First they still get respect for excellent game coverage. That said they have agendas. Some self serving. Some for other causes. Not to get UWS but everyone who is lucid can understand this.
They want FSU back and they want Willie T to be the new media darling. Both of those outcomes equal attention and page views amongst other things that matter to their ivory tower. They gambled on this storyline and promoed the heck out of it. If FSU comes out and succeeds, then ESPN's showcase is gold and they help boost a brand.
Sadly for ESPN, we kicked FSU and Willie's ass and thats not what they wanted to see. So thats why you sense the lack of excitment when we make a big play to help seal the win.
ESPN now emphasizes the E in their name more than the S. Along with that comes their commitment to pushing their agendas. Wish they would just cover the game like they did in the good ol days.