We’re halfway through the 2016 BSM Top 20 in Sports Radio, and today the afternoon shows gain our undivided attention. Before you scroll down to see who made the list, here’s how the process works.
First, these results are subjective. The members of our executive committee who participate in the voting have different insights and preferences. They also work for different companies, which may or may not factor into their thinking. We do our best to keep the process fair and balanced by involving 53 members from multiple companies and different cities, and utilize different panels for our Major Market, Mid-Market, and National Show categories.
Although the results are presented on this website, BSM does not vote. Our role is to present the findings of the sports radio industry from a neutral position. The identities of our voters are kept private on purpose, as it’s a big reason why they feel comfortable participating. To violate their trust would affect future participation, and damage our relationships in the industry, which is something we will not do.
As it applies to each category, the following criteria is considered by our executive panel.
- Strong local ratings success in 2016
- An established track record in the format
- Quality content delivered on a consistent basis
- Finished 2016 employed at the station
- Spent more than six months with the radio station
*** If a host or show was changed or cancelled in January 2017, it has no effect on our voting. These results are based solely on 2016.
We place an emphasis on ratings, stability and impact when deciding who belongs on the initial list of 25-35. If a show didn’t generate ratings or spend the majority of the year on the air, they’re not likely to appear on the list. We’re aiming to highlight the best performers of 2016, not who we feel possesses the most talent.
For example, Jared Stillman and Floyd Reese took over afternoons on 102.5 The Game in Nashville, but because their show didn’t start until late August, they weren’t eligible for consideration. If we do this again in 2018, and they remain in their current timeslot and perform strongly, the committee would have an opportunity to vote for them.
I anticipate there will be plenty of debate over the selections, but I hope that you take into account that the purpose of this project is to highlight those in the sports format who performed at a high level in 2016. Each of these shows deserves to be recognized for a job well done, and I extend my congratulations to each of them for earning the respect of our executive committee and a spot on the Top 20.
Now without further delay, here are the Barrett Sports Media Top 20 Mid-Market Sports Radio Afternoon Shows of 2016!
Additional Notes:
- 3HL finished 2 points ahead of The Fast Lane, who were 1 point ahead of Mark Madden, who was 1 point ahead of Bull & Fox
- A grand total of 5 points separated the top 4 shows, the tightest finish of any mid-market category
- 3HL gained the most 1st place votes (4), and a total of 11 shows received at least (1) 1st place vote
- Unsportsmanlike Conduct occupied 21st place, and was only 1 point away from tying for 20th place
- Spots 22-25 belonged to Bo Mattingly, Monson & Checketts, Bill Simonson and The Rise Guys
- Danny Parkins left the afternoon show on 610 Sports in KC in January to join 670 The Score in Chicago
Jason Barrett is the President and Founder of Barrett Media since the company was created in September 2015. Prior to its arrival, JB served as a sports radio programmer, launching brands such as 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He also spent time programming SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY. Jason also worked on-air and behind the scenes in local radio at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years on the national stage, producing radio shows for ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT. Among them included the Dan Patrick Show, and GameNight.
You can find JB on Twitter @SportsRadioPD. He’s also reachable by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
