Jets return man Xavier Gipson walked things off on Monday Night Football with a thrilling overtime score. The crew on the ManningCast set didn’t seem overly impressed by the punt return.
Peyton and Eli Manning, along with guest Ryan Fitzpatrick delivered the most uninspiring call while taking viewers through the play. Many are posting their reactions to the boring response on social media.
The ManningCast is left STUNNED by that Xavier Gipson punt return touchdown!! pic.twitter.com/vT4UKPVRyV
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 12, 2023
On the opening weekend of the NFL season, New York forced overtime against Buffalo, overcoming a 10-point second half deficit to tie the game at 13-13. They did so without the help of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who was injured on the first series of the matchup.
Without Rodgers under center, the offense struggled. Zach Wilson threw for just 140 yards though the rushing attack proved formidable.
Instead, it was the defense and special teams units that won this game.
Jets defensive back Jordan Whitehead picked off three passes from Josh Allen and the New York defensive line swarmed for five sacks. After setting up the game-tying score with an interception, that defense forced a fumble deep in Buffalo territory to help the Jets grab their first lead.
Buffalo would tie things up on their final drive, giving fans some extra football.
After a three-and-out on their opening overtime possession, the Bills punted to Xavier Gipson. He quickly ended the game with a 65-yard score.
MetLife Stadium immediate erupted with reaction, but some didn’t seem so impressed. Viewers watching along with the ManningCast crew noted how humdrum their response to the punt return was.
Invigorating
— Dylan Goodin (@dgoodin24) September 12, 2023
Love the Mannings but zero energy on a play like that makes the ManningCast unwatchable.
— נירן (@NiItzHa) September 12, 2023
“Stunned” is not the word I would use to describe that but I guess putting that in all caps gets people to click the video
— Yalaxy (@ian101nai) September 12, 2023
How do you show absolutely no excitement or enthusiasm during that punt return? Come on, Fitz, wake up!
— Andrew (@s8ntandrew) September 12, 2023
Regardless of that reaction, it was an exciting end to Week 1.