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"That guy looks like Tim Howard," is the line in a commercial for Jim Beam that'll be all over your televisions throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
"I am Tim Howard," replies the man, who very much is the United States goalie legend.
In some ways, it's a lighthearted bit of play in a commercial, nothing more. Clearly, Howard wasn't that bothered by it, because he agreed to be in the advertisement in the first place.
But in reality, it's pretty lame. And we'll tell you why, but first, have a watch:
OK, now to explain why this commercial's knock of Howard is no fun.
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Who is Tim Howard? Only a USMNT legend
Sure, there are likely fans watching this World Cup who actually don't know Howard is an all-time great goalie.
But given that status, Howard doesn't deserve to get reduced to a punchline in this commercial.
He had what might be the greatest United States performance in a World Cup ever.
In the 2014 Round of 16, Howard made 16 saves against Belgium. It's a total that has never been equaled in any World Cup game, by any goalie for any country, dating back to 1966.
If the United States had been more clinical at the other end of the pitch in that match, Howard wouldn't have taken a tough-luck loss, and it would be the stuff of all-time lore.
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Howard had a long career in the English Premier League for Everton and was one of the early proofs to European nations that U.S. players could hold their own there.
He's a pivotal piece of the history of the USMNT. There's no reason for him to be unrecognized in a commercial.
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- Harry Kane reveals blunt feelings about potential England issues in U.S. heat
- Lawrence, Kansas has fallen in love with the Algerian national team
- Germany fan Freddy is going viral for his journey through the American South
English (US)