Jimmy Snyder (sports commentator)

Jimmy Snyder, also known as "Jimmy the Greek," was an American sports commentator and Las Vegas bookmaker. He gained national prominence through his appearances on CBS's The NFL Today from 1976 to 1988, where he provided point spreads and predictions for upcoming NFL games.

Snyder’s real name was Demetrios Georgios Synodinos. He built his reputation in Las Vegas, starting as a shoeshine boy and eventually becoming involved in the gambling business. His understanding of statistics, odds making, and player performance allowed him to establish himself as a knowledgeable and reliable source for betting information.

On The NFL Today, Snyder was known for his folksy delivery, colorful personality, and his ability to explain complex betting concepts to a broad audience. His segments were a popular feature of the show, contributing to its high ratings. He became a nationally recognized figure, bridging the gap between the world of professional sports and the world of gambling.

Snyder's career with CBS ended abruptly in 1988 following controversial remarks he made about African American athletes during an interview on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. These remarks led to widespread criticism and ultimately his dismissal from the network. After CBS, Snyder attempted various media ventures but never regained the prominence he had achieved on The NFL Today. He passed away in 1996. His legacy remains complex, remembered both for his pioneering role in popularizing sports betting and for the controversy that ended his career.