PGA TOUR LIVE testing out new commentator-less broadcast

The PGA Tour is doing a bit of experimentation this week with the Rocket Classic.

To be clear, PGA TOUR LIVE is who is experimenting. It was announced on Wednesday that there will be a stream associated with the setup called “Quiet, please!” that will be completely void of announcers. For real.

The stream will follow the day’s marquee group for the entirety of their round and will incorporate interactive elements through integrated social media and polling. Fans can take part in live polls, trivia and fun facts about host cities, courses and players, while player soundbites are woven into the coverage to provide added context and perspective.

Built on the PGA TOUR’s Fan Forward Initiative, the new stream adds another offering to serve a growing fanbase, letting viewers in on more live action and deeper insight. The announcer-free concept was reviewed positively by the TOUR’s Fan Council, with two-thirds of fans expressing interest in the format.

This is super interesting.

First of all, broadcasters are vital to the overall production. They help set the stage for things and guide viewers through the action that is unfolding. That feels pretty universally agreed-upon.

But sometimes you just want the ambient noise of action that is unfolding on the course, and this alternate stream offers that. What’s more is being able to listen in on the conversations between players and caddies without anyone stepping over it is ideal.

Let’s see how it unfolds throughout the Rocket Classic.