On Tuesday morning, Savannah Guthrie couldn’t resist teasing her new *Today* co-host Craig Melvin 

after he admitted to staying up late the previous night to watch a thrilling NFL playoff game.

As they settled into the show’s familiar rhythm, Savannah humorously poked fun at Craig’s late-night football habit,

highlighting his commitment to the sport—despite his new high-profile role.

Craig revealed that he had stayed up a bit late to watch the Los Angeles Rams defeat the Minnesota Vikings 27-9 in a dramatic close to the wild-card round of the NFL playoffs.

Given the significance of the game, Craig couldn’t resist staying up to watch the action.

But as the conversation turned to his late-night routine, Savannah couldn’t help but make light of the situation, especially with Craig now taking on the role of *Today* co-host.

“How are you going to do this job if you stay up every night until 11 o’clock watching football?” she teased. “Sunday night was a school night, but this was a game.”

Despite the playful jab, Craig was quick to defend himself, clarifying that he only caught the first half of the game. “I only watched the first half, though,” he explained, adding that the game was especially emotional for the Rams. “It was good to see them pull it off,” Craig added, showing his genuine passion for the sport.

Savannah’s playful remarks sparked a lighthearted exchange on air, giving viewers a glimpse into the easy camaraderie that’s already developing between the two co-hosts.

Craig’s enthusiasm for the game was clear, but Savannah’s sharp wit kept things lively as she continued to tease him about his late-night football habit.

It’s been an exciting week for Craig, who officially took over as the co-host of *Today* on Monday, replacing Hoda Kotb after her departure from the morning show.

Craig, who has been a familiar face at NBC News for nearly 14 years, expressed his emotions on his first day at the helm.

His wife, Lindsay Czarniak, and their two children, Delano, 10, and Sybil, 8, were there to surprise him live on air, adding a sweet and heartfelt moment to his debut.

When his family arrived in Studio 1A, Craig exclaimed, “When I left this morning, you were all in bed,” to which Lindsay responded, “We faked it.”

His parents, Betty Jo and Lawrence, also made a surprise appearance, with his mother sharing an emotional moment. “I have butterflies in my stomach today,” she said proudly. “He deserves this. I love you.”

It was a truly emotional day for Craig, who was clearly overwhelmed by the support from his loved ones.

On social media, Lindsay shared her pride in her husband’s achievement, posting an emotional tribute to Craig’s success. “What a morning. Surreal, emotional and so so happy,” she wrote.

“Congrats @craigmelvinnbc you deserve this! We are so excited for you and the adventure ahead.” She also thanked the *Today* family for making the surprise such a special moment.

Craig’s promotion to co-host of *Today* has garnered significant support, especially from his former co-host Hoda. During her final show last Friday, Hoda shared her belief in Craig’s ability to excel in the role.

“Craig, I mean, I’m so happy for you. You have earned this. You own this,” she said, offering her full confidence in his transition. She later added, “You and Savannah are going to be magic,” further expressing her faith in their on-air partnership.

When Craig’s promotion was first announced back in November, Savannah shared how well-received the decision was among the *Today* staff.

“The larger staff found out this morning, and people broke into applause,” she said live on air, adding, “This is one of the most popular decisions NBC News has ever made. Congratulations.”

The support and enthusiasm from both his colleagues and the public were overwhelming, and it’s clear that Craig’s new role has already struck a chord with viewers.

As Craig continues to settle into his new position, it’s clear that his chemistry with Savannah is already a highlight of the show.

The playful banter between the two co-hosts, as seen in their exchange about his late-night football habit, is helping to build an engaging dynamic that viewers will surely enjoy in the coming weeks.

The future of *Today* looks promising as Craig Melvin takes on this exciting new chapter of his career.