I don't hate Riley, and I don't agree that he was misogynistic. I just think he was insecure at that time, definitely not up to the challenge of dating someone like Buffy. But he must've grown, because I don't see Sam as a wussy female character, not in the least. He had his flaws, and the Initiative & S4 are my least fav storylines & seasons, but I do like Marc Blucas...and he's not hard on the eyes at all!!! I'm not sure it was weak writing, maybe more of how Buffy would (or rather would not) deal well with a "normal" boyfriend. Of her "normal" love interests, he's my favorite, though (much better than Parker, Scott Hope, or even Owen). But yeah, they're all a little pathetic.