Discover the Iconic Howard Cosell Quotes - Inspiring Words of Wisdom from a Legendary Sports Journalist

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Howard Cosell was a larger-than-life figure in the sports world, known for his bold commentary and controversial opinions. But he was also a master of the one-liner, delivering some of the most memorable quotes in sports history. Whether you loved him or hated him, there's no denying that Cosell had a way with words. So let's take a look at some of his most famous quotes, from the hilarious to the thought-provoking.

One of Cosell's most famous quotes came during the 1973 World Series, when he famously said, Ladies and gentlemen, the Bronx is burning. The quote referred to the riots that were taking place in the Bronx at the time, but it also captured the intensity of the rivalry between the New York Yankees and the Oakland A's. It was a classic Cosell moment, combining social commentary with a bit of humor.

Cosell was never afraid to speak his mind, even if it meant ruffling feathers. In 1977, he famously called Muhammad Ali a disgrace to his race after Ali made controversial comments about white people. It was a harsh statement, but one that reflected Cosell's commitment to honesty and integrity.

Of course, not all of Cosell's quotes were serious. He also had a great sense of humor, as evidenced by his famous quip about the Dallas Cowboys: They don't get better, they just get older. It was a playful jab at a team that was known for its aging stars, and it showed that Cosell could be just as entertaining off the field as he was on it.

Cosell was a master of the art of the soundbite, delivering pithy statements that cut right to the heart of the matter. One of his most famous quotes came during the 1972 Olympics, when he declared that the terrorists have won after the tragic events that took place in Munich. It was a powerful statement that captured the mood of the moment, and it cemented Cosell's reputation as a voice of conscience in the sports world.

But for all his wit and wisdom, Cosell could also be a bit of a blowhard at times. He was known for his long-winded commentary and his tendency to pontificate on just about any topic under the sun. As he once said himself, I may not be right, but I'm never in doubt.

Despite his flaws, Cosell remains one of the most iconic figures in sports broadcasting history. His unique style and his willingness to speak truth to power made him a beloved figure to many, and his quotes continue to inspire and entertain sports fans to this day. So whether you're a die-hard fan or just a casual observer, take a moment to appreciate the wit and wisdom of Howard Cosell.

In conclusion, Howard Cosell was a legendary figure in the world of sports journalism, known for his bold opinions and his memorable quotes. From his famous declaration that the Bronx is burning to his controversial comments about Muhammad Ali, Cosell was never afraid to speak his mind. But he was also a master of the one-liner, delivering quips and wisecracks that continue to make us laugh and think. Whatever your opinion of him, there's no denying that Howard Cosell was a true original, and his legacy lives on to this day.


Introduction

Howard Cosell was an American sports journalist who was known for his unique style of broadcasting. He was a man of many talents and had a way with words that made him stand out from his peers. Cosell was a humorous man who was never afraid to speak his mind, and his quotes are still relevant today. In this article, we will take a look at some of Howard Cosell's most famous quotes and explore the humor behind them.

“I’m telling it like it is.”

One of Howard Cosell's most famous quotes is I'm telling it like it is. Cosell was known for his honest and straightforward approach to sports journalism, and this quote perfectly encapsulates his philosophy. He believed that it was his duty as a journalist to report the facts, no matter how unpopular they might be. This quote has become synonymous with Cosell's legacy and is often used to describe someone who is brutally honest.

“The jockocracy.”

Howard Cosell was one of the first journalists to call out the “jockocracy,” the idea that athletes were given special treatment and held to a different standard than the rest of society. Cosell believed that athletes should be held accountable for their actions, both on and off the field. This quote is a testament to Cosell's commitment to fairness and equality in sports journalism.

“I never met a sportswriter who didn't love food.”

This quote is a classic example of Howard Cosell's humorous side. Cosell was known for his love of food, and he often joked about the connection between sports journalism and good cuisine. This quote is a lighthearted reminder that even serious journalists have a sense of humor.

“The importance of winning is vastly overrated.”

Howard Cosell was not your typical sports journalist. He believed that the outcome of a game was not as important as the effort put forth by the athletes. This quote challenges the notion that winning is everything and reminds us that the journey is just as important as the destination.

“I'm not a hero worshiper.”

Howard Cosell was not one to idolize athletes or put them on a pedestal. He believed that they were just like everyone else and should be held to the same standards as the rest of society. This quote is a reminder that we should not put athletes on a pedestal and that they are just human beings like the rest of us.

“Sports is the toy department of life.”

This quote is a perfect example of Howard Cosell's unique perspective on sports journalism. He believed that sports were important, but not as important as other areas of life. This quote challenges the idea that sports are the most important thing in the world and reminds us that there are more important things to focus on.

“Tell it like it is.”

Howard Cosell was known for his honesty and integrity in sports journalism. He believed that it was his duty to report the facts, no matter how unpopular they might be. This quote is a reminder that we should always strive for honesty and integrity in our own lives.

“I have a great love for sports.”

Howard Cosell had a deep love for sports and believed that they had the power to bring people together. This quote is a testament to his passion for sports and his belief in their ability to unite people from different backgrounds and cultures.

“The ultimate victory in competition is derived from the inner satisfaction of knowing that you have done your best and that you have gotten the most out of what you had to give.”

This quote is a powerful reminder that the true measure of success is not in winning or losing, but in the effort put forth. Howard Cosell believed that athletes should strive for excellence, not just in sports, but in all areas of life. This quote challenges us to always do our best, no matter what the outcome might be.

Conclusion

Howard Cosell was a unique and talented sports journalist who left a lasting impact on the world of sports. His quotes are still relevant today and serve as a reminder of his commitment to honesty, integrity, and fairness in sports journalism. Cosell's humor, honesty, and passion for sports made him a beloved figure in the industry, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.


Howard Cosell: The Voice of Sports and Humor

Howard Cosell was a man of many quotes. Some serious, some funny, and some downright controversial. But one thing is for sure, he knew how to captivate an audience. He once said, Sports is human life in microcosm. And I couldn't agree more, unless you're talking about curling, then it's just people sweeping.

Truth with a Twist

If you're going to tell people the truth, be funny or they'll kill you. This quote of Cosell's is as true today as it was when he first said it. People don't want to hear the harsh realities of life, unless there's a punchline at the end. It's like taking medicine - it goes down easier with a spoonful of sugar.

Not Your Typical Role Model

Cosell once famously stated, I'm not a role model...just a peculiar human being. And boy was he right. He was never one to shy away from controversy, even if it meant ruffling some feathers. He once claimed that the Olympics were a breeding ground for communists. Maybe stick to the gymnastics, folks.

Objective, But Not Always Right

Cosell prided himself on being objective, saying, I've probably infuriated more coaches and managers than you can count. But being objective doesn't always mean you're right. It just means you have an opinion, and you're sticking to it. But hey, at least he was consistent.

Winning Isn't Everything

While Cosell believed that, The ultimate victory in competition is derived from the inner satisfaction of knowing that you have done your best and that you have gotten the most out of what you had to give, he also knew that winning was pretty great too. Let's be real, who doesn't love a good victory dance?

A Fascination with Sports

Sports, like art, are an inexhaustible source of fascination for me, said Cosell. And I couldn't agree more. Sports have a way of bringing people together, regardless of their differences. It's a beautiful thing, really. Unlike math, which can go jump in a lake.

The Importance of Sports

Cosell once commented on the importance of sports in our society, saying, The people of this country have allowed sports to get completely out of hand. But don't tell that to the tailgaters. For some, sports are more than just a game - they're a way of life.

Popular Isn't Always Right

Cosell believed that, What's right isn't always popular. What's popular isn't always right. And he's not wrong. Just because everyone else is doing something, doesn't mean it's the right thing to do. This also applies to fashion choices. Please, for the love of all that is holy, put down the cargo shorts.

The Biggest Kick

Cosell once said, The biggest kick I get is to communicate with those who exalt me. So, basically, his mom and her bridge club. But hey, we all need a little love and admiration in our lives.

Howard Cosell may have been a controversial figure, but he was also one of the greatest sports commentators of all time. His humor and wit made watching sports a little more enjoyable. So, here's to you, Mr. Cosell. Thanks for the laughs and the memories.


The Quotable Howard Cosell

Introduction

Howard Cosell was one of the most iconic sports broadcasters in history. He was famous for his outspoken and often controversial commentary, as well as his memorable quotes. In this story, we'll take a look at some of his most famous quotes and share our point of view on them. But first, let's get to know Howard Cosell a little better.

Who Was Howard Cosell?

  • Howard Cosell was born in New York City in 1918.
  • He graduated from New York University School of Law in 1940.
  • He served in the U.S. Army during World War II.
  • He began his broadcasting career in the 1950s as a sports reporter.
  • He became a household name in the 1970s as a commentator on ABC's Monday Night Football.
  • He passed away in 1995 at the age of 77.

Howard Cosell Quotes

Now let's take a look at some of Howard Cosell's most famous quotes and our humorous point of view on them.

I'm just telling it like it is.

Howard Cosell was known for his blunt commentary, and this quote sums up his approach perfectly. He wasn't afraid to speak his mind, even if it meant ruffling feathers. In today's world of carefully crafted PR statements and political correctness, Howard Cosell's honesty is refreshing.

Sports is the toy department of human life.

This quote is often misunderstood as a dismissal of sports, but in reality, it's a celebration of their importance. Howard Cosell recognized that sports are an essential part of our culture, providing entertainment, escapism, and a sense of community. He may have called it the toy department, but he knew that toys are just as important as anything else.

The ultimate victory in competition is derived from the inner satisfaction of knowing that you have done your best and that you have gotten the most out of what you had to give.

Howard Cosell was more than just a commentator. He was a philosopher, and this quote is a perfect example of his wisdom. In a world where winning is everything, he reminds us that true victory comes from within. It's not about beating others; it's about doing your best and being proud of what you've accomplished.

I don't know what that means, 'to play us out.'

Okay, we'll admit it. This quote isn't exactly profound. In fact, it's downright hilarious. Howard Cosell may have been a legendary broadcaster, but even he had his moments of confusion. This quote is a reminder that even the best of us can get lost in the language sometimes.

Conclusion

Howard Cosell may be gone, but his legacy lives on through his quotes. Whether he was waxing philosophical or just plain confused, he always had something interesting to say. So the next time you're watching a game, take a moment to appreciate the toy department of human life and remember the words of Howard Cosell.

Thank you for reading about Howard Cosell Quotes!

Well, well, well. Look who’s still here! Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of my article about Howard Cosell quotes. I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it. Before you go, I want to leave you with a few final thoughts.

First of all, I want to remind you that Howard Cosell was not just a sportscaster; he was also a master of the English language. His quotes are a testament to his wit and intelligence. If you haven’t read any of his quotes yet, I highly recommend that you do.

Secondly, I want to remind you that Howard Cosell was not afraid to speak his mind. Whether he was talking about sports or politics, he always had something interesting to say. He was a man who stood up for what he believed in, even if it wasn’t popular. We could all learn something from that.

Finally, I want to leave you with one of my favorite Howard Cosell quotes: “Sports is the toy department of human life.” It’s a funny and insightful way of looking at sports. Yes, they’re important, but in the grand scheme of things, they’re just a small part of our lives.

So, there you have it, folks. My ode to Howard Cosell quotes. I hope you learned something new and had a few laughs along the way. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family. Spread the wisdom (and humor) of Howard Cosell far and wide!

Before I go, I want to thank you for taking the time to read this article. I know that there are millions of other things you could be doing right now, but you chose to spend a few minutes with me. For that, I am truly grateful.

Remember, life is short, so take the time to appreciate the little things. Like Howard Cosell quotes. Who knows, they might just make your day a little brighter.

Until next time, my friends. Keep smiling, keep laughing, and keep reading!


People Also Ask About Howard Cosell Quotes

Who was Howard Cosell?

Howard Cosell was a famous American sports journalist and commentator who was known for his unique style of reporting and his love for controversy. He covered some of the most iconic sporting events of the 20th century, including the Olympic Games, Super Bowl, and World Series.

What are some famous Howard Cosell quotes?

Howard Cosell was known for his witty one-liners and insightful commentary on sports. Some of his most famous quotes include:

  1. Sports is human life in microcosm.
  2. I'm telling it like it is.
  3. The ultimate victory in competition is derived from the inner satisfaction of knowing that you have done your best and that you have gotten the most out of what you had to give.

Did Howard Cosell ever say anything controversial?

Yes, Howard Cosell was no stranger to controversy. He was known for his outspoken views on a variety of social and political issues, including race relations and the Vietnam War. One of his most controversial moments came in 1983 when he made a comment about Washington Redskins player Alvin Garrett, saying that he looked like a little monkey running around out there. The comment was widely criticized as racist and led to calls for Cosell's resignation.

What was Howard Cosell's legacy?

Howard Cosell's legacy is one of innovation and impact. He helped to transform sports journalism by bringing a new level of insight and analysis to the field. His willingness to tackle controversial topics and speak his mind also helped to make him a cultural icon. Even today, more than 25 years after his death, Howard Cosell remains one of the most recognizable and influential figures in sports media.

So, there you have it. Howard Cosell was a legendary sports journalist who was known for his unique style and controversial views. His quotes continue to inspire and entertain us today, reminding us of the impact that one person can have on an entire industry.