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He was the perfect straight man counter for Madden's goofiness. I'll never forget one Monday Night game when a player got kicked square in the jewels and Gifford had Madden falling outa his chair just by saying, in his usual straight face manner; "that'll make you cough" ... perfect timing and delivery, as always.

RIP Mr Gifford.

Gifford was one of the better play-by-play callers that happened to be an ex player...a very good ex player. Most ex players are color guys and the play-by-play guys have 20+ years experience at calling games.

Him, Dandy Don, and Howard Cosell, all now deceased, made Monday Night Football and with it, brought the game into the modern age.