Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel Season 17 Episode 12 2011 End of Year Roundtable

In the season 17 finale episode of Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel titled "2011 End of Year Roundtable," the show gathers a panel of experts to reflect on the year's biggest sports stories and trends. The panel includes host Bryant Gumbel, correspondent Mary Carillo, journalist Frank Deford, and special guest former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason.

The episode begins with a discussion on the legacy of late Penn State football coach Joe Paterno, whose career came to a scandalous end as the result of the Jerry Sandusky child abuse scandal. The panel debates Paterno's role in the scandal, his impact on college football, and the culture of silence that allowed Sandusky's abuse to go on for years.

Next, the panel discusses the NBA lockout, which had just ended earlier in the year. They analyze the impact of missing games and the financial implications for both the league and players. They also share their thoughts on the future of the sport and its stars, including LeBron James.

The conversation then shifts to the 2011 NFL season and its standout players. Esiason provides insider insights and shares his analysis on the most promising up-and-coming quarterbacks, including Cam Newton and Andy Dalton. The panel also discusses the ongoing issue of head injuries in football and the measures being taken to minimize harm to players.

The panel also delves into the issue of performance-enhancing drugs in sports, particularly in cycling. They analyze the doping allegations against Lance Armstrong and the impact on his legacy. They also reflect on the larger issue of doping in sports and the tension between the desire for athletic excellence and the need for fair play.

As the episode concludes, the panel reflects on the biggest stories of the year and looks ahead to what might be in store for sports in 2012. They highlight potential upsets, rising stars, and the continuing evolution of sports as a cultural force. The roundtable offers a fascinating look back at a year of major sports stories and serves as a compelling conclusion to the season.

Overall, the "2011 End of Year Roundtable" episode of Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel offers a thoughtful, engaging discussion of the year's most significant sports stories. With a diverse panel of experts, the show provides a range of perspectives on controversial issues and offers insights on the future of major sports leagues and stars. This episode serves as a fitting conclusion to a season of exceptional sports journalism and reporting.