Scott Hanson (Photo via NFL RedZone)
The NFL has offered a bizarre explanation for airing advertisements during “NFL RedZone” on Sunday, breaking the show’s long-withstanding tradition of commercial-free programming.

“RedZone” has become one of the league’s most beloved shows because it doesn’t air commercials. The show’s longtime host, Scott Hanson, proudly tells the audience that it’s airing seven hours of no-ad football.

But on Sunday, several disgruntled viewers pointed out that plenty of commercials were aired during the Week 15 edition of the program.

According to a report from Jacob Feldman of Sportico, “NFL RedZone” aired commercials on Sunday as part of a “test” run for some of their prominent sponsors, including Gatorade and Verizon.

The good news? Feldman reports that the show won’t feature ad test runs again:

“The NFL does not currently have plans to test the ads again, according to someone with direct knowledge of the league’s thinking. Any permanent change would only be considered for the 2025 season, at the earliest.

Ads for NFL partners Gatorade, Verizon, Visa, and Lowe’s ran for 10-15 seconds each with action still visible on half the screen. An NFL Media spokesperson confirmed details of Sunday’s test.”

Let’s hope the NFL stays true to its promise and keeps RedZone what it’s supposed to be: Seven hours of ad-free football.

“NFL RedZone” Is Wrapping Up Its 16th Season

The beloved television program first aired in the 2009 season, and it remains a giant hit 15 years later. The entertainment of Mr. Hanson providing non-stop NFL coverage for seven hours is winding down, with the regular season down to its final three weeks.