Q&A with Texans voice Marc Vandermeer

One week before Super Bowl XLV, I sat down with Voice of the Houston Texans and Sports Radio 610 morning host Marc Vandermeer to 1) learn more about the man behind the mike, 2) give me an excuse to write about our fantasy championship and 3) make fun of his hobby. Just wait, it’s a good one.

Erin: As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, are you reminded of another Super Bowl – you know, five weeks ago when we clinched the Sports Radio 610 fantasy championship?

Marc: Well, my involvement in our fantasy run is about the same as my involvement in the Packers and Steelers. None. Note to readers: Erin ran my fantasy team from draft day to championship. I did, on occasion, ask her how things were going and did enjoy basking in the glow of many victories.

Erin: Is that a whimper I hear?

Marc: Yes, I’m emotional.

Erin: Speaking of emotional and erratic, do you remember the day you tried to fire me as your general manager?

Marc: No.

Erin: I do. And you did it on the air. Humiliating.

Marc: I was hoping you forgot.

Erin: Um, no. I used it as motivation and I persevered.

Erin: What is life like for you in the off-season?

Marc: It's like waking up from a long dream or returning from a trip to outer space. The season for me goes in warp speed and I'm completely wrapped up in it. Upon completion, I notice that my son has gotten much bigger and I might benefit from a shave. Other than that, it's full throttle on the morning show on Sports Radio 610.

Erin: What does the Vanderfamily do?

Marc: They want more time with me and usually there is a honey-do list the size of the Manhattan phone book.

Erin: Do you ever use the term "Vanderfamily" when introducing your wife and kid?

Marc: Of course! It's all about branding these days, you know. I attach the 'Vander' prefix to a great many things and feel very protective of it. Someone told me there is a place in New York called VanderBar. I am currently contacting the VanderLawyer to execute a cease and desist.

Erin: Does the Vanderwife roll her eyes?

Marc: She'll put up with it as long as the direct deposits keep coming in and no one cancels the Nordstrom card.

Vanderwife: Yes, I roll my eyes.

Erin: Are you considering resuming your hobby as a competitive boater?

Marc: That would be competitive sailor! Yes, Houston is loaded with great sailors. There are numerous national championships in different boat classes raced here every year.

Erin: I now know which Village People outfit suits you.

Erin: Are you aware that it's possibly the lamest sport to claim as your own?

Marc: Only when I'm reminded of this by people like you and (Sports Radio 610 co-host John) Lopez. Trust me, if most critics get out there in Galveston Bay on a 20-knot day in a Vanguard 15 or a Melges 24, they'd change their minds real fast.

Erin: I don’t know what a Melges is, but I’ll stick to fake football.

Erin: If you had a yacht, what would you name it?

Marc: I was going to name it Erin the Fantasy Girl, but now I'm reconsidering.

Erin: Who's your pick in the Super Bowl?

Marc: I really want this one for Dom Capers but I think the Steelers will win.

Erin: Why don't you like Aaron Rodgers? I've heard your smack talk.

Marc: I think he's a great quarterback. I just think there's such a rush by the media to put him next to Brees, Manning and Brady and he hasn't done enough for that yet. Plus, I'm jealous. Two years ago Matt Schaub beat him head to head. I think if Schaub had the Green Bay defense he would be in the post season too.

Erin: You know, Rodgers is my fantasy quarterback. I think I might love him.

Marc: But that's not unconditional love. Isn't it more like a prolonged fantasy football one-night stand? I've seen you turn your back on your fantasy players and replace them with the next 'flavor of the month.' Don't deny it.

Erin: Any early projections for the Texans 2011 season?

Marc: Wade Philips will certainly make a difference. They should be extremely productive on offense again. I just hope they get enough of an off season and preseason to get that 3-4 defense going. The lockout has me worried.

Erin: You called some tough plays this season…what was the worst?

Marc: Jets – meltdown in less than a minute, Baltimore – Pick 6 in overtime, Jacksonville - Hail Mary, San Diego - Andre's knee, all tie for the top spot. Tebow makes honorable mention.

Erin: I only asked for one.

Erin: What’s the biggest meltdown you’ve ever had on the air?

Marc: The worst I've felt after a loss is my "Stop the Vinsanity" call after Vince Young ran for 39 yards for the winning TD in overtime in 2006. That one stung for a while.

Erin: What are your projections for our 2011 fantasy team?

Marc: I predict more doom and destruction for any team that goes up against a squad managed by you. That's why I have a first right of refusal to renew your contract each year. I can't bear the thought of actually competing against you.

Erin: Actually, you can bear the thought. Remember, you tried to dump me.


Have a question for Erin Skelley? E-mail her at erskelley@yahoo.com. Also, tune in to Erin's fantasy advice on Sports Radio 610 every Friday 9-10 during football season, and before Texans games.