Why is Conan vs. Leno a big deal?

I think people were upset because it felt like they really didn't give Conan a fair shot. Jay Leno had the show for years and was able to make his mark. Personally, I feel like they really didn't give Conan a fair chance to develop a following/audience in that role. Personally, I think Jay Leno is irritating. Conan was refreshing. Guaranteed, though....Leno WILL lose viewers after this whole debacle. A lot of people are siding with Conan because they feel he was cheated.