Welcome to Fantasy Guru 37's Blog. I will try to post a few times per week discussing sports and their fantasy implications. I will focus primarily on the NHL, NFL, and NCAAF, however I touch upon PGA Tour golf, the NBA, and NCAAB. Your comments are always appreciated. Feel free to email me at fantasyguru37@gmail.com with any questions or feedback you may have.

March 13, 2010

NBC's Latest Gaffe

It does not come as a surprise to followers of this blog to see me ripping on NBC. Nor does it come as a surprise to see NBC making mistakes. But I assure you that what you are about to read will change your opinion of the broadcasting company for quite some time. For those of you still willing to give them a chance, I expect that to change. For those of you who hate them with a passion, here's some fuel for that fire. The following will expose NBC for the incompetent, nonsensical company they are.

I have enjoyed a long, successful career (since January) as one of the nation's most popular (18 followers) journalists. I possess a deep understanding of conducting interviews with high-profile athletes (my cousins). Therefore, believe each and every statement I make about the world of journalism.

There are many components to conducting an interview, some more complicated than others. You must identify potential candidates, instill in them an interest to speak with you, create an open, welcoming speaking environment with non-invasive questions. These can be difficult, especially when dealing with high-profile athletes who have little time to waste, more important matters to attend to, and need a complication-free environment to succeed. (cough, remember this, cough)

The easiest step, by far, is to confirm that the person you're interviewing is really the person you say he or she is. When you're famous, people know who you are, what you sound like, your personality, etc. When you're recognized for greatness and considered a hero by your countrymen, you expect these very same countrymen to respect your reputation. It's not too much to ask.

Well, it's too much to ask of NBC. As the starting goaltender for Team USA, Ryan Miller was getting prepared for his Gold Medal Game against either Canada or Slovakia, at which point the competitor was yet to be determined. With little time to waste, important matters to attend to, and in need of a complication-free environment, he was off doing his own thing, minding his own business, trying his best to avoid attention. And that's right where NBC stepped in to throw a wrench into Miller's plans.

As NBC commentator Willie Geist prepared for his interview with Miller, he was likely trying to create the welcoming environment discussed earlier. But because he works for NBC, he was incapable of doing so. The man he was about to speak with was not Ryan Miller. It was a random Joe off the street who felt like pranking our great nation's "must see TV," or so they call themselves.

Being the astute journalist he is, the guru managed to uncover a video of the event. It very clearly and objectively depicts the story that transpires. I highly recommend watching it so that you may gain a fuller grasp on the situation.




First of all, Willie, "deepfully" is not a word. I understand that you aren't on top of your game right now, but a man in your line of work should be able to speak coherently. As for Chris Matthews, he couldn't care less because nobody watches his show anyway.

Here is a video of another interview conducted with Miller. Watch this clip to see Miller speak with a competent broadcaster.




Clearly, Miller is by no means a cocky guy. His character contrasts sharply with that of Joe Schmoe who managed to dupe NBC with nothing but a cell phone. His reputation was put on the line by a company incapable of performing the easiest of tasks correctly. Being the classy guy he is, Miller appeared on NBC to set things straight and accept an apology from the network.

That's where the guru comes in. Most of you are unaware of the incident. You may have heard Miller "guaranteeing" Gold and eating his words. What you likely didn't hear was that the mistake was not his, it was NBC's. Afraid to show the nation their blunder, they made a quick apology on a show few people watch. The guru is here to rectify the situation. Ryan Miller is a class act who was unwillingly put into this situation. He needs every medium possible to salvage his public image. Don't let NBC's error tarnish your view of Miller, a guy who shows nothing but class.

1 comment:

  1. Journalism Matters. I can get you a copy of the book if you need a lesson or two.

    NBC Sucks.

    I'm rooting for a Pittsburgh vs. Phoenix Finals matchup.

    What should we do for the NCAA Basketball Bracket?

    All Hail The Guru

    ReplyDelete