The Daily News' Bob Raissman captured Russo's comments on the one-on-one. Here's what Mad Dog said about Francesa's interview:
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Russo on Francesa's treatment of Rodriguez: "I can't understand. Mike is smarter than this, to be duped by A-Rod and fall into this trap. This is the guy you're going to defend -- A-Rod? He knows A-Rod did steroids. What do you think, Mike's stupid? He knows. ... Now Mike has plenty of ratings, plenty of exposure, plenty of money and plenty of guests. Does he need to coddle A-Rod to get back-page headlines after 30 years in the media business?"
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Mad Dog's insights into Francesa: "Mike usually sees conspiracy theories all over the place. And nine times out of 10 he's right. ... Mike wants the show to have integrity in terms of opinions, nothing slanted -- being honest. That's always been his main goal and rightfully so. This time he's gone the other way."
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On Francesa's view of MLB: "I know Mike doesn't like [Bud] Selig. I know Mike is down on baseball. (He calls) Selig a used car salesman. Fair point. Fair opinion. I don't have a problem with that. But for Mike to go down this path constantly with A-Rod when he knows deep down A-Rod is a cheat -- he knows it."
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Russo, regarding Francesa's line of questioning: "How could Mike not say: 'Come on A-Rod, you told Katie Couric the same thing (in 2007). Why am I supposed to believe you now?' I'm shocked. Mike is too savvy, too thorough an interrogator, not to go there. It's like he's handing A-Rod a parachute."