talk a good game

To speak very convincingly about one's plans, abilities, or intentions, especially when one's actions don't live up to one's words. He talks a good game, but Jeff hasn't made a big sale in years. The politicians who get elected are those who talk a good game; the politicians who remain in office are those who drive good policy.

talk a good game

talk convincingly yet fail to act effectively. US informal

2000 Sunday Times There were two types of people in the industry: the consultants who talk a good game but deliver little, and the wide boys and girls who get bums on seats but sacrifice standards.