Original Article (1/11/14)
Bob Costas is headed to the sideline with an injury that will result in Matt Lauer hosting prime-time Olympic coverage tonight. Costas announced on Tuesday morning that an eye infection in both of his eyes is forcing him to sit out.
“As a practical matter, I simply couldn’t do my job because my eyes had become so blurry, watery and sensitive to light,” Costas released in a statement Tuesday morning. “I’m hopeful the symptoms will improve in the next couple of days and I can return to the broadcast. Also, the last thing I want is to go through the rest of my life owing Matt Lauer a bunch of favors.”
Costas called into the Today show this morning to give an “injury update” to his replacement, with Lauer asking Costas he is doing.
Costas: “Well, even worse than when you saw me this morning, Sochi time. So, reluctantly, I was trying to throw a complete game here, but I think we’re going to have to go to the bullpen. I don’t know if you’re aware of this or not, but you’re Mariano Rivera, at least tonight.”
Lauer: “So, I’m going to step in for you tonight, the master of Olympic prime-time?”
Costas: “I believe that’s it. Let’s hope it’s only tonight because right now I’m walking around and might as well be playing Marco Polo. I have no idea where I am.”
Lauer is grateful for having the opportunity to step in for Costas, but joked, “I’m happy to keep his chair warm, although I might Purell it before I sit in it.”
Bob Costas is currently listed as “day-to-day” by NBC.
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