Why do the words, "Be careful what you wish for or you just might get it" come to mind when I think of Limbaugh's desire to be a sports commentator for ESPN. He's showing his true colors, and it ain't pretty:
Limbaugh's idea of commentary Sunday involved an absurd attack on Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb and on "the media" that have overrated him because "the media has been very desirous that a black quarterback do well. There's interest in black quarterbacks and coaches doing well." McNabb, Limbaugh said, isn't "as good as everyone says he has been."Here's your mistake, Rush. You stepped out of your radio comfort zone, where "Dittoheads" either echo your twisted view of America or you can cut them off. You stepped into a place where your bluff - and that's all it ever has been - is easily called.
The only thing tough about this is deciding where to begin. How about with "the media"?
Conservative sleight-of-hand artists like Limbaugh love to use the label "the media" (alternately "the liberal media") as a kind of blanket insult. Well, guess what, Rush? You've got a nationally syndicated radio show. You have your own Web site. You had a national TV show. Now you're on ESPN every Sunday morning.
You.
Are.
The.
Media.
Was that slow enough for you to grasp?
...From the most matter-of-fact wire service report to the most outspoken talk-radio shouter, McNabb's race has not been an issue.
Until now. Until Rush Limbaugh and his mouth made it an issue. But why is anyone surprised? This is the same man who once told an African American caller to "take that bone out of your nose and call me back." The same man who once said, "Have you ever noticed how all composite pictures of wanted criminals resemble Jesse Jackson?"
You really need to read this whole column. It's great.
From my own point of view. Watching what Kordell Stewart went through in Pittsburgh. I'd say the media is anything but "desirous that a black quarterback do well." The first thing goes wrong? Everyone blames a "lack of leadership." Am I the only one who sees this pattern for black QBs? Is there anyone who does not think prejudice has just a little bit to do with it? I'd also point to Steve McNair, who is unquestionably one of the best quarterbacks in the game. Did Rush miss his 1999 Superbowl, or his 2002 AFC Championship game? Maybe he was boycotting until they put a "Whites Only" sign up on the clubhouse door.
Posted by Mike at October 1, 2003 03:27 AM | TrackBack