CBS doesn't want to be "America's Most Watched Network"

Apparently, the slipper no longer fits.

According to Sports Illustrated's Richard Deitsch, Gus Johnson and CBS Sports could not agree on a new contract now that Johnson's current contract has ended. The New York Daily News is reporting that the end is not official yet -- they said that Johnson's people have not yet shown CBS executives the offer that he has received from FOX Sports to call Pac-12 football games -- but the feeling seems to be that it is only delaying the inevitable.

What can we say that has not already been said about Gus Jeezy?


The man epitomizes the NCAA Tournament. He perspires excitement. He makes any game that he is on the call a must-watch. There is a reason that we dubbed him Mr. March Madness. I can honestly say that a majority of my most memorable NCAA Tournament moments are simply the result of Gus Jeezy's call. Not only is he hands down the most popular play-by-play man that college basketball has, but he is a brand in and of himself. How many announcers have enough notoriety to start their own clothing line?

None do.

That's the point.

And that's why everyone would be devastated if CBS were to allow another network to swoop in and outbid them for Mr. March Madness.

The NCAA Tournament will live on no matter who calls the games. The excitement of the first weekend of games will not wane without Gus Johnson flexing his vocal chords. The drama of a 13 seed making the Sweet 16 doesn't hinge on a guy in a suit sitting at half court. CBS still has plenty of talented play-by-play announcers -- Iain Eagle, Kevin Harlan -- to call the games.

Its like The Office without Michael Scott. The show will go on, but it just won't be the same.

So please, CBS, I beg of you: throw Gus Jeezy a couple of Ricky Roe duffel bags.

He is well worth the investment.

----------------------------------------------------------------

We counted down our ten favorite calls from Gus Johnson prior to the start of the NCAA Tournament. Seriously, go watch them. I just wasted the last 15 minutes listening to every single one. And I'm dead serious when I say 'listening'. Play the youtube clips on mute, and then play them with the volume full blast.

Which is better?