In a groundbreaking collaboration, ESPN, The Walt Disney Company, and the National Football League (NFL) are set to bring fans an unprecedented NFL game presentation, blending real-time football action with the enchanting world of Pixar’s “Toy Story.” This unique event, known as “Toy Story Funday Football,” will transport fans of all ages into a fully-animated experience like never before.
Scheduled for Sunday morning, October 1st, at 9:30 a.m. ET, this extraordinary spectacle will air on Disney+, ESPN+, and mobile devices via NFL+. The action will unfold simultaneously in London’s iconic Wembley Stadium, host to the NFL International Series, and Andy’s room, one of the most iconic settings from the “Toy Story” movies. This collaboration marks the latest innovation strategy from ESPN, providing alternate telecasts for signature events.
While the primary game presentation of the Atlanta Falcons vs. Jacksonville Jaguars’ Week 4 matchup will be available on ESPN+, local broadcast stations in the respective team markets, and NFL+ with Chris Fowler, Dan Orlovsky, Louis Riddick, and Laura Rutledge at Wembley Stadium for the live commentary, the “Toy Story” alternate telecast promises to be an immersive and magical experience of its own.
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Andy’s Room to Host Toy Story Funday Football
Andy’s room will serve as the backdrop for this extraordinary event, faithfully replicating the on-the-field gameplay from Wembley Stadium. Each player from the Falcons and Jaguars will have animated representations on a traditional-looking field, seamlessly integrated into the “Toy Story” universe. Fans will witness every run, pass, score, and all the football-related action through state-of-the-art tracking technology powered by the NFL’s Next Gen Stats player tracking data and Beyond Sports.
In a true celebration of the “Toy Story” theme, all elements surrounding the game, including announcers, graphics, scoreboards, penalty announcements, and celebrations, will be tailor-made for this whimsical setting, all unfolding within Andy’s room. Fans can expect to spot familiar characters like Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and others from the beloved animated series participating from the sidelines and adding their charm to the non-gameplay elements.
A Collaborative Feat
This groundbreaking NFL presentation is a testament to the collaborative efforts of ESPN, ESPN’s Edge Innovation Center, Disney, NFL, Pixar, Next Gen Stats, Beyond Sports, and Silver Spoon.
More on ESPN, Disney, and the NFL’s Toy Story Funday Football Alternate Presentation:
- Announcers: Drew Carter (play-by-play), Booger McFarland (analyst), and the 12-year-old Pepper Persley (reporter) will provide commentary, with all three fully animated, their movements captured through motion-capture technology.
- Iconic “Toy Story” Characters: Joining Woody and Buzz in Andy’s room will be Bo Peep, Bullseye, Bunny, Ducky, Forky, Green Aliens, Jesse, Rex, and Slinky Dog.
- Special Halftime Show: Duke Caboom will attempt a daring motorcycle jump, promising thrills and excitement.
- Learning the Game: Demonstrations, including ‘how to’ videos, trivia, and more, will be seamlessly incorporated into the telecast to educate the audience about the game of football.
- Hear from the Players: Real-life Falcons and Jaguar players will also contribute through pre-recorded segments and interviews, providing unique insights and perspectives.
This exclusive streaming presentation of an NFL game represents just one of the many exciting elements in ESPN’s new rights agreement with the NFL, promising fans an immersive and unforgettable experience at the intersection of sports and animation. Be sure to tune in to “Toy Story Funday Football” on October 1st for a one-of-a-kind adventure in the world of football and “Toy Story.”
