You ask, we reply. The Publish is fielding questions from readers about New York’s greatest professional sports activities groups and getting our beat writers & columnists to reply them in a sequence of often printed mailbags. In right now’s installment: sports activities media.
Appears to be like like Ronde Barber is out at Fox (contract not renewed) so Kenny Albert might be getting a brand new associate this fall. Who will get the nod to work with this professional’s professional? — @msilvers1979
Let’s first ship a little bit Mailbag information. After signing each Adam Amin and Emmanuel Acho from ESPN, Fox Sports activities is excessive on Jon Vilma as a recreation analyst, in response to sources.
That mentioned, ESPN desires to maintain Vilma, the place he has been a school soccer studio analyst on ABC’s prime present. Vilma has sturdy credentials as a Tremendous Bowl champion with the Saints and with the traditionally nice 2001 NCAA champion Miami Hurricanes. His fame was damage in Bountygate — although, he in the end efficiently fought it.
Vilma might keep at ESPN, however he has emerged as an possibility at Fox. He might not find yourself working with Albert, however he’s a chance for the community.
Who’s the highest candidate to interchange Charles Davis at Fox? It is going to in all probability be Greg Olsen after he’s completed enjoying proper? However within the brief time period who’s it? — @NickPalazzolo5
If Fox had been to signal Vilma, he wouldn’t be its No. 2. With Olsen, the long-term play as its second analyst, Fox will possible do a wait-and-see method this season.
Let’s say the NFL performs, however school doesn’t or just some conferences go ahead within the fall. Fox might look to Joel Klatt or Brock Huard as NFL additions for this season.
If school does play in full, then Fox might go along with somebody like Daryl Johnston or Chris Spielman within the No. 2 for this yr.
Submit your questions on sports activities media points to be answered in an upcoming mailbag
Even with the pandemic hurting their backside line badly, do you see ABC probably getting Sunday afternoon NFL video games? — @sc5145
I’m unsure about “getting.” I do suppose “attempting to get” might be in play when the NFL negotiates its subsequent TV contracts. Disney would love ABC again in soccer.
May or not it’s ”Monday Night time Soccer”? Sure. May or not it’s with a Sunday package deal, even going after CBS’? I believe that’s potential. May the NFL create one other set of video games to maintain everybody concerned? I believe you could possibly see that. So no ensures, however I believe Disney/ABC/ESPN will make a critical run for extra NFL video games.
What the heck is happening with the SEC/ESPN contract? Is it extra possible or much less possible (ESPN) should buy out CBS’ remaining years now? — Steve Drouin
There was quite a lot of trade buzz about this chance after ESPN took the principle SEC deal from CBS, however that’s nonetheless 4 seasons away. Although it’s potential Disney/ESPN tries to purchase out CBS/Viacom early, it appears a bit uncertain at this second.
First off, I heard pushback that CBS would need to do it earlier than the pandemic. Now, with Disney severely impacted by the virus, is it going to outlay the $200 million-$300 million within the close to time period to strive to usher in the SEC sooner? Once more, it isn’t unattainable, however I don’t see it proper now.
How come neither of the sports activities speak stations has an hour present devoted to only hockey? They may put in on Sunday morning or late at night time. There’s three freakin’ hockey groups in New York space. I do know I might pay attention. Splain. — @ericdavidlevy
Such a programming has practically all the time been ignored by radio, however now podcasts are higher discussion board for area of interest. If you wish to drill in on a topic, then podcasts actually can help you decide the style that you really want. For hockey, we’ve one referred to as “Up within the Blue Seats.” Attempt that out.