Carrie Underwood’s return to Sunday Night Football sparks a fan debate, with some viewers naming a rising country star they want to hear instead

Carrie Underwood is returning as the voice behind Sunday Night Football, but the news has already divided fans.

The country superstar is set to return for another season of NBC’s popular football broadcasts, marking her 14th year performing the show’s famous opening anthem.

Carrie Underwood returns for another season

NBC confirmed that Carrie Underwood will once again perform “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night” when Sunday Night Football returns this fall.

Her latest version of the iconic song will make its debut on September 13, ahead of the highly anticipated matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants.

For many viewers, Carrie’s voice has become a major part of the Sunday Night Football experience. She first took over the opening performance in 2013 and has remained connected to the broadcast ever since.

Some fans were thrilled to hear that she would be back.

One supporter called the performance one of their favorite parts of Sunday Night Football, while another even suggested that Carrie should be considered for a future Super Bowl halftime show.

But not everyone was excited about the announcement.

A group of viewers believes the long-running opening could use a change after so many years with the same singer. Instead, some fans are calling for rising country star Ella Langley to get a chance to perform the iconic anthem.

One fan suggested that Ella should record a Sunday Night Football version of the song, while another simply said it was time to “pass it on” and let Ella sing it.

Another viewer argued that the show should consider a more diverse lineup instead of continuing with the same performer.

Fans want a new voice

Carrie’s return shows just how strongly NBC continues to connect her with Sunday Night Football. However, the growing calls for a new singer suggest that some viewers are ready to see the broadcast try something different.

Ella Langley has quickly become one of country music’s rising stars, making her a name some fans believe could bring a new energy to the famous opening.

For now, though, Carrie remains the voice viewers will hear when the new season begins.

Her 14th year will officially kick off on September 13, when the Cowboys face the Giants.

Whether fans are excited to hear Carrie again or hoping NBC eventually gives another country star a chance, one thing is clear: the Sunday Night Football anthem continues to get people talking.