Phil-a-buster
Posted June 15, 2005, 10:29 AM ET

Phil Simms, the CBS' #1 NFL analyst, was recently on Bob Costas' new HBO show and he had some fun at the expense of the sports talk radio world.

Simms mentioned to Costas that if you talk sports rationally or if you are honest with your approach, then you will never cut it as a sports talk radio host. According to the former NY Giant quarterback, Simms says that issues on sports talk radio are dealt with in a "black and white fashion."

Simms was quoted as saying, "that's not the way it really is. Almost all of these issues have a middle. It's not that sexy. It's not that controversial. But all that's talked about on the radio is the extreme ends."

Is Simms right?

And what about television?...Are the "talking heads" on TV any different from morons like myself that host a sports talk radio show?

Simms does have a point about the sports talk radio world...in this goofy business, you must be entertaining. And that means providing topics and your point on the issues that fans will enjoy. That doesn't mean the listeners have to agree with your stance; in fact, it is healthy if the majority disagrees with you from time-to-time.

But you must be entertaining. And you must know when you get close to going over the line on certain subjects and topics. That "line" changes on every show, every day...and that is the fun part of my job.

But while there are various styles and approaches in what makes a good sports talk show and host on the radio...the same holds true in the world of television, too.

I think it is interesting to hear the views of guys like Simms and Costas when it comes to the radio and sports talk genre. But I also believe the same can be said for the "pretty boys" on TV. If Bob Costas puts us to sleep without being entertaining with his new show, then he's toast. Same goes for Simms...he can break down a certain defense or pass route, but if he doesn't entertain me and the masses, he'll be out of business on CBS.

Simms also mentioned that sports talk radio has almost ruined the sports fan...

Now, that is a perfect example of Simms original point...Isn't that a bit extreme? Where is the "middle ground" on that statement? In fact, Simms sounds like the sports talk show hosts that turn him off when making statements like that one.

I would be willing to bet that the influence of HYPE's "SportsCenter" and the way they deliver and package a highlight show has had a much bigger influence on the sports fan and the games themselves as opposed to the junkies on sports talk radio.

Either way, the sports fan is in good shape, because they can watch and listen to anything they want...and right now, the sports media is ubiquitous. The sports fan has everything at his fingertips 24/7...radio, television, print, the internet...you name it...what's not to love?

Plus, if Phil Simms doesn't want to hear what the sports fan has to say...he can always turn off the radio.