The interview process in media is an interesting one, especially when it comes to the sports world. While some happen organically or organizationally through press conferences or other discussions, others are scheduled with the purpose of promoting a message or a product.
On Friday, New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams joined “The Jim Rome Show” to promote College Colors Day. The event was a celebration of football led by the Collegiate Licensing Company. And according to Rome, the interview did not go as expected.
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According to Rome, the Jets defensive lineman was late to the interview. And when the former ESPN host tried to discuss anything outside of that topic, he was shut down by Williams. When asked what the New York defensive lineman thought about teammate Aaron Rodgers, the Jets’ star kept his answer short.
“He’s an amazing person, man. But I am just here to speak on College Colors Day,” stated Williams.
That didn’t sit well with Rome, who quickly cut the interview short and later went on a tirade about the incident.
“Do you really think that I would bring you on this show only to talk about your product? Do you think I care that much about that product? Or even at all?” Rome said ferociously. “Come on and just get a bunch of free advertising that other people pay for. My guy, that’s not how that’s done. Without totally losing it and going off, I want to reiterate, great player and really good dude, very poor execution.”
That’s not all Rome had to say, however. The senior radio host doubled down on his disappointment in the segment, citing Williams’ inability to properly promote the product when given the opportunity.
“If you’re not going to talk about anything but the pitch, which is already bad, bad form, when I get to the pitch, you should at least be ready to talk about the pitch,” Rome fumed. “Jets gonna Jet. I hate that. That’s such a bad experience, because I had such a good experience with him the last time I spoke with him. And I know that’s a good dude. That’s a great player and a good dude who just had a really bad appearance on ‘The Jungle.’”
Rome’s frustration likely stems more from the marketing reps who helped coordinate the interview. However, it’s hard to argue that either side is wrong in this instance.
Williams was only obligated to speak about the event he was there to help promote, while Rome’s frustrations are also understandable. It remains to be seen if this incident stunts future cross-promotion between the two parties.
