The 2022 CMA Awards began with a tribute to Loretta Lynn, but then it was a return to the good-natured humor the show's opening was known for across a decade, pre-COVID.

Hosts Peyton Manning and Luke Bryan delivered the best monologue since Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood. That's not to say they were perfect — both men seemed a bit nervous as they raced through the jokes to start ,but mid-way through, Manning especially started to slow down, leaving room for zingers like this to land.

Luke: How do you think I did last year?

Peyton: I thought you really needed a co-host.

As expected, there were some football references as the show introduced the pair as a duo, with appropriate consideration to those wondering why they're together (or even who they are — yeah, those people exist). Underwood was mentioned as something both of them have in common, as well as: “And we’re both very nervous about what Luke Bryan may say tonight," Manning snapped.

That's not a bad network television line!

Without a doubt there were some tilted heads when a clogger from North Carolina came on stage to dance to "Rocky Top," but a surprise signaled that this wasn't just going to be another awards show, and this wouldn't only be a typical monologue. The kid from Canton did OK, even if he was dressed like your dad.

If this is our hosting duo for the next five years, we'll be in for a good ride.

Country Stars Walk the Red Carpet at the 2022 CMA Awards

Country stars flocked to Nashville on Wednesday, Nov. 9 for the 2022 CMA Awards. The artists also brought their best looks to the red carpet. Carrie Underwood brought the drama with a long blue gown, top-nominated Lainey Wilson opted for a velvet version of her classic bell bottoms and hosts Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning looked snazzy in suits. Here are some of best dressed, and biggest stars, that graced the CMA Awards red carpet.

50 Greatest CMA Awards Moments of All Time

Taylor SwiftCarrie Underwood and Luke Bryan all make this list of the 50 best CMA Awards moments, but so do legendary acts like Johnny CashLoretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell and Dolly Parton (multiple times!).

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