It’s come down to this for Reid

Interesting that you “feel” for Reid now. Not quite what you were saying when you published your trash on the first page of the paper this morning. Perhaps you should stop blabbing your mouth and writing crap about things you don’t know about.

Got to tell you, I hate the Cowboys. I hate Mike Gundy. I think he’s a whiney baby. But I sure wouldn’t write crap like you do about anyone. I think you make yourself look like an insecure bully that wants to look big but can’t really even say anything at all.

I hope you take a good long time to think about what you’ve written and about the influence the media can have, positive or negative, and take that into consideration before you write ridiculous articles in the future.

I have read your column often mostly because you tell the human side of sports. I appreciate that. But, why have you decided to make a negative human interest story. The problem is that you have stripped Bobby Reid’s humanity by your comments. Bobby Reid or any human being deserves better that what you have written. Of course you have the right to write but I also must have a need to read.

Ms. Carlson:

Welcome to the world of persona non grata among OSU fans. Don’t worry Jenny, you’re in good company. It includes individuals such as Barry Switzer (who couldn’t win a national championship without going on probation within an couple of years), Billy Tubbs (who couldn’t keep his middle finger to himself), Brian Bosworth (who couldn’t function without his streoids), Stan Able (who said he got sick everytime he went to Stillwater – the feeling was mutual), Billy Sims (who found cash in his shoes after each OU win), and the list goes on and on – but you get the idea. You have committed a horrible sin, and you have brought the wrath of the coach, and therefore the entire Cowboy Nation, down on you. You picked on a guy who was down, and Coach called you on it. There is nothing you can say or do that will help you out of this hole. You decided to “pile on” and you can’t undo what you did.

I am proud of our coach for having the guts to call you out. You don’t get (not have you ever asked for – as far as I know) any special consideration because you are a female. You are in the midst of the sports community, and you have to be accountable for what you have written. And what you have written was cheap and unfair, not to mention inaccurate. Coach was right to point the finger at you, and although he will take a beating in the OU-oriented media, he has earned my respect. He protected a player that was being “picked-on” by a media bully. (I know you don’t look like one, but that’s what you are.)

The Daily Oklahoma and you owe Bobby Reid, Coach Gundy, and OSU fans an apology. I look forward to seeing it in print soon.

Ronald D. Schaefer, Ph.D.

I read your article this morning before the Gundy Tirade. I wondered why your editor didn’t point out the number of references to speculation or rumor vs. facts…and I especially thought the chicken comment to be in poor taste. Now, after hearing the Gundy Tirade, I think he has called you out on not only using poor sourcing, but just being plain wrong. I think most agree (regardless of whether the Tirade was over the top) with his points – particularly the fact that these are amateurs and should be afforded a little protection from such poor sourcing. I think you have to apologize and your editor should be fired.

Jenni,
Your op-ed piece about Bobby Reid today was very unprofessional and very un-called for. It is one thing to write about an athlete’s playing ability; it’s another to attack his character, spirit and heart. I cancelled my subscription to the Daily Oklahoman shortly after you went to work for them because of the ignorance you show about athletics. I would periodically purchase one….not now. I will never purchase or pick up one of the papers, nor will I visit the website until you and your editor have publicly apologized to Bobby Reid in public. You degraded him a public forum and you should apologize in the same forum.

I think Robinson did a great job today. Reid is having a hard time. Hoo-rahs to Coach Gundy for calling you on a personal attack that was innappropriate and unnecessary. Let the Cowboys coaches make the calls Ms. Carlson, and quit trying to play phsycoanalyist. I fell pretty confident that every decision made by a coach does not have some deep, mystical reasoning behind it, but only seems the best decision at the time for the team. Ms Carlson, you should switch to writing mystery novels. Then you could let your imagine run wild without causing harm.

Jenni
I have had my doubts about Bobby Reid being the leader of States offense, but never in my wildest dreams would I expect a reporter to not only call him like you did as a player but also as a person. The mama feeding him chicken comment was well over the top.

I know you are in a box, but guess what, you put yourself there. You saw Reid on the field today and these comments are meant to what kinda fix what you said. Oh I bet you heard he’s transferring cause he’s not starting?

The Oklahoman has made a grave mistake “standing behind your personal attack column”.

Jenni,

I noticed that you had the comments section for your article on Bobby Reid disabled so there could be no more harsh comments about your journalistic abilities. Could that be because it is hurting your feelings? Well, lets just imagine if those comments about you were on a full page spread……Stings huh? I am sure you will delete this post because you are obviously so sensitive and all, but here it goes anyway. First I am an OU graduate and avid OU fan with season tickets for 20 years so I am not a frustrated OSU fan. I think the article you wrote was ridiculous and outrageous. I believe your “sources close to the program” are a lie. I believe that since you have no sports related knowledge what so ever, you post trash like this to get attention, at the expense of a hard working young man who has never done anything to you. Do us all a favor and write about something you can relate to and have knowledge about…..A tabloid publication perhaps? UFO’s and Aliens, Britney Spears new boyfriend perhaps? The fact is, you are the “token” female sports writer for the Oklahoman and only have the job because your gender. If you are going to spew garbage like this dont rely on made up sources for your stories, have the guts to tell the truth about the fact you are writing your opinions and not facts. And please quit deleting comments…stand up and take it like a woman.

I had always admired you for being a journalist in the man’s world of sports, but what were you thinking?? Coach is so right about garbage in the paper… Do you as a person not have respect, morals or standards for yourself? Were you never taught to have constructive criticism, or the difference between right and wrong, a truth and a lie? This article written this morning was the most unprofessional thing a writer could do! Bobby Reid is a student, an athlete but he is a human being, a human with feelings and you my friend have not only angered one cowboy, you have angered a whole nation of COWBOYS!!! and you better be ready to deal with the repercussions associate with it!!!! and to the editor who ran this article, what were you thinking… Bobby is a son, a friend and does not deserve to have people who he probably dosent even know or ever care to know, know about his business of what kind of food he eats or when he hangs out with his mother and family… I would be ashamed if I was the one who passed this article… What ever happend to responsible journalism?? GO POKES!!!!!

As someone, who was a combat journalist in Vietnem and dealt with censorship, I read your “personal attack” on Bobby Reid.

There was notning redeeming about your article and certainly nothing of factual content contained in your column.

It can best be summarized as if I possessed a paper copy of your article , I could use it as bird cage liner.

Alas even my bird wont stand to be in the cage with the article.

Having served to protect the right of free speech, I understand you have a right to write garbage or prose. I am sorry you have chosen the former.

It certainly is my right NOT to continue our companies subscriptions and I have read the last of your articles.

May you someday understand how effective journalism works and regret your attacking of Bobby Reid’s relationship with his MOM.

Ms. Carlson,
I’ve been reading about Oklahoma sports in the Oklahoman and Tulsa World for many years. I’ve never come across any article or column that was as falacious, nasty, and unfair as the one you wrote.
Their was no reason for you to rip Bobby Reid the way you did. So what if he hasn’t played well recently? Does that make him a gutless, sefl-absorbed, crybaby? No, not in any reasonable person’s mind.
Mind you, I’m not an OSU fan outraged because you went after one of my players. I’m a sports fan who appreciates reading commentary that is well reasoned and fair.
It’s great that Mike Gundy called you to the carpet for your irresponsibility. The whole nation will now know that all journalistic and ethical standards at the Oklahoman have collapsed.
Hopefully you’ll apologize and go back to writing something with some substanance.

Personally, I’m not a big OSU fan but I do support the students. I was a student athlete at one time. One thing I do know that a student athlete doesn’t need criticism pubilcized. How would you like it if somene dug up all your dirty laundry and put it in the paper. What goes around comes around lady.
I think a personal apology would be great but the damage is done. Just keep going the No Comment rout. If I were you I say another word.

Jesus. This is another pointless, attack on a play. Did Reid take you out for a nice steak dinner and never call you back? What do you have against this kid. Is this the kind of crap J-schools are putting out these day. Keep it up. You will have a lot of fun in your career trying to interview players and coaches who won’t speak to you and in reading the feedback from the public who think you are a spiteful, petty person.

Jenny,

I feel your opinions were not only yours BUT the opinions of the ENTIRE sports department at the Oklahoman. This paper has always been very anti OSU. Most of the time it is OU only!! Personal team alliance should NOT be brought into PUBLIC media. I will NEVER read this newspaper again.

Ms. Carlson,

What did Bobby Reid ever do to you to deserve such harsh criticism? You have not only stripped him of the pride of being a student athlete, you have damaged any self esteem he may have had about himself. Did you ever stop to think about he might feel when he read this article? Did you even care? So what if his mom feeds him chicken? Obviously, you are not a mother yourself and do not know what it feels like to see someone kick your child when they are down. I hope you get that chance one day then maybe you’ll understand.

It is stories like this in the Daily Oklahoma, that when I go into the store and I have to choose between the Lawton Constitution or the Daily Oklahoma, the Lawton Constitution wins out everytime.

Maybe you and Gundy are both at fault,but I thought in newspaper it is a failure when the story is a story.

Oh you are so gonna get fired…

I hope this is not the type of journalism now being taught at the OU School of Journalism, which is heavily endowed by the Gaylor Family.

You should be embarassed by your article. The words classless and tasteless seem too kind . Something you seem unable to have offered to this young man.

Not only should you be embarassed you should be unemployed along with your editor.

SHAME

Forgive my memory, but I worked for the OSU administration in the early 90’s. Sad to say but Jenni is a product of the OSU school of journalism. To bad her writing style as not improved since then.

You epitomize what’s wrong with journalism
at The Daily Oklahoman.

You’re such a sad sight, Jenni.

But it couldn’t have happened to a ‘better’
person.

Jenni,
I first read your article Saturday morning and I was shocked. I took the article to the gameday festivities and let everyone I was with read it. Everyone I was with was shocked also. I cannot believe that you would put that article out. I cannot believe that your editor allowed that to come out. You both should be fired. There is better writing in the Daily O’Colly by a bunch of pot head college kids compared to that crap you put out weekly. I have been a subscriber to the DOK and I will promptly cancel my subscription as soon as I can get in contact with a real person Monday morning and not some answering machine. I hope that you have some skeletons in the closet and that you are exposed someday. Do you take pride in attacking a college athlete?? Does it make you feel better about yourself? Did you do this cause you know deep down that you aren’t really a sportswriter and are better suited to be writing in the National Enquirer? You are a joke of a writer and I hope that all Sports fans in Oklahoma (not just OSU fans) will cancel their subscriptions until you and your boss are fired. Also I love to see even OU fans defending Gundy and coming down on you. Good luck finding another job. Maybe you could write for the Guymon paper or something.

Wow. I’m usually not one for a person to lose their job. But…

Ms. Carlson,
As I watched the evening news, I was surprised to see a tirade by Coach Mike Gundy. I couldn’t help but wonder what in the world could have invoked such anger. I came to my computer and pulled up your column to see if it was really worth all of the fuss. I must say, kudos to Coach Gundy for giving you exactly what you deserved. He is 100% correct. If you are ever blessed with a child, you will someday realize just how demoralizing your article on Bobby Reid actually was. You did “kick a kids when he was down”. To mock Bobby’s relationship with his mother, that’s where you really messed up. When I read the “chicken feeding” part of the article and your dressing down of Bobby, it made me physically ill. As a mother, I would have looked at the same situation and thought, “I hope my daughter marries a man like that someday”. A man who is MAN enough to show that he loves his mother, no matter who is watching or what they think. That’s a REAL man, not the panty waste imbecile you portrayed him to be. Personally, I think your next column should be an apology to both Bobby and his mother. You owe them that much.

Jenni-

I am truly impressed that the paper has decided to “back you up” on your editorial(sports column). What is even more impressive is the fact that many advertising dollars and subscriptions will be lost as a result of the editor’s poor judgement and the paper’s decision to keep you employed, regardless of your lack of talent. Usually money talks, but apparently in your case….

Does eBay sell any ego-reducers? I surfed over there, I didn’t see any for sale. Ya just gotta love a sports blog comment coming from a guy who says his name is “Ronald D. Schaefer, Ph.D.” As if a doctorate makes his comment any more credible. Whatta maroon.

Correct me if I’m wrong about his age, but to the best of my knowledge, the purported “child” is going to be 22 in less than three months. The coach conveniently found a way to evade and avoid answering questions. Period. Deflect criticism by pointing at the media. It’s one of the oldest tricks in the book. And it still works almost every time.

What a mean, mean sportswriting bully. Too bad Carlson won’t “pick on” more 22-year-old children. The coach wouldn’t have to answer a difficult question or respond to pointed criticism ever again.

Add me to the list of people that were disgusted with your article on Bobby Reid. Even worse, after Gundy made his comments the DOK still stands by the article. I agree this is the stuff that makes us hate the DOK and Channel 9 news.

I wish for once that journalists that print falacies and errors could have enough integrity to realize when they are absolutely wrong instead of hiding behind the written word. I hope if Jenni is at the next press conference Mike continues to hand it to her and the DOK until an apology is issue to Bobby (personally), to Mike Gundy, to Oklahoma State University, all OSU fans and to everyone that was offended by the most insensitive column I have heard. Go spend your time talking about Ryan Broyles…oh wait…wrong school.

Wow. Anyone can be a “writer,” I guess.

Jenni –

I remember reading your articles my junior and senior years of high school. At the time (10 years ago) I was the “sports writer” for our school paper and had aspiriations of going into journalism.

After your failed attempt at good journalism this weekend I have to say that I’m glad that I didn’t. Like Gundy, I would have been embarrased to be involved in journalisim and/or sports in general.

You are a poor writer and would serve the world much better in some other capacity. Stick to what you know… which obviously isn’t football or Oklahoma State… and especially not Oklahoma State football.

If the Daily Oklahoman were to offer a sports journalism class, it would have two simple rules:
#1 If an OSU athlete is performing poorly on the field, kick him when he’s down and add “rumor and rumblings” to sell more papers to OU fans.
#2 If an OU player so much as sneezes, write a glowing article on how well the sneeze was carried out and even more grandiose words for the nose blowing that followed.

Oh wait, the OU sneeze would be #1 because after all only OU drivel matters to the Daily Jokelahoman.

Poor OSU, Maybe the team owner Boone Pickens should buy the daily oklahoman and fire her. Maybe it was a cambells soup commercial.

While the essence of the story may have true, to use “insiders” and “rumblings” and “word has it” you open the door to say whatever you want. That is when malice can be used. Your editor is either very dumb or wants you gone.

Disrespectful, classless and appalling journalistic skills. Three signs of an article by Jenni Carlson. If your editor wasn’t as big of a tool as you, you would have been fired years ago.

I don’t get it. Other than a questionable reference to his mommy’s chicken dinner, what was wrong with the column? Evidently, the former starting QB is coddled and soft and doesn’t take some things seriously. And worst of all, he played like it. All valid points. The coach benched him. The kid isn’t an infant, he’s three months away from 22. Then the coach refuses to answer any questions about the game, and instead goes into a bogus pre-planned tirade purely designed to divert attention from the real issues involving his team.

Gundy is like Ben Affleck, only Gundy is a much better actor. Too bad Woody Hayes isn’t alive, Gundy deserves to be punched in the face.

To top things off, who were those people that applauded after the Hollywood performance? Were these people in the media? If so, THOSE are the people that should be fired. How can they ever be taken seriously again? That in itself is evidence of zero credibility.

The phrase “People in glass houses” comes to mind….Insiders are rumbling about You. Word has it that YOU have some very juicy tidbits that deserve to be exopsed in a “Jeni Carlson” type smear. Many have heard it, it does nor apparently matter if it’s true or not…..

If your mom making you chicken makes you a baby then there is a lot of babies out there including yourself. Because I can tell you’ve had your share of chicken through the years.

I do not live in Oklahoma, I have never been there. I am huge football fan. college and pro. I have heard some stories about college athletes, and coaches in OK. There have been a fair amount of scandals in that area, a lot of college programs have issues. Heck, I am a Miami fan, I know about scandal. ( and OU recently whipped our butts) Still I must ask why in the world would you write such things about a young man who should be praised for his character? Are his on the field actions or performances more important than him being a role model for young student athletes? What is wrong with you? Bringing his mother into it, that is disgusting. I just watched the head coach defend his player and it brought tears to my eyes. I have no idea who you are Jenni, I have never read your articles. After reading what you wrote in the paper I feel you MUST give this young man, and the school a deep hearted apology or be dismissed. Ridiculous, while you are at it, apologize to the entire state. You deserve to be fired.

Way to go Mike! Jenny you are just like many sports writers that just can’t resist making a “quarterback controversy” where there isn’t one! Mike was totally right for saying what he said. I would have loved being in that conference room watching it all. I’m an OU fan and will personally join the OSU fans in not ever buying the Oklahoman again.

“night” was meant to be “not” in the above comment

Jenni,

Keep your head up. Its sad that sexism exists in this day an age, but you’re facing it now and I feel for you. Fact is, Gundy is attacking you because you are a woman. I’ve read countless articles that were critical of Reid by male reporters and the local sports reporters on air can be brutal when criticizing “armature athletes.” Of course, Gundy waited until he thought he had an easy target in you, but don’t let him and the other misogynists get to you.

Faulting a guy for eating with his mom? That was a little over the top, JC, but so was Gundy’s bullyish tirade. And I’m sure that Bobby Reid, at age 21, is proud to have been referred to as a “child” by his coach. And isn’t it amazing that Gundy “didn’t read” the article and yet somehow knows that “85 percent of it is fiction”?

Yes, Victor. A child. In December, when Oklahoma State is playing in the Fungus Bowl, or whatever low-rent bowl game they’ll be appearing in, Reid will be 22. I wonder if Gundy burbs him after practice.

Jenni,
You BLEW it.. BIG time… ou opened your mouth, inserted your foot and found out you can’t swallow… After reading your article, and listening to Coach Gundy, I have to say he is very much in the right to call you out. I wish more coaches had the guts to do that. Maybe people like you would start to THINK before writing.
As for someone saying that Coach Stoops would not say much, They are wrong to. Coach Stoops would have to agree and support Coach Gundy on this. In fact, I would be willing to bet the farm that most ALL COACHES everywhere, Collegiate and professional would agree with Coach Gundy. He has my complete support, and I hope he stays around for a long time.

The hand-feeding chicken comment did sound mean. Most of us have been embarrassed in that sort of way by our parents before, and it’s either take it or hurt your parents feelings. Reid had no choice but to patiently allow his loving mother to feed him.

However, I’m disappointed by Gundy’s method of attacking you. It sounded way too much like an underhanded way of mocking a career woman for not being married and with children yet. The “us against the world” method may help win football games temporarily, but it doesn’t turn children into men.

Pat Silver, what “guts” does it take to try to embarrass a writer at a press conference, the purpose of which was to purportedly talk about the game? He admittedly is an excellent actor, but he’s also a blowhard that can’t stand the heat.

If they’d lost that game, I sense the blog reactions would be a little different. No, make that a LOT different.

C’mon guys!!!! What sports writer doesn’t put in HIS opinion from time to time? Anyone that reads this article can see that although Jenni was a BIT critical of Reid’s performance, she also had some praise for him. I just don’t see what all the fuss is about. And perhaps the “chicken” comment was because he was eating a box of CHICKEN!!!! If it had been a happy meal, it would have been a bag she spoke of. And Reid is not a little-league football player that is getting kicked while he is down. He is a college athlete, 21 years of age, with a FOOTBALL scholarship that requires him to play to his capabilities. He wants to be a starting quarterback, he better be ready to hear any criticism thrown at him. This article was not mean-spirited at all.

And thank you, Ronald D. Schaefer, Ph.D. for adding the PH.D. I mean, without it, none of us would know that your comment was written by someone with his expertise in all things football. The rest of us pale in comparison to your greatness!!!

Jenni

Your article was in very poor taste. The best thing the Oklahoma citizens can do is refuse to purchase advertising from this paper or to subscribe to this newspaper. Money talks.

I am surprised the editor is standing behind you with this article.

You both might think about a formal apology to the school, the athletes and to this player and his family.

Sandy

Unbelievably cold hearted! Athletes work harder than you have on your best day! this young man is struggling on the field and off! if being given chicken by his mom gave him some encouragement to get through a tough time then thank God for moms! Get off his case and apologize like the adult you’re supposed to be!

I think some folks have too much time on their hands and should perhaps find a hobby. Leave Ms. Carlson alone!! She did her job and she did it rather well. The article isn’t an “attack”! Grow up people!! College athletes at the NCAA Division 1 level are held to high standards, by us, the public and we can be merciless. They know when they sign the letter of intent to play at the school of their choice that they are under the microscope of the public and press. If they can’t handle that scrutiny then perhaps they should move on. I am appalled by the way Gundy handled this situation. He made a statement in his rant regarding his age; well he needs to act like he’s 40!! His outburst is yet another embarassment for OSU. I’m glad he feels the need to defend Reid after he made the decision to bench him. But what about the rest of your team?? Didn’t they desserve some appreciation for the awesome job they did Saturday? I think Gundy’s cheese has finally slid off his cracker and his lack of coaching ability is finally coming to light. He could have easily handled this with tact and class, but chose to have a temper tantrum instead. WOW!!

Very bad article and just shows how bad the Daily Oklahoma is. I am not a journalist but I thought facts where very important. But I guess you can’t let little silly facts get in the way of your story.

May I suggest that you look into the national inquirer or one of the teen magazines. I think you would fit in great there.

OMG!!!!, what’s really, REALLY funny about this egomaniacal Ronald D. Schaefer, Ph.D. is what his advanced education is actually in. Is it in journalism? Is it in ethics? Is it in philosophy? Is it in sports? Uhhh … no. He’s a professor in speech pathology at Northeastern State. Really. In simple terms, this is a guy that’s knowledgeable about stuttering. What causes stuttering and how to correct it. So if a college football coach ever starts stumbling over his own words while he’s verbally assaulting a sportswriter, that clown Schaefer is the man with a plan.

I will preface my comments by saying that I am an avid OU fan and root for OSU to loose just about every time they play. In general I think arguments about media bias against OSU are somewhat ridiculous.

Let me explain something to Mr. Hemsath and OMG: “Rondald D. Schaefer, Ph.D” is Ronald D. Schaefer’s title. By signing his full title, he is standing by what he says and identyfing himself professionaly and personally. Unlike someone who signs their name “OU Student” or “Omg”, his comments carry more weight, because we actually know who he is and what he does. As an academic he undoubtedly knows something about credibility.

Which ties in nicely to Jenni Carlson who lacks credibility. The rumours and rumblings I have heard since this incident tell me that Jenni Carlson was listening to some sports radio guys(the same guys who trash her understanding of footbal and sports in general) who have also been calling bobby reid out for his actions after being benched. She decided to run with it and be tuff for a change.
Unfortunately for Jenni, she didnt say these things on the radio and unlike the the gents on the radio she is a journalist.
WE ALREADY KNEW SHE KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT SPORTS, NOW WE KNOW SHE LACKS ALL CREDIBILITY.
Gundy’s rant would have been better without the use of the word “child.” Should have stuck with the amatuer athletes angle. I think he used the word because he wanted to emphasize how Jenni attacked the sacred mother son relationship. Some of the people who have defended Ms. Carlson from the sports radio jocks, will undoubtedly stop defending her now.

Hilarious.

A person who puts his title after his name would also certainly state what he’s a doctor of, and where he uses that title, too. Wouldn’t he? If this was a blog about plumbing, would he also note his title?

No, he had to usee a title because he’s ego-driven. The title didn’t advance nor further support his argument. Had absolutely nothing to do with his post. I’ll also note for a guy with an advanced education, he can’t spell worth a lick.

Whoops. Another typo. I can’t type worth a lick. I meant “use,” not “usee.” But my point’s the same, that guy is an egomaniac.

I don’t know who David Hemsath is, but it appears, in reading all his entries in this blog, that he has no life, nothing to contribute to society, nothing to do but sit at his computer, waiting for someone else to add to the blog, so he can spew more of his drivel. How sad for both you and the Oklahoman–both seem to be the only ones supporting a bum writer with a bum article. Jenni must not spend much time on college campuses. Every college kid I know would LOVE for mom to bring some home cookin’ to campus. Every college kid I know is proud to be seen with the parents who give them support–morally and financially–to get through school. Shame on you for degrading Bobby and his mother. What goes around, comes around. Bad Karma’s on you.

Gutless attack on a kid posed as “journalism.” Ironic, too, in light of your commentary on Donovan McNabb last week and implying how as a female writer you need to do more than male writers. Your column on Reid would suggest you should work more on being human instead.

for Aimee –

I am not a big fan of the Oklahoman and I feel that there are a lot of good stories skipped over to print drama. But to say that the Oklahoman has printed only good stories about the sooners is ridiculous. I have attended OU games since ‘72 and have listened to the recruiting stories along with the shootings, rapes, drugs and money scandals at OU, some of which were true, but big wins, conference championships and national championships were also written about. In my opinion, which is what I am entitled too, as well as Jenni, i am glad that OSU has a great represantitive in Reid – meaning he should recover well from this devastating event. The more attention you give this article that was written the more credit you give to the Oklahoman. It’s a choice…boycott or keep it going?

Wow, I am an Aggie fan and after last year when A&M barely won in OT, I have respected Mike Gundy, but him standing up for his player like he did showed me two things: 1) He deserves all the respect in the world and 2) The amount of respect you deserve is the same as the listeater at A&M a few years ago. How could you pile on your own Alma Matter like that. God Bless Mike Gundy for showing humanity in todays culture when the media is so degrading to COLLEGE athletes.

I am an OU fan and I feel that this article was completely wrong, there is no reason for such a nasty personal attack on Bobby Reid. Coach Gundy did the right thing calling you out like he did, no you and your editor need to do the right thing and the is apolgize and then resign your postsions with the Daily Joke, I will never read another one of your aticles and as long as you are employed by them I will not purchase their product, and I have already cancelled my subscription. Ms Carlson you are an embarrement to the state of Oklahoma and to college football fans in general.

This is the first time in my 40 years on the planet that I have ever responded to an article in the print media. The article concerning the young OSU quarterback was one of the most classless acts of journalism I have ever read. I remember when being a reporter was an honorable profession (i.e. Walter Kronkite), Ms. Carlson has done a horrendous disservice to both her profession as well as the young gentleman she attacked. I am appreciative of how Coach Gundy took up for his player.

Congratulations. You made the top 10 most viewed videos on YouTube.

I have to commend the coach for sticking up for his players, whether they are guilty or not. What you have done Jenny is dispictable and low. How dare you build yourself up on someone else’s misery and broadcast it through your trashy segment you call a news column. There are three types of people in the world, backbitters, followers, and leaders. Backbitters are those who can do nothing but ridicule other people, people talking about people, dragging them down. Followers are those who try to make the world a better place, usually trying to follow in a leaders shoes. Leaders are those making a difference, have important issues to talk about and steer away from degrading others.

Many people have vocally categorized you. Sorry for you. Try growing up and being an adult and acting like your age instead of acting like an elementary child. Bettery yet, elementary children act better than you have displayed.

“The Oklahoman never writes good stories about OSU. The Oklahoman always writes about OU. Blah, blah, blah, blah.”

Where were you Aggie clowns when OSU was topping the polls in basketball and the entire sports section was an Eddie Sutton lovefest? Where were you mouthbreathers when The Oklahoman published story after story after story about Rhett Bomar?

Here’s a tip: a 21-year-old MAN is not a child. He can vote, drink beer and go to war. The effort you are making to bend over backwards to make Lil’ Bobby Reid into a child victim is embarrassing and laughable. For the love of God, please stop before you lose what little credibility you have left.

Oh and Mr. PhD: programs that live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. Or was that some other OSU that went on probation about the same time OU did in the 80s?

And I’m sorry, I’d die before I’d let my mommy hand feed me after a football game. That’s beyond pathetic. Did she make him wear a bib, too?

Your pathetic, ignorant, and a disgrace to college athletes. If you only knew how hard these boys work and how hard it is without people like yourself there to humiliate their faults. The Oklahoman is a joke to every sports program besides OU. Its writers like yourself whom help contribute trash to the nations worse paper. I hope you no longer have a job with the Oklahoman or any of the other 49 states paper. I have to go vomit.

Hey Mr. David Hemsath I have to agree with Jane…You sound like the ego type that no one wants to listen to or be around, get on with your life…thanks for writing Jane. Great job for the coach telling the reporter{s} off as well. Hope this reporter has learned a hard lesson, she to, looks young to be writing such things…someday if your blessed to have children, you’ll realize just how foolish and hurtful your article was. And yes children are children even at the age of 22, to their parents.

Wow, as a huge OU fan and mother of a 7 yr old boy (who someday maybe play football for this state and will always be a “child” in my eyes), I never thought I would say I was proud of Gundy on behalf of his program. What would have been better is if Reid’s mother was right up there at the podium with Gundy. You personal feelings and lack of knowledge that goes in your articles . . . I’d suggest that you fire yourself and quick.

To poor salt into the wound, the DOK is supporting you, rather than giving you your final paycheck. They should be supporting ALL OF OUR in-state players and programs (OU, OSU, Tulsa, SNU, UCO, etc.) Shame on your editing department for allowing you to go to press. What happened to the editor-in-chief’s responsibility to weedout ridiculous stories such as yours? Did he/she call in sick?

You both should be fired and yes, I am cancelling my subscription too.

I weep for the future. All of you hand-wringing mommies must have the biggest collection of sissified crybabies for kids on the planet.

If you are handfeeding your 22-year-old son, YOU HAVE SERIOUS ISSUES. GET HELP.

I’m OU Crimson and Cream and I Cannot Stand The O-State Cowboys but another thing I Cannot Stand for People Like You Jenni who disrespect kids who HAVE DONE NOTHING WRONG!! I find the article ridiculous and disrespectful and it shows the type of character you are… And as an OU Fan I am very dissappointed in the Gaylords for putting up with this Idiotic Trash that themselves and you produce in the Sports page of Oklahoman. I am very dissappointed

OU FAN

Your articles are trash. In fact I feel sympathy for anyone who has actually taken time out of their day to read one. Quit your job tonight and never write an article again. Most importantly stop wasting peoples time with articles based on complete garbage.

I read the article after Gundy went crazy about it. It looks like you hit the nail on the head. It also looks like Gundy is mad because you had great information. Okay, so if we even believe what Gundy claims is true; 75% of the article is “fiction”; let’s speculate on what the fiction was about. Okay, Reid wasn’t eating chicken – he was eating Buffalo Wings. Well, that’s only a difference in Oklahoma. Mommy wasn’t feeding him – he was yspoon’-feeding him. The part Gundy probably agreed with was the fact that Reid is a talented player. The rest he disagreed with because he doesn’t want him to leave; go to Tech and become the next player to throw for 788 yards against the marginally OK Cowboys. Gundy should have NEVER been made head coach anyway – he doesn’t have the brain power – or the class.

I learned about your column through publicity re Gundy’s rant and went looking for what all the fuss was about. I agree with the sentiments in other comments — this was a remarkably personal, gossipy piece about a student athlete. I hail from WI and have read news stories about the Badgers for decades, but I cannot recall anything remotely approaching this. UW had its own QB competition this year, and I’m sure that a reporter could have gotten someone to say something negative about one or the other. None of it appeared in the coverage, however. The discussion was limited to which one was better able to run the offense. Apparently your standards are different in OK, but I think that type of commentary is woefully inappropriate about athletes at this level. For that matter, I don’t recall something that personal, with its less than subtle attacks on the player’s character, re any pro athletes around here. Gundy’s tirade may have been extreme, but I think his points about taking the coverage too far are quite valid. Even your blog has a bit of a mocking tone that seems unnecessary. Could we please at least limit the overly personal, semi-attack journalism to the Brittany Spears and Lindsay Lohans of the world, and keep it away from amateurs playing a game?

Ms. Carlson,
Your article is the pefrect example of how the media is ruining college athletics for the athletes and the fans. You take the fun out of the game. You need to report on the facts, not speculation. If you want to speculate you should quit writing sports columns and start writing for soap opera digest.
You have always been a poor excuse for a sports writer, I often read your articles and wonder what the point of it all was. You need to make people think when they read your articles not wonder what your point is.
I hope you get fired and I feel sorry for Barry Tramel, the guy who hired you.

Carlson, your article speaks a great deal about who you are as a person. To critcize a student athlete about his/her performance on the field or to report a run-in with the law is one thing. But to personally attack a 21 y/o kid (yes, he’s still a kid) who by all accounts has stayed clear of trouble and done well in the classroom is inexcuseble. I hope you suffer as much as Bobby Reid has.

Ms. Carlson,

After reading that “article” you wrote on Bobby Reid, I think you should either resign or your editor should terminate you.

You deserve the public criticism you have received from Gundy.

Any reasonable, rational person who read your article can easily see the mean-spirited tone of your piece. What next for you Ms. Carlson, are you going to walk down the street and kick a puppy or spit on a homeless person?

That was one of the worst articles I’ve ever read about college football or student-athletes. Almost as bad as Linda Robertson writing that the Miami Hurricanes should have changed their name after Hurricane Andrew hit Dade County. Articles that are pointless and shear conjecture and spiteful have no business being written or published. You are why women have no business being any part of college football and your 15 minutes are up!

Ms. Carlson,

I am a OU fan living in Austin, Texas. I cannot believe you attacked the character of a student athlete like you did and I think your article was inappropriate. You owe Bobby Reid an apology.

Jenni, I think your biggest problem is working for the worse newspaper in the country. And kudos for Gundy to finally point out just how bad the The Oklahoman is. I haven’t read The Oklahoman for years, but I see that it still is an awful paper. Biased and inaccurate and that’s the way The Gaylords like it. Actually you are probably right at home. So stay right where you are so you can be cuddled and babied by your editor. Thank God I do not depend on The Oklahoman for my information anymore.

Ms. Carlson,

Your article is bad enough but that video response just takes it over the top. Be mature and admit your mistake. Coach Gundy did explain during his “lecture” what the inaccuracies were, you got caught, admit it ..oh wait you dont deal with the truth only speculation and rumor. Quit trying to hide from the truth…and quit acting like an adolescent who has just been scolded with the lame justification. Just say your sorry, Gundy is being the mature one and has already forgiven you. Grow up!

Does anyone out there think Mr. Gundy would have gone after Ms. Carlson had she been a 50-year-old man? No. Hang tough, Ms. Carlson. You have the empathy of those who know the coach went too far. OSU has been embarrassed by the coach, not by you.

I watched Gundy blow up. I watched your video response where you said you asked him for the things that were wrong, but he didn’t reply. I suggest you watch his video again because he names things that were factually incorrect in your article. He doesn’t name the 75% that he says was wrong, but he does name some things. For you to say he didn’t name anything in your video response makes you look … well … like a person who doesn’t know what is going on … aaa … Oh yea, that is what got you into this mess to begin with. Never mind, your video response explains things perfectly.

Want to talk about quarterbacks and attitudes, come up here to Chicago….

your a joke. you call yourself a reporter? i have one question for you. What grade are you in? i know of six year old kids with more manners than you. your now on a list of the other reporters that are jokes. pat forde is another. i hope you lose your job.

Jenny, Mike —
I was once a journalist. I went to J-school just like you guys. Being a columnist does not give you the right to opine in a way that humiliates a college student athlete by suggesting he is a momma’s boy.

You guys were plain wrong. But you will never admit it because to do so would require you to admit that you might have been wrong. We all know that journalists are NEVER wrong, right?

You guys are unbelievable. You have NO credibility and give all journalists a bad name.

Larry

I would first like to state for the record that I am a Jayhawk fan from Lawrence, Ks. Making my opinion fairly unbiased. Secondly, I would suggest that when you start posting your resume….. and I am sure resume updating will be finished soon….don’t waste your time sending it to any media outlet in the BIG XII area. Every sports fan in the midwest I know wouldn’t read your column .

Jenni,

Tonight on the news as they showed a clip of your radio show you stated that Mike made it personal because you are a single female. Not once did he refer to you as a female, single or married. He said it is obvious that you weren’t a parent. My biggest problem with your article is that you talked about his mother feeding him chicken that is when you made it personal. I don’t know what eating chicken has anything to do with his performance on the field. As a single female whose mom is no longer alive I wish she was so she could feed me chicken. Why should any child be ashamed that their mother was there for them and watching out for them.

I think you owe OSU coach Mike Gundy and especially OSU player Bobby Reid an apology…what you wrote was both tactless and degrading. You attacked his character and made yourself and the Daily Oklahoman look ignorant and inconsiderate. I hope next time, when you sit down at your computer to write some terrible ‘column’ or whatever you want to call it, that you think first! To put down a fellow Oklahoman like that is just plain embarrassing. You are obviously not a true Oklahoman at heart, because here, we do NOT degrade our neighbors. So, next time, please think before you write.

Being a fan of Oklahoma State University, the fun part is I get to watch a great bunch of fans who put up with a lot of white-trash sooner fans that ridicule us for not having a championship football team. We will all just overlook the part about OSU having more national championships than ANY university in the country. Yes that includes the beloved Gayland (I mean the Gaylord) family team.

My point being that I am tired of the one sided media, I am tired of the press of the Cowboys either being non-existent or negative. But one good thing has possibly come out of this. Gundy is fired up. Maybe we as State fans are looking at this the wrong way. Maybe we should all run out and renew our subscriptions to the Daily Disappointment (I mean Daily Oklahoman) and support Ms Carlson in the hopes that she keeps Gundy pissed all year long. That will get us to the Big XII Championship and the National Championship Game.

Instead of “JEERS” we should shout “CHEERS”!!

Now here comes the Fooner,I mean Sooner fan comments……..

First off, I am not a fan of any college football team. I couldn’t care less if you are writing about the Pokes or the Sooners. So what I have to say here is unbiased. You and people like you who have to make themselves feel better by trashing others, are a big part of what is wrong with this country today. Being on the sports beat you can’t find a way to trash people like Brittney Spears. So you ran out and found a college kid who also plays football to trash. Shame on you Ms. Carlson, and shame on the Oklahoman for printing the trash. Kudos to Kelly Ogle for standing with Coach Gundy on “My 2-Cents” tonight.

You’ve got to feel for Bobby Reid? Make up your mind. You can’t have it both ways. I could care less about OSU Football and whether or not they win or lose a game this season, but no upstanding student athlete who has acted with a lot of class in a tough spot deserves to be belittled 2 weeks after the fact. You’ve got to feel for Bobby Reid. Time to practice what you preach. I hope someone writes an article based on rumors and rumblings when you lose your job

IAll the way from Georgia and most folks down here feel the same way I do after seeing Coach Gundy’s press conference. I’m not sure if I’m shocked or just disgusted with your classless article.

After seeing your response on video…along with your sports editors response…it leaves one to wonder why you would need to answer or respond if you felt you did right? After all…you got your say to the entire world….then got your butt handed to you. As you could see in the other video, the people were not real fans of your cowardly and classless act…both men and women. “Women stick together”…I don’t think it will apply this time.

One major comment that Coach Gundy made that really sticks out in my mind – when you (if you) have kids…will your mindset be the same? Now…as for your sports editor…if he has any sense in his head…he will distance himself from the situation fast, change his name, and get into another occupation…especially if he has kids!

I don’t think you realize how deep you cut and how bad this is going to cost you down the road. The world has seen your true colors and your mean steak…or would you call it ignorance and lack of class?

Ms. Carlson, it is not responsible to print rumors. Get it on the record or leave it off the page. We’re all taught that in J-school. I’d think you’d know better by now. Your piece was unprofessional, and The Oklahoman is wrong to support it.

As I was sitting at dinner with friends Saturday, I was utterly embarrassed when I saw a brief clip of Gundy ranting. I assumed it was just another stand up moment for the school I love so much.

Then tonight on sportscenter I watched the entire statement. So I logged into the Oklahoman website and read your article. As a former journalist I am appalled that you and your editor would even want to print this. It wasn’t funny, witty or entertaining. It was nasty, mean spirited, and just plain cruel.

I am disgusted at what the media will make up just to sell a few newspapers. Get some reliable sources and get your facts straight. Or better yet, find a more suitable career path.

My entire family will be cancelling their subscriptions to The Oklahoman. I hope the paper’s decision to stand behind your asinine remarks will hold up through their financial loss.

Hey,

Let me say that at the very least, I am appalled. Where/who are your sources? Your article that bashed Bobby Reid sounded completely like hearsay trash.
People like you are the reason serious journalists or journalism students are left with a bad name and the public with a bad taste in their mouth. Whatever happened to being a watchdog for the public??? Stop seeking the recognition and money, and try to actually report, you faker.

*Lisa L.*
News-ed and Broadcast news senior
Oklahoma State University

You are simply pathetic. The hardline sports writer “flip” you are doing is just ridiculous. Do the profession and sports fans a favor and move on to something else. You are a bad person at your very core for saying those things about a player and then trying to save face like this… sad.

Have you ever played football? No. Have you ever had to tell your child or player not to worry about the trash that tore the apart? No. Have you ever honestly written an article that you actually stand behind? Apparantly not with your latest attemt at journalism. Make up your mind Jenni are you against or for Bobby Reid. You don’t feel any sympathy for him whatsoever and you know it. Your semi positive, make up article is a gutless attemt to try to make what you said not a big deal anymore. I’ll admit that I have more love for our football team no matter whether or not they are winning or losing I’ll still cheer them on no matter what quarterback we are playing. You even made yourself look like a total idiot AGAIN with your video blog where you said that Coach Gundy wouldn’t answer your questions DO YA BLAME HIM! He answered you in his well deserved and well thought out response to your trash that you wrote but I doubt that you heard it because once he held up that article at the podium you probably tucked your head underneath your skirt and held on for the ride. Have fun sending in your apology because no matter what you say you’ve already dug your hole deep enough not even your spineless editor can get you out of.

Oh one more thing do you like KFC, Popeye’s, or Charlies Chicken better because I’m sure they’ll accept your resume with open arms.

Ms. Carlson,
I’m surprised that you made the “chicken” comment not once but twice in your article. Does your editor even check the stuff you write prior to publishing it? If they do, they should have given you a little civil rights history lesson on racist references and speech.

You are not only a disgrace to your alma mater, but a disgrace to female sports journalists everywhere. I also can’t imagine your “mama” is very pleased with you–oh did she serve YOU up a plate of fried chicken in an effort to comfort you while people start making personal attacks about your “lack of talent.”

I must say, some of the posts I’ve read here are pretty harsh, so I’ll just say back to the journalism ethics course for you (if they even teach that at OSU).

I live in NC and I can tell you that if a reporter wrote the kind of crap you wrote, they would be ran out of town. You don’t deserve a job like sports writer. You would make a much better sanitatian driver. That way, you would be able to pick up garbage instead of producing it. I hope you have a kid someday who plays football so i they can bash your son and you can see how it feels. Patrick from the TarHeel state.

All the morons around here … precisely what did she “make up?”

David – She’s stating that her article is FACT when really its just hearsay and opinion. Real journalists don’t cite “word has it” and “Insiders say.” She still hasn’t given up her ’sources.’

Gundy might have gone a little overboard, but it needed to be said. He made perfect sense and didn’t curse once (which is probably what most people would have done).

My high school newspaper had better “reporting” than this. Jenni should be ashamed of herself and apologize to Reid, Gundy, and the team.

Jenni, on the slim chance that you are reading this blog and not the other one, I’m pasting the same comment here. I really want you to know how dumb your latest attempt at journalism is.

Shelly Says:
September 25th, 2007 at 7:06 am

I waited for your response and THIS is what you give?? Take your stupid widgets and go away. You see, even if your widgets were working properly, they stink! Nobody wants stinky widgets around. Now, reread all of that widget nonsense and tell me how it sounds. Just as igonorant as your article. If your facts were accurate, print them. Somehow I don’t think that being a chicken-fed momma’s boy has much to do with fact and more to do with YOUR interpretation. It was rude, you know it, and you refuse to apologize about it. That makes you a yellow-bellied coward. So, take your stinky widgets and get on down the road. I’m not interested in buying any.

Trying to make yourself look good by dogging a college athlete is as low as you can go. You should be ashamed of yourself. There is absolutely nothing wrong with eating chicken no matter where it came from……it being from your Mom just makes it that much better! Grow up and write a true sports article!

Little bit of heat in this kitchen. How’s it feel?

Coach put you in your place and I, along with everyone else, loved it.

Well deserved. Congrats.

You are the reason that women should not be sports reporters. I hope you lose your job for your arrogant and completely uncalled for remarks. I hope your apology is the last word you get before you get kicked out the door.

I think that you should be fired. A reporter should never comment on off the field play unless an athlete makes a mistake (crime, breaking team rules) off of the field. You do not have first hand knowlegde of what goes on there. I probably bet that you never played a sport in college because I am in baseball and being a part of the team is different than anything else. We share a bond that people like you would never understand and should NEVER comment about aspects like leadership. I dont believe in calling for people’s jobs (Rex Grossman, etc.) but you anger me so much I hope you get fired.

Nothing will happen. The people at the top will stick by their reporter because they were as much in the wrong as she was. It’s a shame that the “Big Boss” won’t do the right thing and bring some class to his/her paper.

The best thing to do…if you people in Oklahoma are serious…is just stop buying that paper. When the people speak and it starts hitting them in the pockets…something will be done. Until that time…as profits grow with everyone reading the updates…nothing will be done.

It’s a shame that someone at the top can’t see the difference in a good story that has everyone interested and one that has everyone mad.

Jenni,

I now understand why you can’t get your facts straight. Apparently you hear what you want to hear. Last night I saw a story about you on the news. You were on a radio station talking about Gundy’s comments. You stated that he got personal because when he brought up the fact that you were a single female. I watched the entire press conference from start to finish. He never once mentioned that you were female, nor did he mention that you were single. He did say that it was obvious that you weren’t a “parent”. Parents can be both male and female, single and married! He never even called you by name.
You said that you wish he had confronted you privately. Why should he have to do that when you attacked his player publicly?
Then to make matters worse, in yesterday’s press conference you asked him what your errors were twice! Watch Saturday’s coference again, he already said stated what wasn’t true!

Jenni, you feel for Bobby Reid? After your stripping him of all dignity in your column we ALL feel for Bobby Reid. And by the way, I’m 39 years old and still love my mother’s chicken. I guess I’ll always be a baby in your eyes, and proud to be that baby as well. Perhaps I could bring some of that homemade chicken over so you too could become a baby. It is a great role!

do believe that you should keep your rude and uneducated comments to yourself. did you ever play football or any sports for that matter. You remind me of a bully picking on a kid who just failed a test. Maybe you should grow a pair and pick on someone other than a 20 year old kid. You deserve to have your dignity stripped and i hope when you have a son he gets kicked in a place that isnt to pleasant then you will know how it feels. have some class and grow up.

I am a huge OSU fan, but I am talking about The Ohio State Buckeyes, not the cowboys. Today it was released that a back-up quarterback was arrested last night. Tomorrow the paper will cover the story, and that player’s character will be called into question. You see, the press in Columbus actually supports our team, and reports the FACTS that surround them. I read the article where you defend your facts, and you are completely missing the point. You are concerned with your credibility, or in other words, you are concerned with YOURSELF. What you don’t seem to be concerned with at all are the people you write about and the affect your words have. It is often said that “the pen is mightier than the sword”. It is just a saying, you aren’t actually supposed to use that pen to stab the people you write about! Did you honestly read your article and say, “man, the cowboy fans are really going to like this one!”, or “Wow, I have some hard hitting news here!”

YOU WROTE ABOUT A KID EATING HIS MOTHER’S CHICKEN!

You need to consider putting in an application to the Enquirer, because that is the only paper I could see this article running with some legitimacy. By the way, I guarantee if you had the choice between eating a boxed lunch and that woman’s chicken you would have made the same choice. The bond and relationship between a mom and her child is one that can not be scrutinized. If you want to say a man is less of a man for eating his mother’s cooking, you are going to be taking on a lot more than just coach Gundy. As a matter of fact, I myself have plans to eat with my Mom on friday…she’s making fried chicken.

As a coach of more than 20 years I’m proud of what Gundy had to say, and the way he stood up for his player. You had that coming and more. Did the kid turn you down for a date or something? That wasn’t anything remotely resembling journalism, it was a personal attack and a poorly written one at that. I’m still looking for the “facts” you said you were standing behind, because they weren’t in the article. It was all innuendo and rumor. And then you have the gall to say you feel sorry for for Reid…so you’re a hypocrite too? Maybe you next job will be in the White House press corps…you’d fit right in.

Good for you for writing this story. You are giving your opinion, and are more than entitled to doing so. You don’t owe anyone an apology. What the OSU fans and coaches need to realize is that when you are an athlete at a D1, Big 12 school, you are under considerable scrutiny and deservably so. When an ADULT enters college he or she is accepting more freedom and at the same time taking the responsibility that comes with it. Part of that responsiblity is taking criticism, which is a part of everyone’s life. People are going say bad things about, you simply have to forget about it and move on.

It occurs to me that the only justification for subjecting college athletes to the same analysis and criticism as pros is that their performance affects people’s pocketbooks – particularly the bettors and bookies who wager huge amounts on college sports.

A sportswriter covering an amateur event involving amateur athletes should be able to do her job professionally without sounding like a handicapper for the bookies. Reid didn’t deserve to be criticized as though he were working for Ms. Carlson.

I didn’t wade through all the previous comments – but I have to believe that many of the authors who have “no sympathy” for Reid regularly depend on the predictability of his performance when they bet on Cowboy games. News flash – Reid didn’t sign on to help you win bets.

The level of your ignorance continues to grow when you defend your article instead of apologizing for it. Could the majority of the nation, who is completely impartial to the quarterback controversy at Oklahoma State, be wrong by being outraged by your article? Seriously doubt it. The majority is not irrational. I promise you. Suck it up and say that you are sorry for making the article personal, then clean out your desk and start applying to write for celebrity rumor web sites. You definitely shown that you have no journalistic integrity.

Jenni,

Your column has gotten you national attention, I’m from Connecticut. Unfortunately, as I read your story I realized that you are someone who’s not ready for prime-time. You attacked a man based on rumors and your clouded perception. You have been rightfully attacked for your article and I’m sure you will not be heard from again.

Good luck to you, in whatever profession you choose, obviously sports journalism is not what’s right for you.

Don’t you think you should apologize to Bobby Reid? Why in the world would you think it’s OK to publish a piece attacking a college athlete based on nothing more than speculation about his character. You really should consider publishing a public apology.

I’m amazed (though maybe I shouldn’t have been) at the overwhelming defense of that outburst Gundy made on national television and the fact that so many people here seem to believe it was ok? When you go to college, you are no longer a “child” and hopefully you no longer cry to your mother whenever someone criticizes you. Reid is a big boy, its beyond time that anyone of that age learn to take criticism like that in stride and not have other ADULTS viciously defend him like the Cowboy nation seems hellbent on doing. Final note, this was an OPINION piece and the journalist made it plainly clear that most of the assertions in the piece were based on rumor and speculation, and NOT FACT (of course, if you have an agenda its quite easy to ignore this ).

FYI the Dash says it best under the “coach losing it” section here:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=3035258

I would like to start off by stating I am not an Oklahoma fan, in fact I am a huge Longhorn fan, but I have NEVER met an Okie’ I didn’t like…until now.

I am currently active duty in the military stationed on the west coast. My co-workers and I watched Gundy’s response on ESPN multiple times before reading the article that got him and myself fired up. I read all 110+ responses above mine getting a feel about how the rest of the nation felt about you. It makes me happy that they see you, for who you really are. There is no reason for me to belittle you any further, you get the idea.

You know you made a mistake. It is now time for you to own up to your harsh words and admit that you are wrong. In the military we use words like HONOR, COURAGE and COMMITMENT all of which Gundy showed for his player, his team and the state of Oklahoma.

I look forward to reading you apology or resignation letter… Which ever one comes first.

“When an ADULT enters the work force he or she is accepting more freedom and at the same time taking the responsibility (of being honest and accurate if writing articles) that comes with it. Part of that responsibility is taking criticism, which is a part of everyone’s life. People are going say bad things about, you simply have to forget about it and move on.”
Great thought! that is why I put it back in, but applying to Ms Carlson

How are you feeling, with 95 % thinking you are a joke and hoping to never see an article you have written again? Well, as they say Karmas a bitch!
Good luck with the job hunt.

I would think a better and much more interesting NEWS story would be the parallels between Gundy and Robinson as players, and Robinson as a dual threat QB who may/may not be the athletic specimen (i.e. Tebow-Florida, Farve-Green Bay, Doug Flutie, etc).

The obvious story to me is – Gundy came into a game as a freshman and never gave up the spot. He replaced an “athletic” QB”-Ronnie Williams, who wasn’t getting the job done. I saw that game and many after, and would say while Gundy was not the better athlete, he was a QB.

A little research of the records and comparisons of modern QB’s in College and the Pros would give a multitude of possible story lines.

I think Gundy’s decision to make a change was based upon good coaching and personal experience-who knows-but it might be newsworthy.

Ms. Carlson:

I doubt you know Bobby Reid well. The fact that you make judgements as to his core character and base them on so few experiences (which experiences, I might add, could be INTERPRETED several ways) demonstrates ignorance poor writing skills.

You’ll be lucky to keep your job, and if you do, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re not read much.

Ms. Carlson,
I now have a second favorite team, Oklahoma State, mainly because I admire their coach, Mike Gundy. His reaction to your pathetic story was wonderful and justified. I wonder if your church (if you have one) teaches human compassion. I wonder if your bible (if you read one) teaches human understanding. I know that your college journalism professor teaches bull s— and you learned it well.
You should apologize to the athlete and your family for embarrassing them.
Sincerely
Phil Laney
Arab, Alabama
Roll Tide!

I think your personal attack on the integrity and character of a STUDENT-ATHLETE is entirely unacceptable. If he was a professional being paid to perform a service then yes, you have every right to critique that level of performance. I would even extend such liberty toward a college athlete based solely on their performance ON THE FIELD. However, you’ve been given a platform to report on and comment on OSU athletics, not the personal make-up of its student athletes when there is no cause for it. This young man broke no rules nor did he violate any terms of his association with the university. He’s performed poorly and you rip him as a person? Who do you think you are? Your position as a reporter and the right to cover OSU athletics is a privilege, not a right. I hope you show more appreciation for that fact next time.

Shame on you.

Well, I may as well as my comment to the mix. At the end of the day, Jenni, it doesn’t matter how Coach Gundy answers your question about factual mistakes; most of your article comprised of personal attacks and speculation. (In fact, the only sources you cite are rumors and rumblings. You say it yourself!) You added nothing of substance to the discussion of Reid’s talents and contributions to the team. Instead, you made fun of him in the cruelest way possible. If he had confidence problems before, you did a nice job of making sure he never recovers.

You are right in your blog post that female sports writers and commentators have a hard time being taken seriously. (Fans too.. no one believes that it was me who turned my husband into a football fan.) Unfortunately, your column only makes things more difficult. Did you think that kicking an amateur player when he’s down would make you seem tough and manly? Well, you were sorely mistaken. Want to help the cause? Get as far away from sports writing as possible.

Hey,

Good job on letting your mouth belittle your talent. I do the same thing sometime. It’s a life lesson that I hope you take. Too many reporters are just that, cowards. They want to talk smack about what everyone should do when they just don’t know much about it internally. Kansas State had a guy do that to a big 6′10″ center. That 6′10″ center came to his apartment and almost beat him into a pulp. I think it was well warranted. Take your shots at people but you better be able to accept blame when you’re wrong, and baby, you were off a bit on this on.

Jenni,
I wonder if you grew up in an environment that you were always critized for your short falls and/or weak moments. As a mother I can’t really find the words to tell you how deeply disappointed I am that you would humilate a young man in the manner that you did. I grew up learning that you treat others in the manner you want to be treated! Is this how you want someone to treat you? I don’t think so. I believe that you owe Reid and his family a public apology and what a shame if your employer doesn’t encourage you to do whats right and apologize to this family. Because remember what goes around comes around. May this family forgive you……… sak

How can you defend the nonsense story you wrote about Reid. You can honestly say you didn’t try to humiliate him by writing that. In your article you ask what college student would want to be seen being fed by his mother…well what college student would want someone writing that kind of article about him and exposing information that people may not have seen or known about until they read your article. I agree with everything the coach said. You won’t understand it until you have a kid someday and someone writes an article about your child…grow up lady!

“If you listen to the rumblings and the rumors . . .”

You obviously did. Not once did you mention your “true” source (such as a comment from a actual team player or coach). Instead, it was from an ‘insider’ or source . . . which bottomline is your personal opinion (which should not be on the front page of the Sports page). I thought that a true journalists had no problem printing names of their source. I use to like that you were a ‘female’ sports writer, but I obviously jumped the gun.

I hope you never cross this path with Coach Stoops and the OU program, cause you would definitely be fired and banded in this State.

Oh, and good job in apologizing . . .classy!!

I think what you wrote in your original article was uncalled for. It is very hard for these guys to keep everybody happy i.e. coaches, fans, but most importantly themselves. Please consider their ages (they aren’t even fully “cooked” yet) prior to pushing the SEND button on your articles. Thanks for the apology

Coach Stoops just told you!! (about an hr ago) He didn’t come out and defend Gundy, but made a point that how ‘its it isn’t fair that you journalists can attack them and the players, but the other way around, it is frowned upon.”

Little info in case you don’t already know: Oklahomans LOVE our college football . . . you messed up for sure!

Can we call you Connie Chung, now? Jenni Chung!!

MS Carlson,
Even in your latest video interview with your editor on OKTV, you did not take the opportunity to temper or ‘put into context’ your remarks, and you still blame it on the coach who basically ‘failed to tell you what was so wrong with your article.’ You say you’re still waiting he hear what was so wrong. Let me try.

1) You criticized a student athlete for allegedly eating a meal his mother made. You apparently don’t have kids, but do/did you even have a mother? On the now rare occasion my mom makes me something (I’m 50, she’s 85) I usually take the time to eat it. Bringing the QB’s mom into the story as a lead-in was a TOTAL DISASTER. Especially since you are trying to make him sound like a mamma’s boy. Would you prefer he was late to the bus after rushing from the latest dog-fights or late from a night at the strip clubs?

2) Then you criticize the coaches for not letting you know who was going to start in the upcoming game. Hey, is that now the job of coaches in an amateur sport? I’ll bet the PLAYERS weren’t sure who would start at QB until near game day or even close to game time. Maybe Coach Belicheck knew before you did, but I even doubt that.

So you insulted the kid by bringing in his mom to make him sound like a mamma’s boy.

Shame on you.

At least apologize to his mom. And learn something here….

Try Dan Rather. He might give you a job. He doesn’t believe in apologizing either.

I celebrate your first amendment rights, and I will follow your work to see if you gain the courage to take a healthy step back.

The huge voice you are hearing is trying to tell you that you don’t ruin young people’s future to make a salacious buck.

Two ears, one mouth, sweety.

You need to learn what you can and cannot say. First of all you have no say, you have no experience of the preasures of being a QB, you must no have kids of your own and thats to bad to.

When someone falls we supposed to encourage that they get back up and try again. This just show that you dont know what your talking about and you clearly dont have an understanding of the preasure of college football and the QB position.

I think it’s time you think about a new career, maybe and IRS auditor, that seems to be more sutiable for you.

I hope the next time you stumble (maybe your falling now) that you get whats coming to you.

What does this teach our youth. I already feel the media glorifies violence and failures of others. That why I dont pay attention.

Hopefuly no one will ever pay attention to you again.

This blog and jenni carlson are certainly no fans of the First Amendment, at least not for anyone but themselves. They scream and whine about the coach expressing his thoughts in public, and they delete comments left and right on this blog. Several of mine so far, how professional. I’ve cached each one, you cannot dissapear them to nowhere oklahoman.

I am not laughing at Gundy…I am laughing at the amateurish column left by the Oklahoman and I DO question her credibility as well as that of her editor. When I read this article, things stuck out to me that I would NEVER use in an article whether the Oklahoman is willing to man up to this or not. who uses phrases as “I suppose”, “It seems…”, “Word is”…these phrases which were spread throughout the article are that of a 3rd party assumption. “When you assume, you make an ass of u and me. It is, in my mind, the ONLY job of a sportswriter, to go to the source. Do not adlib, do not paraphrase or put words in the mouths of others or assume that YOU have the knews based on heresay comments that this athlete told this person or that person which also occurred twice at least that I counted. When you go directly to the source without equivocation, it takes out ANY doubt and both sides of the story are aware at what will be printed. It is after the fact, to ask a coach of what the “factual errors” are..they SHOULDN’T have existed from the beginning and an emailed interview or a phone call would have clarified the situation. I am 100% behind Mike Gundy and as a father of two kids, I would have my kids play under him regardless of what you think of him. Mike Gundy is a PARENT’S coach…he is NOT a babysitter, but he is a good man who I could feel 100% comfortable having my kids play for his program without blinking twice. Parents want this type of a coach for their kids. A coach who will publically go to bat for their kids against a columnist What does Ms. Carlson want anyway? Coach Gundy told her a couple of points in his rant as far as where she goofed and said what wasn’t true, did she pay attention at all to what he said? As far as getting meal from his mom, he IS still a kid. How many of you were athletes whether in HS or college? in a 4 hour game you CAN get some hunger strikes…so the hell what? Are you better than that athlete because you don’t? his mom is in the stands and he is on the sidelines..you are making a MUCH bigger issue about this than is needed. Everybody makes Coach Gundy to be enraged, I gotta say, I thought that he was direct, forward and brunt. there are times where that is called for. If I talked about anybody’s kids the way Ms. Carlson talked about Bobby Reid- I would EXPECT to get creamed as well. Ms. Reid, what will you do when your kid is playing Little League and someone BOOS him off the field?? Are you ready to deal with that? Probably NOT! People who write about sports, should be at LEAST athletes, so they have perspective as an athlete and as a team member. Gundy, I applaud you..people say what they want. You HAVE no explaniation to do, you gave two examples which were MORE than needed. A columnist should be able to read through their article and pinpoint where they went to the source, where they may have hit too hard or where they may not have reliable sources. An Editor should be twice as vigilent in that respect. If anything, this amateur athlete got a raw deal by an amateur columnist. Hopefully, people do NOT take Gundy’s rant out of context to benefit their own opinions. Hopefully, people will read it in the spirit and the letter of intent that he meant it.

The very fact that YOUR paper backs you up as well as your editor, means they are in line with your comments (especially the twice mentioned chicken comment) means that the Oklahoman has NO problem with articles that fail to go to the source. They are ok with all of the many discrepancies that you fail to see the need to correct, OR CHOOSE to not correct.

I found it humerous that this was KILLED OFF and deleted and would NOT be surprised to see this deleted as well…of course..ANYTHING served up as a critique to your professional credibility will be discounted and thrown away as being negative energy..

well if it were JUST me..that would be one thing..but I am OBVIOUSLY not the only one who feels this way!

Oh my goodness! Some of you people are ridiculous! Jenni’s
article about Reid was tamed compared to what other big
sportswriters usually write.We live in such an overly sensitive
society.She simply questioned Bobby Reids’ toughness to
make it as a QB.If anything,her article may light a fire under
the youngster’s butt and make him a bit more thick skin.
Keep writing from your heart Jenni and don’t let other’s
persuade you.If you were Jim Rome they would of treated
him different.Good that you are standing up for yourself.
You don’t own anyone an a apology.Keep writing the
good write!!

College Football might make money for the schools, but the athletes are certainly amateurs because they do not see a cent of that money and most will never be paid to play football. It would be a long shot indeed for Reid to play even in Canada. You have every right to be critical of his play, but you were very personal in your attacks. You sounded like a sad and angry woman. It was rather pathetic, and the vitriolic nature of your column made the truthfulness of the facts irrelevant.

Jenni,
I read your article and I saw your verbal response that you made with your editor. The comments you made about Reid and his mother were simply bush league and way out of line and you desrved to be called out by Gundy. I’m a coach and I would do the same. In your response you prefaced that your motivation for writing the article was to get clarification on why Reid was being replaced by Robertson at quaterback which is a crock. You are an educated adult and your motivation was to hurt and insult Mr. Reid plain and simple. If your motivation was different as you state then your article would represent that. Please do not insult the public by saying you are not in the wrong for such an article or Mr. gundy has an alternate agenda with you or he is trying to avoid the issue of the quarterback change. You are a perfect Charleton and you need to apologize to the Reid family and the OSU football program. I’m from Montana and I could care less about OSU football but, your article and responses are way out of line and in my opinion you do not deserve to be a sports journalist. Grow up young lady.

I will be praying for you Jenni. Praying that justice is served, and you are terminated from your job. GROW UP!

Jenni, you say you want to know what the inaccuracies might have been in your Saturday column on Bobby Reid. The following from one of your own seems to do quite well for me.

Richard Lindley

Don King made a statement Monday afternoon that he could only find one inaccurate thing in the Carlson piece. Let me take a wild stab at what other inaccuracies Gundy might have been alluding to:

1. Reid isn’t tough.
2. Reid can’t handle competition.
3. Reid needs to be coddled and babied.
4. Reid’s attitude is what lost him the starting job.
5. Reid’s job has been in doubt for longer than two weeks.
6. Reid doesn’t have the desire to win/compete.

All of those things were either straight up said or implied in the article. Again, if no one sees anything personal against Reid in that, then I don’t know what they’re looking at because in my opinion, the whole article was a hatchet job against a good kid.

I have no stake in this argument. I’m a TU grad. I’m not even really an OSU fan or anything. But for some reason, this article really rubbed me the wrong way because he showed just how far the media will go anymore to stir up controversy and sell papers/advertising/etc.

Chad Bonham

Ms. Carlson:

You should write for OMG rather than a sports page. Personal observations should stick to the team rather than individuals who do not have a mass media outlet to cheap shot a player by incenuating he is a mama’s boy or too sensitive or whatever.

If you want to write catty tripe like this, then submit your resume to Talk Soup and report hwo drunk Paris Hilton was this weekend — that’s more your style. I’ve never seen you suit up and smash into people, so what would you know about non-coddling anyway?

If I said, “That’s what happens when you let a chick report football,” wouldn’t be essentially the same thing you did to Reid? I think so.

you suck. this is a perfect example of why women should stay out of mens sports. a woman will never understand what its like to be a quarterback for a D-1 school. the very same reason why a man (like myself) will never write a book about pregnancy, and how all the moans and groans a woman makes, and how ‘weak’ she is because she cant take the pain. i hope you get fired. the least you could do is write an apology, but that would take balls. none of which you have thank God.

Ms. Carlson,
Everyone can see you made a hugh blunder, but your pride won’t let you admit you screwed up by attacking a amature athelte in a improper way.
At best it was mean spirited and spiteful. It was not journalism, it was tabloid.
One would not be mean spirited in asking if you have ever played any sport. I think your writings show you just do not understand sports and try to fake your way thru.

Since you obviously have so many sources and observations, whats the inside scoop on Broyles stealing gas? Did you investigate that also? After all its posted on virtually every gas pump, that its a crime. Lets see, he was driving down the street, found the key and the code which the owner says he doesnt even have. Oh yeah they were going to KFC at the time, can you check those out with the Gaylords, sure they have some insight. Or can you ask those questions to Stoops?

Pretty sad piece of “journalism” that was more akin to the crap one reads on a sports fan website than a respected magazine. Perhaps, you need a refresher course in ethics or at the least a refund.

That said, seems like you’ve fallen into the same position as your subject and have become the focus of the news instead of just reporting it. Perhaps, an olive branch to young Mr. Reid would do you both a world of good.

Ms. Carlson,
I’d like to add to the dog pile if you don’t mind. I’m not from OSU and my only interest in them was as an opponent of my beloved UGA. I have no agenda in replying to you but want you to know why you are feeling the backlash right now. Your attack on the young man in question was personal…you challenged his manhood for everyone to see and you made it personal. Your article was beyond mean-spirited…it was vicious. And now you post that you feel sorry for the young man.

Miss, I feel sorry for you as you obviously don’t get it. An apology is not necessary as it wouldn’t be heartfelt. Your resignation will do nicely as you have NO business writing articles about college athletics. You and your editor should both be looking for jobs and I hope that the economic pains that your paper suffers as a result of this will force them to ask you for your resignation. You laid a young man open for the world to see without a thought about the consequences. For you not to see the error of your ways is simply difficult to fathom.

Isn’t it great to see a journalist—or a lawyer—commit public suicide. Strange, I haven’t seen a single positive comment in your blog or any other media story in support of you or your article on Bobby Reid that triggered Mike Gundy’s tirade–just comments that Gundy went overboard. Nor have I heard even a hint of acknowledgement that you committed a cardinal sin as a “professional” journalist–maligning, abusing, badmouthing, defaming, denigrating, disparaging, smearing, and dragging through the mud a college athlete who is by all standards just a good kid—in the most despicable way possible, by evoking a racial stereotype (being fed chicken by his mother?). I even suffered through your televised rebuttal to Gundy’s tirade, looking for any recognition that you stepped over that sacred journalistic line, and saw none. Instead of acknowledging the fact that YOU personally damaged Bobby Reid with unsubstantiated references to “sources” within the OSU football family, you challenged Gundy to refute your unsubstantiated facts—not his job. By your own recklessness, you have become a pariah on the OSU campus and (inadvertently) on the OU campus, since nobody within the athletic program at either school will ever trust you again—and we all get to witness your professional suicide…drip…drip…drip. For me, and for 1000s of fans who support both OSU and OU teams whenever they play anyone but each other, you will forever be THE UGLY FAT WHITE GIRL (what’s your favorite food?) journalist with whom no one at OSU or OU will ever grant an interview again. How’s it feel to be stereotyped in public?

Ms. Carlson,

With your comments in the Austin Statesman, you reveal that you totally miss the point. By insisting that Coach Gundy specify which of your “facts” are inaccurate you skirt the issue.

Even if Bobby Reid were a 30 year old NFL quarterback using language that attacks his character and making him sound like a “baby” or a “loser” is not only poor journalism it is boorish.

What does his mother giving him something to eat have to do with sports journalism?

Perhaps most shocking of all, neither you nor your paper have offered and apology to this young man. Whether he considered transferring, etc or not is the wrong point.

Hitting below the belt with character assasination is unkind, rude, classless, clueless, careless, reprehensible, and repugnent.

Your editors showed very poor taste with your Reid editorial.

Student athletes are kids. They are growing. They are NOT professional adults.

I was very proud of Coach Gundy. I would be proud to allow my kids to be on his team.

I distinctly remember Donovan McNabb’s mom feeding what seemed to be Andy Reid’s entire team.

Where is your editorial on that?

What I want to know is why jenni is hiding now. It’s been 4 days since she last posted anything on this blog, yet she is obviously maintaining it hourly as she keeps deleting people’s comments. Who is the baby now? For god’s sake, you have zero class.

I bet Peyton Manning and Joe Montana are “momma’s boys.”

I bet a whole lot of Congressional Medal of Honor winners were momma’s boys too.

And, they’ve all done a stellar job in their areas.

So, what’s your point about Reid?

Dearest Jenni,
I put your column just where it belongs … in the dog kennel where the dogs can crap on it. Do you feel good that you stand by your comments? Why not just admit that you were wrong, you comments were extremely foolish and unsubstantiated and that you are considering taking a course in ethical jounalism and responsibility?
Why are you covering football, anyway?

Jenny Jenny I got your number…867-530-FIRED!!!

You should be immediately removed from the job! Oh wait, let’s not forget who she works for….
The JOKE-lahoman.
It’s a nothing but a platform for the Liberal left and the OU Sooners. The Sooners get the big front page story with their win over Tulsa????? No offense meant to TU, but compare the games on strenght of the opponents and strength of plays made and you get the REAL story. OSU beat Tx Tech, a Big 12 Rival AND a great team and they got attacked. OU beat TU and they get hailed the best team ever…We’ll see!

No, wait you all are getting it all wrong.

See the way it works is, Jenni gets to say whatever the heck she wants to without regard for anyone else’s dignity. And THEN she gets to turn around and cry about how HER credibility is being called out. By just about everyone in the country, it appears, after reading this blog.

Well done, Jenni. It’s not your writing that exposes you as a female journalist. It’s your inability to stand up and take your lumps like a man. And believe me, working in advertising, I’ve worked with a ton of women who are tough as nails. And they get nothing but respect for it. You should try it some time.

Being in North Carolina I am not a reader of your paper. If not for the “tirade” I would not have come to this site. I have read several comments and see that your readers feel your journistic integrity and abilities are greatly in question. I’m sorry to say they are accurate in their assesment. But what is of greater concern to me for the “journalistic” profession is the lack of oversight and judgement exhibited by the editors. I expect an inexperienced reporter to make mistakes and insert opinion in a news article but I do not expect editors to allow such poor methods, opinions and heresay to make it beyond the Op-Ed page. Perhaps I expect too much from a profession that holds themselves in such high regard.

Comments deleted again:

I will just keep posting this as jenni feels she needs to constantly delete comments, stifling others’ free speech while whining about her own, frigging hypocrite.

My comments are apparently being deleted because I said that from the looks of ms. carlson, her mom has been feeding her an awful lot of chicken.

This comment will disappear in 3…2…

IRONY

Here are the Oklahoman’s posting rules:

“Rules of comment posting
All comments are monitored and will be removed in a timely manner if they include profanity, PERSONAL ATTACKS or threats. Repeat offenders risk having their commenting privileges revoked and their IP address blocked.

Thank you for your compliance,
Web Editor | NewsOK.com”

Apparently they have no problem with their “journalists” personally attacking people in their newspaper though. What a bunch of hypocrites!!

It’s humorous to find such esteemed individuals (or at least some of you people leaving comments think you are) become nothing more than the thing they are antagonizing Jenni for. Take of your orange colored sunglasses and realize that Gundy might have gone a little over the edge. The guy with the Ph. D. that expects an apology, I sure hope the Ph. D. isn’t in “communication”. Just because you have a doctorate in philosophy doesn’t make you worth more to society, so quit trying to act like your desperation attempt for a resounding apology isn’t anything but heroic.

As for the rest of you, it isn’t necessary to comment. It is apparent that your lacking of understanding and reason have fallen far beyond that of the human cognitive. I strongly hope that after you wrote this nonsense you left the computer feeling refreshed and brilliant. Only to find out, the things you are saying are exponentially worse than a structured newspaper column of which its only purpose was to evoke this reaction from you.

K. Mac,

I bet your answers to essay questions in high school were labelled “flowery” by your teachers, weren’t they?

You are a true idiot…not salvagable by any human standards. Classic Drive by media assasin.GET A LIFE!

you deserved what the coach gave you and more.

Please read Jaon Witlock’s article on this in the Kansas City Star.

So hours after bashing Bobby Reid with a bunch of bull, Jenni Carlson was sympathetic with him. Wow.

Well she knows she is in the wrong. I cancelled my subscription to the Oklahoman today. Mike Gundy is 100% in the right.

Great piece! It is refreshing to find an objective sports writer. So many sports writers lost site of the bigger issue and viewed this as an attack on all sports writers. Coming to Jeni Carlson’s defense. Those actions did nothing but validate what many have always believed journalist in general, an particularly sports writers are void of objectivity.

I would just say this. making it short. your writing is just why women Or men who don’t know a footabll froma basketball should not be writing about football.
and i hope you treat your kids better.
Byron

One less subcriber to this paper. All because of your blatant ignorance.

I’ve stayed away from your articles in the past due to their simplicity and, frankly, ignorance of sports in general. Now I will stay away from the paper completely.

You will soon find that the reading public matters very much in your day-to-day life. Once you are gone, perhaps some of the subscribers who have jumped will come back.

Bet you’ll think twice before you go down this road again, young lady. Best of luck!

Jenni,

I reviewed your article, the tirade from Gundy that it generated, and the response of support from your editor. Like the majority of the modern media, it appears you have struck a chord with the public and are being actively supported by the media at large in staying the course of your decision to take a personal slant on an NCAA athlete. The article is out there, the action cannot be undone, but perhaps some personal review of the right response might be in order.

The reasoning I heard from you concerning why you were compeled to write the Reid article in question was reported as 1) NCAA athletes are “semi-pro” level individuals 2) No athletes are off limits in the public realm or 3) I was justified in my comments due to editorial support.

The rest of America is watching, and assorted sport shows, media outlets, and editorial staffs are debating the situation between you and Coach Gandy in earnest. It might be said that this situation has become a “litmus test” for reporters in sports…but it is more likely a launchpad for reporters everywhere to begin their own attack edged stories on individuals in any situation…utilizing much of your own three basic excuses.

You have an opportunity to do the right thing…not for Coach Gandy…but for 1 ) collegiate sports in general 2) Mr. Reid’s parents and 3) Mr. Reid himself…who will likely become simply another citizen after his collegiate career is over.

So…do the right thing. Apologize to this young man ( in spite of your editor ), meet with his family and ask forgiveness, and redeem yourself as a human being. Because in spite of what editors, journalistic pundits, or news outlets saw as “reasonable”, a human insult was leveled ( regardless of your intent ) and you need to reset the course of your relationship with the injured family…and those other folks which, like you, only wish to make a living and respect our neighbors.

No doubt you have some journalistic skills…but you are also a human being…as is Mr. Reid and his parents. Justifying your article will not correct this wrong, nor will falling back on editorial support. Until you back up and correct this you will never be a true “professional” again…at least not in the eyes of a human society.

Go ahead…just say, ” I’m sorry”…it can’t be that hard…and your own mother would be proud of you.

Unfortunate that you had to write such a poor article. It was in bad taste and with little thought. I can honestly say that I really don’t like you. I am sure you don’t care but it just goes to show that you are a lousy reporter. And please note that I don’t really like Gundy!!!

I like how your blog totally contradicts what you wrote in the article a couple hours earlier. That’s cute.

jenni

your article was out of line. not only was most of your article based on hearsay, but you interpreted the “body language” of every thing to fit your twisted reality. I think you should be tied to the goalpost and left there for a few weeks until you’ve learned to respect other human beings.

That a mistake was made is obvious. To continue to compound that mistake is simply ludicrous. To continue to compound that mistake by the leaders of this news organization is beyond inexcusable.

Without doubt, this is a young lady who is obviously in the wrong career. Many of us have written that this incident is the catalyst for canceling our subscriptions. Personally, I’m canceling because of the situation as well as to hopefully send a message…this young lady should be fired, and The Oklahoman will not have my support EVER again until she is!

It seems, however, that this message is not being received. Therefore I intend to see how much I can do by contacting the advertisers in this newspaper and letting them know that I also will not utilize their services as long as this reporter continues to have a voice with this organization; as long as someone who can write something so unkind, classless and repugnant is still given an opportunity to voice her ignorance.

Some of the links or numbers to advertisers are as follows, in case you want to join me:

- Cox – http://www.coxbusiness.com/fall07/index.html?cid=localbanner
- FrontRowFans – http://www.frontrowfans.com/public/index.aspx
- Oklahoma Cadillacs – http://www.okc650.com/
- Chili’s – http://www.chilis.com/menu/
- Bob Moore Auto Group – http://www.bobmoore.com/
- Champion Tinting – 405-947-9800
- Fowler Dodge – 866-497-2222
- Alan Gordon Jewelers – 405-848-1688
- Saint Anthony’s – http://www.saintsok.com/internet/home/saintsok.nsf/?Open
- Church of the Harvest – http://www.harvestokc.com/conferences/momentum/

I don’t think I would feel as strongly if there wasn’t a history here of very poor “reporting.” It’s just ridiculous that she still has the support of her editors when the history so easily proves itself.

Ditto entries 1 through 10 above (and all the rest calling you out). You would be well served to just leave Oklahoma sports reporting behind and move on. You might have a chance with sports in Oklahoma if you demonstrate publically that you “get the message” about the baseless and tasteless tone of your article. Additionally, follow that up with a consistent track record of responsible, fair minded reporting. Short of that, I think you’ll be forced to find a “better fit” in which to practice your trade. “All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me. . . . You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you”. –Walt Disney

I saw your editor’s response to the outrage of your article. Now I understand how your piece of drivel made the paper. I hope that the people of Oklahoma and your sponsors will take you to task for your non-response to this issue. If the good folks in Oklahoma don’t hit you in the wallet for this one, I’ll be more than disappointed. Shame on you Miss Carlson.

Jenni,
Sorry to hear you take such a bashing over your article. I for one believe that Mike Gundy was way out of line with his tirade against you. What he did was out of control and extremely unprofessional to say the least. I feel that it would have been
much more appropriate if he would have discussed his displeasure with you privately. That would have shown more class. His uncontrolled anger and outburst makes us (Oklahomans) look bad to the national audience.

However, if “the kid” truly has “done nothing wrong”, why is he not the starter? I think that is a question that a lot of people would like an answer to. And, the kid comment bugs me a little. I mean come on, most 21, 22 year olds don’t want to be thought of, or called a “kid.” They are old enough to serve their country and to vote-that’s not exactly a kid. As far as any heartbreak, Bobby has apparently brought it on himself since he was benched.

I can see where some of your comments might have stirred up a hornets nest in Stillwater but you are entitled to your opinion and shouldn’t be beat up for them. Hang in there as this too shall pass.
Sincerely,
Dave
Cordell

Dave, why should Gundy have to express his displeasure privately while ms. carlson is allowed to express hers very publically? Why the double standard? Why is ms. carlson entitled to her opinion, and Gundy is not?! So you are standing with ms. carlson and the Oklahoman, free speech for them, not for the targets of their attacks. Talk about class.

Jeff, Post 173, that’s a great idea! To let this go is unreprehensible. I think I’ll call some of the advertisers as well. Hit them in the wallet since they are apparently so compelled to circle the wagons around such an elementary piece of writing. Nice work!

I’m glad to have read that you have somewhat of a compassion towards Bobby Reid. However, a public apology towards him would be a lot more human than downplaying with another column. This whole ordeal has giving you and Mike Gundy the public spotlight and you both should be ashamed for embrassing your employer. I like the idea Gundy had of defending his player, but his actions were unprofessional. I like the idea of an employer(The Daily Oklahoman) defending their employee but I believe you were unprofessional towards Bobby Reid. I disagree with people thinking that these College kids especially upperclassmen are kids. Most of the junior class is of legal drinking age, according to our federal government, we are men at 18. I know at the age of 18 I was earning a paycheck, living in a foreign country, and before I was Bobby Reid age, I was fighting in a real war not the type of war which is grossly use in the world of sports. However, if you remember football is a team sport and not an individual one then the joy of beating Texas Tech would be the story.

BH,
I’m just saying that it would have been more professional if Mike would have taken the issue up with her privately. He could have made a decision to “take the high road” instead of the melt down.
Her job, as a newspaper reporter is pretty much a public entity so anything she writes is therefore public in nature.
My point is Mike showed uncontrolled anger and was way out of control in his reaction to the story. I’m glad that he feels the need to stand up for his “kids” as that is quite admirable. But, out of control anger and total lack of professionalism has no place for a coach of his level.
Now, I’m not saying that I agree with everything in Jenni’s article either. But, I think the “beating” she’s taking is pretty over-the-top.
Also, I think Mike should be a little bit more forthcoming as to why Reid is not the starter. I’m not buying the comment that Bobby “didn’t do anything wrong.” Otherwise, he would be starting at OSU.
Dave

Congratulations, Jenni! You’re now the most famous hack in sports journalism.

Dave,
Based on the reaction of people around the country. I think he hit the nail on the head and took exactly the right approach. it’s about time someone called out the media when they screw up and a survey of public opinion seems to show that most think Ms. Carlson screwed up royally. I’ll say it again. I hope the advertisers will think twice before giving financial backing to the DOK. Watching the editor’s tepid resopnse to this fiasco and his argument that priorities are misplaced made me want to puke ©Mike Gundy. This whole thing would be funny if it weren’t so tragic. I am amazed that they have not done damage control and instead have chosen to stand behind what most find to be abhorrent behavior.

Jim

Another point to consider in comparing the “follies” of Gundy and Jenni is that Jenni had plenty of time to write, edit, reflect and even defend (to an editor) her article before it was published. Gundy was apparently shooting from the hip right after an emotional game. So, I give Gundy a pass on his behavior because I feel he was at least on message–and he didn’t have the time to prepare and “finesse” his words like Jenni did. Jenni, on the other hand, still doesn’t get how inappropriate her article was–even with the avalanche of negative feedback. Score: Gundy-1, Jenni-0. I wonder how Reid and OSU are faring?

Thank BH, #159
IRONY

Here are the Oklahoman’s posting rules:

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All comments are monitored and will be removed in a timely manner if they include profanity, PERSONAL ATTACKS or threats. Repeat offenders risk having their commenting privileges revoked and their IP address blocked.

Thank you for your compliance,
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Apparently they have no problem with their “journalists” personally attacking people in their newspaper though. What a bunch of hypocrites!!

I guess what upset me the most is how you assumed he was a soft, mommas boy and not a tough warrior. He and his mother probably do not see each other much and have a tight relationship. So what if she feeds him chicken, you must not be that close to your mother or have any children. Some times a coach has to make a change to make a change. If his offense is not working then a new leader on the field may make that difference.

I don’t know anything about Reid but I didn’t find your article to be an unfair attack at all. It was your view, which is what a columnist is supposed to offer. Then the reader can decide. What I find more interesting is what you unintentionally exposed about Mike Gundy. He lacks the self-control, judgment and leadership it takes to be the coach of a top-flight program. If he pops a nut over something like this, how will he react when he faces a real crisis? Also, he is the second “big time” coach I’ve heard question a woman’s credibility based on her record of child bearing. I guess having children is what makes him a real man and qualifies him to be a coach.

Anyone else tired of hearing about this? Mr. Gundy, its nice you care about the team, every coach should. However, learn how to speak in public sir. Your public apperences, especially this one was much to be desired. Awesome game sir but you blew it for the rest of the team, you forgot about them! You should have praised them for an awesome job instead of flying off the handle and walking off like a child. As an OU Fan i enjoyed this game, the OSU team played hard and it was a sweet win. AWESOME JOB TEAM! Now, Get off your soap box, set a meeting with Mz. Carlson and resolve this childish issue. Mz Carlson, the facts, state the facts and only the facts please. I didnt read the article, and actually im not interested due to all on this mess. Lets get with it folks! Go OU!

Dave—#180

You say that it’s ok for ms. carlson to make her comments in public because her job is a public entity…Gundy’s is not? Bull. His job as a coach is a “public” job as well. You go on to say that Gundy should be more forthcoming about why Reid is not starting, why? If his job is not “public” like ms. carlson’s, then he shouldn’t have to tell anyone anything. He shouldn’t need to do his post game press conferences, interviews, etc… What a load of crap, what it comes down to is ms. carlson gets to speak her mind, and make no mistake about it that is all she did, speak her own opinion with zero facts to back it up, and Gundy is expected to sit back and say nothing lest it be in private. Once again, what a load of crap. His job is just as “public” if not moreso than hers, he is required to go in front of the press and explain his actions and explain why he does his job the way he does it on a regular basis, I don’t see carlson being held accountable in any way resembling that! I don’t see carlson being made to explain why she did her job so poorly, like Gundy would be made to do. There is an undeniable double-standard at play here, and YOU are defending it. Hypocrites; carlson, the Oklahoman, and you Dave.

BH,

You seemed to have missed the point entirely. Did you not read my post saying that I didn’t agree with everything Jenni wrote? I’m not saying she is completely right but she is entitled to her opinion as a sports writer. Yes, I thought the chicken comment was out of line but some of her questions about Reid are very credible and worthy of asking. I think a lot of people are asking the same thing. What’s up? Why did Reid get benched?
Also, Mike is a professional college coach not an WWE smack down character. I think he was very unprofessional in his total melt down. He could have chosen to “take the high road” and not stooped to the level that you obviously think Jenni Carlson did. That would have been really impressive on his part. He could have called her on the carpet without losing total control of himself. That would have truly been admirable. His out of control anger showed him to be somewhat of a “kid” himself. I guarantee you that you’ll never see Bob Stoops acting that way at a press conference.
I think it would be really impressive if Mike and Jenni both apologized to each other and go on down the road. And, Mike should apologize to the team for losing control of his emotions and not mentioning their hard-fought win over Texas Tech.
Dave

Dave, BRAVO!!!!

As a completely impartial individual, I only have a few comments about the Bobby Reid situation.

BH,

Once again, you’ve missed my point. Gundy has every right to call her out in public. But, his out-of-control yelling and screaming at a woman was plain wrong. He could chosen to shown more class by not blowing up like that. Or, he could have spoken with her privately. I’m not saying that he can’t express his opinion in public. My biggest objection is his public meltdown that makes not only Mike, but OSU and all of Oklahoma look bad.
Hey, I went to high school with Mike and his sister Carrie. I like Mike, his family and am proud of a former Bomber whose made as a big time college ball coach. But, he’s really hurt himself and his reputation by the way he responded. Think about it BH. He was yelling and screaming at a woman like a “kid.” He is, as he says, a 40 year old man. He should have shown the professionalism and restraint to control that raw anger. He could have called Jenni on the carpet, told her what a lousy job she did, etc, without losing control. That would have shown true intelligence on his part. He is a professional and should act like one. Does he have a right to be angry? Of course he does! But, he has a choice in how he responds and in that situation, without a doubt, he blew it big time!
Dave

Amazing. You are a newspaper journalist. NOT AN ATHLETE. What do you know about being tough? Anything? From the looks of it, it just seems like the only tough decisions in your life are about what you’re going to eat next……Sorry, but that’s just my journalistic opinion.

O yea, and I got that info from my “source” = I pulled that out of my butt

Your article contains the phrases

“…If you believe the rumors and the rumblings…”
“…stories told on the sly…”
“Word is…”

And your editor ran it? You’re a hack, and your editor is an imbecile. Since you don’t have any facts, this story should have never gone past the draft folder on your laptop – oh yeah, where did your son play his Big 12 ball and did you ever show up and support him??? Probably not, but then, you probably had no toys as a child yourself…

Carlson is an excellent writer who consistently paints great word pictures.

Reid is a man, even though Gundy treats him like a boy.

Carlson knows plenty about being tough–she’s quite successful in what is typically a man’s profession. And she has to withstand all this mindless blathering. And respond to it in a professional manner.

Reid and Gundy know about being tough, but so far it doesn’t appear that they know how to respond to tough situations.

Carlson’s only problem is that she doesn’t use the word “trifecta” in all her columns.

Wow… you don’t have many positive remarks. Now it’s time to be accountable. Are you professional enough. They may not like you or what you wrote, but at least your respect might be salvaged if you hold yourself accountable…. but maybe it is just easier to live in your own fantasy world and hide behind your gender.

It is funny how reporters lie and call it something else. You report on someone, have you ever looked in the mirror? How about reporting about yourself and all of your character flaws (which there are many of). Quite frankly, you wrote the article to get attention, sad but true. You reap what you sew, so be ready for when you get yours someday.

“# billy Says:
September 27th, 2007 at 12:57 pm

Carlson is an excellent writer who consistently paints great word pictures.

Reid is a man, even though Gundy treats him like a boy.

Carlson knows plenty about being tough–she’s quite successful in what is typically a man’s profession. And she has to withstand all this mindless blathering. And respond to it in a professional manner.

Reid and Gundy know about being tough, but so far it doesn’t appear that they know how to respond to tough situations.

Carlson’s only problem is that she doesn’t use the word “trifecta” in all her columns.”

LOL must be her bf’s comments!!!LOL

Jenny,

To question the character of an athlete is acceptable, but your column was over the top. Your repeated denegration of Reid and condescending attitude went beyond the pale. I do not normally read the Daily Disappointment, but after the donnybrook that this column inspired, I went to the “source” to find out exactly you wrote and form an educated opinion.

As a writer you should know the difference between FACT and OPINION and your choice of words should make the two transparent. Your comments to several media outlet indicate that one of the following is true:

1) You do not understand the difference between fact and opinion.

2) You are intentionally misleading the public as to your facts and your opinions.

3) You are calling Mr. Gundy and Mrs. Reid liars.

so my help to you is:

1) Fact = A real occurance or event; something true or actual; observable or verifiable information

Opinion = an individual’s personal belief unsupstaniated by proof

2) FACT: “Reid’s mother feed him chicken after the game”
OPINION: “Reid acts as if he wants to be feed by his mommy.”

FACT: “The decision to bench him was made early in the week”
OPINION: “I believe the decision was made much earlier.”

3) Can’t help you with this one. Primary sources and all.

Why did you have to get into a college athlete’s personal life. You are being such a jerk for that and its a wonder the newspaper has not fired you. You cannot go after a person’s manhood or reputation like that. What if I went into your house and told and made up all of these outlandish lies about you? Would you like it? I do not think so. Next time do not be so claseless. By the way the only one gutless here is you.

An interview with Bobby Reid’s mother appeared on Channel 9 (OKC) last night. She said that the report of her feeding Bobby chicken after the Troy game was a lie.

Check this out–mom’s reaction: http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=sports&id=5677281

The basis of Jenni’s story is not only shameless, but fabricated. Why?

Don’t like the Sooners nor the Cowboys. In fact, I loathe the state of Oklahoma. I can certainly add you and your writing to that list. Your unskilled journalism needs a make over. Just apologize for making up the story and get on with life before they send you to Alaska to report on the movement of glaciers.

you have to feel for the kid? are you kidding? I feel for the kid not because he lost the starting job, but because your cheap shot exponentially increased his embarrassment, needlessly, callously, malisciously– do lose sleep over this- except I know that the only way you can live with your actions is to maintain your self righteous attitude– then again, when was the last time hearing a journalist say I went over the line— I hope God delivers to you what you have delivered to others– ps- grow up

THIS WHOLE THING DETRACTS FROM THE THE PROUD TRADITION OF OKLAHOMA COLLEGE FOOTBALL ( WHICH IS ALL WE HAVE) BOTH SHOULD KISS AND MAKE UP. AS AN OKLAHOMAN AND A FOOTBALL FAN LETS SAY SHE SCREWED UP AND HE FREAKED OUT. LETS GET BACK TO FOOTBALL SEASON AND STOP THIS STUPIDITY.

Jenni,

It’s unbelievable to me that you don’t get how you were way off base with your article. You say it wasn’t your intention to embarrass Bobby Reid. No, not embarrass, but rather emasculate, humiliate, demean and defame. You must be smart enough to see this. It’s not “the facts” that are the issue–it’s the negative image you created of “Bobby Reid” with a vivid portrayal of hearsay and anecdotes in a feeble attempt to explain something of which you had no real clue.

It’s your article that is creating all the fuss. And it’s your inability to admit your folly that is perpetuating this issue. I’ve read many comments from people all over the country, who could care less about college football or the debate about how much athletes should be scrutinized, that are aghast at what you wrote—just like me. This is a matter of common sense, human decency and sound reporting—nothing else. You crossed the line and you are being called out.

Gundy’s reaction was certainly sensational, and gives rise to its own scrutiny, but it has mostly served as the vehicle to bring attention to your shoddy piece of work.

I will be very interested to see how you, and your employer, handle this issue moving forward. I don’t think this issue will pass soon for you, or your employer. You could, however, accelerate the “healing” if you were to admit you recklessly hurt Bobby Reid with your story—with your words. Can you really not see how your words were hurtful? It is just common sense that a football player would be hurt by your portrayal of “the facts.”

And can’t you see you were reckless by using second-hand information and hearsay to support your account of “the facts”? Ok, here is a litmus test as to whether you were reckless with your words or not. Step back from the fray—read your article again, let yourself envision the image of the “made-up” person you portrayed in your article. Then ask yourself, “Do I know this to be the real Bobby Reid.? Do I have a relationship with Bobby Reid and a history of personal experience with him that conjures up the same image that I portrayed in my article?” If your honest answer is, “yes” to both questions, then your article is at least true for you, and not reckless. And if that’s the case you should be honest with us and say, “Hey, I knew what I wrote would be hurtful, but this is MY impression of Bobby Reid and it’s a reasonable explanation as to why he was benched, so I back it–the truth hurts.” But you are saying you didn’t intend to embarrass Bobby Read and that you were just speculating, tiling up the back stories, as to why the sudden switch. If that’s true, Jenni, you are indeed reckless with your words (and clueless) because you more than embarrassed Bobby Reid (and his family).

Now, do you really not get that your article was personally hurtful to Bobby Reid and that you were reckless with “the facts”? Unbelievable!

Please come clean.

Jenni,
I hope you have read the article in the Kansas City newspaper written by your former colleague, Mr. Whitlock. I thought it eloquently presented the best perspective on this situation. Please take his advice and apologize.
As a college basketball coach’s wife, I completely understood Coach Gundy’s reaction. I was impressed that he refrained from using any expletives. By the way, it had nothing to do with your gender.
When I started reading the article Saturday morning, all I could think about was that I hoped Bobby Reid’s mother wasn’t reading it. It must have been heartbreaking for her.
As far as the “chicken” comment is concerned, my husband laughed and said, “All my players would have been trying to get some of the chicken”. Obviously you don’t understand that college players’ mothers usually bring them their favorite things to eat when they visit. That is what mothers do and the players love it! I make my husband’s players browies on their birthdays. Does that make them soft? I certainly hope not.

Jenni:

I have had alot of respect for you during my high school years of playing softball at a small school who I was proud to be apart of 7 state scholarships, and I also remember you writing some colums about our team that was great!!!

You’re colum about Bobby Reid, is awful!! You did a great job making headlines..but You are no better than the dirt Bobby Reid walks on and I agree that you owe a huge apology to his family.

Im 19 and a COLLEGE ATHLETE in SOFTBALL….and Im PROUD to be an Oklahoman…but to have you an editor of the sports page for the news paper..IM NOT PROUD OF ANYMORE!! You are low…and degrading and should be ashamed of yourself.

Reggie Roby, above…man you need to get a life. Debating all of this is one thing, but you really need some help. Seriously.

I am not an OSU fan but applaud Gundy for the way he stood up for Reid. The article when I read it was blurry and yes the eating chicken comment… well who cares (even if true).

Then the injury against Florida Atlantic appeared minor — whatever it was? Some of the worst injuries may not appear critical, if you don’t know what the injury was how can you say. Are you a doctor? While other injuries that make you hold your breath and fear as they may need help or a stretcher and get back in the game as just the air was knocked out of them.

If you were in court and you told the judge someones injuries appeared minor the cross examiner would ask if you are a doctor. Come on! That is what caught my eye when I first saw the paper more than anything “Whatever it was”.

Jenni,

I have been a sports fan for more than 40 years. I used to be a big fan of reading newspapers, especially OpEd pieces. But I stopped reading them long ago because I have seen the scope of your profession change dramatically.

I can’t remember a worse column. Really, I can’t.

You have stated publicly that you feel Coach Gundy is questioning your credibility, and you want him to point out what’s wrong with your piece. Here’s why your credibility is being questioned.

You REPORTED:
“”The coaches made a decision,” Reid told our Mike Baldwin after the Troy game. “I just have to go with it, get better and get back on the field.”

You CONCLUDED:
There’s something to be said for not being a malcontent, but you can almost see Reid shrugging his shoulders as he says those words. Does he have the fire in his belly? Or does he want to be coddled, babied, perhaps even fed chicken?

As a reader, I am left to wonder what sources have led you to such an over-the-top conclusion about Reid’s character. So I go back and reread your story, only to find the sources are “word is”, “rumors and rumblings”, “insiders”, and stories “on the sly”. You don’t have anything on the record, not even so much as someone going on the record but speaking under the condition of anonymity.

The fact is, Jenni, your credibility should be questioned under these circumstances.

Hard to believe you stand by your conclusions. There is nothing here to stand on.

You are writing about a quarterback who was demoted. Yet the words “pass”, “completion percentage”, “interception”, “touchdown”, “yards rushing” are never mentioned in the story. As a reader, I am left wondering what this story is all about. Then I remember that the headline on the paper Coach Gundy held up at his press conference said, “QB CHANGE: IT’S ALL ABOUT ATTITUDE”.

Yet even you reported Reid was not “a malcontent”.

So now, as a reader, I am left wondering what this is REALLY all about. And, as a reader, I honestly can’t find anything, except to say it looks like an attempt to ridicule someone. You shouldn’t be the least surprised that anyone in a leadership position would vehemently react to someone publicly ridiculing a subordinate.

I am a total outsider and a manager of people. That said, I thought Gundy restrained himself quite a bit. I wouldn’t have been nearly as measured in my comments.

If you want to stand by over-the-top, mean-spirited conclusions- with no focus on actual performance- supported by no one who’ll go on record, the best I can wish you is luck. You’ll certainly need plenty of it.

BTW… a public apology from you is CLEARLY in order here. You are not a victim. You are a person who is reaping what she has sown.

“All comments are monitored and will be removed in a timely manner if they include profanity, personal attacks or threats. Repeat offenders risk having their commenting privileges revoked and their IP address blocked.

Thank you for your compliance,

Web Editor | NewsOK.com” …

Interesting these rules don’t apply to the “staff” of NewsOK.

“no matter what you think about Reid’s play to this point, you have to feel for the kid” – Jenni Carlson

Hmmm. Copy and paste right out of this very blog. SHE called him a “kid”, but when Gundy called him a kid, so many objected. Double standard?

Dear Jenni Carlson:
I am disappointed in you. You have, for all to see, confirmed why sports reporters deserve to be shoved back after all the shoving you do through you pen strokes. Then when you get shoved, you cry on national TV. In my opinion, you need to go find a new career. You have obviously never played football and have no right to make the comments you do about people. I’m proud of Coach Gundy and I believe the applause of your colleagues clearly highlights you crossed the line.
It would be great to see someone fall on their own sword when they clearly have made a mistake. Unfortunately, I don’t see you doing this.

Good Luck!

Wow, so now it’s ok to attack a person who responds to the reporter’s blog? Mr. Hemsath feels free to call another responder a moron – is that how it works? I apologize if someone was offended my credentials. (By the way the Ph.D. is from OU.) Responses like his belong on message boards – that’s why I don’t spend any time there. I think it’s interesting that responses can be copied from one paper’s blog site to another. You can re-read Mr. Hemsath’s response in the Tulsa World pages as well. (Except for calling me a moron, everything else is the same. Personal attacks don’t belong here, but this is the only place I could respond. Maybe that’s how Mike Gundy felt when he felt there was no other place to respond to an equally “cheap shot.”

Jenni, why have you not responded to the overwhelmingly negative responses to your blog? Are you afraid to admit you may have crossed a line? I am not saying Coach Gundy was right, but you have to at least acknowledge you screwed up. You are getting skewered by radio shows and colunms across the country (those who are not following the journalist’s fraternaty like lemmings). You need to say something Jenni or your credibility is going to keep taking a hit and I would hate to see what a set down from the Oklahoman is.

To sum up my original post

1. Jenni thinks she knows sports cause she played catch in the backyard with her dad a couple of times.

2. She is clueless much like her cousin Jen Engle in Dallas who thinks she can write… but cant.. ie “camp cupcake”

3. Jenni should sell Mary K and or Avon instead of writing sports

are you kidding me jenni you need to resign you are a terrible writer and a terrible human being just give up

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