For a senior analyst making $12.5 million annually, Cris Collinsworth sure knows how to piss off NFL fans. Meanwhile, the Sunday Night Football commentator faced a barrage of criticism Cowboys–49ers Matchup, with one fan's wife perfectly capturing the irony of the evening: “Is this announcer a pro-Cowboys guy?”

The Oct. 27 meeting of these age-old rivals turned into a controversy in the comments when Collinsworth's analysis of Dallas' faltering defense sparked outrage. His praise seemed to have nothing to do with reality — the Cowboys entered Week 8 with the NFL's 31st scoring defense under new coordinator Mike Zimmer.

The disparity was starkly apparent at key moments in the prime-time fight. While the 49ers took an early 3-0 lead Different Carlsons After a 50-yard field goal, Collinsworth continued to focus on Dallas' defensive prowess. This happened even though the Cowboys were missing four of their best defensive players in training camp – Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, Sam WilliamsAnd Marshawn Kneeland.

After halftime, the narrative became increasingly puzzling. The 49erswho are already struggling with their injury crisis – Brandon Aiyuk out for the season due to a knee injury and Deebo Samuel hospitalized with pneumonia – took the lead 13:10. Isaac Guerendo's 4-yard touchdown run, assisted by George Kittles Spectacular 43-yard reception, changed momentum. Still, Collinsworth's commentary continued to focus on Dallas's defensive challenges.

These moments highlighted a broader pattern in Collinsworth's broadcasting style. Just two weeks earlier, during Cincinnati's 17-7 win over New York, he drew similar criticism for praising Brian Burns' “tremendous” sack that sent Joe Burrow to the medical tent for evaluation.

The voice of Sunday Night Football

NBC's commitment to Collinsworth runs deep. Sources briefed on the recent discussions told The Athletic that the network plans to extend his contract through the 2029-2030 season. This deal, reportedly worth around $12.5 million per year, puts him in position to call two more Super Bowls.

Meanwhile, fan reactions erupted on social media during the Cowboys-49ers broadcast. “Cris Collinsworth is on the path to next-generation glazing. This was her third trip and her first result. Calm down,” a viewer posted. Another fan puts it straight to the point: “Cris Collinsworth called Dallas’ defense good when in reality the 49ers’ offense just sucks.”

The station's stance appears to be firm despite viewer opposition. After Drew Brees' brief tenure as a potential successor ended after a disappointing season, NBC doubled down on its commitment to Collinsworth. His new contract, while significant, still costs less than Fox's $37.5 million commitment to Tom Brady or CBS' $18 million investment in Tony Romo.

Even Greg Olsen, Fox's highly regarded No. 2 analyst, who previously earned $10 million as lead commentator, now earns just $3 million in his reduced role. This market reality, combined with NBC's confidence in Collinsworth's experience, suggests that, love him or hate him, his voice will remain a staple on Sunday nights for many years to come.