Keith Max Jackson (October 18, 1928 – January 12, 2018) was an iconic American sports commentator, widely regarded as the voice of college football. Over a career that spanned more than five decades, Jackson became synonymous with the sport, providing play-by-play commentary for some of the most memorable moments in college football history. His deep, resonant voice and folksy expressions, such as his famous "Whoa, Nellie!" catchphrase, endeared him to millions of fans. Jackson's career with ABC Sports, which began in 1966, saw him cover a wide range of sports, but it was his work in college football that cemented his legacy as one of the greatest broadcasters in American sports history.

Jackson's career began in radio in the early 1950s, and he quickly made a name for himself with his authoritative yet approachable style. His first major break came when he was hired by ABC Sports, where he would go on to cover everything from the Olympics to Major League Baseball. However, it was his work in college football that truly set him apart. Jackson's voice became the soundtrack to countless Rose Bowls, national championships, and rivalry games, and his ability to capture the drama and emotion of the sport made him a beloved figure in American sports broadcasting.

In addition to his work in college football, Jackson also covered a variety of other sports, including the NFL, NBA, and even the World Series. His versatility as a broadcaster was unmatched, and he was known for his ability to seamlessly transition between different sports while maintaining the same level of professionalism and enthusiasm. Despite his success in other areas, Jackson always returned to college football, where he felt most at home. His final broadcast came in 2006, fittingly at the Rose Bowl, a game he had called more than any other broadcaster in history.

Keith Jackson's contributions to sports broadcasting were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He was inducted into the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame and received the prestigious Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His influence on the world of sports broadcasting is still felt today, as many of the phrases and expressions he popularized continue to be used by commentators. Jackson's legacy as the voice of college football remains unmatched, and his impact on the sport will be remembered for generations to come.

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