We could wax eternally about Jim Brandstatter’s legendary broadcasting career and how it goes back to graduation from the University of Michigan in 1972, after playing for Bo Schembechler’s Wolverines between 1969 and ’72 – including two Rose Bowls and two Big Ten Championship teams – 1969, when Michigan upset #1 Ohio State, and the unbeaten ‘71 Champions.
We could also mention how Jim’s foray into TV news in Saginaw, Jackson, and Detroit gave way in 1980 when he began hosting “Michigan Replay,” the U of M football coach’s TV show. (It’s now “Inside Michigan Football)
And of course, we don’t have to remind the Maize and Blue faithful who know Jim is our longtime Michigan Football announcer, currently paired with fellow Wolverine and NFL Hall of Famer Dan Dierdorf. This year also marks Jim’s 31st year as the color analyst for the Detroit Lions.
But one item you won’t find on Brandy’s website or his Wikipage – yet – is the very coveted and exclusive position he holds in Beav’s World.
That’s why you’ll want to listen as Jim stops by for some Beav’s Banter.
You'll find out Jim's Nickname for Beav. Also get some insight on what Michigan’s doing well, not so well, and what the Wolverines need to do to defend against the potent triple option offense of visiting Air Force.
Jim also talks about the difference between calling Pro and College football games (He dishes on why former Lions Defensive End Jared DeVries got mad at him one time) as well as what life is like with two big-time football games to prepare for each week, much less traveling to and from the games. (Hint: Crisler Arena has a spot where Brandstatter slept for a few hours between game travel.)
We also get some scoop on Jim’s better half, former WXYZ-TV Detroit news anchor Robbie Timmons – the first woman in the nation to anchor the evening news at a network affiliate, by the way. Find out how Robbie got a one-on-one interview with President Ford – over 60 male news directors who had to settle for news conference sound bites.
Finally, Beav’s Banter tees up what should be a hilarious future conversation with Dierdorf. Go Blue!
