- ESPN is launching MNF Playbook, an alternate Monday Night Football stream in an All-22 camera view.
- The broadcast uses Adrenaline’s AI to show real-time analytics like run-pass probabilities and blitz likelihoods.
- Analysts including Luke Kuechly, Chase Daniel and Tim Hasselbeck will provide live commentary.
- The stream debuts Dec. 22 and Dec. 29 on ESPN2 and the ESPN app (Unlimited), with later app-only playoff windows.
What is MNF Playbook?
MNF Playbook with Next Gen Stats is an alternate Monday Night Football telecast that shows games from the All-22 camera angle — a high, full-field view usually reserved for coaches — and layers live analytics over the play. ESPN developed the show with data partner Adrenaline, which uses an AI model trained on hundreds of thousands of NFL plays to predict run-pass probabilities, blitz likelihoods and other metrics.
How the broadcast works
On-screen augmented-reality graphics are embedded onto the field and updated up to the snap. “The data dynamically changes and updates in real time,” ESPN producer Andy Jacobson told The Verge. Viewers will see probabilities and tendencies appear directly on the All-22 feed, helping fans understand likely playcalls and defensive looks before each snap.
Adrenaline’s AI runs behind the scenes, producing overlays that estimate the chance of a run vs. pass, whether a blitz is coming, and other situational forecasts. The goal is to make advanced analytics accessible to casual viewers while giving die-hard fans a coach-like perspective.
When and where to watch
MNF Playbook premieres on December 22 and December 29. For those two games it will air on ESPN2 and be available on the ESPN app for subscribers with Unlimited access. After those dates, the alternate feed will appear on the ESPN app for a Week 18 matchup and during Wild Card and Divisional playoff games.
Availability on mainstream linear TV beyond the initial two broadcasts is limited; ESPN is positioning the app as the primary home for the new telecast during the postseason.
Luke Kuechly and the analyst roster
ESPN has recruited a mix of former players and commentators to explain the new visuals. The roster includes former NFL linebacker Luke Kuechly — whose on-field instincts and film-study reputation fit the All-22 format — plus quarterbacks Chase Daniel and Tim Hasselbeck. Expect tactical breakdowns that pair the AI overlays with veteran perspective.
How MNF Playbook compares to other AI overlays
Amazon Prime Video has already introduced AI-powered overlays for Thursday Night Football. ESPN says its approach will be “way more forward-thinking,” aiming to integrate the data with live commentary and a complete field view rather than just isolated metrics.
MNF Playbook is a clear attempt to bring coach-level visuals and predictive analytics to mainstream audiences. For fans curious about strategy and tendencies, the All-22 view with live AI data — plus voices like Luke Kuechly’s — will offer a different way to watch the game.
Image Referance: https://www.theverge.com/news/846478/espn-monday-night-football-playbook-analytics
