Schieffer, Nantz Kiss Goodell

On Sunday, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell appeared on CBS’ Face the Nation. The serious venue, traditionally reserved for politicians, was an opportunity to address difficult topics. Instead, host Bob Schieffer and guest host Jim Nantz spent ten minutes coddling Goodell.

Both Schieffer and Nantz should be embarrassed. They had a chance to broach complex subjects. They had a responsibility to discuss those subjects. This forum was not meant for patronization. The environment should have been adversarial. Both Schieffer and Nantz blighted journalism. They should be ashamed. CBS should be ashamed of them.

The NFL is facing a turbulent period. Their pension agenda, treatment of players, and player’s actions should be scrutinized. Goodell rarely submits to questioning. Thus, Sunday morning was unique. Schieffer and Nantz had Goodell and they threw softballs. Their gaffe was not merely a missed opportunity. Their error was a pathetic disservice.