In a move that has left patriotic Americans outraged, ESPN chose not to air the National Anthem or the moment of silence preceding the Sugar Bowl, citing “timing issues.” The decision has drawn sharp criticism, particularly in light of the tragic terror attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day that claimed 15 lives and left dozens injured.
The attack, carried out in the French Quarter by a radicalized Muslim Army veteran allegedly inspired by ISIS, shocked the nation. Originally scheduled for January 1, the Sugar Bowl—pitting the University of Georgia against Notre Dame—was postponed to January 2 as the city grappled with the aftermath of the horrific event.
With emotions running high, the National Anthem and moment of silence offered a chance for unity and reflection. Yet, ESPN decided these moments were not worth broadcasting, relegating them instead to a brief clip on X (formerly Twitter).
ESPN’s omission struck a nerve, with many accusing the network of prioritizing its woke agenda over honoring victims and celebrating national unity. Conservative sports commentator Clay Travis didn’t mince words, calling ESPN’s explanation of “timing issues” a sham.
“The Sugar Bowl’s National Anthem, the moment of silence to honor the terror victims, the USA chants, Notre Dame carrying out the flag—ESPN didn’t air any of it. Why? Timing issues? I call BS,” Travis declared.
He highlighted the missed opportunity to showcase patriotism: “They could have shown Notre Dame running in with a big American flag, the Superdome coming together and chanting ‘USA! USA!’ But they didn’t.”
Social media erupted in outrage over the snub. One user summed up the frustration, writing, “@espn by not airing this moment of silence and the National Anthem, you missed a huge opportunity to bring this country together. Fortunately, we stand united. #NOLA #Patriotism.”
Another poster slammed the network’s priorities: “ESPN censored the National Anthem and the moment of silence at the Sugar Bowl. This is a disgrace. Patriotism should be honored, NOT looked down upon. ESPN should be BROKE for being WOKE!”
Travis added fuel to the fire by pointing out ESPN’s inconsistency: “ESPN couldn’t cover the National Anthem or the moment of silence for terror victims, but the race of college football coaches? On it!”
This isn’t the first time ESPN has faced backlash for perceived political bias. From downplaying patriotic celebrations to leaning into divisive identity politics, the network has alienated many fans who want sports to be a unifying escape from the turmoil of everyday life.
The Sugar Bowl, delayed due to an act of terror, should have been a moment for Americans to rally together, honor the victims, and celebrate the resilience of the human spirit. Instead, ESPN’s decision to skip the Anthem and moment of silence has left many questioning the network’s commitment to the values that unite us.
As calls to “defund the woke” grow louder, one thing is clear: Americans won’t forget ESPN’s tone-deaf move anytime soon.
