It’s not every day that K-pop meets American football, but in December 2024, fans witnessed an unexpected yet electrifying crossover. During the Detroit Lions vs. Buffalo Bills NFL game on December 15, BTS’ Jin had his solo track Running Wild featured on a CBS broadcast — sending both ARMY and casual viewers into a frenzy.
When Jin’s Running Wild broke boundaries and made NFL history during a key game
The moment came during a commercial break transition, where Jin’s track Running Wild played in the background, surprising fans across the country. Released just a month earlier on November 15, 2024, the song had already gained traction, debuting at No. 53 on the Billboard Hot 100. But being featured during an NFL game? That was next-level recognition.
Fans quickly took to social media, sharing personal stories and reactions. “I never thought I would hear @BTS_twt on an @NFL game. But someone at @CBSSports has great taste in music and here is #Jin #RunningWild,” wrote one fan. Another exclaimed, “I was in the kitchen, listening to the Lions/Bills game in the background, and do you hear what I hear? I ran out of the kitchen so fast!!!!”
Why Jin’s solo track struck a chord with sports fans and music lovers alike
What made this moment more impactful was the crossover appeal of Jin’s music. Unlike stereotypical K-pop hits, Running Wild leaned into a more universal sound — co-written and co-produced by British pop legend Gary Barlow of Take That. Fans applauded the choice, noting the track’s versatility and emotional weight.
“When we say Jin makes music that can’t be boxed into just 'K-pop' this is what we mean — Seokjin’s music is for everyone globally to enjoy,” a fan stated on X (formerly Twitter). Another echoed, “Running Wild definitely goes with sports, we hope to hear more of it being used!”
According to The Athletic’s October 2024 report, CBS Sports lead producer Jim Rikhoff — an Emmy Award winner — holds weekly music meetings with his team to curate tracks for NFL broadcasts. Fans believe that it was Rikhoff’s team who selected Running Wild, a move now celebrated as a shining example of music transcending borders and language.
Also Read: Super Bowl halftime show: Why BTS should be the next big act to take center stage
In retrospect, this moment wasn’t just a K-pop milestone. It was a reminder that music, when genuine and global, can thrive anywhere — even in the heart of American football.
When Jin’s Running Wild broke boundaries and made NFL history during a key game
The moment came during a commercial break transition, where Jin’s track Running Wild played in the background, surprising fans across the country. Released just a month earlier on November 15, 2024, the song had already gained traction, debuting at No. 53 on the Billboard Hot 100. But being featured during an NFL game? That was next-level recognition.
Wow!!! This is how Running Wild got chosen, when we say Jin makes music that can’t be boxed into just “k-pop” this is what we mean — seokjin’s music is for everyone globally to enjoy.
— HJ! 🇺🇸 (@hourjinnie) December 16, 2024
Running wild definitely goes with sports, we hope to hear more of it being used! pic.twitter.com/eYBwNoiXFz
Fans quickly took to social media, sharing personal stories and reactions. “I never thought I would hear @BTS_twt on an @NFL game. But someone at @CBSSports has great taste in music and here is #Jin #RunningWild,” wrote one fan. Another exclaimed, “I was in the kitchen, listening to the Lions/Bills game in the background, and do you hear what I hear? I ran out of the kitchen so fast!!!!”
Why Jin’s solo track struck a chord with sports fans and music lovers alike
What made this moment more impactful was the crossover appeal of Jin’s music. Unlike stereotypical K-pop hits, Running Wild leaned into a more universal sound — co-written and co-produced by British pop legend Gary Barlow of Take That. Fans applauded the choice, noting the track’s versatility and emotional weight.
Jin's Running Wild was selected for the NFL Sunday game by Jim Rikhoff the lead producer of CBS No.1 NFL team. He along with CBS sports broadcast associates held Music meeting where they discuss potential music options for their Sunday broadcast.
— JIN UPDATES (@seokjin_updates) December 16, 2024
Jin your music is TRULY loved 🥹 pic.twitter.com/oQmdTMGw4q
“When we say Jin makes music that can’t be boxed into just 'K-pop' this is what we mean — Seokjin’s music is for everyone globally to enjoy,” a fan stated on X (formerly Twitter). Another echoed, “Running Wild definitely goes with sports, we hope to hear more of it being used!”
According to The Athletic’s October 2024 report, CBS Sports lead producer Jim Rikhoff — an Emmy Award winner — holds weekly music meetings with his team to curate tracks for NFL broadcasts. Fans believe that it was Rikhoff’s team who selected Running Wild, a move now celebrated as a shining example of music transcending borders and language.
Also Read: Super Bowl halftime show: Why BTS should be the next big act to take center stage
In retrospect, this moment wasn’t just a K-pop milestone. It was a reminder that music, when genuine and global, can thrive anywhere — even in the heart of American football.
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