As the World Looks at New Orleans, What Are They Seeing?

Matt Moscona, host of AFR, joins the show to provide an inside look at the bustling environment of Media Row at the Super Bowl. Broadcasting from the Morial Convention Center, he describes Media Row as a vast space filled with rows of tables and sets for national broadcasts like ESPN Radio, Pat McAfee’s show, Sirius XM, and NFL media. The area is not just for radio but includes all forms of media, with international broadcasters present as well.

Moscona notes that the activity ramps up as the week progresses, with Monday and Tuesday being relatively quiet before the excitement builds towards the weekend. The convention center hosts various events, including mini facades promoting future NFL events like the draft in Green Bay and the next Super Bowl in Santa Clara.

In addition to Media Row, the Super Bowl week features numerous events and parties. Moscona mentions that there are around 465 parties in the city, hosted by different companies and venues. Media availability is also a significant aspect, with events like “opening night” at the Dome where fans can watch credentialed media interview players and coaches.

Moscona highlights the logistical advantages of New Orleans as a Super Bowl host city. Everything is walkable and accessible, with shuttle buses running constantly to transport media and attendees between events and hotels. This convenience contrasts with other locations like Santa Clara, which is far from San Francisco, and Houston, where NRG Park is isolated from downtown hotels.

Overall, Moscona paints a picture of a vibrant, well-organized Media Row and Super Bowl week in New Orleans, emphasizing the city’s ability to host major events efficiently and enjoyably.