The Washington Commanders have embarked on a new regime. The dictatorship of previous owner Dan Snyder is in the past and a new chapter begins with Sam Howell under center. On Monday night, they snapped the Baltimore Ravens’ 24 game preseason winning streak and the vibes are high. Even Magic Johnson, who is now part of Washington’s ownership group, took to Twitter (not calling it X just yet) to bask in the glory.
Current owner Josh Harris would not be overshadowed, however. He was invited into the booth alongside Joe Buck and Troy Aikman to talk about new beginnings, turning the franchise around, outlook for this season, maybe even his background growing up as a fan of Washington sports in DC.
He did not disappoint. Harris delivered a performance that subsequently broke the internet.
This happened days ago and I still can’t get enough of it. It’s truly incredible.
I knew nothing about Josh Harris prior to this clip, so maybe this is on par with his personality and not worth discussing. I chuckle every re-watch though. The way he’s just totally in his own world kills me. He says he still wants to win in the preseason and then completely zones out. Gives his two cents and closes up shop. If I knew anything about editing, I’d splice in circus music after the preseason comment. He peeks behind Joe Buck, glances over at Troy, mutters “no injuries” as Joe is complimenting him and then the real magic happens.
I guess he completely forgot where he was and what he was doing. We’ve all been there. I can certainly relate. Where you walk into the kitchen, forget what you were looking for and resort to mindlessly grabbing a grape from the fridge. Josh looked down, saw Joe Buck’s hand and capitalized on an opportunity. Quick handshake followed by the hands on the hips, as if he just accomplished something grand. Simple man. And then afterwards, it again appears like he’s just gazing behind Joe. Is he looking at him or behind him? An optical illusion of epic proportions.
Let’s put this clip towards the top of Joe Buck’s career broadcasting highlight tape. I’m so serious. The way he was completely un-phased is astounding. No hesitation whatsoever, just continues on with his point. A consummate pro.
And how about Aikman? It must have taken some serious mental fortitude and composure to hold it together there. I’m not sure I’d be able to. Reminds me of presentations in school when your friends are making absurd faces in the front row and you can afford a smirk, but have to keep the wheels from falling off.
And this is no shade towards Josh Harris at all. The guy is just walking entertainment. Sure, he’s a bit quirky (and definitely intoxicated in that clip), but weird brains run the world. He’s the co-founder of a successful private equity firm and managing partner of the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils and now the Commanders. Clearly he’s doing something right. I might even like the Commanders a little bit more after this and hope they do well this year. The world needs more of Josh Harris under the bright lights of prime time television.
Probably the main reason I’m writing this blog is to remind myself to revisit that clip. Let’s call it a comfort clip. Whenever I’m feeling down, I’ll just search up “Josh Harris handshake” and my mood will drastically change. It’s worth its weight in gold.
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