Howard, 40, began his ESPN career as an in-studio analyst before joining College GameDay in 2005. Although his role on GameDay telecasts is muted compared to host Chris Fowler and analysts Lee Corso and Kirk Herbstreit, Howard clearly enjoys the rockstar status afforded to all members of the GameDay crew.
Howard's on-air persona — he's always smiling and chatty — is a refreshing departure from the serious tone presented by many of ESPN's personalities. But the former Heisman winner has had some embarrassing mistakes.
In 2006 during a bowl preview show, he said California's opponent in the Holiday Bowl was Texas, then proceeded to break down the Longhorns. One problem: Cal's opponent was Texas A&M.
That earned Howard a trip to the Budweiser Hot Seat the next day. "I misspoke when I said Cal vs. Texas as opposed to Cal vs. Texas A&M," he said. "So I apologize to the Longhorns and Aggies fans. But I know you don't need me to tell you who you're playing against in the bowl. But whether it's Texas with an A&M or without an A&M, I'm still picking Cal to win the Pacific Holiday Bowl."
In previewing the 2008 Sugar Bowl, Howard was asked how much pressure Georgia would get on Hawaii's Colt Brennan. "I'm afraid they won't get enough pressure on this kid," he said. Georgia sacked Brennan eight times and forced the quarterback into three interceptions and two fumbles, one of which was recovered for a Bulldog touchdown.
OK, maybe we're a tad harsh on Howard, but what do you think? Do you like Desmond Howard? Do you not like Desmond Howard?
It's hard to judge this guy; he needs diction lessons. Most people have a hard time understanding what he is saying.
Posted by: pete s. | October 29, 2010 at 10:36 AM