The Game Behind the Game: High Pressure, High Stakes in Television Sports

An entertaining memoir from a TV sports producer who seems to have been an eyewitness to some of the most memorable moments and personalities in sports, from the 1972 Munich Olympics to the rise of John Madden. O'Neil provides plenty of behind-the-scenes information and avoids insulting the reader's intelligence by including technical information (e.g., selection of camera shots during live action) that help in understanding a producer or director's role. Unfortunately, O'Neil fell victim to the same politicking and backstabbing that accompany big-money network sports. However, this does not detract from the enjoyment of this book.