For over a decade, Carrie Underwood has been the soundtrack to Sunday nights in the NFL. Since taking over from Faith Hill in 2013, the country superstar has belted out the iconic “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night” to kick off NBC’s primetime broadcasts. But as the 2026 season approaches, a vocal segment of the fanbase is ready to turn the page.
NBC is gearing up for a splashy opener on Sept. 13, when the Giants and Cowboys collide, and Underwood will debut a fresh rendition of the anthem. She described the new open as a “rock star fever dream,” blending her love of rock with the show’s signature energy. The creative force behind the revamp, Tripp Dixon, explained that they drew from Joan Jett and the Blackhearts’ “I Hate Myself for Loving You” — the song that inspired the original — to create a high-voltage performance that matches the intensity of the game.
But while the network is doubling down on Underwood, many fans are tuning out. Social media is buzzing with calls for a change, and the reasons vary. Some point to her past performances at political events, like the Trump inauguration, while others simply feel it’s time for a fresh face. “I love Carrie, but it’s time for her to go. Let’s get someone new,” one fan posted. Another echoed, “A new version of the song is good, but a different performer would be a nice change of pace.”
Others are even suggesting replacements. Country star Lainey Wilson has been floated as a popular pick, and some fans are dreaming bigger. “I like Carrie. I do. I just think it’s time to bring in a testosterone-driven music act to match the adrenaline boost of excitement that comes with most NFL hardcore fans getting ready to watch football on Sunday night,” one bold commenter wrote.
This isn’t the first time fans have clamored for a major shake-up in the sports world. Just this year, Warriors fans demanded a blockbuster trade to set Steph Curry free, and NFL fans begged for Andrew Luck to return after a practice video surfaced. The pattern is clear: when fans feel a change is needed, they aren’t shy about saying so.
Despite the growing chorus, NBC appears unmoved. The network has made no indication that Underwood’s tenure is in jeopardy, and she remains a beloved figure in the league’s broadcast family. For now, it looks like fans will have to keep waiting for that new voice — or keep enjoying the rock-infused version coming this fall.
As the 2026 season inches closer, the debate rages on. Will NBC listen to the fans, or will Underwood continue to own Sunday nights? One thing is certain: the passion of NFL fans isn’t going anywhere.
