ESPN’s Chris Berman will be doing play-by-play for ESPN’s coverage of the first two rounds of the U.S. Open next week at Torrey Pines. But, don’t expect a toned-down Berman during his six hour on-air appearance, as he expects to blurt out typical Bermanisms…despite some critical opinions on his “over use” of nicknames to color up the commentary:
“First of all,” he said, “it’s unfair because if you’re on the air for six hours and heaven forbid I say, ‘Ground control to David Toms,’ you’re writing it like I said it 500 times. Not the case.”
“It’s unfair if people say I’m trying to make it my show. Then you haven’t paid attention. Then you haven’t done me fair. ‘Cause I’m not. But I’m trying to be me and have a good time with it as someone who’s an avid follower of the game; someone who’s like most of the audience who are watching, a 16-handicap give or take, not a 3 (handicap) or a scratch.” [Story]
Now, why would you NOT want Berman dressing up the first couple of U.S. Open rounds? His style and knowledge of the game, sports, and general enthusiasm in the booth are a good reprieve from the over-dramatic Jim Nantz.
It would be like kinda like asking me to sit at Spearmint Rhino for a day of adult beverages and talent evaluation and not make drunken comments about the fillies running around the place. My friends always enjoy my assessments like, “Hey, she’s about a B–…body of Carmen Electra, but the buttered face of Edward James Olmos.” Or when I blurt out, “I did her two years ago…!” Or when I make the comment, “I did that one a year ago…” Mind you, by this time my credibility is nil, as I’m doing shots of mouthwash with the bathroom attendant and doubling down with my pair of Juicy Fruit gum. But…hey…I’m the funniest person I know…despite the vomit on my collar.
