I wrote a column suggesting that Missi Matthews take over for now-retired color analyst Tunch Ilkin in the Steelers’ radio booth. (Click HERE to read.) Bill Hillgrove stays on play-by-play, Craig Wolfley remains in his hybrid role as sideline reporter/analyst. (Both are excellent.)
Reaction on Twitter was painfully predictable: Greatest idea ever, or worst idea ever.
Those thinking the latter hid their aversion to the notion of a woman doing color commentary behind the premise that an ex-player should always do it.
Hey, what team did Myron Cope play for? How about Howard Cosell?
Those two didn’t play the game. But they were over AF.
The list of those mooted by Twitter for Ilkin’s position is predictable:
Charlie Batch
Bruce Gradkowski
Chris Hoke
Brett Keisel
Arthur Moats
Ike Taylor
All of them would do a good job.
All of them would also do the same job: The same color commentary every ex-player does. You wouldn’t have to listen to know what was said.
Batch is the safest bet. Moats has a lot of charisma. Taylor is the wild card. I’m not saying his intellect is minimal, but he signs his autograph using block letters: IKE 24.
But Matthews is still the best choice. It’s time for something different.
Wolfley, however, has knee issues. So, the easiest move would be to put Wolfley in the booth and leave Matthews on the sideline.
Images courtesy of the Steelers.com and Getty Images.