ESPN made an embarrassing blunder during Saturday's broadcast of the Pop-Tarts Bowl between the University of Miami and Iowa State when they mistakenly labeled Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Irvin as "Michael Irving" during the game.
The mix-up occurred with 13:33 remaining in the second quarter just after a commercial break following a touchdown Miami Hurricanes freshman wide receiver Joshisa Trader that tied the game at 21-21. Before the ensuing kickoff, an ESPN camera spotted Irvin on the Hurricanes sideline, offering Trader some additional coaching.
To compound the mistake, not only did the on-screen graphic mislabel Irvin as "Michael Irving", but the ESPN broadcast crew of Tom Hart and Jordan Rodgers also referred to him by the wrong name.
Miami legend "Michael Irving" is in the house for the Pop-Tarts Bowl. pic.twitter.com/srQ4UX4YLf
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) December 28, 2024
Irvin was a standout receiver at "The U" for three seasons before skipping his senior year to declare for the NFL draft, so he deserved better than this shameful oversight. As bad as this was, though, it could have been worse. At least ESPN showed the right person on camera and not some random stranger, which they have inexplicably done before.
As for Trader, he led the Hurricanes with 3 catches for 61 yards and that touchdown, but Miami fell short as they lost to Iowa State 42-41.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
