Joe Buck reportedly closing in on deal to host sports version of 'Jeopardy!' on ESPN

Joe Buck reportedly closing in on deal to host sports version of 'Jeopardy!' on ESPN

Everyone’s favorite sports announcer is closing in on a deal to host everyone’s favorite game show. Joe Buck is reportedly working on a deal that would make him the host of a sports version of “Jeopardy!” that would air on ESPN networks, according to Front Office Sports.

The program, which will reportedly be called “ESPN Jeopardy!” is expected to run on Hulu and Disney+ and may also appear on ABC and ESPN streaming platforms, per FOS.

Buck has plenty of experience as a broadcaster and host. Following long-time “Jeopardy!” host Alex Trebek’s death in 2020, Buck was tabbed as a temporary host of the program. He acquitted himself well in a week-long appearance on the show.

“ESPN Jeopardy!” is expected to feature celebrities and ESPN personalities, as opposed to pulling from the general public, per FOS.

The “Jeopardy!” franchise has dipped its toe in sports-themed offshoots in the past, with “Sports Jeopardy!,” which aired on Crackle for two years. Former ESPN broadcaster Dan Patrick hosted “Sports Jeopardy!”

ESPN has also experimented with game shows in the past, with “Stump the Schwab,” which aired from 2004 to 2006. Stuart Scott hosted that program, in which sports experts would try to defeat ESPN statistician Howie Schwab in sports trivia.

Buck is, very obviously, well known for his ability as a play-by-play broadcaster. He’s served as the voice of “Monday Night Football” on ESPN for years, and has called six Super Bowls. He’s also a highly-experienced MLB broadcaster, calling the World Series 23 times.

It’s unclear whether hosting “ESPN Jeopardy!” would take Buck away from his other responsibilities, though it doesn’t seem likely too much will change. With the 2027 Super Bowl set to air on ESPN and ABC, Buck is expected to be on the call for the big game.