Jeff Medders & his Geronimo Productions will be doing the work (filming, etc.). And it will be broadcast by CBS Sports Network, the same network that televises the PBR. Maybe the PRCA is looking for a tie in with the PBR to gain more urban viewers?
I thought the NFR was good when it was on GAC, and to me RFD seemed to be the best, most natural fit in the world, but the PRCA must have decided it wanted more potential viewers. I truly think RFD's loss of the NFR is what prompted the birth of the American, which was wildly successful it's first year. With Randy Bernard gone from RFD now, I don't know if the American will have the success in its second year as it did the first, but I'm optimistic. Throw enough money around and things work most of the time.
RFD hasn't given up completely on the NFR, cause they will have live coverage for several hours prior to each perf, and will cover each perf on satellite radio. I think they'll get the television broadcast rights in time. I don't really see the CBS Sports Network thing being the home of the NFR for very long.
It is my understanding that Joe B. was not asked to do the color commentary on the timed event end. No idea why, but 8X had been there, done that, was animated, and could talk. No idea who they'll get, if anybody. It's hard to get folks that are both knowledgeable, experienced, and can talk about the event.
FWIW, listening to Craig Hummer makes me want to stick a gun barrel in my mouth, and Ty Murray's monotone drone is even worse than some college profs I had....