson's Olympic work was his involvement in the aftermath of the tragic events at the 1972 Munich Games. Following the terrorist attack by that resulted in the deaths of 11 Israeli athletes, Jackson joined anchor on-site to report developments, providing somber updates amid the crisis. His reporting emphasized the human impact, blending with on-the-ground news delivery. At the in , Jackson covered basketball, including previews and key matches that highlighted the U.S. team's dominance, further demonstrating his adaptability to high-stakes, multi-venue events. From 1966 through the 1980s, Jackson served as a regular host and reporter on ABC's Wide World of Sports, a groundbreaking anthology program that introduced American audiences to diverse athletic pursuits. He narrated segments on international competitions, including routines, performances, and emerging extreme sports like and , often traveling to remote locations for firsthand coverage. This role underscored his broad expertise beyond team sports, with Jackson's warm, authoritative style making complex or unfamiliar events accessible. The demands of these assignments were immense, requiring frequent international travel to 31 countries and quick adaptation to varying live feeds, time zones, and production challenges. Building on his early television skills from local assignments, such as pioneering the first live U.S. sports broadcast from the Soviet Union in 1958, Jackson excelled in these environments, ensuring seamless delivery of global stories to viewers.

Other sports broadcasting

Jackson's versatility as a broadcaster extended to professional basketball, where he served as ABC's lead play-by-play announcer for NBA games during the 1970s. He teamed with Hall of Famer Bill Russell for four years of critically acclaimed telecasts, providing insightful commentary on key matchups. Notable assignments included the 1972 NBA Finals, where he called the Los Angeles Lakers' championship-clinching victory over the New York Knicks, and the 1973 Finals between the Lakers and New York Knicks. In addition to professional basketball, Jackson covered games for throughout the 1970s and 1980s, contributing to the network's coverage of high-profile contests. His play-by-play work included NCAA tournament appearances and regular-season matchups, such as the 1987 game between defending champion Louisville and Purdue alongside analyst . These broadcasts highlighted his ability to capture the intensity of amateur competition with the same folksy enthusiasm that defined his other assignments. Jackson also handled for , beginning in 1965 and resuming from 1976 to 1986, where he called a combined 11 and along with 10 All-Star Games. Standout moments included his narration of the between the New York Yankees and , as well as the dramatic 16-inning Game 6 of the between the and Houston Astros—his final MLB broadcast. Beyond team sports, he ventured into individual and equestrian events through ABC's Wide World of Sports, covering such as the and various tournaments that showcased his broad expertise.

Retirement and later projects

Jackson officially retired from broadcasting after calling the 2006 Rose Bowl game between and , capping a tenure of more than 40 years with ABC Sports that began in 1966. At age 77, he cited the rigors of travel and the pressures of play-by-play announcing as key factors, stating he did not want to "die in a stadium parking lot" and preferred to step away on his own terms. Following his retirement, Jackson made selective appearances, including hosting the 20-episode Big Ten Icons series for the Big Ten Network in 2010, which profiled legendary figures from the conference's history. He also lent his voice to occasional projects, such as a series of Gatorade commercials titled The Legend of Gatorade. In his writing, Jackson contributed the foreword to the 2000 book ABC Sports College Football All-Time All-America Team, edited by Mark Vancil, reflecting on the sport's greatest players and his own deep connection to college football. In post-retirement interviews, Jackson often reflected on his career's demands, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance and the value of time with family after decades on the road, which had sometimes kept him away from home for extended periods.

Personal life

Marriage and family

Keith Jackson met Turi Ann Johnsen, a fellow student, while attending in . The couple married in 1952, forging a devoted partnership that endured for over 65 years. Together, they raised three children: Melanie Ann, Lindsey, and . As Jackson's broadcasting career took the family across the country—from early assignments in the to his work with and eventual settlement in —their relocations underscored the close-knit support system that sustained him through demanding travel and schedules. The Jacksons eventually made their long-term home in Sherman Oaks, California, where they cultivated a private family life away from the spotlight. This emphasis on family privacy and roots, influenced by Jackson's rural upbringing, contributed to his enduring grounded and folksy public persona.

Death

Keith Jackson died on January 12, 2018, at the age of 89 in Sherman Oaks, California, where he had been a longtime resident. The was not publicly disclosed by his family. He passed away peacefully near his home, surrounded by loved ones, with no reports of or any surrounding . Jackson was survived by his wife of over 65 years, Turi Ann, as well as their three children and three grandchildren. The family held a private funeral service shortly after his passing, though specific details were not released to the public. In April 2018, a public celebration of life was organized at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, attended by several hundred family members, friends, and admirers; the two-hour event featured a video montage of his career highlights and tributes from broadcasting colleagues including Bob Griese, Dan Fouts, and Lynn Swann, along with video messages from figures such as Al Michaels and Brent Musburger. Burial details remain private and undisclosed. News of Jackson's death prompted widespread mourning across the sports world, given his decades-long career as the iconic voice of . ABC, his longtime network employer, issued a statement through Disney CEO describing him as "one of the greatest sportscasters of all time" and "the voice of ," extending condolences to his family. Longtime broadcast partner , a Pro Football Hall of Famer, paid tribute to Jackson's humility and passion, stating, "He was the voice of , and he was my friend... a great broadcaster and an even better person." The NCAA and community echoed these sentiments, with many institutions and broadcasters sharing memories of his folksy style and contributions to the sport, underscoring the profound loss felt by fans and peers alike.

Awards and honors

Broadcasting awards

Keith Jackson earned numerous accolades for his excellence in sports broadcasting throughout his career. He received multiple from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, recognizing his play-by-play commentary and contributions to major events. Notably, he won the Sports Emmy for Outstanding Sports Personality - Play-By-Play in 1999 for his work on ABC's broadcasts. Additionally, Jackson secured a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement in Sports Programming in 1973 for his coverage of the . His innovative role as the original play-by-play announcer for ABC's Monday Night Football from 1970 to 1973 further highlighted his impact, contributing to the recognition of his versatile broadcasting style across professional and college sports. In 1993, the presented Jackson with the Award, honoring his distinguished service to football through broadcasting, making him the first sportscaster to receive this distinction. The National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association (now the National Sports Media Association) named him National Sportscaster of the Year five consecutive times from 1972 to 1976, a record for the honor, celebrating his eloquent and engaging coverage of and other sports. Jackson's contributions culminated in the National Football Foundation's Gold Medal Award in 1999, the organization's highest honor, awarded for his lifelong dedication to promoting and preserving the heritage of through his broadcasts.

Hall of Fame inductions and tributes

In 1994, Jackson was inducted into the Sportscasters Association Hall of Fame. In 1995, he was inducted into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame on April 24, recognizing his over four decades of contributions to broadcasting, including five National Sportscaster of the Year awards. Four years later, in 1999, he became the first broadcaster selected for the Hall of Fame, honoring his record 15 calls of the game and his role in elevating its prominence over decades. Jackson's ties to his were commemorated in 2014 when he was inducted into the Washington State Sports Hall of Fame as part of its seventh class, acknowledging his broadcasting legacy as a graduate. Further tributes followed his 2006 retirement from Sports after the , including ABC's on-air acknowledgments during his final broadcast and subsequent profiles celebrating his career. In 2015, the Stadium's broadcast facilities were renamed the Keith Jackson Broadcast Center by the Rose Bowl Legacy Connections, a permanent tribute to his iconic voice and contributions to the venue.

Media appearances

Film roles

Keith Jackson ventured into film acting with a cameo in the 1966 Billy Wilder-directed comedy , where he played the role of a football announcer. In a pivotal scene set at Cleveland's Municipal Stadium during a game, Jackson delivers authentic play-by-play commentary as a cameraman (portrayed by ) is accidentally tackled by running back "Boom Boom" Jackson, famously noting, "It looks like Boom Boom Jackson has not only racked up 55 yards but also one of our cameramen." This appearance highlighted Jackson's burgeoning reputation as a sports broadcaster, infusing the sequence with realistic energy through his deep, authoritative voice. Jackson's limited work typically drew on his persona, enabling seamless integration into sports-themed narratives without requiring extensive acting. His recognizable and folksy delivery added credibility and humor to the film's insurance scam plot, marking an early example of how his fame facilitated such crossovers into cinema.

Television appearances

Jackson made a as himself in the 1974 episode "The Hard Breed" (Season 3, Episode 18) of the series , providing commentary on a event as part of ABC's Wide World of Sports.

Commercials and voiceovers

Keith Jackson's distinctive voice and folksy persona extended beyond sports broadcasting into commercial endorsements and voiceover work, where brands leveraged his trustworthy, down-home appeal to connect with audiences. He became a sought-after figure for advertisements targeting sports enthusiasts, often drawing on his signature style to infuse promotions with authenticity and humor. One of Jackson's most memorable commercial appearances was in a 1995 advertisement, part of the long-running "Tastes Great, Less Filling" campaign that featured numerous athletes and celebrities debating the beer's merits. In the spot, Jackson parodied his broadcast persona by narrating a ceremony as if it were a game, exclaiming "Whoa, Nellie!" during the exchange of vows, which highlighted his ability to blend humor with his authoritative delivery. In the early 2000s, Jackson provided voiceovers for 's "Origins" series of commercials, which chronicled the beverage's invention. The flagship ad, released in , featured him narrating the story of how was developed in 1965 to combat dehydration for the University of Florida Gators football team amid the "storied Swamp" heat, emphasizing the drink's legendary roots in . He also voiced a segment on the "G.I.D.S." ( In-Car Drinking System), promoting an innovative dispenser for athletes and drivers needing quick hydration. These spots capitalized on Jackson's status as the "voice of " to lend credibility and nostalgia to the brand. Jackson's endorsement work included restaurant chain , where in 2005 he was introduced as a key personality in their new , replacing and aligning with the fall season to appeal to Southern audiences familiar with his roots. His involvement underscored how advertisers selected him for roles that benefited from his relatable, avuncular image built over decades in .

Notable broadcasts

1950s–1960s

In the 1950s, Keith Jackson honed his broadcasting skills through local assignments in the , beginning with play-by-play duties for football games on the campus radio station starting in 1952. After graduating from WSU in 1954, he joined in , an affiliate, where he covered regional sports including football and Seattle Rainiers baseball. A standout early broadcast was his local TV call of the September 20, 1958, Washington State vs. Stanford football game, in which the Cougars secured a decisive 40-6 victory—the largest margin ever by a Washington team over Stanford at the time—showcasing Jackson's emerging descriptive style on film footage preserved by WSU Libraries. Jackson's national profile rose in the 1960s after joining in 1964 as sports director for ABC Radio West Coast. He provided radio coverage of games during the league's early years, contributing to broadcasts that helped build AFL visibility before its 1970 merger with the . Additionally, Jackson participated in 's Olympic coverage starting with the 1964 Winter Games in , , where he handled highlights including skiing events amid the network's taped transmissions anchored by . ABC's acquisition of NCAA rights marked a pivotal shift, with Jackson delivering his first national play-by-play broadcast for the network during the 1966 Oregon vs. game, a regional matchup that introduced his folksy, authoritative voice to a broader audience and launched his status as a key figure in telecasts. This early ABC assignment exemplified his ability to capture the drama of rivalries, setting the stage for his expanded role in the sport.

1970s

In 1970, Keith Jackson served as the play-by-play announcer for the debut broadcast of ABC's , partnering with and to call the ' 31-21 victory over the on September 21 at Municipal Stadium. This inaugural game drew approximately 24 million viewers, marking a pioneering effort to bring action to and establishing Jackson's role in elevating professional football's national profile. Jackson's college football coverage in the 1970s included the 1973 Rose Bowl, where he provided play-by-play for ABC as the USC Trojans defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes 42-17 on January 1 at the Rose Bowl Stadium. The game was marred by controversies, including disputed late penalties against Ohio State that allowed USC to score twice in the final minutes, fueling debates over officiating and contributing to the Buckeyes' coach Woody Hayes' post-game criticism of the calls. Jackson later described the 1973 USC team as the greatest he had ever witnessed, highlighting their dominance led by quarterback John Sciarra and running back Anthony Davis. During the 1976 Summer Olympics in , Jackson anchored ABC's swimming coverage, calling events alongside analysts and from July 18 to August 1 at the Olympic Pool. His broadcasts captured key moments, such as ’s four gold medals for the and the intense U.S.- rivalry, which drew widespread attention amid tensions and later revelations of East German doping. In the 1979 college football season, Jackson narrated several high-stakes games with national championship implications for ABC, including the season-ending on January 1, where #2 upset #1 Penn State 14-7 in New Orleans to claim the national title. His calls emphasized Alabama's defensive stand and quarterback Jeff Rutledge's leadership, underscoring the game's role in resolving the and UPI polls' top ranking after a split regular season. Earlier broadcasts, such as Alabama's 27-17 win over #7 on October 20, further highlighted Jackson's focus on SEC rivalries that shaped the championship race.

1980s

During the in Lake Placid, Keith Jackson was a key member of ABC's broadcasting team, contributing to the network's extensive coverage of the Games, which included the iconic "" U.S. hockey victory over the , though handled the primary play-by-play for that event. Jackson focused on other high-profile events, such as , where he narrated American Heiden's unprecedented sweep of all five individual gold medals, capturing the athlete's dominance and the national excitement surrounding the performances. This Olympic assignment underscored Jackson's versatility in covering alongside his core focus on . In , Jackson's voice defined major bowl games throughout the decade, including his call of the , where UCLA staged a stunning 45-9 upset over fourth-ranked . Broadcasting alongside analyst , Jackson emphasized the Bruins' offensive explosion led by quarterback , who threw for 245 yards and two touchdowns despite playing through illness, highlighting UCLA's second straight victory and their opportunistic defense that forced four turnovers. This game exemplified Jackson's ability to convey the pageantry and intensity of the "Granddaddy of Them All" while focusing on key rivalries in Pac-10 versus Big Ten matchups. A pinnacle of broadcasting came in the , pitting undefeated No. 1 against No. 2 to decide the 1987 —a rematch of their intense regular-season clash earlier that year, which had won 28-16. Paired with , Jackson narrated 's gritty 20-14 triumph, powered by a stifling defense that held to just 14 points and a late that sealed the ' sixth national title; the game showcased the era's fierce Sooner-Hurricane , marked by trash-talk and physicality, though not yet carrying the "Catholics vs. Convicts" moniker associated with 's later clashes. Jackson's descriptive style brought alive the Orange Bowl's electric atmosphere and the strategic battle between coaches and . Jackson also extended his Olympic portfolio to the 1988 Summer Games in , where assigned him to cover events, narrating standout American performances such as Florence Griffith Joyner's world-record sprints and gold medals in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay. His commentary highlighted the global stage's drama, including Carl Lewis's victory and the U.S. dominance in relays, blending technical analysis with the athletes' personal stories amid Cold War-era tensions. Additionally, Jackson continued hosting 's Wide World of Sports during the decade, providing a platform for diverse international competitions.

1990s

In the 1990s, Keith Jackson continued his prominent role as ABC's lead announcer, delivering play-by-play commentary for numerous high-profile games and solidifying his status as the preeminent voice of the sport during a decade of expanding broadcast coverage. His distinctive and folksy style, often punctuated by exclamations like "Whoa, Nellie!", enhanced the drama of key matchups, drawing millions of viewers to ABC's Saturday afternoon and bowl season telecasts. One of Jackson's standout broadcasts came in the 1993 Sugar Bowl, where he called No. 2 Alabama's 34-13 upset victory over No. 1 to claim the national championship. Teaming with color analyst , Jackson narrated pivotal moments, including Alabama's defensive stands and offensive surges led by quarterback , capturing the Tide's first title since 1992 under coach . The game, played on January 1, 1993, in the Superdome, exemplified Jackson's ability to convey the intensity of a title clash, with his call of Lamar Thomas's fumble—"The ball is on the ground!"—becoming a memorable highlight amid 's turnover-plagued performance. Jackson's tenure in the decade peaked with his final full-season broadcast, the 1998 game on January 1, 1999, featuring No. 1 defeating No. 2 Florida State 23-16 in a defensive battle at Sun Devil Stadium. Announcing alongside Griese, he chronicled 's first undisputed title under coach , including kicker Jeff Hall's game-winning field goals and the Volunteers' late stands against Seminoles quarterback . This telecast marked Jackson's planned after 48 years in broadcasting, though he later returned part-time; his sign-off encapsulated his enduring impact, as ABC's coverage reached over 20 million viewers for the BCS-era showdown. Throughout the 1990s, Jackson's work extended to other marquee events, such as the (Penn State vs. ) and multiple Pac-10 contests, where his narration emphasized tradition and regional rivalries, contributing to ABC's dominance in ratings. His longevity at ABC, spanning over three decades by mid-decade, allowed him to bridge generational fans while adapting to evolving formats like instant replay and expanded sideline reporting.

2000s

In the early 2000s, Keith Jackson continued his role as ABC's lead play-by-play announcer, focusing on high-profile bowl games and select matchups. One of his notable broadcasts from this period was the , where he called the defensive battle between the and on January 1, 2000, in . Wisconsin secured a 17-9 victory, powered by running back Ron Dayne's performance, marking Jackson's continued presence in the iconic booth alongside analyst . Jackson's assignments in the mid-2000s highlighted his enduring association with marquee postseason events. He provided play-by-play for the on January 3, 2005, featuring the against the , a game that foreshadowed Texas quarterback Vince Young's rising stardom in a 38-37 Longhorns win. This broadcast, again paired with Fouts, exemplified Jackson's ability to capture the intensity of Big Ten-Pac-10 clashes traditional to the . The decade culminated in Jackson's swan song: the on January 4, 2006, pitting the against the in a thriller. Texas prevailed 41-38 on 's game-winning run, with Jackson delivering his final call—"Vince Young... to the end zone! Texas 41, USC 38!"—in what became one of college football's most celebrated finishes. This game marked the end of his 48-year broadcasting career, as Jackson had informed executives beforehand that it would be his last. Prior to , he handled selective Big Ten games, including key rivalries like Michigan-Ohio State, maintaining his signature folksy narration for conference audiences. Health considerations, including declining vision and hearing, influenced Jackson's decision to retire gracefully at age 77, ensuring he exited on a high note without diminishing his legacy.

Legacy

Signature style and phrases

Keith Jackson's broadcasting style was characterized by a folksy, down-home delivery that emphasized storytelling over sensationalism, drawing viewers into the narrative of the game rather than relying on hype. Rooted in his Georgia upbringing in the small town of Roopville, his distinctive accent added authenticity and warmth, evoking a sense of Southern Americana that resonated with college football audiences across the nation. This approach, honed during his early radio days at KOMO in Seattle, translated seamlessly to television, where Jackson maintained a conversational tone that made complex plays feel like shared tales around a campfire. One of Jackson's most iconic phrases, "Whoa, Nellie!", became synonymous with moments of high excitement, often punctuating dramatic plays or unexpected turns in a game. He popularized other memorable expressions, such as "Big Uglies" to affectionately describe burly offensive linemen, "Hello, Heisman!" for standout performances, and dubbing the the "Granddaddy of Them All" to highlight its storied history. These phrases, delivered with his signature , avoided over-the-top drama and instead amplified the organic thrill of , reinforcing his reputation as the sport's premier voice. Jackson's on-air chemistry with analysts further enhanced his style, creating dynamic partnerships that blended his narrative flair with expert insights. Collaborations with former coaches like and were particularly notable, as their grounded analyses complemented Jackson's storytelling, fostering a booth atmosphere of mutual respect and seamless flow. This evolution from radio, where he built his descriptive skills through audio-only broadcasts, to television allowed Jackson to incorporate visual cues while preserving the intimate, unpretentious essence that defined his four-decade career.

Influence and posthumous recognition

Jackson's influence extended beyond his on-air presence, as he played a pivotal role in elevating 's prominence on television during the latter half of the . As the lead announcer for Sports' college football coverage for over four decades, his engaging, folksy style helped transform Saturday afternoon games into must-watch national events, drawing millions of viewers and fostering a deeper cultural appreciation for the sport. His work set a benchmark for broadcast quality, emphasizing storytelling and authenticity that influenced subsequent generations of announcers. In addition to his broadcasting career, Jackson mentored aspiring sportscasters, particularly students at , his , where he maintained close ties with the College of Communication. He corresponded personally with students, offering guidance on professional development and encouraging their entry into the field, thereby shaping the next wave of media professionals. Post-retirement, Jackson contributed regular columns to the Athens Banner-Herald and other publications, sharing insights on sports and life that kept his voice resonant in print media until his passing. Following his death in 2018, which prompted widespread tributes highlighting his enduring legacy, Jackson received several posthumous honors. In 2019, he was inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame as part of its Legends Class, recognizing his roots in Roopville, Georgia, and his status as one of the greatest college football announcers. The Keith Jackson Eternal Flame Award, established by College Sports Communicators in his honor, continues to celebrate contributions to intercollegiate athletics, with ESPN's Holly Rowe named the 2025 recipient for her impactful sideline reporting and storytelling. One particularly whimsical tribute underscores Jackson's affable rapport with fans: the "Keith Jackson Toilet Facility" in the broadcast booth at the University of Nebraska's Memorial Stadium. Dedicated on September 11, 1999, during a renovation, the restroom's plaque originated from a lighthearted by a friend who installed a temporary sign during an earlier broadcast, poking fun at Jackson's frequent mentions of needing facilities amid long games; the name endured as a nod to his down-to-earth persona. Recent years have seen continued recognition through the ongoing Eternal Flame Award and occasional media reflections on his calls, reinforcing his lasting imprint on sports broadcasting as of 2025.

References

  1. [1]
    Legendary broadcaster Keith Jackson dies at age 89 - ESPN
    Jan 13, 2018 · Keith Jackson, who was widely regarded as the voice of college football by several generations, died late Friday night, his family said. He was 89.Missing: commentator biography
  2. [2]
    Keith Jackson, folksy voice of college football, dies at 89
    Jan 13, 2018 · Keith Jackson, the folksy voice of college football who for decades weaved backwoods wit through ABC broadcasts, died Friday night. He was 89.Missing: commentator biography
  3. [3]
    Keith Jackson, Voice of College Football, Dies at 89
    Jan 13, 2018 · Keith Max Jackson was born on Oct. 18, 1928, in the western Georgia town of Roopville, and he grew up nearby, just outside Carrollton. He ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  4. [4]
    Roopville's most famous: Keith Jackson left Carroll County, but it ...
    Jan 20, 2018 · Keith Jackson once recalled a frosty January in 1943, lying on a ... His mother was a registered nurse and constantly travelled around ...
  5. [5]
    WHATCHA GOT LORAN: Whoa Nellie … Keith Jackson Never ...
    Nov 24, 2016 · Keith was the face and voice of the campus game from 1952 until he retired in 2006. The highlights of his career include calling the Rose Bowl ...Missing: public | Show results with:public<|separator|>
  6. [6]
    Keith Jackson - Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame
    Born on a west Georgia farm in 1928, Jackson grew up listening to sports on the radio and riding a horse to school. He spent four years in the U.S. Marine Corps ...Missing: upbringing | Show results with:upbringing
  7. [7]
    Person of the Week: Keith Jackson - ABC News
    Apr 28, 2006 · The sportscaster grew up on a farm in eastern Georgia, which is surprisingly where he made his start in broadcasting. "One time my ...
  8. [8]
    Remembering Keith Jackson: The folksy voice of college football
    Jan 13, 2018 · She is survived by her daughter Finley, her parents, three brothers and a sister. ... Jackson, after graduating from Georgia's Roopville High ...
  9. [9]
    From would-be autobiography, Keith Jackson's own oral history
    Jan 13, 2018 · Legendary broadcaster Keith Jackson died Friday night at the age of 89. In the late 1990s, Star columnist Vahe Gregorian did a series of ...
  10. [10]
    Keith Jackson, Legendary Hall of Fame Broadcaster, Dead at 89
    Jan 13, 2018 · Born on a west Georgia farm in 1928, Jackson grew up listening to sports on the radio and riding a horse to school. He spent four years in ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  11. [11]
    Legendary broadcaster Keith Jackson dies at age 89 - ABC News
    Jan 13, 2018 · He spent four years in the Marine Corps before attending Washington State and graduating with a broadcast journalism degree. He worked at ...Missing: enlistment 1946-1950 roles communications
  12. [12]
    Keith Jackson 1928–2018 | Washington State Magazine
    Apr 27, 2018 · He was the rare, skilled broadcaster who could add to a game without making a broadcast about himself. Although he did it better than anyone, he ...
  13. [13]
    Legendary broadcaster Keith Jackson dies at 89 - The Detroit News
    Jan 13, 2018 · After serving four years in the Marine Corps, Jackson broadcast his first college football game in 1952 as an undergraduate at Washington State.Missing: 1946-1950 roles communications
  14. [14]
    Legendary former KOMO sportscaster Keith Jackson dies at 89
    Jan 13, 2018 · Jackson began working for KOMO Radio in Seattle in the 1950s and later for KOMO-TV from 1954 to 1964 as co-anchor for the station's first news ...
  15. [15]
    Keith Jackson, leading college football broadcaster and WSU alum ...
    Jan 13, 2018 · By 1952, Jackson was calling Cougars games on the school station and, after graduating in 1954, went to work at KOMO-TV, a new ABC affiliate in ...
  16. [16]
    Keith Jackson - General - National Football Foundation
    Turi's folks, mom Gudrun and dad Joseph, were born and raised in Norway. My parents were born and raised in Georgia.Missing: upbringing | Show results with:upbringing
  17. [17]
    TV SPORTS; BROYLES'S SECRET PLAY THROWN FOR LOSS
    Dec 3, 1985 · Broyles managed to confound his broadcast partner of nine years, Keith Jackson, confuse viewers, and succinctly illustrate the huge gap between ...
  18. [18]
    Keith Jackson was college football, authentic, homespun and ...
    rowing, baseball, boat races and Olympic Games. But it was college football that fit him best.Missing: commentator biography
  19. [19]
    Keith Jackson's Most Memorable College Football Calls
    Jan 13, 2018 · He is credited with nicknaming the Rose Bowl, "The Granddaddy of Them All" and Michigan Stadium as the "Big House." Watch the calls below ...Missing: coverage | Show results with:coverage
  20. [20]
    Keith Jackson, legendary college football announcer, dies at 89
    Jan 13, 2018 · He also announced American Football League games in the 1960s and USFL games for ABC in the 1980s. In addition to football, Jackson covered ...
  21. [21]
    Monday Night Football All-Time Commentators (1970-present)
    Monday Night Football All-Time Commentators (1970-present) ; 1970, Keith Jackson, Howard Cosell, Don Meredith ; 1971, Frank Gifford, Howard Cosell, Don Meredith.
  22. [22]
    Monday Night Football turns 50: What does the future of NFL ... - ESPN
    Sep 16, 2019 · "From Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio," intoned ABC announcer Keith Jackson, "two powers of professional football meet for the first time.<|control11|><|separator|>
  23. [23]
    The NFL's first prime time series: 50 years ago Monday Night ...
    Oct 8, 2020 · Surprisingly, after the first season, Jackson was taken off the NFL. Roone brought Gifford in from CBS where he was an analyst. The onetime NFL ...
  24. [24]
    Keith Jackson (1928-2018) - Sports Media Watch
    He was part of ABC's Major League Baseball coverage from 1976-82 and again in 1986, working all or part of the 1977, 1979 and 1981 World Series. He called ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  25. [25]
    You Know! Keith Jackson was the King of Saturday College Football ...
    Jan 15, 2018 · Jackson presided over the first season of ABC's Monday Night football in 1970. Doing so, he helped make the NFL a primetime network behemoth.Missing: freelance | Show results with:freelance
  26. [26]
    RIP Keith Jackson: Versatile broadcaster, known for legendary Rose ...
    Jan 13, 2018 · Though best known for his college broadcasts, Jackson called NFL games and was the first play-by-play announcer on ABC's ''Monday Night Football ...
  27. [27]
    ABC'S Keith Jackson: A Hoss of a Broadcaster - Sports Illustrated Vault
    Feb 9, 1987 · Jackson got into broadcasting after enrolling, courtesy of the GI Bill, at Washington State in the police science and political science program.
  28. [28]
    NBA Finals on the networks: A storied and often colorful history ...
    Jul 12, 2021 · Keith Jackson and Bill Russell did the ABC games in 1972 and 1973. One comment by Russell stands out. Late in a tight playoff game, Russell, at ...
  29. [29]
    Louisville @ Purdue (Jan. 18, 1987) with Keith Jackson and Dick ...
    Mar 3, 2020 · Here is an old school college basketball game featuring then defending NCAA champion Louisville vs. Purdue at Mackey Arena on Sunday, ...
  30. [30]
    MLB - Living Legends: Keith Jackson - ESPN.com
    Jackson worked extensively broadcasting sports on the student radio station. After graduating, he went to work for KOMO in Seattle, where he filled the ...
  31. [31]
    Legendary broadcaster Keith Jackson dies at 89 - MLB.com
    Jan 13, 2018 · Keith Jackson, the legendary voice who called the 16-inning 1986 National League Championship Series Game 6 contest between the Mets and Astros, passed away ...Missing: freelance radio 1960s minor
  32. [32]
    Legendary college football announcer Keith Jackson dies at 89
    Jan 13, 2018 · Jackson has spanned the globe to announce a wide variety of sports, including boxing, swimming, golf, arm-wrestling, basketball, baseball ...
  33. [33]
    Legendary Sportscaster Keith Jackson Passes Away at 89
    Jan 13, 2018 · Jackson was born October 28, 1928, and raised on a farm near the Georgia-Alabama state line, riding a horse to school and intrigued by sports ...Missing: upbringing | Show results with:upbringing
  34. [34]
    Legendary Broadcaster Keith Jackson to Retire
    Jackson, 77, began calling college football games with ABC in 1966. He also worked NBA, NFL games and the Olympics, but was always best known for college ...<|separator|>
  35. [35]
    Remembering Keith Jackson | On the Banks
    Jan 14, 2018 · The catchphrase of the greatest college football announcer will never be heard again. Keith Jackson passed away on Friday.<|separator|>
  36. [36]
    Keith Jackson, 1928-2018 - Uncle Mike's Musings
    Jan 14, 2018 · Keith Jackson died on Friday, January 12, 2018, at his home in Los Angeles. He was 89 years old. People didn't wait to salute him after his death.
  37. [37]
    ABC Sports College Football All Time All-America Team
    Now, with this book fans can find out whos on top as a team of blue ribbon athletes, coaches, and journalists in the field come together to choose their ...
  38. [38]
    Jackson Says He's Retiring From ABC, for Good - Los Angeles Times
    Apr 27, 2006 · “I'm retired,” Jackson said Wednesday night. Jackson retired once before, amid much fanfare, after the 1999 Fiesta Bowl, which was the BCS ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  39. [39]
    Legendary Broadcaster Keith Jackson Dies at 89 - WSJ
    Jan 13, 2018 · Jackson's longtime employer, said he died Friday. No cause was given. He was a longtime resident of Sherman Oaks and died near his home there.
  40. [40]
    Rose Bowl to host a celebration of life to honor the late Keith Jackson
    Mar 1, 2018 · Among those scheduled to speak are Jackson's former college broadcasting colleagues Dan Fouts, Bob Griese, Todd Harris and Lynn Swann. ... Jackson ...
  41. [41]
    Celebration of life of broadcaster Keith Jackson held at Rose Bowl
    Apr 15, 2018 · He died in January at the age of 89. In the venue he stamped "The Granddaddy of Them All," speakers shared their most memorable stories about ...
  42. [42]
    Keith Jackson (1928-2018) - Find a Grave Memorial
    Jackson was part of the broadcast team for the first season of "Monday Night ... Family Members. Parents. Ross A Jackson. 1904–1990. Martha Lucile "Polly ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  43. [43]
    'Whoa, Nelly!' Keith Jackson, Voice Of College Football, Dies At 89
    Jan 15, 2018 · Keith Jackson, the voice of college football for generations died on Friday at the age of 89. In 2014, he attended the 66th Annual DGA Awards Dinner in Los ...
  44. [44]
    Sports Emmy Awards (1999) - IMDb
    Outstanding Sports Personality - Play-By-Play · Keith Jackson. Winner. Keith Jackson · Al Michaels · American Broadcasting Company (ABC) · Bob Costas · National ...Missing: list | Show results with:list
  45. [45]
    Keith Jackson | Television Academy
    Outstanding Achievement In Sports Programming - 1973. Keith Jackson. 1972 Summer Olympic Games. ABC. Click here if you have updates to this page.Missing: broadcasting | Show results with:broadcasting
  46. [46]
    1995 – Keith Jackson | National Sports Media Association
    Born on a farm near the Georgia-Alabama border on October 18, 1928, sportscasting legend Keith Jackson is most famous for his 53 years covering college football ...Missing: upbringing | Show results with:upbringing
  47. [47]
    Keith Jackson (1999) - Rose Bowl Hall of Fame
    1999 Inductee Keith Jackson was widely regarded as the voice of college football by several generations. Jackson spent some 50 years calling the action in a ...
  48. [48]
    State Hall Of Fame welcomes 7 new members - Sportspress Northwest
    The Washington State Sports Hall of Fame Saturday announced its 2014 class, which includes retired sportscaster Keith Jackson, former Washington State ...
  49. [49]
    Rose Bowl Legacy Connections Announces Naming of the Keith ...
    Rose Bowl Legacy Connections Announces Naming of the Keith Jackson Broadcast Center at the Rose Bowl Stadium. From STAFF REPORTS. Published on Thursday, ...
  50. [50]
    The Fortune Cookie (1966) - Full cast & crew - IMDb
    The Fortune Cookie (1966) - Cast and crew credits, including actors ... Keith Jackson · CBS Football Announcer · Herbert Ellis · Herbert Ellis · TV Director.
  51. [51]
    Keith Jackson, Legendary Voice of College Football, Dies at 89
    Jan 13, 2018 · The Georgia native, who spent four decades with ABC, retired after the 1999 Fiesta Bowl but returned to the college football booth the following ...Missing: Super | Show results with:Super<|separator|>
  52. [52]
    Fortune Cookie, The (1966) -- (Movie Clip) One Of Our Cameramen
    Apr 12, 2009 · Shot at Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, sportscaster Keith Jackson calls the play as cameraman Harry Hinkle (Jack Lemmon) gets clobbered by ...
  53. [53]
    The Top 20 Sports Announcer Cameos in Movie History (With Video)
    May 27, 2010 · 4 of 20. 16. John Madden, The Replacements. 5 of 20. 15. Keith Jackson, The Fortune Cookie. 6 of 20. 14. Lee Corso, The Waterboy. 7 of 20 ...
  54. [54]
    What befits a 'legend' most? How about a great commercial
    Jun 16, 2002 · "Origins," Gatorade's latest TV commercial, is a brilliant 60-second ... Keith Jackson, as the host and voice-over of the spot.Filmed ...
  55. [55]
    Legend Keith Jackson lends voice to 1995 Miller Lite commercial
    Jan 13, 2018 · Legendary announcer Keith Jackson lends his voice and appears in old 1995 Miller Lite commercial. Share this video:.Missing: Gatorade endorsements
  56. [56]
    1995 Miller Lite "Keith Jackson" "Wedding" TV Commercial - YouTube
    Aug 31, 2018 · If you like this commercial *PLEASE SUBSCRIBE*. In the past I have used monetization to cover costs of new content acquisition.Missing: voiceovers Gatorade car radio endorsements
  57. [57]
    Gatorade - Origins - splendAd
    Part of the Gatorade "Origins" ad series, which gives a brief overview of the history behind Gatorade. Credits. None listed. Cast. Keith Jackson ... Narrator ...Missing: 1990s | Show results with:1990s
  58. [58]
    Gatorade - G.I.D.S. - splendAd
    Part of the Gatorade "Origins" ad series, narrated by Keith Jackson, this installment is called "G.I.D.S." (which stands for Gatorade In-Car Drinking System).
  59. [59]
    Shoney's chooses new advertising agency to lift sales - Nashville Post
    Longtime football announcer Keith Jackson, a Georgia native, will be featured in some of Shoney's advertising efforts. Dahlen said it is too early to know ...Missing: endorsements | Show results with:endorsements
  60. [60]
    Remembering legendary sportscaster and WSU grad Keith Jackson
    Jan 13, 2018 · Legendary sports broadcaster and 1954 WSU grad Keith Jackson never forgot his roots. Widely considered the voice of college football.Missing: debate radio financial part- time
  61. [61]
    1973 College Football Season - 506 Archive
    ... Keith Jackson, Lee Grosscup, Bill Flemming ... January 1. Cotton Bowl, #12 Nebraska vs #8 Texas, 2pm, CBS, Lindsey Nelson, Tom Brookshier, Frank Glieber. Rose ...
  62. [62]
    Looking back at Ohio State and USC's 3-year 'War of the Roses'
    Dec 11, 2017 · It was on display on both sides of the field in the 1973 Rose Bowl. ... Keith Jackson would call that Trojans squad the greatest team he ever saw.
  63. [63]
    TV COVERAGE: BROUGHT TO YOU BY... - Time Magazine
    Jul 19, 1976 · Jackson, along with Bill Flemming and former Olympic Stars Mark Spitz, Donna de Varona and Micki King, will cover swimming and diving, while ...
  64. [64]
    40 years later, story of U.S., East German Olympic swimmers can be ...
    Jun 4, 2016 · Keith Jackson and Donna DeVarona were the prime TV broadcasting team at the pool. But attention was turning to 14-year-old Nadia Comaneci in ...
  65. [65]
    The 1976 Summer Olympic Games of Montreal - SwimSwam
    May 29, 2019 · The 1976 Olympic Games of Montreal, Canada, produced two of the most fascinating stories in the history of Olympic swimmers.Missing: Keith broadcasts
  66. [66]
    ESPN.com: Page 2 : All the marbles: 1 vs. 2
    1979 Sugar Bowl: No. 2 Alabama (10-1) 14, No. 1 Penn State (11-0) 7. Whoa, Nellie! Keith Jackson, who's forgotten far more about college football than we'll ...Missing: broadcasts | Show results with:broadcasts
  67. [67]
    1979 College Football Season - 506 Archive
    ABC had exclusive rights to live telecasts. Sat 9/8, #2 Alabama @ Georgia Tech, ABC, 4:30 pm, Keith Jackson, Ara Parseghian, Bill FlemmingMissing: national | Show results with:national
  68. [68]
    How Al Michaels ended up calling the 'Miracle on Ice' - NBC Sports
    Feb 22, 2020 · ABC had an announcing roster highlighted by Keith Jackson, Jim McKay, and Howard Cosell and covering Eric Heiden's quest for five speed skating ...
  69. [69]
    [Historic Games] The 1988 Orange Bowl and the 1987 Season : r/CFB
    Feb 3, 2018 · Watch the Orange Bowl 1988 Orangebowl 2:33:49. Oklahoma #1 Oklahoma Sooners vs Miami #2 Miami Hurricanes (ABC: Keith Jackson and Bob Griese).
  70. [70]
    Keith Jackson was the sound of college football - ESPN
    Jan 13, 2018 · Keith Jackson was the sound of college football · Senior college football writer · Six-time FWAA award winner · Graduate of Stanford University.<|control11|><|separator|>
  71. [71]
    FOOTBALL: Keith Jackson's Change Of Seasons; At 70, the Voice of ...
    Nov 11, 1998 · Article profiles career of college football announcer Keith Jackson, who is retiring from ABC booth after 30 years; photo (M)<|control11|><|separator|>
  72. [72]
    'Whoa, Nellie!' Relive Keith Jackson's greatest college football calls
    Sep 19, 2021 · "Teague's got the ball!" When: Jan. 1, 1993. What: 1993 Sugar Bowl between No. 1 Miami and No. 2 Alabama Setup: Jackson was on the call when ...
  73. [73]
    2000 Rose Bowl (TV Special 2000) - IMDb
    Keith Jackson · Self - Play-by-Play Announcer ; Dan Fouts · Self - Color Commentator ; Todd Harris · Self - Sideline Reporter ; Barry Alvarez · Self - Wisconsin ...
  74. [74]
    ROSE BOWL REPORT - Los Angeles Times
    Jan 2, 2000 · DID YOU NOTICE? Stanford's receivers were being held by Wisconsin's secondary all through the quarter. Keith Jackson noticed. Dan Fouts noticed.
  75. [75]
    2005 Rose Bowl (TV Special 2005) - IMDb
    Top Cast10 ; Keith Jackson · Self - Play-by-Play Announcer ; Dan Fouts · Self - Color Commentator ; Cedric Benson · Self - Texas Longhorns Running Back ; Mack Brown.
  76. [76]
    Texas vs. Michigan '05 - The night Vince Young became a superstar
    Sep 5, 2024 · ... Keith Jackson outside the Rose Bowl stadium in Pasadena, CA -. The admiration Jackson and Fouts gained for Young in that game against Michigan ...
  77. [77]
    Keith Jackson returns to the Rose Bowl game, just not in the ...
    Jan 1, 2017 · Announcer Keith Jackson, whose voice was the quintessential Saturday soundtrack for generations, will be at the game as a spectator.Missing: commentator biography
  78. [78]
    6 memories of Keith Jackson, who made every town a college ...
    Jan 15, 2018 · My parents didn't raise me with any sort of college football allegiances, but my dad loves the sport, and we watched a ton on Saturdays. Growing ...Missing: siblings | Show results with:siblings
  79. [79]
    Keith Jackson was the definitive college football voice
    Jan 13, 2018 · From "Whoa, Nellie" to "Hello, Heisman", Keith Jackson's catchphrases left an impact on three generations of college football fans.
  80. [80]
    Sportscaster Keith Jackson, voice of college football, dead at 89 ...
    Sportscaster Keith Jackson, who brought a folksy, excitable demeanor and down-home exclamations such as "Whoa, Nellie!" to 40 seasons of play-by-play ...
  81. [81]
    Sports world shares Keith Jackson's famous on-air moments
    Jan 13, 2018 · But he also became widely known for coining popular sports phrases, including referring to the Rose Bowl as "The Grandaddy of Them All" and ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  82. [82]
    Keith Jackson - National Football Foundation
    Dec 22, 2016 · He has won practically every award imaginable in sports broadcasting. Washington State has named the building which houses its Edward R ...Missing: Emmy | Show results with:Emmy<|control11|><|separator|>
  83. [83]
    LEGENDS 2019 | GSHF - Georgia Sports Hall of Fame
    LEGENDS CLASS OF 2019. Anchor 1. KEITH JACKSON. A native of Roopville, Keith Jackson is arguably the greatest college football announcer in the history of the ...
  84. [84]
    Keith Jackson Eternal Flame Award - College Sports Communicators
    May 6, 2013 · The late Keith Jackson was widely known as the "voice of college football" after his more than 40 years of work covering football for ABC.
  85. [85]
    Holly Rowe receives CSC Keith Jackson Eternal Flame Award
    Jun 11, 2025 · Keith Jackson, the award's namesake, was its first winner in 1998. Other past recipients include legendary announcers Dick Enberg (2001) and ...
  86. [86]
    Fox Customized First TV Booth Toilet - University of Nebraska
    Dec 11, 2014 · At the close of 1999, Keith Jackson's bio grew exponentially. He was awarded the National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame Gold Medal, ...Missing: ranch | Show results with:ranch