Erin Andrews joins GameDay, gets bigger network role

By Larry Hartstein

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Erin Andrews is joining the popular College GameDay show as part of her new role with ESPN/ABC.

ESPN interviewer Erin Andrews goes on-air at an NCAA College World Series baseball game in Omaha, Neb., Tuesday, June 22, 2010. Erin Andrews will talk about sports, about her experience on "Dancing With the Stars" and about her advocacy for crime victims. Andrews' contract expires July 1, meaning the CWS could be her last assignment for the cable sports giant.(AP Photo/Ted Kirk)

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The Atlanta-based sideline reporter told USA Today she received "lots of offers to work in entertainment" following her run on "Dancing with the Stars," but signed a new contract with ESPN/ABC because the network expanded her opportunities.

She'll be a part-time host and feature reporter for GameDay, which is growing from two to three hours in its 24th year on the air. ESPNU will televise the 9 a.m. hour, and Andrews will anchor several segments. During the ESPN portion from 10 a.m. to noon, Andrews will contribute reports, interviews and features.

Andrews also will be the sideline reporter on that Saturday's spotlighted game, if the game is on an ESPN network. In addition, she'll make regular appearances on Good Morning America.

"The biggest reason I wanted to stay was because they'd expand my role," Andrews told USA Today. "It's time for me to try new things. ... The hosting stuff is what I'm really looking forward to."

ESPN executive Norby Williamson told the newspaper that because of Andrews' versatility, "We've always been looking for opportunities for her."