NBC's match for Matt a mistake

But, instead of mulling, you moved, handing the title over to Guthrie, the presumptive heiress, just a few hours after she took Curry's chair for Friday's broadcast.

Like Curry, Guthrie lacks the goofy side that is essential to teaming with Lauer.

Anyone — and I mean anyone — can handle the political interviews. You read from your list of questions, and the politician answers from his list of talking points. It's like two people playing tennis on adjoining courts. You're limited to one follow-up per interview or else you seem like a bully, and one of the producers will provide you with that probing question in your earphone. The politician will respond to something completely different anyway.

It's time to think outside the box, NBC. You need a woman who makes Matt look and feel young, one who can put up with his teasing without losing her sense of humor.

How about Sally Field? Definite Vieira vibe going on there. And Matt could make cracks about her Boniva ads and osteoporosis. But there is the danger that she'd get all caught up in the human-interest stories and show her emotions like Curry did. Yuchh!

Liza Minnelli. Seriously, she'd be perfect — a little flustered, a little spacey, but always a trouper. The challenge would be convincing her night was day, because you'd never be able to get her up at 5 every morning.

Madea. Tyler Perry's alter ego may well be your best option. She'd be aces at all aspects of the show. Imagine her on the plaza or interviewing Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. She's smart, funny, and wise — and she could give it back to Matt and Al Roker with top spin. Nothing but upside on this choice.