The surprise announcement came on Monday, May 18th. The Monday Night Football booth was about to go through another re-shuffle.

Tony Kornheiser, an ESPNer for years, decided he wanted out of the booth, at least that’s the way it’s being pitched to the public. That said, Kornheiser is well known for his fear of flying and this was the main reason used for his decision not to continue. It does appear this was in fact the case, While TK was supposed to be the funny, irreverent one, and at times he was, his presence never seemed to click.

The big question obviously was who will take his place...and the answer is ex-coach Jon Gruden.

This is a real upgrade, at least at first pass. Kornheiser sparred with Ron Jaworski, spewed off scripted pieces that came across as scripted and often meandered away, far away, from the game. That won’t be the case with Gruden. The intense, dynamic Gruden should add insight and support to the booth that has been missing for a while now. He can break a play down and let people know what to expect on the next play, series, quarter, etc.

Yes, Gruden is looking to get back on the sidelines with another coaching gig, but this is a good, no make that great, place to hang around while waiting for the right coaching spot to open up.

The sports betting community will continue on the same regardless of who is in the booth, but there will be betting prop plays posted up at online sportsbooks in the coming weeks. Bettors will be able to wager on many Monday Night Football items, including of course a focus on the new kid on the block.