"CBSSports.com...once an acclaimed sports newsgathering organization--is a frightening example of where the model may be heading."

The Big Lead's Jason McIntyre looks at changes in CBSSports.com's approach to journalism, and centers much of his analysis around the firing of former golf correspondent Steve Elling.

From McIntyre's report:

Profits may be at an all-time high for CBS Sports Interactive, but in speaking with nearly a dozen current and former staffers, morale is at an all-time low.

After Elling was fired in 2012, writers sensed big change was coming and began looking for exit strategies. College football reporter Brett McMurphy was hired by ESPN before the real bloodbath started in 2013 after Gerttula took over: veterans Scott Miller (MLB) and Danny Knobler (MLB) were among 50 full and part-time staffers let go in what employees called a “bloodletting” that took place between late July and November.

“Years ago we never heard the word ‘pageviews,’” one CBS Sports.com writer told The Big Lead. “Then we started getting monthly reports and you’re judged on pageviews more than anything else … I don’t like it. Nobody does. How many recognizable voices do we have now at CBS Sports? Who are some of these guys? They don’t matter in any way.”