Throwback to when BTS’ Jin’s ‘Running Wild’ stunned NFL fans with its surprise feature during a CBS broadcast

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 7, 2025, 17:58 IST

Text Size

Small
Medium
Large

On December 15, 2024, BTS’ Jin's solo track 'Running Wild' was featured during a CBS broadcast of the Detroit Lions vs. Buffalo Bills NFL game, creating a buzz among fans. The cross-cultural moment highlighted the universal appeal of Jin's music, co-written with Gary Barlow.

Throwback to when BTS’ Jin’s ‘Running Wild’ stunned NFL fans with its surprise feature during a CBS broadcast

Image via Getty Images

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’ Kim Seokjin 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 BTS' Kiman Seokjin’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.

BTS' 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 the 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.

Get the latest IPL 2025 updates on Times of India, including match schedules, team squads, points table and IPL live score for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Don't miss the list of players in the race for IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple cap.

About the Author

TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

End of Article