Regarding my post saying the game being spoiled because the $3,000 space was revealed, Nick replied:
No, the game would have been spoiled if the car space had been revealed. There wouldn't have been much they could have done about that.
Sure, the game definitely would have been spoiled had a car been revealed. But, even with one of the lesser prizes revealed, I still consider this "spoiling" the game; though not the most desirable prize, $3,000 is still a prize — and one not to be scoffed at. It would also have been spoiled if one of the other two money cards ... and definitely if either one of the Lose Everything cards were revealed (because you know where one of the undesirable cards are, and even though it would improve one contestant's odds of winning, it would be unfair to the next person who played the game).
Regarding my post about neglecting and failing to act when the prize space was uncovered, Nick replied:
This begs the question... does somebody still check the games right before the act begins just like Roger did?
Gee, what a great idea that is! Actually checking the game before it is brought out to be played, and then right before the Giant Price Tag goes up to reveal the set. Sarcasm aside, it is clear somebody dropped the ball here, and luckily the liability was limited to what David actually won. It could have been very, very costly, and the fingers could have been pointed at several people.
Long story short — If the producer/director doesn't check the games now as they were before, Standards and Practices will (or they had better, at least).
Regarding my example of the test cheater at school, Nick replied:
Is that how things worked at your school? Can't say I agree with that method. If the answer is blurted, then the question should be thrown out, but that's getting off topic.
Actually, no ... but to say anything more, you're right, that would be getting off-topic.
Regarding my comment about David possibly having grounds for legal action had the game outcome been different, Nick replied:
Yes, because you worked so hard to get that $3,000.
See arguments above.
Look, I think all of us realize things happen beyond our control. Sets malfunction, answers are blurted out, the list goes on. Had today's Pass the Buck incident been isolated, I would not be going on about this nor defending my position so fiercely (sorry, Nick). But these goofs are beginning to happen too often now. Someone had better get some direction on things on TPiR ... and fast! Before something really bad happens.
Brian