Funny thing. John Madden retired on Thursday and my first thought? I already thought he was. That's because most people I know don't even listen to the broadcasters blathering on and on. I can't tell you who calls the Raiders, or 49ers or A's games, for that matter. Most sports fans know what's going on and have no trouble following games and recognizing players. Years ago, my mind shut off the constant blabber of the sportscasters, like a simple flick of the remote switch. Madden was a bigger than life figure, but I've always found the athletes are more entertaining and should be the focus of games, not the talking heads and, in Madden's case, listening to people tell me how much money he's making on his video games.
I totally agree. I've always been irritated by sportscasters that run the mouth so much you can't even concentrate on the game. I often mute the volume and put on the stereo when watching games. And especially Madden, he rambles more than anyone I've ever witnessed.
I also wish the announcers for NASCAR would hush so I could hear the cars. Love the sound of the engines and cars wushing by, but can't turn up the system because all you hear is the southern accents.
Oh well, it's not a perfect sports world.