This Deadspin piece just eviscerates ESPN’s argument to ever be considered a legitimate journalistic organization. Which might be an argument they aren’t that interested in making. ESPN, after all, is an set of entertainment channels. (It’s even in the name). But, at times, they also try and lay claim to the mantle of sports journalism. They have shows (Outside the Lines, Sports Reporters) which are dedicated to sports journalism.
The Deadspin piece is a timeline look at emails sent to Auburn’s Sports PR office during Cam Newton’s last year at Auburn. The emails start off as fawning. Unsurprising. Requests for press passes, interviews, shots of Cam visiting local schools. No problem. Auburn keeps winning. And, then, suddenly two different storms appear on the horizon - (1) the circumstances of Newton’s departure from Florida begin to leak, and (2) the details surrounding his post-Florida recruitment (i.e. $$$$ for Newton’s commitment to play) begin to leak. After a few weeks of uncomfortable inquiries - and ESPN breaking one of the stories (story (2) above) - the winning continues and even ESPN backs off and resumes kid-glove treatment of Newton because, surprise, ABC/ESPN still has to televise Auburn-related events.
A compelling read if you have the time.
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