Michaels's stories cover unforgettable chapters over the past half century—from the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics' "Miracle on Ice" to the earthquake that rocked the 1989 World Series to the drama of what many consider the most exciting Super Bowl ever—Super Bowl XLIII between the Steelers and Cardinals. Some of the biggest personalities on and off the field are here—Brett Favre, John Madden, Tiger Woods, Cris Collinsworth, and many more. Complementing access with insight, Michaels adds to the stories you thought you knew: Michael Jordan's eyesight; Howard Cosell's prickly, bombastic personality; even Peyton and Eli Manning's sibling rivalry.

From start to finish, Michaels gives us an up-close portrait of an industry that is—today more than ever—a vital part of our national culture.