None of the talking heads on ESPN has defended Michael Vick, of course, and quite a few of their guests have denounced him. There is general agreement there that his treatment of his dogs was barbaric (which it certainly was) and criminal.

But at the same time, ESPN broadcasts all those Sunday morning hunting shows, especially in the fall, where corporate executives dressed like bubbas in coveralls and carrying elephant rifles blow away deer, turkey, pheasants, ducks, and other critters, then pose to have their picture taken with their "prey." I guess animal cruelty is OK with ESPN as long as there's no gamblin' involved. (Not to mention that poor bass that they photograph getting hooked over and over again on those fishing shows).