Paul Finebaum Criticizes Deion Sanders as a "Bully" and "Hypocrite" Over Reporter Ban
Paul Finebaum criticizes Deion Sanders, calling him a "bully" and "hypocrite" after Sanders bans a reporter from asking questions. This controversy raises questions about Sanders' leadership and media relations, particularly in Alabama.
Paul Finebaum, known for his previous support of Deion Sanders, is now speaking out against the Colorado football coach. Finebaum, an analyst for the SEC Network, called Sanders a "bully" and "hypocrite" after news emerged that Sanders would no longer answer questions from reporter Sean Keeler, accusing him of "sustained, personal attacks."
During an interview on ESPN’s "Get Up," Finebaum expressed his disappointment with Sanders, saying, "Coach Prime is showing he is not ready for primetime. This whole situation is disgraceful. While Deion often talks about love and joy, his treatment of reporters feels more like something out of an autocratic country, not America. The fact that this behavior is backed by his contract makes it even worse."
Reports from news sources like The Denver Post highlight that Sanders' contract includes specific language allowing him to speak only with "mutually agreed upon media."
Finebaum also pointed out that this isn’t the first time Sanders has acted this way, referencing similar behavior during his time at Jackson State. "Deion Sanders has a history of wanting things his way, which is why I see him as both a bully and a hypocrite," Finebaum added.
Earlier this month, Sanders refused to answer questions from a reporter associated with a local CBS affiliate, further fueling the controversy surrounding his media relations approach.