In an explosive moment on “The Dan Le Batard Show,” producer Mike Ryan unleashed a passionate tirade against former NFL quarterback and current broadcaster Boomer Esiason over comments suggesting Olympic athletes should “pipe down” about their feelings toward representing America.
The firestorm began after Esiason, discussing figure skating on his own show, stated: “Not everybody is (happy to represent America), but you know, everybody should just pipe down and just do their sport and play for our country and respect the flag and respect everything that’s going on.”
That comment ignited a deeply personal response from Ryan, who interpreted the phrase “pipe down” as coded language meant to silence athletes with legitimate concerns.
“Then say that. Say what you mean. Say it with your chest, you chicken sh–,” Ryan fired back, via YouTube. “Because your MAGA-coded bullsh– that’s been going on for 10 years. The guy is in office for a second time because his whole platform is how much this country stinks.”
Ryan’s frustration stems from what he sees as a double standard in sports commentary.
He pointed out that when conservative athletes and figures use sports as a platform, they aren’t subjected to the same “shut up and play” criticism.
“Where’s the same energy?” Ryan demanded. “I’m a sports fan. My soccer team won the Club World Cup. (Trump) was on the freaking stage. I had to eat it. I’m a NASCAR fan. Riley Gaines is giving incantations. The president is literally taking laps at the Daytona International Motor Speedway.”
The crux of Ryan’s argument centers on the hypocrisy of expecting athletes to remain silent about their views while simultaneously allowing sports to be used for messaging that aligns with conservative viewpoints.
“You got your way. They’re not kneeling during the anthem. They’re doing everything they can so you can live in your little bubble and not be threatened by the reality of your decisions,” Ryan said. “The liberals, the left, they all had to eat it because you guys were so loud and so soft and so triggered.”
Ryan’s defense of athletes speaking their truth serves as a reminder that sports have never existed in a vacuum.
Ryan concluded his impassioned rant: “I am so sick of these snowflakes that were telling me I was soft for 10 years and I had to swallow it. You use your platform however you want. But if you’re going to actually attack other people for sharing your feelings, then maybe don’t just code your language. Actually say it because they’re actually being brave.”
