Rant is one of those words that gets thrown about too much lately – it’s used in comedy, in poetry and, most egregiously, in the headlines of tabloid sites.
So, the first time I see somebody posting on facebook “So and so went on a rant” I usually ignore it even if it’s somebody I’m interested in. But after you see it several times in quick succession, you realize that something has touched a nerve and might be worth watching.
Also, I must admit, I haven’t followed American football for many years, so I’d never heard of Richard Sherman until an hour or so ago. Still, hoping to see something glaringly offensive, like maybe he mooned the fans, or physically attacked somebody, I clicked on the video.
Scary Black Man Richard Sherman
When you analyze what he said, it makes no sense at all that commenters on the internet are flipping out about how he’s the worst person in the world and a poor role model for children and he should be banned from the league and worse.
All he said was “I’m the best cornerback in the universe and I beat Crabtree and neener neener neener in his face.” (those were not the exact words, but pretty close) What everybody was reacting to was his tone of voice, his aggressive manner, but come on. It’s football. It’s testosterone.
I think part of the problem is that the reporter was clearly a bit shocked and offended and lots of people felt sorry for her, the sweet, little, white, girl reporter intimidated by the huge, scary, black man with the wild dreadlocks talking a little bit crazy.
But it was nothing. He wasn’t yelling at her. If she was intimidated, it’s because she misunderstood.
It reminded me a bit of Muhammed Ali, but even a bit more of Mr. T. It was basically his “I pity the fool…” speech.
Looking forward to the Super Bowl.
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