Sports Talk Radio Battle Royal: Cleveland vs. Pittsburgh

(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Cleveland

Michael Reghi

(3 pm – 6 pm)

Though Reghi has been on the Cleveland sports scene for decades, he has only owned the coveted afternoon-drive time slot for the last few months.  Nevertheless, Reghi implores his audience to “bring it strong,” and that is exactly what he does each day.

The foundation of Reghi’s common-sense analysis of Cleveland sports is undoubtedly the wisdom and experience that he has gained over the years.  Reghi offers intelligent opinions and is never afraid to take a side and be critical when it is appropriate. 

Even so, Reghi is tolerant and respectful of listeners who do not agree with him, as long as they can match his reasoning and logic.

Reghi’s charismatic style endears him to his audience, and there’s rarely a show where he isn’t complimented for his work as the Cavs’ play-by-play voice in years past.  It is clear that his audience respects him tremendously.

Additionally, Reghi is also a supremely skilled interviewer.  His tremendous knowledge and preparation shines through even when talking to sports personalities outside of Cleveland.

VS.

Pittsburgh

The Drive with Paulsen, Logan & Crow

(2 pm – 6 pm)

With Scott Paulsen typically taking the lead, this show does a great job of giving equal attention to the Steelers, Penguins, and even the Pirates.  Paulsen and sidekick Eddy Crow put forth fan-centric opinions that are rooted in years of following Pittsburgh’s teams.

While they are certainly not the most objective commentators that Pittsburgh has to offer, their style makes them extremely likeable and relatable.

Former Steelers defensive back Mike Logan rounds out the trio by bringing the ever-popular “former athlete” viewpoint. 

While Logan sometimes seems takes a backseat to his more seasoned counterparts, Paulsen and Crow frequently bring him into the mix by drawing on his unique experiences and perspectives. 

To his credit, Logan appears more comfortable behind the microphone each day.

But without question, it’s the comedy aspect of The Drive that makes it so appealing.  Eddy Crow is the most sardonic person I have ever heard on radio.  Every once in awhile, it gets annoying, but generally, it’s just pretty darn funny. 

Meanwhile, Paulsen’s comedic talents are frequently on display with hilarious sketches like “Spit, Choke and Puke” and songs such as “Flyers Scum,” “The Wreck of the Plaxico Burress,” and “Cincinnati S.U.C.K.S.”

WINNER:  Michael Reghi

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