“Our coordinating producer for football called, and I had to have him repeat to make sure I heard him right with ambulances and cars going by,” Byington said. “I’m really grateful for the opportunity.”

Part of the network from its inception, Byington recounted how BTN had already given her numerous “firsts” over the years such as being a sideline reporter and studio host along with play by play for women’s basketball. Serving as the regular sideline reporter with BTN’s top crew this fall, she will step out of those duties to call Bowling Green at Northwestern on Sept. 16.

“They gave me those opportunities and this just seemed like the next logical step in my profession,” Byington said. “They thought I was ready and I felt like I was ready, so it feels like a good time.”

Byington said she has received strong support from friends and colleagues. Nebraska native and fellow announcer Kevin Kugler was among those busting out a few dance moves behind her during the interview, saying tongue in cheek, “Only a little bit proud of her.”