Couric gets first televised Te'o interview

Forget Oprah and Lance Armstrong.

Katie Couric has landed the first on-screen interview with Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te’o, according to her news release.

I don’t recall Couric ever interviewing a sports figure in this context as Te’o has to attempt to repair any damage done to his reputation in light of accusations that he participated in a hoax involving a woman that he claimed to be his girlfriend who eventually died.

The story, which Deadspin.com broke almost a week ago, has as many questions remaining as there have been answers (including after a Jeremy Schaap interview)  provided by Notre Dame and Te’o himself.  They’re not for anyone but them to answer.

I read some about those who said that Oprah would softball Armstrong, not having seen her two nights of queries last week, I can’t judge.

What I do know is if the Te’o and his family are expecting deferential treatment, I suspect they won’t get it. Couric’s interview with vice-presidential hopeful Sarah Palin was largely responsible for casting a shadow the candidacy of John McCain:

The interview will air Thursday at 3 p.m. on Channel 5 (WEWS).