Can't say i'm surprised to see such a reaction to "The Crew". Right of the bat, I found that segment to be pathetic. I would argue with the consensus - they came across as a bunch of arrogant, ego driven players. Seems to me they've read a few too many of the
Tiltboy trip reports.
That said, regardless of how you feel about Dutch Boyd & Co., I would argue that "The Crew" may actually be a positive for the game. They add personality to the table. One could draw comparison to McEnroe in the tennis world. You may not find his lack of sportsmanship to be pleasant, but he draws an audience. Simiarly so, Dutch Boyd & Co. may have inflated egos, but they are memorable.
Character at the table is in part what will maintain a television audience. Anything that adds color to the game is a positive.
Will I deposit money at a Boyd Enterprise? Of course not. But do I understand why ESPN gives the kid so much air time? Yes.