Beloved ESPN Broadcaster Mike Patrick Dies at 80

Mike Patrick, the longtime ESPN play-by-play announcer whose voice became synonymous with college football for millions of fans, passed away on April 20, 2025. He was 80. Though not an actor, his decades on television made him a familiar and trusted figure in American sports broadcasting.

Patrick’s career with ESPN stretched across more than three decades, beginning in the early 1980s when the network was still carving out its place in sports media. He quickly established himself as a staple in college football coverage, calling Saturday night games for nearly 20 years and becoming one of the most recognizable voices of the sport. His broadcasting style was marked by enthusiasm, authenticity, and a genuine love for the games he covered.

Born in 1945, Patrick began his broadcasting journey in local radio and television before moving into national sports coverage. His versatility soon became evident—though best known for football, he called a wide variety of sports, including college basketball, the NFL, and even the NBA. He also lent his voice to coverage of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, demonstrating his adaptability and dedication to the craft.

What set Patrick apart was not only his professionalism but also the warmth he brought to each broadcast. He had an easy rapport with colleagues and viewers alike, balancing deep knowledge of the game with a conversational style that made fans feel like they were watching alongside a friend. His long-standing partnership with analyst Todd Blackledge in ESPN’s college football booth became a highlight for fans, with the duo’s chemistry drawing praise throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

One of Patrick’s most memorable stretches came during his nearly two-decade run on ESPN’s College Football Primetime. His voice became a soundtrack for countless unforgettable Saturday night clashes, from rivalry games to bowl season matchups. Even during moments of high drama, Patrick’s delivery remained steady, clear, and infused with the excitement of the sport.

In addition to his football work, Patrick was the voice behind several NBA broadcasts, including the league’s coverage during the 1980s and 1990s, a formative period for professional basketball. His ability to shift seamlessly between different sports underscored his broad skill set and made him one of ESPN’s most dependable broadcasters.

Off the air, Patrick was known for his kindness and humility. Colleagues often remarked that despite his success and longevity, he remained approachable and supportive to younger announcers breaking into the business. He was seen as a mentor figure, someone who believed in elevating the profession while maintaining the joy of storytelling through sports.

Fans, too, are remembering Patrick fondly. Social media has been filled with tributes from those who grew up hearing his voice every Saturday night. Many described his broadcasts as part of their family traditions—gatherings around the television where Patrick’s narration helped frame not just the game, but the memories of entire generations of fans.

Patrick officially retired from broadcasting in 2018, closing the book on a remarkable career that spanned more than 35 years. His departure left a noticeable void in ESPN’s coverage, but his influence has lived on in the network’s presentation of sports and in the careers of broadcasters he inspired.

At 80, Mike Patrick leaves behind a legacy defined not only by the countless games he called but also by the respect he earned from colleagues, athletes, and fans. His contributions to sports broadcasting will continue to resonate, ensuring that his voice remains a cherished part of the soundtrack of college football history.