The second Sunday Night Football of the season sets up a clash between two rising teams with young quarterbacks and explosive skill players. On one side, the Atlanta Falcons with Michael Penix Jr., Bijan Robinson, and Drake London. On the other hand, the Minnesota Vikings have J.J. McCarthy, Justin Jefferson, and a strong defense.
This will be the first meeting between McCarthy and Penix since the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship, where McCarthy’s Michigan defeated Penix’s Washington 34-13. With all the hype surrounding that game, both quarterbacks went on to be selected in the top 10 of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Take a look at who will be on the call for this primetime showdown that could feel like an early playoff matchup in a stacked NFC.
Who Will Guide Fans Through Falcons-Vikings on Sunday Night Football?
Mike Tirico is back in the play-by-play seat, bringing his signature polish and wealth of big-game experience to another primetime stage. Since stepping in as the voice of Sunday Night Football in 2022, he has seamlessly carried on the tradition left by the iconic Al Michaels.
Tirico stands out for his ability to heighten the drama of the moment without stealing the spotlight. Whether it’s Robinson’s dazzling run or Jefferson’s highlight-reel grab, his smooth cadence lets the action tell the story while amplifying its impact.
Two familiar faces meet under the national spotlight once again. đź‘€ pic.twitter.com/jyJgiJEuHy
— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) September 12, 2025
Joining him in the booth is Cris Collinsworth, who has been the lead analyst on Sunday Night Football for more than a decade. His familiar “Now here’s a guy…” introductions have become part of the show’s DNA, but his true strength lies in translating the game’s complexities for both casual viewers and seasoned fans.
Collinsworth’s perspective is shaped by his years as a Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver. When he details how a pass catcher creates separation or how a quarterback works through progressions, he’s pulling from firsthand experience at the highest level.
Read More: Drake London Injury Update: Should Fantasy Managers Start the Falcons’ WR?
On the sidelines, Melissa Stark connects the audience to everything outside the camera’s main frame. Her role goes far beyond relaying injuries or scores, as she adds context and perspective to the human stories unfolding throughout the night.
With more than 25 years in sports broadcasting, Stark’s poise and clarity under pressure ensure that fans stay engaged with every aspect of the broadcast.
Together, Tirico, Collinsworth, and Stark form one of the most trusted teams in sports television. This week, they’ll be on the call as two second-year quarterbacks battle under the lights. The Falcons look to secure their first victory, while J.J. McCarthy aims to open his career with back-to-back primetime wins.
