Brian Williams probably isn't coming back

1. Brian Williams probably isn’t coming back. Consider the next six months an audition for Lester Holt, the weekend anchor who will now substitute for Williams in his “absence.” Meanwhile, the execs at Comcast/NBC will be hard at work considering an alternative replacement if Holt can’t sustain the ratings. Possible anchors include both Today show co-hosts Matt Lauer and Savannah Guthrie.

2. There are two scenarios in which Williams returns: One, he pulls off a stunning apology tour and wins back the favors of the nation. Two, ‘Nightly’ tanks so bad under its new host(s) that NBC is forced to bring Williams back in a last-ditch effort. I wouldn’t place my money on a Williams’ return, but you can never underestimate the power of the redemption narrative, especially in this country.