Sports fans everywhere have heard the roar of the crowd and the crunch of the pads and helmets. The people responsible for bringing them to life, however, are the announcers, men who pioneered and promoted the profession, bringing the heart and soul of the game to living rooms across America. Families would listen to the radio while these announcers created an emotional bond between themselves and their audiences. Hall of Famers, former players, and sportswriters--each had a love of the game. Their enthusiasm brought that love to the fans unable to be at the football field. They were the first Golden Voices of Football. Curt Gowdy, Russ Hodges, Howard Cosell, Keith Jackson and, many other legendary broadcasters are highlighted in this comprehensive book and audio collection. Fans can listen to the companion audio CD as they relive famous game calls, interviews, and insights into the profession of football broadcasting. From a job with no rules to becoming legends in their own right, these announcers built a legacy as much a part of football as the teams on which they reported.