Idiots Write About Sports

You know, the tricky thing about interviewing someone? It’s not just asking the right questions — sometimes, you also need to listen to the answers.

Case in point: today in the NFL draft, Suzy Kolber is interviewing the magnificently named Carnell “Cadilliac” Williams after his selection by Tampa Bay in the No. 5 slot of the first round. It’s worth noting that Williams’ teammate at Auburn, Ronnie Brown, was picked No.2 by the Dolphins.

Let’s go to the transcript.

Kolber: You and Ronnie Brown in constant competition. What was the relationship like.

Williams: We had a really good relationship. We’re the best of friends. Both of us are very unselfish. You know me and Ronnie Brown had a bet going on who was going to be taken first. He won the bet. But we’ve got a couple more coming down the road so… Ronnie, I owe you.

Hey, they had a friendly wager on who got drafted first — that’s a nice human interest element for the interview. Anyhow, let’s skip the next penetrating question about how many NFL logo-festooned hats Williams had on hand and jump to the very next inquiry from Suzy.

Kolber: You and Ronnie Brown often had some friendly wagers — most catches, most yards. How about who went first in the draft?

For a second — just a second, mind you — a look of stunned confusion flashed across Williams’ face — a look that seemed to say, “Didn’t I just share that little detail with you, you ninny?” But showing the kind of composure that will serve him well when it’s time to elude ‘roided-up linebackers, Williams managed to choke down his surprise and provide the same response he had offered less than 40 seconds ago — and without blinking his distress to his off-camera handlers either.

Oh, Suzy… I think we all want to kiss you.

[Update: If you’re going to make fun of people for asking questions that have already been answered, the least you can do is spell their name right.]

Is Suzy Kobler related to Suzy Kolber, the ESPN NFL reporter?

Yes. I don't think enough of her to get her name right apparently.

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