Free Speech - Epic FAIL - July 22, 2011

After watching certain patterns repeat themselves, the only time I am surprised, during successive occurrences, is when others are surprised. In a world of the Internet, social media, and the 24 hour news cycle, hearing someone (anyone) of any significance to the public say something ill-advised, often downright stupid, is periodically expected.


In any given week, much of the public has become conditioned to think about, not “if”, but when will someone in the world of sports do or say something that he would regret quickly. This week, University of Southern California running back Marc Tyler, son of former San Francisco 49ers running back Super Bowl champion Wendell Tyler, jokingly said that USC paid better than the NFL. Unfortunately, his comment was made directly into a camera and his remarks appeared on gossip website TMZ.com.

As many of you are aware, USC had the hammer brought down upon its football program for violations that took place in 2004 and 2005, including paying former running back and Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush. Of all institutions, USC is among the last that needs any insinuation, even in jest, that there are inappropriate practices occurring in its athletic department.

So, once again, The Daily Hat Trick is bringing you a collection of examples, past and present, in which the free speech of sports figures came at a price.

 Marc Tyler, USC running back (2011):

TMZ cameraman: Do Trojan football players make more money from the school or in the pros?

Tyler: “USC! They breakin’ bread!”

Result: Tyler was suspended for the 2011 opening game against Minnesota.


USC, they're smacking their heads! 1



Clinton Portis, former Washington Redskins running back (2007):

Situation: Atlanta Falcons quarterback Mike Vick was being investigated by the federal government for his role in a (then) alleged dog fighting ring. Portis was being interviewed by a local Virginia television station, WAVY-TV.

What was said: "I don't know if he was fighting dogs or not, but it's his property, it's his dog. If that's what he wants to do, do it. I think people should mind their business," When told that dog fighting is a felony, Portis replied, "It can't be too bad of a crime."

“You want to hunt down Mike Vick over fighting some dogs? I think people should mind their own business."

"I know a lot of back roads that have the dog fighting if you want to go see it."

Later in the day…"In the recent interview I gave concerning dog fighting, I want to make it clear I do not take part in dog fighting or condone dog fighting in any manner."

Way to smooth it over, Mr. Portis!

Result: In terms of substantial consequences, nothing…. In the court of public opinion, it was the latest in a string of dubious quotables throughout Portis’ career. He will not be remembered as one of the NFL’s all-time eloquent statesmen or deep thinkers.



Mike Vick: "Hey, Clinton! Don't do me any more favors, okay buddy? You've helped me (and my image) out enough!" 2

 Basketball Hall of Famer and NBA Analyst Charles Barkley (1994):

The situation: The Round Mound of Rebound was noteworthy for shooting his mouth off during his 16 seasons in the NBA. But Sir Charles would also come to learn, the hard way, that free speech is not always free. After a game in 1994, Barkley was extremely critical of the game officials in a post game press conference.

What was said: After a valiant effort, I was unable to locate the exact quote on the World Wide Web, perhaps indicative of how many times Barkley has served up a memorable soundbite to the press. What I remember, however, in response to being asked if he was concerned about being fined for his criticism, is that Barkely said that he could not be controlled with money and that he had more money than everyone in the room. If anyone reading this piece could locate the exact quote and email the link to me, I would be appreciative.

The Result: NBA Commissioner David Stern dished out what was then a record fine and multiple game suspension. Barkely never quite repeated a post game tirade with the same level of volatility. I guess he could be controlled with money.

If you want to play a cool drinking game, try something that involves finding a picture of Barkley with his mouth closed. 3

Former Indianapolis Colts Coach Jim Mora, Sr. (2001):

The situation: Chances are, if you are old enough to drink, I need not provide much, if any preamble to the classic post game rant. Mora’s Colts were in the midst of a losing skid and quickly falling out of the playoff race. After a loss to the San Francisco 49ers, in which Colts quarterback Peyton Manning threw several interceptions, Mora expressed his disapproval with his QB and his team.

What was said: Why tell you, when I can show you (and 9 out of 10 of you probably know exactly what was said, anyway)?

 There are only a handful of NFL moments I'll remember vividly in 50 years, God willing, and this is one of them. 4 

The result: The soundbite went viral in an age where roughly half of U.S. households did not have Internet access* and You Tube did not exist. The word “PLAYOFFS?!?!”, when said in a high-pitched, incredulous tone, became a punchline. Mora may have that word in his epitaph.

So remember, Hat Trick readers, in the spirit of this month, in which we celebrated America's 235th birthday, free speech is not always free (far from it)!

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* source: census.gov

1) Image from TMZ.com via webpronews.com

2) Image from statesman.com

3) Image from baldcelebrity.com

4) Video from YouTube.com