SPEED has handled the pre-race action of practice and qualifying this weekend. Sunday afternoon at 1PM will be the first time viewers will be seeing the ESPN on ABC crew.
Allen Bestwick will start the ball rolling with Brad Daugherty and Rusty Wallace from the Infield Pit Studio. The NASCAR Countdown pre-race show should be interesting with Daugherty having just completed a deal to become a satellite team of Michael Waltrip next season in the Cup Series.
Other than The Chasers, there are some names at the back of the field like Terry Labonte and Kenny Wallace that may be a factor before the race is over. Not necessarily in winning, but in helping someone to achieve that goal.
Last season, ESPN was fascinated by "the big one" and said it over-and-over again during the pre-race show. Lost in the shuffle was the actual story of the race field and what viewers could expect other than accidents.
Dr. Jerry Punch will take over at 2PM and begin the race coverage. He will be joined as usual by Dale Jarrett and Andy Petree. Tim Brewer will be in the Tech Center. Down on pit road will be Shannon Spake, Jamie Little, Dave Burns and Mike Massaro.
It is very hard for the announcers to see the backstretch, so they will be basically watching the same pictures as the viewers at home when they are calling the action on that part of the track. The choice of whether they look out at the track or continue to follow the TV monitors in the booth for the other racing should be easy to determine.
The COT has shown both a tendency to allow two cars to run fast when hooked-up just right and to make for boring racing during the early parts of this race. If teams hang back and gather together it will be up to the ESPN crew to choose to inform the viewers or ignore it.
The TV gang has been making great use of the double video box effect that allows the race to continue for the viewers even as Brewer talks tech or a crew chief is interviewed. Look for increased use of the aerial shot and the speed shots, especially after a restart.
This post will serve to host your comments about the ESPN on ABC presentation of the Sprint Cup Series race from Talladega. To add your TV-related comment, just click on the COMMENTS button below and follow the easy instructions. The rules for posting are located on the right side of the main page. Thanks for taking the time to stop by The Daly Planet.
JD,
ReplyDeleteI figured you would probably want to know the the Philly market is missing Countdown due to the Polish Heritage Parade.
i second that as well. i don't watch pre-race but i thought i'd check since i thought the guide said pulaski day parade.
ReplyDeletemy question is: didn't someone (nrf?) tell us the same thing happened LAST week? i'm checking to see if i can track down when the parade is/was scheduled for before raising a ruckus.
yeah, last week they had the puertorican day parade in philly, and switched over to the race at 2pm
ReplyDeletethey're paradin down the same street today
nrf mentioned that in the other thread. It's about the only thing I'm not looking forward to when I get moved to Philly hopefully in the next 12-18 months. I've never had conflicts when I was in Cali and only had one issue here in DFW when there was a weather alert during a pre-race on Fox and I wanted to see the story they were talking about when they went to the coverage!
ReplyDeleteYes the same thing last week wpvi showing love to all the philly area nascar fans
ReplyDeleteGot a lot of email about the Philly market. Yep, this is th second week in a row that the Chase pre-race has been bumped.
ReplyDelete3 Things I hope we don't see...
ReplyDelete1.) DRAFT TRACK
2.) Points as of now
3.) Green flag tech center
its not that bad gives me an hour to watch the phillies and the eagles before going to nascar
ReplyDeletethanks, anon 1:06: i knew it was a parade of some sort and i was getting ready to pull up that post from last sunday when yours came thru with the answer.
ReplyDeleteso, jd: is this hour still blocked out as "local origination programming" or is wpvi in philly just making their own decision on not carrying nascar countdown? as i say, i don't watch pre-race on espn anymore so i don't have a stake in this decision.
back to cnn until 2.
red,
ReplyDeletelocal stations have the right to originate local events. The bottom line contract is to carry the race from green to checkers.
I do find it interesting that during the live ABC pre-race they used the radio call of the final lap last week instead of their own announcers.
JD
haus,
ReplyDeleteIt will sure be interesting to see if they dig Draft Track out and dust it off for today.
JD
thanks, jd: i'll be with my phillies until 2 w/cnn during commercial breaks.
ReplyDeleteand gymmie: not to worry. philly is GREAT sports town and there's a strong nascar fan base out here. you'll love it!
I am convinced the ABC team simply doesn't know how to call a race. They'll talk about "the big one" all day and when it finally happens all they will do is say "there it is!" and then read off the car numbers involved.
ReplyDeleteHere is how you properly call a race:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeVUUxb2drg&feature=related
Note in the above YouTube clip that for a majority of the clip, the cars at Talladega are basically in a single file line with no one really making any moves to pass. On ABC, that spells dead air and not much commentary. Yet look how the announcers in the above clip make "nothing happening" so darn exciting.
One thing I note is that the MRN reporters above (who have a bit of an unfair advantage since there are so many of them and they take turns) have a sense of urgency to their voices. They realize that the event they are calling is exciting and exhilirating. Compare that with the commentary we hear today if the cars get single file (or, really, even if they don't).
Can ABC make on one of the fastest, most dangerous, and most exciting races of year enjoyable? Can they accurately tell the story of the race? It all remains to be seen.
I really do think that this one is going to make or break Punch for next season. If he misses the excitement and cannot handle the call we just may see him in the infield for 2009.
ReplyDeleteya' kmow, watching the trucks yesterday and HEARING that excitement in the announcers' voices at the end of the race was just so freakin' bittersweet: it REALLY added to the call of the race and made me realize just how much i've missed hearing it during cup racing.
ReplyDeleteas a matter of fact, the truck guys were, as usual, really on their game all race long and the emotion in their voices absolutely added to the broadcast.
i doubt we'll hear that today. sad.
So what happens if many of the top chasers drop to the back to avoid the "big one?"
ReplyDeleteIf JJ and Cousin Carl and the Biff are running 38, 39 and 40 will we still see single car shots following them around the track?
Will ABC continue to ignore the non-chasers even if they are leading and running up front?
This could be interesting.
@red--thanks! I can't wait to get there!
ReplyDeleteYes I love the excitement of the Pick 'em Ups boyz! Even when I'm paying attention they get my attention!
HotPass lineup
ReplyDeleteHARVICK
Adam Alexander
Wendy Venturini
EARNHARDT JR
Rick Allen
Phil Parsons
J GORDON
Randy Pemberton
Hermie Sadler
EDWARDS
Doug Rice
Tony Rizzuti
Anyone notice which PBP guy's call of a race isn't used on the SUNOCO commercial with JJ???
ReplyDeleteWhat I hope to see from ESPN today:
ReplyDelete- No Draft Tracks or made-up terms like 'Draft Lock'.
- No overkill of gimmick camera angles like Fox did in the spring. This should be the easiest race in the world to direct. Keep to simple wide shots and almost every car on the track will be seen with no problem.
- Keep the cameras focused on the leaders in the final laps. Remember, ESPN missed Jeff Gordon's last lap race-winning pass last year and the ARCA director missed more than one lead change in the final 5 or so laps on Friday.
- No Tech Centers, videos, or other full-screen nonsense under green.
- 'Up To Speed' is pretty much useless at Talladega, in my opinion. Every car will probably run in every position from 1st-43rd during the day. Handling isn't really an issue at this track and everyone that spends significant time in the pack will overheat at some point. If someone has a real problem then by all means report it. Other than that there's not much for pit reporters to contribute here, in my opinion.
- Interview non-Chasers when they fall out of the race.
- And finally I would enjoy seeing someone in the booth take NASCAR to task for the impound procedure during the running of the race (if they agree with my opinion that it's completely unfair). I'm sure DJ for one, having gone through racing here on qualifying setups, might have some strong thoughts on the subject. If the last two plate races were any indication, the #21 team should give ESPN the perfect opporunity to bring this up if they pull into the garage on lap 2 to make 'significant repairs' yet again.
I believe the Tylenol commercial is the best Nascar commercial right now.
ReplyDeleteBevo, thanks again for the heads up on pxp guys on Hotpass.
ReplyDeletesince i have no pre-race here:
ReplyDeletewho's actually IN the #5 car when the green drops? mears or keselowski?
Well said Stricklinfan82
ReplyDeleteMears is starting the race, but Special K is on standby.
ReplyDeleteHappy to oblige rich.
ReplyDeleteAgree strick, I've never liked the impounding.
Mears, but Brad is standing by. So is a HMS plane.
ReplyDeleteStill wondering how and why Ray showed-up on the pre-race.
ReplyDeleteI thought he had some cars to handle. That really got my attention.
No love for Kenny in the pre-race from AB.
ReplyDeleteAnybody else missing RaceBuddy right about now?
ReplyDeleteThat was a disgrace to the National Anthem.
ReplyDeleteI love the invocation every Sunday, it makes me a little less guilty that I didn't make it up for church. I don't think your allowed to actually change the words to the Anthem, but it's nice to have a decent preformance.
ReplyDeletehorrid anthem...:(
ReplyDeleteInteresting the mix of commentary from previous wrecks they used in that "big one" montage.
ReplyDeleteOld voices of Bob Jenkins, Bill Weber, but no Allen Bestwick or Mike Joy.
I'm not being picky or criticizing, just an observation :P
Do they ever check to see if these singers can sing the anthem or do they just grab whoever is walking by the track?
ReplyDeleteIf that is the lead singer, I'd sure hate to hear how the other singers in the group sound.
ReplyDeleteEvidently just because they have a "name" they assume they have a good voice.
ReplyDeletealex,
ReplyDeleteThat was old ESPN footage that the network owns, not NASCAR Media Group stuff.
Some of the footage was from the 1980's.
Boy, for a key race in The Chase, you think they would bring someone in who could really belt out an excellent anthem.
ReplyDeleteThat was embarrassing.
The Cowboys in the 70's and 80's had the perfect anthem, a guy came out by himself and played it on the trumpet.
ReplyDeleteThe RaceDay guys said Jessica Simpson was going to be on next week. Think she is doing the anthem? That would be interesting.
ReplyDeleteHello all - as I've been getting things done during pre race I noticed espn on abc still has the myopic view of Dega as only being about the "big one" good grief can they think of nothing else? Everytime I glanced at TV there was another flying , bouncing car! Umm
ReplyDeletenote to espn on abc - there really is a race thats gonna happen. Could maybe just maybe this week you cover it?
No track of draft,( Afraid to say real name I might talk it up-lol)
maybe the PbP will participate?
ATTN: to espn, there are more than 12 cars on the track.
& Jerry when someone says Dega to me AS A fan I think of great finishes not wrecks.
Going to fire up Pit command & MRN
we are gonna need it!
Good Luck!
Jessica will be on trackside....anthem would be nice.
ReplyDeleteJD,
ReplyDeleteShe now fancies herself a country singer, she has a new album out. It will be the worst singing of the anthem ever :)
JD: As to Ray's participation on the broadcast. He's a regular on Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody, and it's pretty clear from his commentary and discussions there that Ray is really not involved much on the day to day since the "merger" with Gillette. There a quite a number of races this year that he hasn't even attended. That said it shouldn't be a surprise for him to appear on camera for the pre-race.
ReplyDeleteAs a 30 yr vet, I am ashamed to listen to the National Anthem performed as such. NASCAR should be shamed for that non performance.
ReplyDeleteJD do you think you will be looking at the tires today?
ReplyDelete1 failure friday, one yesterday
ARCA had a MESS of tire failures (i know its a different compound since its a different company)
I think a tire failure(s) is the catalyst for "the big one" or at least is a huge turning point in this one
this is the same tire that they ran in the spring. No problems then
ReplyDeleteJessica is gonna be all over next week. Hopefully she won't be heard singing to much
ReplyDeleteNext week Jessica Simpson is doing a pre-race concert in Charlotte. Unfortunately, I didn't find that out until after I had already bought tickets.
ReplyDeleteWell back from the laundry since I really wasn't up for parade watching. Gymmie you'll love it here not to mention Dover isn't that far away besides you've got me and Red.
ReplyDeleteAnthem was interesting, I was surprised because he can actually sing maybe it's the acapella issue.
Jimmie commenting to Chad. Every fan up there is wearing green.
David,
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking about that since Friday. I agree. It's very worrisome. Really no trouble with the trucks last night, but the COT is a different animal. It would really be a shame since this is such a "wildcard" race even without tire problems.
Yeah, the stands used to be red. Duh
ReplyDeleteSince it was different manufacturers that had tire issuses, I think it was a dirty track issue. It seems it was much better on Saturday than on Friday.
ReplyDeletechuck,
ReplyDeleteESPN sends out a press release for each race with all the on-air staff listed.
Ray was not on this list and was added as a fourth in the infield.
Should be interesting to see if he stays for the entire race.
I firmly believe he is going to be fulltime with ESPN next season.
JD
There is no way that those spotters are listening to other teams while spotting during green flag action.
ReplyDeleteIf any TV type reading has the backhaul info, can you drop me an email please?
ReplyDeleteeditor@thedalyplanet.tv
Please do not publish it in channel.
Thanks, JD
Did they ever mention why Jimmie dropped to the back?
ReplyDeleteFinally Andy admitted it. The fake fast guys are up front. Go or Go Homers all around
ReplyDeleteRaceDay did, the Lowes team wanted to check something under the hood so they had to go to the back.
ReplyDeleteUgh. They need to zoom out and show the field coming down the straightaways. The closeups and camera turning to watch 7-8 cars doesn't cut it here.
ReplyDeleteSure would be nice to see the aerial shot.
ReplyDeleteI knew I shouldn't have watched the Truck race yesterday. It's made watching 5 laps on ESPN painful.
ReplyDeleteIs there a Rick Allen in the building? Paging Rick Allen....
ReplyDeleteReally? 8 minutes in and we get commercial? If a baseball game has a long inning they don't shuffle to commercial that quickly. If a football game has no breaks they don't cut to ads. Why do they do it after 6 laps at an important Nascar race?
ReplyDeleteThis is definitely a rough start for ESPN...the PxP guy hasn't called anything yet.
ReplyDeleteJP just doesn't understand, Jimmie is begging for someone to come back and get him and JP thinks he's back there on purpose. DJ and AP do guess they didn't want to throw him to far under the bus
ReplyDeleteRick is on 796 DirecTV :)
ReplyDeletewell I ran the vacuum and did other things on ABC pre race.
ReplyDeleteStricklanfans about the race
from YOUR MOUTH to the director's ears!!!
DEGA NEEDS WIDE SHOTS!!! not bumper cams or in car cams. Use those VERY SPARINGLY.
:) Beautiful day
Great, we missed the lead changes.
ReplyDeleteJohnson recruiting backmarkers (96 so far) to drop back...
ReplyDeleteKnaus says they are screwed without a caution because no one wants to go that far back to get them.
Oh lord, bumper cams who leading laps, this is a plate track back out the camera angles, talk about who is drafting with who, which lines are working. This is a mess
ReplyDeleteclose ups and bumper cams and a pbP guy who doesn't call the race. not good.
ReplyDeleteOnce the first pit stops come, seveal teams have to change things. Lots of these front runners are going to be gone.
ReplyDeleteIs it just me or was that a very elementary question that any Nascar fan who has been watching this year already knows the answer to?
ReplyDeletekenny s is going to go try to help the 48
ReplyDeleteJD by frontrunners that will fade your talking about the 33 and the 78...thats not alot of the field.
ReplyDeleteDoesnt matter if you have a qualifying package against these guys in race trim...the truly fast cars show regardless and thats happening right now.
the 15 is legit he has been blazing fast the last 2 plate races, TK in that Yates Ford is fast and in turn the Roush cars are quick. I don't see alot of these guys fading back...some might but those guys are also expert drafters (Mike Wallace)
Gum wrapper caution any lap now.
ReplyDeleteSchrader going back to save Jimmie hope it works
ReplyDeleteHow long until the 5 brings out a caution for JJ?
ReplyDeleteThey are NOT covering the JJ story.
ReplyDeletelistening to the 96 and 48. its pretty funny.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous Anonymous said...
ReplyDeleteclose ups and bumper cams and a pbP guy who doesn't call the race. not good.
October 5, 2008 2:34 PM
We are SO SCREWED with this camera work. This director does NOT UNDERSTAND large tracks...or nascar
or what fans want
or good production
Why would the 96 (quasi Gibbs car) lay back to help the 48?
ReplyDelete96 and 48 switching places still not gaining
ReplyDeleteThanks David,
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't have known otherwise that #48 was recruiting backmarkers but they don't want to drop back.
Been getting plenty of info on JJ on the HotPass channels
ReplyDeleteWell as I type that, they talk about it.
ReplyDeleteAnything else I should say?
JD, is it just me or can you hear mrn in the background of some the espn sound?
ReplyDeleteTerrible coverage so far. Too many bumper cam shots, and focusing on JJ
ReplyDeleteTOO MUCH SPLIT SCREEN BUmper cams.
ReplyDeleteMIGHT WE SEE THE PACK COMING AT US PLEASE???
whatever happened to headlights..not tail lights.
this is pitiful directing...now in car cam.!%#%!^#%!^#%!#^!%#!
SPEED spoiled us
could they please stop w/ worthless bumper cams?
ReplyDeleteDave Burns: "Can we get a wide shot please?"
ReplyDeleteEchoing my sentiments exactly.
alex said...
ReplyDeleteThanks David,
I wouldn't have known otherwise that #48 was recruiting backmarkers but they don't want to drop back.
NP. Dunno if that was sarcastic or not. Was listening to their radio on SIRIUS.
I actually don't think being lapped is all that horrible for them since they will probably be the lucky dog car and can now see what the car does out front...
jessica -
ReplyDeleteGetting it on the HotPass ambient sound too. Sounds like it might be on some speakers in pit lane or something.
next commercial I am getting out the huge boom box to listen to this.
ReplyDeleteESPN COVERAGE is RUINED BY BAD CAMERA WORK.
Thanks for RUINING MY FAVE track
Four wide (almost 5 at one point) and they don't even mention it in the booth!
ReplyDeleteWhen the pit reporter asks for a wide shot because he is being hosed by the Director, you know there is a problem.
ReplyDeleteThe limited perspective and close-ups are killing this broadcast.
@nrf--I look forward to hanging with you and Red :).
ReplyDeleteI agree about the Anthem. I don't listen to much 3DD but remember the video Jr. and Smoke did. Brad didn't impress me with his vocals and what is up with changing words? I was doing a few other things and was half paying attention and a word came that didn't sound right and I'm like "Wha?"
JD--I was disappointed to not hear from Herman as well :(.
TV time for Schrader! Sure it was due to helping a Chaser but he got some TV time :). Ms. Ann was cute on NRD with Herman earlier!
am i being naive in re: tv production here? it just seems that at 'dega, the shots we need to be seeing are a wide as possible. at this point, using a bumper cam just b/c you can makes no sense. this is a big ole track, should be ultra-easy to cover abd get some terrific chote. the goodyear blimp shot is always great at this track.
ReplyDeleteor, as i say, am i just naive?
bevo- I kept hearing moody screaming some exciting call...it really sticks out when the espn guys are snoozing.
ReplyDeletePunch has twice referred to "Earnhardt Nation". Uh, even though I don't like the name, it's actually "Junior Nation."
ReplyDeletethank God I am can MRN in the house today..got the tv on MUTE since ESPN CAM work has driven me to MRN.
ReplyDeleteWho is directing the show today JD? It's terrible
more bumper cams.
ReplyDeleteJUst like FOX.$&^$^&@$^@&
glad to see NOBODY is reading here today
sophia,
ReplyDeleteThe camera guys just do what they are told. The Director selects the pictures and the Producer talks to the talent about the direction of the broadcast.
Just like we saw with Fox earlier this season, the Director has a limited perspective.
During the TNT broadcasts, we saw veteran Mike Wells keep things wide and always "frame" each shot so it meant something to the viewers at home.
This is a lot of meaningless zooming in with babbling pit reporters and random graphics.
JD we've been to Dega many times.
ReplyDeleteCan you believe we enjoyed the races w/o bumper cams & close ups?
This is hands down the worst "coverage" this year by this network group!
This camera work is absolutely horrendous
ReplyDeletepaging Mike Wells, paging Mike Wells. Help this crew & us
ReplyDeleteThis is when HotPass is a savior, one of the frames always has the wide shot.
ReplyDeleteJD this is as bad as FOX RUINING things last time at DEGA. is it the same director
ReplyDeletePassing for the lead and we're focused on an extended view from Jimmie Johnson's roof cam????? WOW!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteLucky for Jimmie that nascar found that debris.
ReplyDeleteDavid,
ReplyDeleteNot being sarcastic... A few minutes ago when ESPN was talking about JJ being a lap down, they hadn't yet discussed how he was trying to bring other guys back to help him.
Better show the debris....
ReplyDeleteMike Wells we hardly knew ye for only 6 weeks!
ReplyDeleteBut thanks for the BEST NASCAR DIRECTING we had seen in years.
Thanks for the explantion JD. Sorry for the screaming but this IS one of my favorite tracks..Geez...lots of commercials on MRN...more than I remember...but Iguess it is a caution
Bad timing by NASCAR, JJ missed the lucky dog.
ReplyDelete@JD, it's the gum wrapper.
@karen--because Schrader is a good man. He doesn't burn bridges and tries to help anyone he can. He'll bend over backwards for his friends. That's why when he's a million years old, he'll have TONS of buddies helping him get in the car so he can race :)
ReplyDeleteJJ says he was in front of the 7 I wonder if Nascar will even look let alone change their mind
ReplyDeletewhile Johnson's being a lap down was important in the grand scheme of things, just as most expected, it's going to end up being meaningless now that he's back on the lead lap. Yet ESPN dedicated so much time to that and it backfired.
ReplyDeleteJust like their coverage.
JD...70 changing right sides....
ReplyDeleteI want to know what happened to that car. I've seriously remained concerned about tires all weekend. Indy it was predictable they would fail after a certain number of laps...this weekend has been totally random
I cant believe I am typing this...
ReplyDeleteWheres TNT when you need them?
ok, i have to ask: can we have a field reset after the pit stops? and a recap of who took what?
ReplyDeleteDid you see a car spin on pit road during that stop? They never showed or mentioned it.
ReplyDeleteWow, on the first caution pit stop, the overhead camera showed a TON of empty stands (they had avoided showing before). I mean - wow, there weren't just a few, it was dead out there in Turn 4. Anyone have a real attendance number?
ReplyDeleteStewart coming back in to top off and repair some damage
ReplyDeletegrover,
ReplyDeleteAmazing how much difference a great Director can make to a race.
Red dream on and JJ is livid, Chad calming him down
ReplyDeletebummer MRN says they are under the hood of schrader. :( LOVE KS!
ReplyDeleteJD who spun
ReplyDeletesomething from the pits has got tony laughing his butt off and telling his guys to watch the replay. lets see if we get to see it....
ReplyDeleteWith Schrader that is a routine thing. They are changing shocks, putting belts back on the engine, etc.
ReplyDeleteDon't panic. Its routine for KS
okay, pretty funny watching Carl Edwards pour water into his crotch on the in-car camera... but why did he throw his bottle out of the window? As far as I could tell he was on track? do all drivers do that?
ReplyDeleteDarn it! Schrader got a ticket :(
ReplyDeleteDaly Planet Editor said...
ReplyDeletegrover,
Amazing how much difference a great Director can make to a race.
October 5, 2008 2:54 PM
~~~
Yep. THAT's the key lost on PSPN and OBVIOUSLY NASCAT TPTB.
Wanna know why the ratings stink?
Have HELTON watch this manure coverage. so he can see what we see
or more what we do NOT SEE :(
okay, pretty funny watching Carl Edwards pour water into his crotch on the in-car camera... but why did he throw his bottle out of the window? As far as I could tell he was on track? do all drivers do that?
ReplyDeleteYes they do
Anon 2:55 - during qualifying they said that at the first caution, the go or go homers would change some things on their cars.
ReplyDeleteJP said that they'll sort it out after comm'l. Bet they don't.
ReplyDeleteit was the six, all makes sense now...
ReplyDeleteI can't believe KS got ticket
ReplyDeleteJD. just wondering if ESPN/abc watch other broadcasts. HotPass seems to cover the bases. Not perfect but I seem to get what is happening. Example, the 7 got the lucky dog not the 48.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone heard, is JJ saying that he is down on power????
ReplyDeleteAs I said before the race, I wish ESPN didn't force worthless pit reports down our throats. The Dave Burns reports on Jimmie Johnson's problems were legit. All those other generic reports like "Paul Menard is moving to Yates but still wants to win one for DEI" and "David Ragan has a lot of family watching here today" were completely pointless I'm sorry.
ReplyDeleteAnd as many others have already said, the production truck is really struggling badly today.
As I said earlier this weekend, it's nearly impossible to screw up a broadcast from Talladega. Fox did it in the spring and ESPN is working towards duplicating that effory today. Unimaginable.
so, is a water bottle not debris that will cause a caution? or do they just assume it will blow away? sorry - the bottle out the window thing baffles me.
ReplyDeletePoor KW didn't want to get lapped and sped on Pitroad and is now being held a lap, all kinds of repitting going on per pit command, gas, issues I wonder if they will ever tell us.
ReplyDelete"Where the Chasers Will Restart" graphic.... the script is in full effect. How about resetting the whole field, or at least the front of it instead of only telling us where the Chasers will restart?
ReplyDeleteKenny 00 100MPH!
ReplyDeleteThis is awful - full screen interview, missing lead changes, narrow camera angles... inexplicable.
ReplyDeleteThese video packages during the race are worthless, especially when its Talladega
ReplyDeleteWHY are we getting these extreme close ups???
ReplyDeletePre-taped comments while 43 cars are running side-by-side two laps after a restart. Now extended bumper cam and roof cam shots while the leaders are still side-by-side???
ReplyDeleteThis is a total joke. COVER THE RACE!!!
Are we really in Talladega? Where 3 wide 10 deep is the rule because I can't tell with this mess
ReplyDeletei can tell my patience with espn is gone: all i want to do is yell at everyone with a mic "SHUT THE EFF UP!" just . . . shut. up. now.
ReplyDeletei'm gonna get a beer and stand outside in the sun for a few laps to cool down. be back at ya' in a bit . . .
Yeah, they will probably miss the big one showing one of those taped interviews
ReplyDeletedebris on the front stretch and JJ gets the lucky dog
ReplyDelete"Jimmie got so far in the back he's up front again."
ReplyDeleteDid I hear that right? Jeez, just call the race. Oh, now it's pit reporter time.
I could do with just a blimp shot and engine noise.
Anonymous Anonymous said...
ReplyDeleteWHY are we getting these extreme close ups???
October 5, 2008 3:03 PM
Blogger stricklinfan82 said...
Pre-taped comments while 43 cars are running side-by-side two laps after a restart. Now extended bumper cam and roof cam shots while the leaders are still side-by-side???
This is a total joke. COVER THE RACE!!!
October 5, 2008 3:03 PM
Blogger Newracefan said...
Are we really in Talladega? Where 3 wide 10 deep is the rule because I can't tell with this mess
They might as well be at Richmond but all the CRAPPY ZOOM SHOTS/bumper cams/roof cams.
What is an 8 year old PLAYING with the camera buttons??? This is THE WORST.
GIVE TNT MORE RACES NEXT YEAR. PLEASE!!
(a year ago I would not have said that)
great wide shots under caution...fricking figures.
I know not all have it but I think the HotPass coverage is way over ESPN as far as camera angle's reporting on other's etc .Lot's of info.
ReplyDeleteJr says he is loose on the bottom and cant get up front
ReplyDeleteSadly, we should have known the coverage would be awful before the race even started.
ReplyDeleteI end up doing the same thing every week. Get real excited for the race, turn it on, and after 30 laps I'm frustrated with the coverage and using MRN and RaceTrax (and TDP) for my race experience.
Just turned on tv for a minute..DJ says different strategies..how about a REAL RACE DIRECTOR?
ReplyDeleteIf things get exciting we will NEVER SEE IT.
Somebody has a zoom/in car/bumper cam fetish today.
I need to get off this thing and turn off the tv and just listen.
DRECK on ESPee U
somebody stalled in the pits and can't get the engine to fire...any idea who?
ReplyDeleteAnother lead change missed while showing the roof cam of a car running 30-somethingth. Note to ESPN... if you're going to have the pit reporter file a report we don't need to see their car or the shot from their roof cam on the whole screen! You can still show the side-by-side racing FOR THE LEAD and let us hear the report simultaneously.
ReplyDeleteI am a relatively new NASCAR far so I do not have the perspective some of you have...
ReplyDelete...but this is the worst covered race I have ever seen. I mean, I cannot from their coverage make heads or tails of what is going on. I mean, aside from the fact that the 48 car is Jimmie Johnson (thanks for telling us over and over) and that he is a lap down. WOW.
a bit off topic but i am getting a bunch of obama commercials...nascar race really his best bang for the buck?
ReplyDeleteBoy this broadcast is a Jimmie Johnson lovefest by ABC.
ReplyDeleteThey always throw the water bottles out, you don't want one rolling around on the floor board
ReplyDeleteHaus Pit command has no one on pit road so evidently they got it started but who it was have no clue
ReplyDeleteRyan Newman dropped a cylinder, per MRN.
ReplyDeleteNewman was the stalled car on pit road.
ReplyDeleteI am guessing it was one of the RCR cars because KH was asking about it while he was on pace laps.
ReplyDeletethx David
ReplyDeleterestart, then cut to a small screen with close up shots to show the Tech Center.
ReplyDeleteAll that's left for ESPN is DraftTrack and I might even turn it off completely and just listen.
Ryan can you say R&D car. Oh thanks Tim I really needed to see that during a green flag
ReplyDeleteJP unbelievably quiet for a PxP guy...might as well let AP and DJ take over for the rest of the race.
ReplyDeleteRed, I am feeling like you...I need a small glass of Zinfandel and go out and dead head some marigolds.
ReplyDeleteWhat a TRAVESTY to such an historic track. When it's 163 comments at 50 laps...not good.
WOW A Dave Blaney tv mention..he is having problems, too. SHEESH...a split screen with ehcars being TINY.
Red, I am going to join you via proxy from somewhere in a bunker in Ohio!! ??
I TOLD YOU!!!
ReplyDeleteRIGHT REAR TIRE FAILURE!
And Herman Speeding :(
ReplyDeleteThat earlier bumper reminded me...who is ruining Sweet Home Alabama? Lynard Skynard needs to do something about that!
And there goes Reuti & Jeffy!
IGADS --- Lap 53:
ReplyDeleteThe camera shows a wide shot of 3-wide, 12-deep racing. A 36 car pack with the camera focused on no car in particular.
Jerry Punch: "I see the 99 car, Carl Edwards in there. And I see the 16 car near him, Greg Biffle. I see the 24 in there. And the 5."
I mean --- WOW. Someone put Jerry Punch out of his misery. He cannot be enjoying this if that is all he can do. I mean: WOW
Jessica,
ReplyDeleteI haven't seen any Obama commercials (thankfully). Must be a local thing in your area.
essica said...
ReplyDeletea bit off topic but i am getting a bunch of obama commercials...nascar race really his best bang for the buck?
hey jessica! where in the country are you? that's part of the decision.
as for "best bang for his buck" question: it's one of many factors. undecided voters are extremely important and race fans are NOT all republicans by any means. there's a fair number of viewers who have not made their decision yet and the campaign is looking at a variety of strategies to reach those "undecideds."
and there's the first tire explosion with NO car to car contact prior to it.
24 to the garage
ReplyDeleteReutimann RR tire blows, Jeff Gordon into the wall.
ReplyDeleteJP where can i put in a resume at to get an analyst job? lol
ReplyDeleteNot one person mentioned tires as a concern this weekend....
Had tv on mute...I also saw the Obama commercials...I am in a big Election state...Ohio
ReplyDeleteToo bad about Jeff...he has had bad luck.
Still going out to the marigolds..maybe when I come back they will improve the camera work.
HA! (Insert sarcasm!)
Good Grief could someone shut Doc up?
ReplyDeleteSince he refuses to do PbP, could he quit chanting numbers & names???
We haven't had any political commercials here in Houston.
ReplyDeleteI am Independent..i never like anybody running :-) or at least these choices but I digress.
ReplyDeletenow back to the program as i turn up the radio
I'm anxiously anticipating the first time ESPN interviews a non-Chaser when they fall out of a race. Will Ryan Newman be the first or will we still have to wait?
ReplyDeleteOne tire 'sploding...how many more to go...
ReplyDeletei guess minnesota is a "swing state",,,,
ReplyDeletethey didn't even get the gordon problem in the live coverage because they are zoomed in with such tight shots. There are no excuses for that. Show the race!
ReplyDeleteThey have it on replays now, but this is Talladega, we should be watching each lap and every camera shot with baited breath, not waiting to watch replays.
jessica -
ReplyDeleteLocal spots. They target those ads so that ought to tell you something about your area and how weak the "safe" areas are this year. My guess, the economy ;)
I have never heard so much talk with so little information since I heard a politician talk. Have something to say or shut up!
ReplyDeletethat was some real good reportin there on the 18 pit stop
ReplyDeletehe's in and he's out
48 fixing a splitter brace
ReplyDeletelol Anon 3:22 I laughed at that too
ReplyDeleteAfter that last burst of Hey theres the 31 of Jeff Burton... I have the TV down real low & MRN as main audio.!
ReplyDeleteIf anyone had told me TV could screw up Dega this freakin bad I'd have never believed it. This is garbage coverage & this director should be fired tarred hang a I love 24 sign around his neck & left in the infield!!!
Gordon channel sticking with the car in the garage, thought they would switch to JJ
ReplyDeletePoints for the chase as of the freakin restart????? Doc you know better!!!
ReplyDeletehey, its herman and his brother from another mother drafting to get their lap back;)
ReplyDelete