Readers Ask...We Answer

1 - Why do you criticize ESPN so much, got an axe to grind?

Nope, not at all. Who in their right mind could have imagined that ABC/ESPN would present Brent Musburger, Chris Fowler, and Brad Daugherty as the "faces" of The Busch Series? How could we have anticipated that NASCAR Now would be hosted by two hosts that know nothing about NASCAR? These things have "just happened" this season, and we have been very clear about the impact on the fans, and the sport. ESPN's race coverage and substitute NASCAR Now host Ryan Burr have received very positive reviews.

2 - Why don't you just change the channel and write about something else?

The entire purpose of this "media project" was to provide a daily update on the happenings surrounding the NASCAR TV partners. No one anticipated that SPEED would cancel the other Monday night programs surrounding Inside NEXTEL Cup. No one anticipated that ESPN2 would make Monday's NASCAR Now an hour show. These things are happening, and the sole purpose of this site is to write about them in plain language that makes it clear what is really going on at the network level.

3 - Do people in the TV business write to you?

I often receive emails from both production and on-air people right after their shows or races are over. There is a lot going on behind-the-scenes, and many TV folks care as strongly about NASCAR as The Daly Planet readers. This site is going to stay focused on just NASCAR TV this season, and we will not include news or gossip going-on in the industry. Jayski.com has a great site, and it includes TV/Media news and notes. Stop by and see Jay for your info.

4 - Why is Chris Myers so bad this year, does he hate NASCAR?

Absolutely not. Things in TV have a way of progressing and changing despite the best efforts of those who do not like change. Myers is having a hard time "selling" his same behavior that we found funny several years ago...to the same audience...again. The new "enclosed" Hollywood Hotel has not helped, and the fact that Myers is only a part-time guy surrounded by full-time NASCAR guys is making things kind of tough. Remember, since NEXTEL Cup changed to "the Chase," things get serious a whole lot faster. His brand of eccentric and corny humor just wore thin.

5 - Why does NASCAR Now on ESPN2 not include other NASCAR Series?

It seems that the focus of their efforts is on NEXTEL Cup. In many columns, I have wondered why Busch Series and Truck Series highlights have not been shown on a Monday program that was supposed to re-cap the weekend. In addition, the Modified Tours and the regional Busch Tours also continue to showcase up-and-coming talent. It certainly would be great to follow Mark Martin's son and Jeremy McGrath as they struggle through the ranks and try to get up to the big three. Perhaps, as the season progresses, NASCAR Now will realize there are a ton of great stories outside of Bristol, CT or Mooresville, NC.

6 - Why did you stop talking about The SPEED Report and WindTunnel on SPEED?

Neither one of these programs is exclusive to NASCAR, and after my initial columns about the programs, it was clear their focus was elsewhere. For the remainder of the season, The Daly Planet will focus only on NASCAR TV. This does not include "reality" entertainment shows that might have a NASCAR theme, or programs like NASCAR Garage that are post-produced and informational in nature.

Thanks again for taking the time to read The Daly Planet, we will continue to answer reader questions regularly, and continue to allow anyone to post respectable and clearly written comments on our posts. This is a community of NASCAR fans, talking about how the NASCAR TV partners are making their viewing experience better...or worse.