Before there was Pardon the Interruption, Around the Horn, and a slew of other similar programs, there was the Sportswriters on TV.

The Chicago-based program featured sports guys sitting around a table talking about sports. Thanks to cable and the quirkiness of the panel, it soon developed a cult following around the country.

Bill Jauss, one of the panelist, died Wednesday. In his obit, there was this quote from him: “I think that is what started all of these (sports) discussion shows that are so prevalent now. It was a pioneering thing at the time, although we didn’t realize it.”

Say thanks Kornheiser, Wilbon and the rest. Here are a couple clips: