Carrie Underwood performed a rock-influenced rendition of the Sunday Night Football anthem ahead of the Kansas City Chiefs versus Indianapolis Colts match in week two of the NFL season. Fans responded enthusiastically to the performance, with many expressing strong appreciation for the new musical direction. This reception is significant as it reflects continued public support for Underwood's continued role in the iconic pre-game slot and hints at a potential broader shift in her musical direction.

The performance marked Underwood's 14th year as the SNF anthem performer. Creative director Tripp Dixon revealed that the rock element was intentional, drawing from Underwood's documented passion for rock music and the original rock heritage of the SNF anthem, which originated from Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' "I Hate Myself for Loving You." Reports suggest Underwood may be exploring a deeper pivot towards rock music for her next career phase, with Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose reportedly serving as her mentor as she experiments with the genre.