980 makes its move

In the end, when everything is played out and the station lineup features many of the same shows and faces, the acquisition of SportsTalk 980 by Redskins owner Dan Snyder might not be that big of a deal on the D.C. media landscape. But the early indicators are that it will be a big deal. A good guy lost his job on Thursday and the Redskin Park media room will be a worse-off place (if thats possible) because of it. The new honcho at 980 has turfed Redskins beat reporter Jerry Coleman, a friend of this blog and somebody who didnt make an enemy amongst the writers or broadcasters who cover the team (an incredibly tough feat, speaking from experience). Jerry, who covered the Redskins for two seasons, was at his best during Joe Gibbs Monday press conferences and we were all looking forward to how he would interrogate Jim Zorn during his day-after-game briefings. He was fearless with players and coaches and had hilarious stories that made him a break-the-monotony figure. Snyder, who I doubt was involved in this decision, is playing with fire if he allows the tinkering of 980 to continue. I dont listen to Redskins Radio because I expect everything to be sugar-coated. I do listen to 980 from time to time because Ive been a guest several times and it allows me to get a vibe of what the fans are thinking by what theyre saying with their call-ins. If a guy like Steve Czaban who was Mark Brunell/Joe Gibbs Antagonist No. 1 (Ill take slot No. 1A on Brunell, possibly position No. 2 on Coach Joe) isnt around or decides to leave, what will be the tone of a talk show after a Redskins loss or victory? Brian Mitchell and Doc Walker -- former Redskins players -- have been critical of the Redskins since joining the station and if he's fired, thats another negative mark against Snyders radio organization. One person at 980 said the firings were cost-cutting. Now thats a story worth pursuing if the slashing continues. Does The Danny want to limit costs because his other ventures are struggling? Does he want to save money on 980 because the Redskins are having trouble selling luxury boxes (like they were last year, according to a team source)? Did he have to spend so much to get the valuable 980 signal that hes ordered his radio execs to slash costs? A final thought: From what Im told, Redskins Radios flagship show, The John Riggins Show, isnt afraid to be critical of the Redskins and thats good for 980. BUT if theres nobody credible left on the station, what difference does that freedom make? -- Ryan O'Halloran