"I think ESPN rightly wanted to own and operate and produce RedZone outright because of the galactic popularity of the show. But the NFL, for their reasons, wanted to retain control of the production of RedZone."
"Just because you’re in a position doesn’t mean you know what you’re doing. What network executive would have been able to ideate Speakeasy? Then line up talent, build out the studios, and choose the timeslot for Speakeasy. I did that in 54 days."
"If the league won’t act, then networks should. Stop paying top voices if they are going to leverage the access you provide for personal gain and influence within the league. That’s not fair to teams, and in an era where the integrity of sports is constantly questioned, it’s certainly not fair to fans."
"One of my old bosses challenged his teams with two words: surprise and delight. We like to do that every day with our shows. We have to touch an emotion, and that's when you build a connection with fans who listen."
When I interviewed him in the White House during his first term, he didn't attack. He acknowledged my questions and bobbed and weaved, quickly pivoting to another topic without giving me a clear answer.
"I think ESPN rightly wanted to own and operate and produce RedZone outright because of the galactic popularity of the show. But the NFL, for their reasons, wanted to retain control of the production of RedZone."