On the Outside Looking at the Insider

I have had it with ESNP.com at its precious Insider. About the only thing I can read on the web site are news reports and generic analyses. If I want the inside scoop from some of the best writers in sports (well, I say that but I don't know for sure since I can barely read their work), I have to plunk down $40 for 13 months of access.

But wait, there's more. You get a subscription to ESPN the Magazine for your money. Ick. I've purchased a couple of issues and Sports Illustrated it is NOT.

And I'm not the only one frustrated by this. If I'm going to plunk down a premium for web content, it better unavailable anywhere else or at least bring me a return on investment--like what you can get at Consumer Reports.

I reached the peak of my frustrations tonight when I wanted to read some predictions and analyses of the upcoming NFL games for my fantasy football league. BUZZ. Sorry. Pay up.

That's fine, guys. SI.com and my local paper offers insights for free.

Oh, okay. The Dallas paper does require a free registration. Oh the agony. Oh the inconvenience.