EMG / Gravity Media has been selected by NBC Sports to provide comprehensive broadcast solutions for the Peacock-exclusive NFL game in São Paulo, Brazil. This event marks the first-ever NFL game to be played in South America, adding a historic chapter to the sport’s global expansion.

On Friday, September 6, 2024, the Corinthians Arena in São Paulo will host the clash between the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles, kicking off the first week of the 2024 NFL season.

Production technology 

For this groundbreaking game, EMG / Gravity Media is deploying a sophisticated baseband fly-away system designed for rapid setup and exceptional broadcast quality. The system will deliver 1080p HDR visuals coupled with Dolby 5.1 Audio, ensuring an immersive viewing experience for audiences. Key components of the production setup include:

– Grass Valley Sirius 850: A high-capacity, modular routing system that facilitates seamless broadcast operations.
– EVS Cerebrum: A centralized interface for managing broadcast controls and custom workflows, enhancing operational efficiency.
– Calrec ImPulse Core: Provides advanced audio processing capabilities, allowing for complex mixing and routing tasks.
– Grass Valley K-Frame XP: Powers a 4ME Kahuna panel, enabling smooth integration of video switching and effects.

High-quality visuals and workflow integration

The production will utilize state-of-the-art Sony cameras paired with Canon UHD lenses, guaranteeing exceptional visual clarity. The integration of EVS VIA orchestration software further streamlines the live broadcast environment, bringing together media ingest, production, asset management, and playout into a cohesive workflow. This system is backed by a fully redundant 10Gbps network, ensuring high-speed connectivity and minimizing the risk of downtime or data loss.

The broadcast setup also includes Sennheiser RF microphones for superior audio quality and a dynamic range, along with a Panasonic UE150 robotic camera to enable remote PTZ control and high-resolution imaging. Glensound commentary units will be utilized to provide crystal-clear sound quality. To maintain operational efficiency, a comprehensive gallery setup from NBC Sports’ golf events will be transported to South America for use during the game.

Strengthened partnership and future collaboration

The partnership between EMG / Gravity Media and NBC Sports has been strengthened following the merger of EMG and Gravity Media earlier this year. Both companies have a long-standing history of successful collaborations with NBC Sports. In 2023, Gravity Media secured a multi-year agreement to provide media services for NBC Sports’ Big Ten football and basketball coverage. This merger, forming one of the world’s largest and most influential broadcast technology companies, combines their resources and expertise to deliver innovative production solutions.

Ted Griggs, Executive Vice President of EMG / Gravity Media – USA, commented, “Our partnership with NBC Sports continues to go from strength to strength, as we harness the collective resources of our merged organizations to provide innovative and reliable media services for every event. We are excited to play a role in bringing the NFL audience to São Paulo for this historic game.”

Craig Bernstein, VP Remote Technical Operations, NBC Sports, added, “We look forward to working on this landmark game with our longstanding partners EMG and Gravity Media, whose expertise and reliability will help us deliver a best-in-class presentation.”