Jim Nantz Reflects on His “Trio in Rio” Call During Ravens’ Dramatic Win

In a thrilling finish that saw the Baltimore Ravens defeat the Dallas Cowboys 34-31 in Brazil, Jim Nantz delivered an unexpected catchphrase that has since stirred conversation in sports commentary circles. As Ravens kicker Tyler Loop confidently kicked a 56-yard field goal, Nantz exclaimed, “A trio in Rio!” This off-the-cuff comment has garnered acclaim for its originality, but during a recent appearance on Underscore Media’s Traina Thoughts, Nantz expressed his initial uncertainty about its reception.

With just a few seconds to spare, the game’s tension reached a peak. The Cowboys, having settled for a game-tying field goal after being thwarted at the goal line, watched as Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson quickly connected with rookie Zay Flowers to position Baltimore for the dramatic game-winner. Nantz had a keen sense of the moment, emphasizing the significance of Loop's kick by underscoring the kicker's Dallas roots and recalling the heartbreak he caused the Ravens in the previous season's finale that kept them out of the playoffs.

“Loop’s kick! Oh my goodness!” Nantz shouted as the ball soared through the uprights. “A trio in Rio! And the Ravens with a walk-off winner!” Although the expression felt spontaneous, Nantz later revealed that he initially doubted whether viewers would understand his clever nod to the three points scored. “When I said it, I thought, ‘I’m not sure anybody is going to understand what I just said. Who’s ever called a field goal a trio?'” he confessed.

Despite his reservations, the phrase quickly caught the attention of fans and colleagues alike. Nantz learned of the overwhelming positive reaction from viewers only during the team’s flight back to the U.S., where several CBS crew members informed him that his remark had been well-received. “I had no clue,” he recounted. “I thought it probably didn’t make sense,” revealing the inherent vulnerability that comes with live broadcasting. His ability to capture the moment truthfully and effectively had not gone unnoticed: “There’s like a huge reaction to ‘Trio in Rio,’” his colleagues told him. “No, it is like universally well received.” It was a fortunate break that showcased the fine line commentators walk between spontaneity and clarity.

“A TRIO IN RIO!”

Nantz and J.J. Watt erupted in excitement over the remarkable finish, with social media buzzing alongside their call, cementing this moment in broadcast history.

In addition to his reflections on the call, Nantz didn’t shy away from addressing the recent departure of his longtime partner Tony Romo, whose connection with CBS ended on October 2 following a suspension related to his arrest. Nantz stated he had “no role” in the network’s decision, which he made clear fell solely on CBS Sports president David Berson. While the former NFL quarterback’s future remains uncertain, Nantz expressed optimism that Romo would re-enter broadcasting, stating, “unquestionably” he would work again in the industry.

As Nantz and J.J. Watt prepare to take the mic for their upcoming matchup between the Bills and the Raiders at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, fans can expect their unique chemistry to fuel more unforgettable moments. It was in this same stadium that Nantz concluded Super Bowl LVIII with the iconic call “Jackpot, Kansas City!” as the Chiefs clinched victory in overtime. It’s clear that Nantz knows he’s treading a fine line between creativity and clarity in sports commentary, hoping that his next standout moment makes just as much sense.

While the “trio in Rio” has become a memorable highlight, it's a testament to both Nantz’s intuitive commentary style and the unpredictable thrill of live sports broadcasting. Such moments, though sometimes met with self-doubt, contribute to the rich tapestry of sports narratives that fans cherish. For now, all eyes will remain on Nantz and his evolving legacy as a sports commentator, riding the wave of spontaneity, insight, and excitement.