This writer has always found the relationship between sports writers and celebrities in the media to be fascinating.
There are moments when it is evident that the journalist finds it difficult to deal with the “hot take” aspect of sports and sports blogs.
Hendon Hooker, the quarterback for the Detroit Lions, was featured in a picture on Sunday night with the caption “save us,” by Travis Mattox of Woodward Sports, who has over 100,000 followers on their social media platform. This seemed to hint that the second-year player might have done better against the Buccaneers.
As the person in charge of consistently updating a Detroit sports website, I have frequently encountered criticism for merely raising an issue I was thinking about.
Now, the purpose behind this is rather obvious.
The purpose is to appease the fans—who do exist—who believe Hooker improves the Lions’ chances of winning games.
Though few people, including this writer, genuinely hold that belief, it does exist. To be clear, I have no emotional connection to the viewpoint. I give up and go on.
Writer Kyle Meinke of the Lions beat, among countless others, including Mattox’s own coworkers, used social media to dispel the notion.
Meinke replied to the post on social media with “clowns”.
After a loss, Mattox, who acknowledges igniting controversy, explained to Lions on SI why he uploaded what many consider to be a “rage-bait” message.
The town’s most well-liked man is, as we all know, the backup quarterback. It is my responsibility to start a social media dialogue,” Mattox said. “Seemed like a good way to start a conversation. The tweet’s popularity demonstrates how emotionally engaged individuals are. Our favorite kinds of fans are those ones.”
Mattox retorted, “We love the passion of this fan base,” in response to the outpouring of support from Detroit supporters and other members of the media. Jared Goff will remain a lightning rod for eternity. We even have arguments among ourselves. I was pleased to see so many individuals expressing their ideas.”
The article is undoubtedly a hot button that brings attention to the radically divergent responsibilities of sports writers and sports website operators.
