Embed from Getty Images 31 loyal seasons. He was the voice of Detroit Lions football. Until today when the Detroit Lions radio home WJR informed beloved broadcaster Jim Brandstatter, he was being replaced by former Lions offensive linemen Lomas Brown.
He was as announcers go an icon in the city of Detroit. For 31 NFL seasons that dated pre-Barry Sanders, Jim Brandstatter called the games. Like no other.
Many people would mute the t.v. and listen to “Brandy” call the games. He was that good. It is the radio stations right to bring in whoever they please. Lomas Brown is a very solid choice as he has done work on ESPN.
But for Lions fans Sunday’s will never be the same. Many say Jim Brandstatter is one of the best in the booth. That reaches outside Detroit. No person in Michigan would or could argue.
The news caught many Michiganders off guard. It seems the choice was WJR’s alone. The Detroit Lions, were said to be just as taken back. This is like when the late Mike Ilitch owned the Detroit Tigers, and fired Ernie Harwell.
Detroit Lions fans, can only hope like Mr. Ilitch WJR realizes they made a mistake in a year or two and bring Brandstatter back.
Will there be push back against the radio station? You can count on it. People who follow sports include the people calling the game as part of the team. Detroit, is no different.
It is a shame of epic proportions. A talent like Jim Brandstatter should not be forced out but choose when they walk away. 31 years is a long time. Perhaps now Jim will be with his family Thanksgiving Day when the Lions play.
But for the fans, city and team it will not be the same.
Thanks for the great blog! Good insight