Photo via Awful Announcing

Why NBC was able to use the ESPN ‘NFL Primetime’ music during Giants-Commanders highlights

NBC’s *Football Night in America* surprised NFL fans Sunday by using the iconic *ESPN NFL Primetime* theme during highlights of the New York Giants’ 20–20 tie with the Washington Commanders. The track, known as *‘International Statement’* and originally composed for *Primetime* from 1987 to 2005, has since become a nostalgic staple for older viewers, evoking memories of Chris Berman and Tom Jackson’s legendary highlight recaps.

The music’s recent resurgence—including appearances on NFL Network’s packages—stems from its ownership by Universal Production Music, not ESPN, meaning any broadcaster can license it for use. While the song’s association with *Primetime* remains strong, its commercial availability explains why NBC could incorporate it without rights conflicts, even as the original show has been revived on ESPN Unlimited since 2019 with Berman, Jackson, and Booger McFarland leading the commentary.

The licensing quirk mirrors past cases like Fox’s use of *‘Roundball Rock’* during college basketball, where exclusive deals shifted ownership of the track. For fans, hearing the *Primetime* theme on NBC may still feel jarring, but the legal distinction clarifies why the music can transcend its original network ties.

Meanwhile, *Primetime* itself has evolved into a streaming staple, blending its classic formula with modern production under ESPN’s expanded NFL coverage umbrella.

Up nextNFL· 27m ago

Dan Le Batard calls on Patrick Mahomes to speak out against Protect College Sports Act: ‘Get your helmet out of your a**’