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Will Leitch Isn’t What He’s Cracked Up To Be
Published by MoonDog on May 12, 2008
Among the scads of articles written over the past 10 days regarding Will Leitch’s appearances on Costas Now and The Best Damn Sports Show Period, mine included, I’ve had an opportunity to read most of them and take an inventory of the opinions expressed.
Most as I would have imagined were very favorable, putting Leitch in a good light and attacking the comments made by Buzz Bissinger, author of Friday Night Lights, who appeared along with Leitch and Cleveland Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards during the segment, The Internet and the Impact of Bloggers.
As I made clear in my first article I don’t consider Leitch or his web site, Deadspin.com, to be anything special. However, and again referring to the first article, I did recognize Deadspin as being the most popular sports blog on the Internet. Moreover, I applauded Leitch for his efforts on behalf of bloggers and the blogosphere in general.
But there are some troubling facts surrounding Leitch and Deadspin that few sites make note of. This perception among bloggers that Leitch is the pre-ordained spokesperson of the blogosphere isn’t one that I’m comfortable with. Neither Deadspin nor Leitch is representative of all bloggers; in fact, it is only one small segment of the blogosphere doing, to some extent, what the rest of us do. Some of us, quite frankly, do it better too.
It comes as no surprise when the professional media points to Deadspin as an example of what they believe bloggers represent. Its popularity alone has given the likes of Bill Conlin, Stephen A. Smith, Marcus Hayes, Roy Exum, Bob Costas and Buzz Bissinger ammunition to attack bloggers for being, as Bissinger put it, an oasis of “poor writing skills, lack of journalistic ethics and absence of credentials.”
In all fairness to Leitch I sense he is a man who doesn’t like nor ever asked for the unspoken title of blogosphere ambassador. In all of his appearances on radio and television, the uneasy way he carries himself suggests he isn’t comfortable defending Deadspin. For that matter, whether he realizes it or not, in some respects he’s defending all bloggers.
In an article Leitch wrote for Publisher’s Weekly in January of this year, Leitch states, “Every blogger is different from the others; I can’t think of a single shared characteristic among bloggers, save for lack of a tan. The one thing we do do, however, is write. A lot. I’ve worked for newspapers, magazines, television stations, doctor’s offices, you name it, and no job requires more daily effort than being a professional blogger.”
I served in the U.S. Navy for six years and among my deployments were two tours of duty in the Persian Gulf. That job required more daily effort than being a blogger. If Leitch honestly believes being a blogger requires more effort than anything else, Leitch obviously hasn’t done much in his life.
Being a blogger is easy. Just as with sports journalism in general, for the most part it requires little effort. Even among the professional media, sports journalism is considered to be at the lowest rung of the ladder. It requires little thought or research and generally is nothing more than reactionary in nature.
As you peruse the pages at Deadspin it’s apparent that Leitch and his site are becoming more like those he’s railed against. Leitch’s mantra, of sorts, is his belief “sports have been essentially hijacked by a sports entertainment industry that hyperbolizes to promote itself.” While I agree with that opinion, Leitch seems to contradict himself regularly.
In the introduction of his book God Save the Fan, Leitch writes, “It’s natural that [the sports media] would be threatened by fan empowerment; after all, we’re the ones who pay for all this. If we all realized that, hey, we don’t need to listen to these idiots on television screaming at us… they’d be out of a job. But it’s vital for sports fans to realize that we don’t need them, that we can choose what we want now. We just have to take charge and realize our power. Hopefully, this book will help with that.”
There are two problems I have with the aforementioned quotes. If you’ve visited Deadspin lately you’ll discover that not everyone gets an opportunity to post comments. Only those that have been granted access to the comments section are allowed to voice their opinions. I call that passive censorship. What do you suppose Leitch calls it?
These facts can only lead me to believe Leitch doesn’t buy into his own message. Moreover, Deadspin is about as representative of the average sports fan as Paris Hilton is to responsible driving. It’s difficult for me to believe what Leitch is saying when his personal actions and those of Deadspin prove otherwise.
Going widely unnoticed in the blogosphere was a January appearance Leitch made on National Public Radio with Scott Simon. Deadspin posted an article addressing Leitch’s interview stating, “When Scott Simon mentioned this in an interview with us months ago, we stammered and stumbled and generally sounded like a moron. This is because we were taken aback by it; it legitimately didn’t occur to us that someone could take the impression from the book that we had some sort of problem with race. That does not mean that someone that who might infer that is somehow deluded, or just trying to cause trouble. It means they’re not us, and that they can see something much clearer than we can.”
Leitch consistently refers to “we” when the reality is he should be referring to himself. This is on Leitch and Leitch alone. I’m not going to turn this into a discussion of race or race relations. That’s a subject deserving an independent article. I am suggesting that any comments such as Leitch’s made by the average person or especially a public figure would have been written about and commented on ad nauseum.
Yet other than a very small number of sites, we heard nothing of Leitch’s comments. I suspect that’s due in large to the perceived level of importance Leitch and Deadspin have achieved in the blogosphere. Perhaps the fact bloggers are reluctant to point out the failings of other bloggers has some bearing as well. Regardless, the man who’s currently representing the blogosphere at a critical juncture doesn’t need to put bloggers in a disparaging light.
I’ve never been fond of the “do as I say, not as I do” routine. With Leitch and Deadspin serving as focal points of the mainstream media, I view the current state of affairs to be a disservice to bloggers. I’m not in favor of anyone distancing themselves in such a way to suggest we are all like-minded in that regard.
I personally don’t need Leitch or anyone else in the blogosphere to serve as my ambassador. I’ll do my own thinking, my own writing and most importantly, voice my own opinions. As I watch and listen as Leitch mumbles and stammers his way through interview after interview, I’m convinced there are a number of people better qualified to represent the blogosphere. I don’t suggest that I’m the person for the job, but I would like to see someone other than Leitch serve as the de-facto spokesperson from this point forward.
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Gambitxxx on Mon, 12th May 2008 15:50
Moondog,
Very well wriiten post here. I have to agree with you on the fact I can represent myself and that we are not all alike in anyway. In fact if that would be the case what would the need be for so many blogs?
We just like any sports journalist offer our opinion on regurgatated sports stories.
As for the media or so called professionals they can kiss my white ass! I could care less that some degree and the fact that they work for some sort of news outlet makes them qualified to voice an opinion on any subject. I have a peice of paper that says the same for me. Only difference is mine represents my basic rights as a U.S. citizen theirs means nothing to me.
MoonDog on Mon, 12th May 2008 16:07
Well said my friend. I couldn’t agree with you more. It’s not that I disapprove of Leitch personally. I just have a problem with this perception that he’s speaking for all us. He’s not.
How are you feeling? I smell BBQ.
Sooze on Mon, 12th May 2008 18:17
“[Blogging] requires little thought or research and generally is nothing more than reactionary in nature.”
Totally disagree. Bloggers who do little to no research, or think very little about what they are writing, suck at what they do. Some may turn to dick jokes and nude photos more often than necessary, but hopefully some thought (whether in the form of stats or snark) went into the post. Otherwise, very informative post, in an opinionated sort of way.
Also, I absolutely relate to the stammering and stuttering of Will Leitch. I suck at talking, which is why I write.
MODI on Mon, 12th May 2008 18:45
“I am suggesting that any comments such as Leitch’s made by the average person or especially a public figure would have been written about and commented on ad nauseum.”
No question about it Moondog. For the record Can’t Stop the Bleeding was one of the few sites to mention this point early on with little company.
Rick O on Mon, 12th May 2008 19:03
Very good piece, MoonDog. Nice job of stating your point while keeping an eye on fairness as well. I wonder if Leitch and those like him realize that many of their actions and words have the reverse of the intended effect when it comes to evaluating bloggers.
MoonDog on Mon, 12th May 2008 19:53
Sooze – First, loved the interview with Bill Baer. You’ll note I was referencing sports journalism, not blogging. I don’t consider them one and the same. I actually have more admiration for fellow bloggers than I do the established sports media types.
However, I respect your opinion and I do agree that some of us do write well-researched pieces. I guess what I’m trying to get across was the reference Leitch made to blogging being the most difficult job he’s had. Blogging compared to being in the military is easy, at least for me.
Thanks for offering your thoughts.
MoonDog on Mon, 12th May 2008 19:57
MODI – Thanks for bringing that up. Next to your blog, that’s the only site I came across that referenced the NPR interview.
Thanks for dropping by.
MoonDog on Mon, 12th May 2008 20:01
Rick O – Thanks for the kind words and the perspective. I did in fact make every effort to be as even-handed towards Leitch as I could. The fact he has helped put bloggers on the map should be commended.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Sooze on Mon, 12th May 2008 21:53
My bad, Moondog. I agree that Leitch’s comments are preposterous regarding blogging being that difficult a job. I’d much rather sit around and write about baseball all day than work 50 hours a week and go to school full time and run a household, as I do (and blog.) Someday!
Nonetheless, I hope with all my heart that from blogger to journalist to fantasy baseball message board-updater, people put their best effort forward. Otherwise, what the hell is the point? Dick jokes aside, of course.
I appreciate the kind words as well, regarding the interview. It was fun to do and glad you enjoyed it!
MeanDovine on Mon, 12th May 2008 22:02
It amazes me that Leitch was on Best Damn when Fox courted me and my blog, yet I received no call.
As I alluded to at THE LEAGUE, Mr. Leitch has obviously curried favor with a few professional insiders, so I don’t thrust his opinion or agenda. But I will give him credit for getting a spotlight shined on him and his blog, which remains a difficult get for me at best.
Most important, I applaud you, MoonDog, for staying at the forefront of this topic.
Best …
lawvol on Mon, 12th May 2008 22:41
“Deadspin is about as representative of the average sports fan as Paris Hilton is to responsible driving.”
That may be one of the best quotes I’ve read in a while.
Fabulous article. I agree it has always bothered me how Deadspin — rather arrogantly — excludes a lot of people from commenting and what not. I’ve got nothing against Leitch, but — for me — Deadspin isn’t what I’m about as a blogger.
Preach on…
MoonDog on Mon, 12th May 2008 23:28
Sooze – I concur that most bloggers I’ve encountered do take the time to post articles that are well-thought and well-researched. I know I do. I take it seriously but I don’t take myself seriously.
I’ll have to come visit your site and bog you frequently. I’ll post a link to you as well. And BTW, I don’t make dick jokes. I’m the guy Baer was referring to as “exploiting” women by posting chick pics.
Thank you for your additional comments.
MoonDog on Mon, 12th May 2008 23:41
Mean- Honest to God I had you in mind when I wrote this. If ever there was a person I would gladly send off to serve as my ambassador of the blogosphere, it’s you.
You’re doing everything the right way and you don’t cheapen yourself. I can’t say that. I play the sex card with the chick pics. But you know what? Both of us are true to ourselves. And that’s the most important thing.
Thanks for the kind words.
MoonDog on Mon, 12th May 2008 23:47
Lawvol – Thank you my friend. That is a pretty good line about Paris. That’s a MoonDog original.
As I’ve mentioned in replying to a few that have posted comments, I too don’t have anything against Leitch personally. I’m happy the guy has been able to achieve his level of success.
But his message just isn’t resonating with me. I’m gathering it doesn’t with a lot of people. The fact people are being limited to voice their opinions at his site is a glaring example of his hypocrisy.
Thanks for chiming in!
Patrick on Tue, 13th May 2008 08:10
Nicely done. I have backed Leitch’s comments, but I understand and agree with what you are saying about him being the representative for all of us. The problem with all of it is the popularity of Deadspin, which I guess is why he gets to be the rep. None of the other big ones that I can think of are much better really. Maybe we should start a union and elect our own rep
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 08:32
Patrick – I hear you buddy. I’ve made it clear the guy deserves credit for what he’s accomplished. But I’d rather have a democratic process of selecting the person to represent the blogosphere.
Thanks for chiming in.
Gibbon Jockey on Tue, 13th May 2008 09:13
“The one thing we do do, however, is write. A lot. I’ve worked for newspapers, magazines, television stations, doctor’s offices, you name it, and no job requires more daily effort than being a professional blogger.”
I served in the U.S. Navy for six years and among my deployments were two tours of duty in the Persian Gulf.”
Nice article. One thing that seems to slip through the basic reading comprehension cracks is the quote above. I don’t think you can logically make the leap that Leitch is comparing blogging to combat duty/coal-mining/brain surgery pick a demanding job. It’s a writing job. A writing job that is more challenging than others. You may not agree with that sentiment, but to compare it to your experience in the Navy is absurd.
The article makes good points and those points are diminished by extreme leaps of judgement. Just my ‘constructive’ criticism.
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 09:18
Gibbon – I respect your opinion, however, the statement Leitch made doesn’t leave room for misinterpretation. Read it again. He clearly states, in part, “no job.”
Take into account this as well. You were allowed to post your comments and without censorship. Can the same be said for his site?
Thanks for commenting.
MeanDovine on Tue, 13th May 2008 10:46
Hey Doggie,
Just a heads up …
Or perhaps you already know this, but WordPress is extremely finicky. One bad code or line error in a single post can cause a ripple affect throughout all your posts, moving backward and forward. Therefore, you have to be very precise in structuring your posts, as well as in choosing the plugins you add, etc, etc., etc. Some plugins simply aren’t compatible with newer WordPress versions, or may become incompatible by activating other plugins.
In short, WordPress can get pretty crazy.
Also, with three-column design, photo sizing is crucial as well because if they are too big they can cause IE6 users problems seeing your site.
Status on Tue, 13th May 2008 10:54
“I agree it has always bothered me how Deadspin — rather arrogantly — excludes a lot of people from commenting and what not.”
What’s wrong with trimming the fat?
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 11:06
Mean – I use Firefox and based on what I’m seeing, everything appears to be fine. Is there something you’re seeing I need to be aware of?
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 11:08
Status – Would you have the same opinion if you were unable to post a comment here? Or what if I deleted your comment? That’s the problem people have with “trimming the fat” as you put it.
It’s his site and he can do what he wants. But why have a blog and limit who can comment? Makes no sense to me.
Thanks for commenting.
dsl on Tue, 13th May 2008 11:59
Your point about Leitch as ambassador is a good one. However, your interpretation of his job quote is poor, to say the least. The article, and your message, would have been better served without it.
I get that you served your country and that’s great – you should be thanked every day for your efforts. However, deciding to mention your service in this article totally detracts from the point you are trying to make.
tecmo on Tue, 13th May 2008 12:52
Just because Will/Deadspin is viewed as the “voice of the blogosphere” by MSMers, it doesn’t mean its true, and I think you need to separate your opinions from the opinions of media personalities. They don’t understand blogging as a whole, as evidenced by Bissinger’s failure to distinguish between blog posts and comments, or by saying Big Daddy Balls. They don’t understand the blogosphere as we, bloggers, understand our own culture. Just because they view Will as the “voice of the blogosphere,” it doesn’t mean you or I need to believe that, and from meeting Will, I don’t believe that he believes that either.
Regarding comments on Deadspin, I comment nearly everyday. I’d rather the comments be closed to everyone, or else Deadspin would end up along the same paths as Yahoo Sports or Fanhouse, where uneducated “fans” spew hate and insensitive remarks just to get a rise out of a few people. Deadspin is big enough that it would attract trolls like that. Read Rob Iracane’s latest commenters post. He says he rejects more auditioners than not for failing to bring both humor AND crude remarks at the same time. If someone can’t understand that humor is what drives the site, rather than obscene remarks with no substance, then I really don’t want to associate my fanhood with them.
And I don’t mean to be rude, but that blogging-to-military relationship is absurd. Blogging is difficult because of the time it takes to adequately research a given topic coupled with ALWAYS being held accountable to the readers and commenters who are ready to call you out at the drop of a hat. When Will was writing for papers/magazines/etc., comments from readers were a thing of the future. It was blogging that brought about comments on newspaper websites, ESPN articles, etc. He said it was the toughest job HE had, not the toughest job in the world.
MeanDovine on Tue, 13th May 2008 12:54
Your posts are now centered instead of left aligned.
MeanDovine on Tue, 13th May 2008 13:02
Also, the text in your right sidebar, from your copyright notice down is centered as well.
Gambitxxx on Tue, 13th May 2008 13:46
Moondog,
I have to agree with you also that my job as a graphic designer is much harder than blogging could ever be. These folks that are saying that your opinion of your service has no substance to what you are trying to get accross obviously aren’t reading your post correctly. I know it’s hard to sometimes understand what a person is saying by reading but c’mon if that’s the case read it again and try to look at it from every possible angle.
As a rep. for us bloggers if I could elect someone it would be a hard decision between you and MeanDovine. Man he’s an exellent blogger like you said. I think you are right up there with him though.
I’m feeling pretty good today. Went to the Doc. on friday. He said my brain looks to be healing as expected. Have to do exercises to stimulate it though. Memory games and things of that nature. Ribs dtill killing me and I’m tired of this damn cast on my arm,causes un-scratchable ithches. BBQ huh! That’s just cruel my friend, very cruel. However I smell hot boiled crawfish at this time.
tophatal on Tue, 13th May 2008 14:04
Moon Dog
Never been to enamoured with the guy. And anyone who’s going to be critical of a forum that he either at times espouses or then chooses to denigrate has to be something of a simpleton to say the least !
It’s either got to be one or the other in some respects.
tophatal ………..
tophatal on Tue, 13th May 2008 14:07
Moon Dog
I’ve a new post up within the RSB site titled Show Me The Way To Go Home I’m Tired And I Want To Go To Bed ! It’s a piece on the laconical Celtics. Let me know what you think as to the merits of the piece ? I’ll look forward to reading your comments. Chimin’ out.
tophatal ……..
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 14:45
dsl – Apparently this seems to be the sticking point for some posting comments. If you’ve ever served in the military you’d understand how service members take things very literally. If you read the quote I posted from Publisher’s Weekly, the quote isn’t open to interpretation.
Am I supposed to infer from his quote what he really meant? Is that my job? If he had said “it’s the hardest job I’ve ever had” I wouldn’t have uttered a word about.
Thanks for commenting.
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 14:57
Tecmo – Your last comment stated Leitch claimed blogging was the toughest job HE had – WRONG. Read the quote. I posted the link to his words. He said “and no job requires more daily effort than being a professional blogger.” Where is the word HE?
As I mentioned to another replies, am I supposed to figure out what he’s trying to say? Is that my job?
I respect your points of view. However, I’m starting to find it odd the only point of contention with this article is the reference I made to his quote and my military service.
No one representing the voice of dissent has mentioned one word about everything I’ve written here is true. Not one word.
I sense you feel compelled to defend Leitch because you’ve had an opportunity to meet him. I have no doubt he’s a great guy. You’ll note in this article and the first one I wrote, I applaud his efforts. I’m glad he’s made a name for himself.
But you can’t defend his words and actions when the evidence proves otherwise.
One final note, you had an opportunity to post an unedited and uncensored reply here. How many would have gotten that chance at Deadspin?
Thanks for taking the time to post a comment.
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 15:01
Mean – I’m guessing you’re using IE? As I mentioned before, I’m using Firefox, version 2.0.0.14, with a 1280×1024 resolution and 75hz refresh rate. I’ve got a 24″ wide screen too.
I’m going to have to post a blurb about “this site is best viewed…”
Thanks for bringing that to my attention.
LAWVOL!!!
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 15:06
Gambitxxx – I’m glad to hear you’re recovering. Your brain? Have you talked with Kristen? Maybe she has some techniques she could share with you to assist with that?
As I mentioned to a few that commented, if the only thing people can take umbrage with is the reference to Leitch’s article for Publisher’s Weekly and my military service, then apparently I’ve done my job with this one.
Hurry up and get well. Thanks for your additional comments.
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 15:09
Top – I didn’t quite follow the point you were trying make. Care to expand on it some? Are you saying that you can like a certain site and not dislike it that site at the same time?
As I said, please qualify what you’re saying.
10-4 on the Celtics.
Thanks for posting.
MeanDovine on Tue, 13th May 2008 15:37
Yes, I am using IE7, but you’ll find that most of your daytime audience will be blogging from work and therefore using IE6, so the key to maximizing reads is to get your site functioning the same no matter what browser your readers use.
Typically, you can expect your readers to break down thusly
IE6 – 40%
IE7 – 37%
Firefox 2 – 15%
Safari – 4%
I have all three browsers on my computer so I can fluctuate between them. For the record, Safari gives the best look, followed by Firefox. However, most employers only use IE6. What’s worse, they don’t allow their employees to install other browsers on their company computers.
Nonetheless, I did view your site in FireFox 2 and the alignment problem does not exist, so you’re right about receiving a better MoonDog Sports viewing experience using Firefox.
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 15:46
Mean – I did some research and the stats for my site show an overwhelming majority are using Firefox. However, you’re absolutely right regarding those that use IE. I need to make sure everyone sees the glorious pile of crap that is my site the same way.
There’s only one problem. I don’t know how to fix it.
Thanks again for the info.
tecmo on Tue, 13th May 2008 15:53
Moondog, I didn’t come here to bash you, only to give an alternate view. You seem very defensive. Every couple of months, it seems some blog will take offense to Deadspin and the fact that not everyone can comment.
As for Leitch’s comment, he gives a list of different places that HE worked, only to conclude by saying blogging is harder. Saying that he means every job ever, or the ridiculous assumption that Will is saying blogging is more work than the military, is preposterous. You correctly copied and pasted the phrase before the one you have such a problem with, which puts his comment into a frame of reference. The jobs HE’s had (doctor’s office, magazines, etc.)The “evidence” doesn’t prove otherwise.
I’m glad you allow anyone to comment. I do the exact same on my site. Its the size and reach of Deadspin that makes it different. You can’t say that “Leitch and his site are becoming more like those he’s railed against” and then try to make a connection between comments on a small site like this and a huge site like Deadspin. That’s double talk. Read comments on any big sports site like espn, fanhouse or yahoo. 1 out of every 3 or 4 comments is some beligerent middle schooler looking to start shit. Deadspin is famous, as Will has said in countless interviews and his book, for the commenters making up 90% of Deadspin’s content. The commenters are called upon to take interpretations of the post and foster discussions in a humorous way. There’s no substance behind hiding behind a fake name and bashing someone else. If you’re going to be anonymous, at least do so within certain limits. More and more bigger sites have started moderating comments for this very reason. Its the truth. Bigger sites need to adapt.
I understand the point you’re making in this post. I enjoyed reading it. There’s just certain parts that were interpreted in ways they shouldn;t have been, making mountains out of molehills.
Its a good post, though. I like to see people challenge Deadspin.
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 16:20
Tecmo – I’m not defensive, just aggressive in supporting my argument. You can continue to defend what he’s said, but his actions still speak otherwise. Yet, as I mentioned in my first reply, that’s the only point of contention with the article.
I blogged at Fox for a while and got a very limited number of “hate” replies. I understand your point. I don’t agree with it in the context you placed it though. What difference does the size of one’s site have to do with it? If he found a reply to be so objectionable, he could simply delete it with one quick keystroke and you know it. Why silence or censor anyone?
That’s part of the military service I did. That’s my right, and yours as well, to avail yourself fully of the First Amendment. Read my bio and it speaks for itself. Why have a comment section if you only want those posting that agree with you? What good is that? What point does that serve?
Finally, you still haven’t acknowledged there isn’t one word I wrote that isn’t true. You just don’t want to admit that Deadspin has become what he’s railed against. If you can’t see that, I honestly don’t know what to say.
I do appreciate your thoughts and the fact you’ve taken the time to come to my “small” site and post comments. I’m confident you and I are more like-minded than what it may appear to be.
tecmo on Tue, 13th May 2008 17:48
I’m defending his words in the quote you posted, but his “actions,” as you say in your above comment, don’t seem to go against that quote. He listed his prior jobs. He claims blogging is harder. That has nothing to do with censorship, comments, or anything else in your last comment.
Me calling you small is no bash. I’m talking in respect to well-known sites.
The comments at Deadspin are not to only allow publishing of comments that benefit Will, Deadspin, or Gawker Media. Hate posts add nothing to any conversation. Deadspin is set up (and has been set up for quite some time) under a certain “business plan,” per se. You aren’t the first person to criticize the way Deadspin is set up. The more you complain about it, though, the more it just looks like you were a rejected commenter or weren’t approved. I’M NOT SAYING THIS IS THE CASE, but this argument has happened plenty of times by miffed bloggers with a vendetta. Its not that Will is scared of someone with an opposing viewpoint. Why can’t anyone post on every message board on the ‘net? There have been several message boards that linked to my site, and I tried to sign up to see what was said, if it was positive or negative, etc. Many times, the administrators emailed me back and politely refused my application, because that message board is for a certain community of friends, fans and family. Deadspin is a community just like that. Did I take the time to write a blog post bashing each message board? No. Its their rules, and I accept that. I move on. I respect what they’re doing and the community they’ve built for themselves.
I understand that much of what you’ve said is true. Deadspin is huge, and is closer to a MSM source than an independent blog than say, me or you. However, there is a wider gap between Deadspin and, say, ESPN than there is between you/me and Deadspin. Will still gives links, props, help to the blogosphere as a whole whereas the MSM sources are slow to the party. You have ads on your site, should I write a blog post saying how ad-sharing revenue dissolves your credibility as a blogger? Can anyone who makes as much as a dime on their site really call themselves anything but a for-profit company?
But I will not bow and enable you by saying everything you say is true. “This perception among bloggers that Leitch is the pre-ordained spokesperson of the blogosphere isn’t one that I’m comfortable with.” That’s a complete falsity created by your own opinion. No one says Will is the spokesperson of the blogosphere. However, most bloggers understand that Deadspin was an inspiration for a vast majority of the sportsblogs that get started up everyday. Read CSTB. They are dedicated to everything Leitch-hate. That’s the beauty of blogs. If you’re so anti-Leitch and anti-Deadspin, just give up on it and read something else. There’s no need to bash someone who’s doing the same thing you are.
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 18:06
Let me ask you two questions. Does Deadspin link to you? If Leitch saw this post and wrote a rebuttal, would I have an opportunity to post a comment?
You’re reading a lot more into my points than what’s there. Look at the comments on this post and tell me if your opinion is in the majority. It’s not because it’s obvious to me you’re defending him because you have some connection to him. I don’t.
It was written based on what he has said and what he has done. Period. The articles I link to are his words and there’s nothing to misinterpret.
At no time have I bashed him personally as you suggest. In fact, the only things you’re suggesting are quickly becoming irrelevant even though I’ve made an effort to respond to you as politely as possible.
I bid you adieu.
Greg on Tue, 13th May 2008 18:35
It’s too gray an area to describe blogging as being “hard work” or not.
When I was deployed to Afghanistan, I briefly wrote a blog on my experiences over there. It required about 30 minutes to 2 hours of writing and posting every night. It was far from being an intense workload. However, it was ready by 4, maybe 5 people.
Leitch has assembled what is arguably the world’s most read sports blog. My guess is that requires a little more then 30 minutes to 2 hours of work a day. I would also guess the same could be said about the awfulannouncing or thebiglead, two other blogs myself and many others read on a regular basis. I read those and deadspin because they offer a consistent product.
Technically, you’re right. Blogging doesn’t require much effort. Meaningful blogging (whether or not it is of good taste), however, requires significant effort to sustain itself, and it’s the meaningful blogs that’s at the forefront of the national discussion on the topic.
As far as Leitch limiting the comments, it’s really a necessary act. As it is, the site attracts hundreds of comments a day on various stories. Opening up to anyone and everyone would flood the forum, rendering it a worthless product. If he had to shut it down, wouldn’t he be considered more a hypocrite? From what I’ve heard, Leitch will respond to emails and what not. I’d pay $10 to someone who’s heard back from the likes of an ESPN or cnnsi.com personality.
Gibbon Jockey on Tue, 13th May 2008 19:32
@Greg
You owe me $10! HA! I wrote a post a loooong while back about Ivan Maisel/Stewart Mandel writing columns about Gary Barnett & the Colorado rape scandal – basically saying they were too in bed with the powers that be to take an objective look at things. Maisel emailed me with a very thoughtful/respectful response.
@Moondog
I understand your literal interpretation of Leitch’s comments regarding the “difficulty” of blogging – for example – If I drop a bowling ball on my foot and say “IT’s the worst pain in the world.” you obviously know that’s not true as there are any number of things worse than that. But from my experience, it may very well have been the worst I’ve ever dealt with. Either way, I don’t believe the quote is meant for a completely literal interpretation – which is why I referenced basic reading comprehension.
As for the article as a whole, as I said previously, I believe you make some salient points, but I think we agree that a writer’s responsibility is avoiding unnecessary distractions from the thesis. Based upon your replies to other posters, you don’t see it as a distraction.
That’s fine – just trying to be constructive.
tecmo on Tue, 13th May 2008 19:48
Greg and Gibbon – Thankfully, someone comprehends what I was getting at. I get 10 bucks, too. I got an email back from John Buccigross. I emailed him to see if I could interview him for my site. He agreed, but didn’t get me back after I emailed him the questions. I guess I’ll just take 5 bucks then.
Moon – Just because the majority of the commenters agree with you, it doesn’t mean you are right. The majority of commenters doesn’t validate your point. What’s worse, assuming you’re right because anonymous commenter number seven said so, or creating a community that tries to keep out needless content? You are refusing to listen to people giving rational opinions, then immaturely “bidding me adieu.” Yes, Will has linked to me several times in the past. I’ve met him twice. But as Greg said, Will responds to emails, despite receiving thousands a day. He’s a fan who happens to run a well-received blog. You say I haven’t responded to the truths you’ve wrote, but your responses to me do not cover anything I’ve said. You say there’s nothing to misinterpret about what he’s said, since you took direct quotes, but are only focusing on your military service as a response to “blogging is the hardest job.”
I don’t defend Will because he’s linked to me. I don’t defend him because I’ve met him briefly. I’m only defending that he isn’t dissing the military.
tecmo on Tue, 13th May 2008 20:02
And I’m not dissing your military service. In fact, I’m not dissing you at all. I respect any and all blogs/bloggers for the time it takes to put together a well-versed blog. If you are quick to just write me off as someone who is just trying to disagree with you for fun, you’re just as insensitive as you claim Deadspin is for moderating the commenting process
MoonDog on Tue, 13th May 2008 21:03
OK – Been busy watching Hillary tell us how great she is. Let’s see, first, is there any way you guys could get your points across in 15 words or less? That’s a joke BTW.
Greg, Gibbon, Tecmo – Greg, first of all, thanks for your service. Are you still in the military? You noted Awful Announcing and that’s a site I visit with some regularity. I actually don’t visit the “big” sites that much. Deadspin is a site I’ve visited maybe 10 or 15 times. I’m just someone who doesn’t understand why you’d want to run a site and not allow everyone to post a comment. That simply doesn’t compute with me.
I may disagree with you, but that’s the beauty of the blogosphere, or at least my view of it. It is dialouge, conducted in a civil manner, that brings opposing views together.
The opposing views at this juncture are all focusing on my time in the military. Based on what I wrote, I see a grand total of one small paragraph on the subject to make a point. That’s it. Among all the other points made, that’s the one people have taken an issue with. I used it as an example of what I perceived as being harder than blogging.
I don’t believe anyone is dissing my military service. You’d have to be pretty foolish to do that anyway. I merely researched a subject, posted an article based on that research and presented my view. All I’m getting right now are people attempting to make more out of what they think I wrote as opposed to what I actually wrote. I’m not having anyone put words my mouth that aren’t there.
I represent a growing number of bloggers that do in fact believe what I’ve written is on target. I took a point of view based on the growing representation and ran with it.
In the first article I wrote about Leitch’s appearance on Costas Now, which I don’t think anybody read, I put Leitch in a very favorable light. I don’t attack anyone personally. I attack your argument. At this point, the arguments and logic are based on a small paragraph I used as an example.
If people believe I misinterpreted what Leitch was attempting to get across, fine. That’s your opinion and I believe we should all be allowed to voice them. That’s the beauty of this blog. I don’t tune you out even if you present an opposing view. I prefer to see rational points being made but I’m not your editor.
And you got an opportunity to voice your opinion here – you may not have gotten that opportunity to do so at Deadspin.
I’ve got other blogs to write now and I need to focus on those. I’m a one man show and don’t have the time to continue this.
Feel free to post comments though, I more than likely won’t get a chance to respond until at least tomorrow.
Thanks to all that have commented.
Status on Tue, 13th May 2008 23:17
“But why have a blog and limit who can comment? Makes no sense to me.”
So comments like “Red Sox rule, everyone else sucks” are filtered out. It keeps the comments funny, witty and smart, and more importantly keep the morons out.
Ever seen the comment threads on an ESPN message board? It’s a trainwreck. I’m glad they filter that crap out.
Avinash on Wed, 14th May 2008 04:07
Hey Moondog,
Deadspin is the representative for the sports blogosophere because it covers all sports events/tabloids/gossip in a whitebread sort of way (easy enough for the masses to understand, witty enough for the smart people to enjoy). But I do agree there’s a strange hierarchy in place (established commenters get their blogs mentioned all the time, etc.) for that type of blog to proliferate.
Whatever. We just have to do a better job at what we do.
SB Nation is a good start to what
Neil on Wed, 14th May 2008 04:25
Very well written post. Leitch looked rattled and taken aback from the verbal jabbing of Bissinger, and didn’t really make an impression that the blogosphere could be proud of.
Gambitxxx on Wed, 14th May 2008 15:15
Greg,
I’ll take my $10 dollars in the form of a money order. I to wrote an email to an ESPN media person on the Saints last season and did get an insightful and intelligent response back from him. Not all media personalities are assholes. Just joking about the $10 but wanted to point that out to you.
Moondog,
No problem and I understand your argument with Tecmo and am on your side of it. I guess you can’t make everyone understand what it is you are trying to get across.
I have also talked to Kristen on many occasions through email. Different kind of brain issues than what she deals with. However she has kept me smiling and is a great friend. Going to visit her when I go on my “Visit my internet buddies” tour as soon the Docs say I can travel. She promised to try and hook me up with her single ladie friends when I get there. Can’t pass on that, as much as I love my “Southern Belles” Cali girls are pretty hot as well. Take care buddy see you on my tour.
Ethan on Wed, 14th May 2008 22:06
Great Article. I got tired of reading the comments. I went cross-eyed @ 22 or 23. I forget.
The points Moondog makes are great.
Blogging nonstop all day could be hard, but not as time spent in the armed services etc… I applaud moondog and people of his ilk.
Great job and thanks for the opportunity to use the word ilk.