BY MATTHEW OSTROW

Jon Gruden and Mike Tirico turned in a primetime performance Monday in the NFL matchup between the New York Giants and Washington Redskins. Their performance is coupled with some of the best camera work for replays and between play shots by the ESPN network.

Tirico does a great job setting up Gruden to do his analyst job after a play, complemented by good camera angles. For example, ESPN showed a run by Redskins running back Alfred Morris from a bird’s eye view right behind the player. It was a great view and allowed Gruden to dissect the play.

During the course of the game, Gruden and Tirico both highlighted certain players because of their role or ability.  The cameras worked very well with the commentators in showing these players.  When Gruden spoke about Giants linebacker Chase Blackburn and how important he is to the Giants defense, the camera cut to a shot of Blackburn on the field.

Energy is the strength of the Tirico/Gruden broadcasting team. You can hear Gruden’s excitement and energy for the game in his analyses. It is very contagious and great to see a commentator love what he is doing.

It is obvious why Gruden and Tirico are on the call for Monday Night Football on ESPN. They provide great information and energy and receive great support from the camera work.