Try this: On 10/15, since our game will almost surely be the CBS game, pay attention to Danielson. See how many times he references the Alabama coach as simply "Nick" as opposed to "Saban." That's just one drop in a sea of examples, but it's enough to make him slimy. He's supposed to be a neutral observer, which means not acting like you're on a first-name basis with a coach, even if you are. He's up Kirby Smart's rearend the same way. It's like he's a professional commentator suffering from hero worship.
Secondly, Gary is just so freaking grating. You're right that I (and many others) just don't like what he says. However, it's not just because he's speaking truth to us lowly viewers who've never played college football and need to be graced with his knowledge. It's his smarmy, know-it-all attitude. He literally never shuts up. Sometimes he should just stop talking.
I really miss the days of Ron Franklin and Mike Gottfried on ESPN games. IMO, they were hands down the best college football broadcasting duo that ESPN has ever employed. Sorta like Brad Nessler and Jimmy Dykes on the basketball side. And, speaking of Dykes, he is a guy who is very knowledgeable about the game, shares his knowledge, and doesn't come across as a pompous jerk when he does it. Nor does he ever allow his bias to show. Danielson could learn a lot from him.
I really like what you are saying here and agree 100%, although I think you should have thrown in a few fizzles, shizzleheads and Douchebags here & there.....
