When Bunk and McNulty investigate the crime scene where Deirdre was murdered, they communicate using only the word "fuck" and variations approximately 38 times.
The scene where Bunk and McNulty investigate the murder of Deirdre, was based on a real life murder. Also Bunk and McNulty communicating using only the word "fuck" was inspired by crime scenes David Simon had visited where the detectives would communicate with each through swearing.
Future cast member Gbenga Akinnagbe appears as an extra in the opening scene. According to Akinnagbe, he was so nervous that he accidentally looks at the camera which can be seen in the scene.
This episode marks the first appearance of Jimmy McNulty's estranged family, though his son Sean is unseen.
The cold opening of the squad moving the desk is a great example of metaphor. As Lester Freeman observes, the team is starting to gel into a cohesive unit; however their communication skills need improvement. Lester himself recently got motivated by hunting down Barksdale's boxing poster.