First Take

Baltimore Blunder, Big BluesSpoiler Hidden

Viking Age, Bear With MeSpoiler Hidden

Chief Concern?, Ahead of the Pack?Spoiler Hidden

Shake It Off, Upset Alert?Spoiler Hidden

Ahead of the Pack?, Upset AlertSpoiler Hidden

Episode 251Spoiler Hidden

Charged Up, Say It Ain't JoeSpoiler Hidden

Fitting The Bill, Dak To The FutureSpoiler Hidden

Chief Concern?, Underappreciation?Spoiler Hidden

This Tua Shall Pass, Vintage Rodgers On Deck?Spoiler Hidden

Bear Necessities, Steeling the ShowSpoiler Hidden

Baltimore Blunder, Don't Panic?Spoiler Hidden

Snap Decisions, Welcome BackSpoiler Hidden

Under Pressure, Marquee MatchupSpoiler Hidden

Best Western, In the ClutchSpoiler Hidden

Jerry's World, All Tied UpSpoiler Hidden

Injury Bug, Dallas' DestinySpoiler Hidden

Snap Decisions, Tricks of the TradeSpoiler Hidden

Silent Count, Change Is Good?Spoiler Hidden

Gold Rush, Fool's Gold?Spoiler Hidden

Eagles Grounded?, At A LossSpoiler Hidden

State of Play, Leading ManSpoiler Hidden

Stayin' Alive, Best of the BestSpoiler Hidden

Buck Stops Here?, Brotherly Love?Spoiler Hidden

Push Comes To Shove, Dart Takes FlightSpoiler Hidden

Miami Meltdown, How 'Bout Them Cowboys?Spoiler Hidden

Bear Necessities, State of PlaySpoiler Hidden

Bear With Me, Trending DownSpoiler Hidden

Eagles Grounded?, Hail to the ChiefsSpoiler Hidden

Turning Back the Clock, Embarrassment of Riches?Spoiler Hidden

Taking Command, Impact PlayerSpoiler Hidden

Lions Den, That's My QuarterbackSpoiler Hidden

Loss Angeles, Dallas DestinySpoiler Hidden

Spur of the Moment, Knicks in the MixSpoiler Hidden

Cowboy Up, Best College Football Rivalry?Spoiler Hidden

Live from Birmingham, Alabama.

Did Packers Make a Statement Sunday?, Are the Packers or Eagles a Bigger Threat in The NFC?Spoiler Hidden

Greatest World Series Game Ever?, Can The Cowboys Make The Playoffs?Spoiler Hidden

Pressure on Lamar Jackson to Make Playoffs?, Who Should Be Super Bowl Favorites Right Now?Spoiler Hidden

Who is the Best NFC North Team?, Top 5 QBs Right Now?Spoiler Hidden

Are Ravens Super Bowl Threats?, Dolphins Keeping Mike McDaniel a Mistake?Spoiler Hidden

Cowboys on Upset Alert?, Can Cowboys Make The Playoffs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live from Arlington right down the block from Jerry's World! A rowdy Cowboys crowd welcomes Stephen A with open arms. Plus, are the Bills the best 6-2 team? Are you more impressed with the Steelers' defense or concerned with the Colts' offense? Are the Cowboys on upset alert against the Cardinals? First Take resumes with Stephen A betting against the Cowboys to make the playoffs. Then Marcus Spears and Cam Newton sound off on the Bengals defense. Plus Michael Irvin ranks his top 3 Cowboys playmakers of all time.

Cowboys Season Over?, Jerry Speaks on MicahSpoiler Hidden

First Take starts with Stephen A, Jeff and CC asking if the Cowboys season is officially over after a stunning loss to the Cardinals. Stephen A also tells us all about sitting in Jerry Jones' suite. Then - could Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs miss the playoffs for the first time in his illustrious career? Plus - more on the Bengals offense vs. defense drama. First Take hour 2 starts with Drew Brees joining the show to discuss all of the Dallas drama! Find out what he thinks about Jerry Jones taking shots at his former star player. Then - The Cardinals invested $230 million in Kyler Murray four years ago. With Jacoby Brissett balling, Drew sticks around to determine whether Kyler should be their starting QB once healthy. Plus - Lists! Lists! Lists! Jeff gives us his top 5 NFL teams after week 9 and Stephen A tells us his top 4 sports dynasties of all time!

Episode 43Spoiler Hidden

Can Broncos Dethrone, NFC FavoritesSpoiler Hidden

First Take starts with the charging Broncos. They'll go 2.5 games up on the Chiefs with a win over the Raiders on Thursday night. Can they finally dethrone the nine-time defending AFC West Champs? Also - The Cardinals QB conundrum continues. Will Kyler Murray stay in Arizona next year, or will he find a new home? And later - Dan, Ryan, and Stephen A. tell you the winners and losers of a chaotic NFL trade deadline.Hour 2 begins with an NFC check in. The crew debates if the Eagles or Seahawks are more likely to find themselves playing for the Lombardi Trophy in February. Plus - With the addition of Sauce Gardner, the Colts are officially ALL IN. Can Danny Dimes handle the lofty expectations set on him? Also - Aaron Rodgers and Lamar Jackson lead their teams on the road in pivotal week 10 matchups. Which QB faces more pressure to win the AFC North?

Broncos a Real Threat?, Monday Night Must Win?Spoiler Hidden

First Takes discusses Denver's offense putting Stephen A. to sleep. Are they real threats in the AFC? QBs Under Pressure - Shae, RC, Cam, and Stephen A. debate which QB is under the most pressure to reach the Super Bowl this year. Steelers vs. Chargers - A measuring stick game for the Steelers, Stephen A. says their defense must wreak havoc against a battered Chargers O-line or he can't trust them as serious contenders.First Take resumes with a heated debate over confidence levels in Jordan Love. Is this a must win for the Pack? 49ers QB Controversy - Mac Jones is 5-2 as a starter this year. With Brock Purdy nearly healthy, Cam tells you who should start for the 49ers Fortenbaugh'$ Be$t Bet$ - Joe Fortenbaugh give$ you hi$ three be$t bet$ of the weekend. 

What If Steelers Miss Playoffs?, Packers-Eagles Deciding FactorsSpoiler Hidden

First Take is back with the lousy Steelers offense. How much is Aaron Rodgers to blame, and what happens if they miss the playoffs? Bills in Trouble - What's wrong with the Bills? Do you still view them as contenders in a loaded AFC? Comeback Kids - Caleb Williams led the Bears on their fourth game winning drive of the season. Is this 4th quarter magic sustainable?First Take resumes with the deciding factors in Monday Night's massive NFC matchup between the Eagles and Packers. West Coast Wallopings - The Seahawks and Rams dominated in divisional matchups. Who is the favorite in a loaded NFC West? Giant Issue - Concussions are becoming an issue for Jaxson Dart. He has made four visits to the blue tent this season. Does he need to change his style of play in order to stay healthy?

No Pack No, Spur of The MomentSpoiler Hidden

First Take starts with CC demolishing the Packers offense, and Stephen A. wonders if the Eagles are Jordan Love's kryptonite. No More Nico - Stephen A. and Amina Smith react to the Mavericks firing GM Nico Harrison. Big Apple Crumble - CC goes off on the Giants for keeping Joe Schoen after firing Brian Daboll. State of Play - We take a look at the AFC playoff picture.Hour 2 starts with Stephen A. raving about Victor Wembanyama. Can he win his first MVP this season? Nico Fired - Shams joins to give us the lowdown on who is truly at fault for the Mavs trading Luka Doncic. It's Fluid! - Stephen A. gives us his top 5 NFL teams after week 10. CC and Jeff disagree! Big Blue Blues - Who should be the Giants next head coach?

Patriots a Lock For One Seed?, Chiefs, Bills, or Ravens?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with concerns about the Eagles offense, and are the Patriots a lock for the one seed in the AFC? SEC Invitational - Paul Finebaum joins to discuss the second edition of the CFP Rankings. The SEC has six teams in right now. Stephen A. and Mad Dog think that is way too many! Giant Decision - Schrager throws out some names for the Giants next head coach, and Stephen A. doesn't understand why Joe Schoen is still the GM! Perennial Contenders - Who's most likely to make a deep playoff run: Chiefs, Bills, or Ravens? Swagu is ready for some Lamar magic. Hey Darnold - Do you trust Sam Darnold in the playoffs? Mad Dog can't get over his 2024 meltdown. Mad Dog is MAD - Tricky USC, late night NBA overs, and Penn State play calling. Showtime Lakers - LeBron hasn't played a single minute this season, yet the Lakers are 8-3. How will his return impact Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves? 

Concerned About Eagles?, Maye or Vrabel?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with A.J. Brown's most recent comments about his lack of production. Then, a heated debate over the Packers offense. Bucs vs. Bills - Are you higher on Baker or Josh right now? RC HATES Dan's cop out answer. Chiefs vs. Broncos - Do the Chiefs need a win more than any other team right now? Dan tells us why they might miss the playoffs with a loss this week. Hour 2 kicks off with the surging Patriots. Who's more responsible for their bounce back season: Drake Maye or Mike Vrabel? Eagles Drama - Dan and RC talk about A.J. Brown's season of struggles, and how hard it is being the leader of a successful team. Dan's List - Mina is APPALLED. RC walks off set. What is it about Dan's top 5 QBs drafted since 2020 that causes this reaction? Darnold Palmer - Half gunslinger, half ghost-seer. How much is at stake for the Seahawks QB in a crucial week 11 divisional matchup vs the Rams?

Does AFC Run Through Foxborough?, Will Lions Expose Eagles?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Drake Maye MVP chants after his 8th straight win, but Cam and Stephen A. say the Pats are fraudulent. Are you taking the Pats or Colts? Chiefs vs. Broncos - Mahomes and Nix battle in a matchup that will go a long way in deciding the AFC West. Which team needs this win more? Bear Down - The Bears have handled the bad teams, and struggled with the good ones. Do we know if they're good yet? First Take resumes with Cam all in on the Lions exposing the Eagles on Sunday night. RC supports the defending champs. RC is PUMPED for Arch Manning to pick apart a feisty Georgia defense. Will he have a legacy game? Seahawks vs. Rams - Does this game determine the best team in the NFC, or NFL? RC ROASTS Cam for his shocking take. Joe'$ Be$t Bet$ - Are you tailing or fading Fortenbaugh this weekend? Find out who he likes in Oklahoma vs. Alabama, Vikings vs. Bears, and Bucs vs. Bills. 

The Champ is Here!, Big Game Darnold?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with reaction to the PI call that swung Sunday Night's brawl between the Eagles and Lions. Could the Lions really miss the playoffs? Spitgate - The crew reacts to video showing Ja'Marr Chase spitting on Jalen Ramsey. How long should he be suspended? The Time is Now! - John Cena joins to discuss his final match at MSG Monday night.Hour 2 begins with Sam Darnold's shaky performance in another big time game. Hear why DanO is livid with Stephen A.'s opinion on star QBs 6 TD Josh - The Bills smoked the Bucs off of Josh Allen's 6 TDs, but Cam needs to see them perform on the road before he calls them Super Bowl contenders. Shedeur's Dud - Why was Shedeur unprepared? Cam thinks the Browns are sabotaging him! J.J. Can't Hack It - Hear which Viking Stephen A. thinks should request a trade after another stinker from J.J. McCarthy. 

The Champ is Here!, Big Game Darnold?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with reaction to the PI call that swung Sunday Night's brawl between the Eagles and Lions. Could the Lions really miss the playoffs? Spitgate - The crew reacts to video showing Ja'Marr Chase spitting on Jalen Ramsey. How long should he be suspended? The Time is Now! - John Cena joins to discuss his final match at MSG Monday night.Hour 2 begins with Sam Darnold's shaky performance in another big time game. Hear why DanO is livid with Stephen A.'s opinion on star QBs 6 TD Josh - The Bills smoked the Bucs off of Josh Allen's 6 TDs, but Cam needs to see them perform on the road before he calls them Super Bowl contenders. Shedeur's Dud - Why was Shedeur unprepared? Cam thinks the Browns are sabotaging him! J.J. Can't Hack It - Hear which Viking Stephen A. thinks should request a trade after another stinker from J.J. McCarthy. 

Cowboys Playoff Chances?, What's at Stake for Dak?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a week 12 lookahead. Shae, Mad Dog, Swagu, and Stephen A. look at the Cowboys playoff path. Also, what's more likely: Chiefs miss the playoffs or reach the Super Bowl? LeBron dished out 12 assists in his season debut. What's the Lakers ceiling this season? Finebaum joins to explain Notre Dame's unusual ranking and SEC bias. Stephen A. and Swagu go at it over Aaron Rodgers. Can the Steelers beat the Bears without him?First Take resumes with the crew discussing what Dak must do to lead the Cowboys to the playoffs. Shedeur Sanders makes his first start against the Raiders on Sunday. Swagu TEES OFF on Doggy for his Browns take. Mad Dog is MAD about 4th down decisions, JaMarr Chase's appeal, and Cam Skattebo's WWE fight. 

Does Jalen Hurts Deserve Blame?, Eagles Defense or Cowboys Offense?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live from Bethune-Cookman University and the students are HYPED!!! Stephen A. makes them even crazier with his Jalen Hurts take. Does he deserve blame for the Eagles internal issues? Cam called Drake Maye and the Patriots "fools gold," and Maye responded. Now, it's Cam's turn to clap back! Florida legends Fred Taylor and Channing Crowder join to talk about Shedeur Sanders! First Take resumes with game picks for Eagles vs. Cowboys. Bethune-Cookman University athletic director, basketball head coach, and NBA legend Reggie Theus joins to tell us about his coaching journey and what makes BCU so special! BCU students get their shot to ask the crew some sports and life questions! Channing Crowder and Fred Taylor stick around to tell us if rivalries are better in college football or The NFL.

Make or Break Start For Shedeur?, Jalen Hurts Criticism Justified?Spoiler Hidden

First Take kicks off with a loss for the Bills at the hands of an elite Texans defense. Are you more encouraged by the Texans, or concerned with the Bills? We react to A.J. Brown's newest comments. This time, he went after after Saquon! Shedeur Sanders makes his first start against the Raiders on Sunday. Why does Stephen A. think this is a make or break start for the 5th round rookie?First Take resumes with Jalen Hurt's win-loss record over the past two seasons: 24-5. Why do we criticize him so much? Are you more excited to watch Shedeur Sanders makes his first start, or the Cowboys attempt to take down their dominant division rival? Tyrese Maxey dropped 54 points vs the Bucks, becoming one of 21 players all time with at least three career 50/5/5 games. Stephen A. is impressed with his game! Joe Fortenbaugh stops by to give us his best bets for an awesome weekend of football!

High on Cowboys, or Down on Eagles?, Legacy Defining Win for Dak?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Greeny victory lapping his Cowboys take! Stephen A. finally bows his head in defeat... for a few minutes. He can't compliment the Cowboys for too long. Hear what he thinks will happen to them on Thanksgiving against the Chiefs. Shedeur Sanders earned his first NFL win, but Coach Stefanski won't commit to him as his starter going forward. Stephen A. asks our panel full of former NFL pros why the Browns wouldn't start him if they have no shot at the playoffs? First Take resumes with a Mahomes miracle. The Chiefs saved their season with a double digit fourth quarter comeback against the Colts. Are we more impressed with Mahomes Magic, or nervous about a Dimes Disintegration? Dak led the Cowboys to a massive win over the Eagles, but was it even more? Was this a win that will define his career? The Vikings chose J.J. McCarthy over Sam Darnold. Massive Mistake, or too early to tell? The Ravens officially stand atop the NFC North after starting 1-5, but can they contend for a Super Bowl? The crew debates if the 9-2 Rams and MVP favorite Matthew Stafford are the best team in the NFL. Malik Nabers posted and quickly deleted a tweet accusing the Giants coaching staff of trying to lose. Hear what Stephen A. has to say about Nabers thoughts. 

Is Thursday a Must Win for The Cowboys?, More to Gain From Super Bowl Victory: Stafford or Hurts?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the 49ers winning despite Brock Purdy's 3 interceptions. Sitting at 8-4 and 3rd in their division, are they really NFC contenders? Jeff and CC head to the board to check on the Cowboys playoff chances with a win vs. a loss to the Chiefs on Thanksgiving. CC tells us which NFL teams he can and can't trust.First Take resumes with a heated debate over who would gain more from winning a second Super Bowl: Matthew Stafford or Jalen Hurts. The Lions, Texans and Panthers are just a few of the many teams in the playoff hunt right now. Which squad is the scariest? Stephen A. gives us his top 5 teams after week 12. CC counters with his list. Chaos erupts. The Bills and Steelers seemed like playoff locks after getting off to blazing hot starts, but their playoff chances are quickly fading. Which team is having a more disappointing season so far?

Who Needs Better Game: Mahomes or Dak?, More Likely: Chiefs Win SB or Cowboys Reach Playoffs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Doggy Wednesdays! Mad Dog is back to tell us whether Mahomes or Prescott have more pressure to win on Thanksgiving day. Paul Finebaum joins to talk about Lane Kiffin. Doggy and Stephen A. can't see eye to eye on his decision making process as numerous SEC teams target him for their head coach openings. Our Thanksgiving nightcap sees Burrow return for a pivotal AFC North matchup against Lamar and the Ravens. If the Ravens win, are they legit Super Bowl contenders?First Take resumes with Kimberly Martin discussing Jerry Jones preseason and trade deadline moves. Did they pay off? WWE icon Paul Heyman joins to preview the Survivor Series: WarGames matches, happening Saturday at 7PM ET on the ESPN app. Mad Dog is MAD about the Colts OT decision, the Thanksgiving football slate???, and Stephen A skipping work. Coming off his first NFL win, Shedeur Sanders is expected to start again against the 49ers. What are your expectations for him? 

We're Stuffed With Thanksgiving Football!, Can Cowboys Run The Table?Spoiler Hidden

Happy Thanksgiving!! First Take begins with the dish of the day in Dallas. Which offense is more trustworthy: Chiefs or Cowboys? Our second plate is full of Shedeur Sanders debates. If he fails to produce against a tough 49ers defense, should the Browns relegate him back to the bench? Thanksgiving wraps up with an AFC North showdown. Lamar looks to find his footing after a shaky few starts. Is this a must win for the Ravens? First Take resumes with the Cowboys. Can they stay green bean casse-ROLLING against the Chiefs, and maybe even run the table? The Eagles hope it will be a Good Friday after facing the powerful Bears. Are the Eagles closer to a Super Bowl or an early playoff exit? Last but not feast, Justin Jefferson and the Vikings face the Seahawks. With J.J. McCarthy struggling mightily, are the Vikings wasting Jefferson's prime?  

Episode 60Spoiler Hidden

Should Steelers Move on From Tomlin?, Best NFC Team?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the free-falling Steelers. Should they move on from long-time head coach Mike Tomlin? Who had the worse Week 13 Loss: Rams or Eagles? Then, we debate Lane Kiffin's tumultuous exit from Ole Miss. Finally, should Shedeur start for the rest of the season? First Take resumes with NFC parity. Which team are you most confident in right now? Are there any true contenders in the AFC North, or is this a division full of frauds? Then, does Texas deserve to be in the College Football Playoffs, and should Ole Miss have let Lane Kiffin finish the season? Next, do you believe in the Colts after a rough stretch of losses? Finally, are the Broncos or Patriots the best team in the AFC?  

Can Patriots Win Super Bowl?, Who Needs Win More: Cowboys or Lions?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a Monday night beatdown! The Patriots are pounding through an easy schedule, but would you be surprised if they win the Super Bowl? And, how can Jaxson Dart avoid taking so many gruesome hits? Then, how does Lane Kiffin look after his introductory press conference as LSU's head coach? Finally, will Mahomes be viewed differently if the Chiefs miss the playoffs?First Take resumes with a monumental Thursday night brawl between the Cowboys and Lions. Who needs the win more? Then, with the Steelers on the outside of the playoff picture, is the Rodgers signing a failure? Next Stephen A's List! Find out his top 5 NFL teams after week 13! And finally, does Abdul Carter's 1st quarter benching say more about him, or the Giants as an organization?

Can Cowboys Catch Eagles?, Scariest NFL Team?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the whole crew back in studio for Doggy Wednesdays! Can the Eagles catch the Cowboys in the race for the NFC East crown, and can the Chiefs run the table? Then, Paul Finebaum on the latest CFP Rankings. Finally, SAS sounds off on the Clippers for releasing Chris Paul in the middle of the night!First Take resumes with the scariest NFL teams. Hear the team Mad Dog thinks no one wants to see in the playoffs! Then, the crew asks if the Bears are real contenders. Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Nick Sirianni, NFL officiating, and Lane Kiffin. Finally, we take a look back at Chris Paul's illustrious career after he was abruptly released by the LA Clippers early Wednesday morning. 

Is Lions vs. Cowboys a Perception Changing Game?, Will Cowboys Make Playoffs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Mina Kimes in studio! Mina, Dan and RC get after Stephen A. for his waffling Lions vs Cowboys pick! Then, Brian Windhorst gives us the latest Giannis trade speculation and more on CP3's shocking dismissal from the Clippers. Next, RC gives some perspective on James Harrison's comments about their former head coach Mike Tomlin. First Take resumes with DanO questioning if the Cowboys really have what it takes to make the playoffs. Then, Definitive Dan thinks we're all overreacting to Jaxson Dart's play style, and tells us to watch out for the Dolphins! Then, are you higher on the Bears offense or Packers defense? Finally, which offense will ball out more this week: Burrow and the Bengals or Allen and the Bills?

Biggest Reason For Cowboys Loss?, What Happened To George Pickens?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Stephen A. roasting George Pickens and the Dallas Cowboys! Then, Micah Parsons sees the Bears disrespect. Will he raise them a couple sacks? Next, LeBron's 10-point streak ended after 19 years, but his unselfish play earned the Lakers a win. Stephen A. has thoughts on the King's play style. First Take resumes with George Pickens responding to Richard Sherman's criticism about his disappearing act against the Lions! Then, Rodgers faces Lamar in a key divisional battle. Who comes out on top? Next, Heisman winner Desmond Howard joins to break down how this weekend's conference championship games will affect the CFP. Finally, Joe Fortenbaugh gives his best bets for a loaded NFL Sunday slate!

Do You Trust Jordan Love in Big Games?, Was Isaiah Likely Robbed?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Jordan Love's latest heroics! The Packers took down the Bears to take control of the NFC North, but can Love be trusted in big games? Then, was it a mistake keeping Notre Dame out of the CFP? Finally, Josh Allen went superman mode to overcome the Bengals high powered offense. As one of the few wily vets in the AFC playoff picture, is he good enough to overcome the Bills mediocre defense. First Take resumes with Isaiah Likely's robbery and Aaron Rodgers' postgame comments! Then, what in the world was Kevin Stefanski thinking on that 2 point conversion?? Was he trying to sabotage Shedeur's breakout game? Next, Paul Finebaum's reaction to Notre Dame AD Pete Bevacqua's damning comments about ND's relationship with the ACC! Finally, are the Bears capable of a deep playoff run? 

Will Eagles Hold Off Cowboys in NFC East?, Do The Eagles Have a Jalen Hurts Problem?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with another Eagles stinker as they continue soaring directly into the ground. Ouch, that "Hurts." Will they hold off the Cowboys in the NFC East? And, hear what Jeff Saturday has to say about his former team trying Phillip Rivers as a Daniel Jones replacement! Then, the crew goes scorched earth on the CFP selection committee for giving JMU and Tulane a chance (no disrespect). Should adjustments be made to the selection process? Next, we react to Shedeur Sanders officially being named the Browns starter for the rest of the season.First Take resumes with an honest Eagles conversation. Hear Stephen A, Jeff and CC's level of concern with Jalen Hurts moving forward. Then, what is Caleb Williams' and the Bears ceiling this season? Next, Jeff reveals his top 5 NFL teams through week 14. Finally, hear if Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers did enough against the Ravens to silence the doubters, and Stephen A. reacts to MLB breaking news! 

Is Doggy First Take's Best Athlete?, Should Jalen Hurts Remain Eagles starter?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Cowboys final push. Jerry says they still have a chance, and with the Eagles faltering at the worst of times, he may be right! Hear if Stephen A. agrees with his old suitemate! Then, Paul Finebaum joins to blast Notre Dame AD Pete Bevacqua's most recent comments on missing the CFP. Finally, should the Bills be favored on the road against the AFC East leading Patriots?First Take starts with Nick Sirianni confirming Jalen Hurts will remain the Eagles starting QB. Kimberley Martin tells us why he was even asked this question! Then, WWE superstar Gunther joins to talk about his upcoming match with John Cena! Next, Shedeur Sanders is helping Cleveland, but is Cleveland helping him? 

What is Next For Michigan?, QB Under The Most Pressure in Week 15?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Shefty and Finebaum joining to break down the entire Michigan situation. From the timeline of Wednesday's events, to head coaching candidates, we've got it all covered. Then, it's Jalen Hurts turn to get blamed for the Eagles misery. Does he deserve this amount of hate? Next, Travis Kelce voiced his frustration over the Chiefs and his own poor play. DanO takes us inside the mindset of a lot of confused Chiefs players! First Take resumes with QBs under pressure. Stephen A. tells us which starter needs to ball out this week. Then, Joe Burrow raised some eyebrows with his comments on Wednesday. Mina tells us how he can have more fun on the field! Next, we play a game of "Who would you rather have?" Hear if the crew would rather have Justin Jefferson or George Pickens.

What's With Todd Bowles Expletive-Laced Rant?, Who's On Upset Alert?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Todd Bowles asking his team to "****ing care!" Will his fiery postgame speech give the Bucs enough juice to retain the NFC South title? And, are the Colts in the wrong sending a 44-year-old Philip Rivers out to face the Seahawks airtight defense this week? Then, Shedeur faces the Bears with another chance to prove HE should be the Browns starter in 2026. Next, Heisman Trophy finalist Diego Pavia joins to talk about Vanderbilt winning ten games for the first time in program history! First Take resumes with upset watch. Could J.J. McCarthy walk down Dak and the Cowboys? Then, Rich Eisen joins to discuss Joe Burrow's future. Next, a Super Bowl preview?? The Packers explosive offense faces the Broncos ferocious defense. Who has the advantage? 

Is Cowboys Season a Failure?, More Confident in Bills or Patriots?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Michael Irvin dishing on the Cowboys season! Hear if he views it as a success, or failure. Then, the Colts lost a tight battle against the Seahawks, but Philip Rivers looked solid! Who from our show owes him an apology? Next, Mahomes tore his ACL and Kelce is on the verge of retirement. Where do the Chiefs go from here?First Take resumes with a Bills vs. Patriots recap. Which team showed more in Sunday's barnburner. Then, the Eagles blew out a lifeless Raiders squad. How much stock do you put into this drubbing? Next, the Bengals are eliminated from the playoffs, and Joe Burrow's future is uncertain. Schrager joins to give us the lowdown on their rocky future. Finally, former Heisman winner Cam Newton speaks on Diego Pavia's reaction to losing the award Saturday night. 

Who Wins AFC North: Steelers or Ravens?, Are Eagles The NFC's Best Team?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the battle for the AFC North. Rodgers has the Steelers in front with three game remaining and a week 18 slugfest looming. Who will become the King in The North? And, Can the Packers go far without Parsons? Then, Chris Canty tells us why the Chiefs need to stop taking Mahomes greatness for granted. And, Josh Allen showed us he still carries the AFC East torch as he lit fire to a snowy Foxborough. Do his Bills need to win the division more than Drake's Pats?First Take resumes with the Eagles. They showed signs against an imperfect Raiders squad, but should they be considered an A-tier NFC team? And, who has more on the line the rest of this season: Shedeur or Stefanski? Next, Stephen A. shares his top 5 NFL teams after week 15! Then, Paul Finebaum joins to tell us if Kalen DeBoer really plans on staying at Alabama. Finally, are we sleeping on Lamar and the Ravens? With no Mahomes and a shaky Bills squad, could this be their breakthrough year? 

Are The Knicks Title Contenders?, Will The Eagles Keep Sliding?Spoiler Hidden

First Take resumes with the NBA (Cup) Championship Knicks! Windy joins to talk about their title hopes, and Doggy talks about the absurdity that is hanging a Cup Championship banner. Next, a Bears-Packers preview, and the Dolphins are benching Tua for Quinn Ewers. Why???First Take resumes with Peter Schrager on the Eagles. Time is running out for a late season turnaround. It's now or never for Jalen Hurts! Next, how confident are you that the Chiefs will bounce back next season? Then, Mad Dog is MAD about Colts FGs, Travis Kelce, and the NFL's Christmas slate! Finally, Shams breaks the news that the Knicks will NOT hang an NBA Cup banner at the end of the show! Stephen A. and Doggy react! 

How Confident Are You in Alabama?, How Well Does Miami Need to Play to Justify a CFP Bid?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Josh Pate walking us through Alabama's massive CFP matchup against Oklahoma. Then, Mina Kimes tells us if it's more important for the Bears or Packers to win the NFC North. Meanwhile, in the AFC North, it's coming down to the wire between the Ravens and Steelers. Which team do you have more faith in?First Take resumes with Miami backing up their CFP bid. What if they get blown out by A&M? Does that mean the committee should have put Notre Dame in? Then, should Joe Burrow force his way out of Cincinnati? Next, the crew makes their CFP National Championship game picks! 

Is an Alabama 1st Round Loss Unacceptable?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the CFP! Alabama is on the hunt for revenge against an OU squad that took them down in November. With Bama's stacked roster, is it unacceptable for them to lose tonight? Then, Sam Darnold came up clutch in a wild Thursday night win over the Rams, but did he truly silence the critics? Next, the Bears enter Saturday's matchup against the Packers as 1.5 point favorites. Is that the correct line? 

Are Steelers Real Deal or Fools's Gold?, Can Caleb Williams Lead Bears to The Super Bowl?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a controversial ending in Detroit. Did the refs ruin an all-time classic, and can we trust the Steelers in the playoffs? Then, Paul Finebaum joins to talk about a chaotic weekend in college football! Finally, The Patriots shocked the Ravens with a late 4th quarter comeback, and John Harbaugh shocked the world by benching Derrick Henry. What in the world happened on Sunday night??First Take resumes with the Bears comeback. Caleb Williams has taken a leap this year, but can this version of him lead the Bears to the Super Bowl? Then, we take a look at Jerry Jones' latest comments on the Cowboys 30th consecutive disappointing season. Next, Paul Finebaum tells us which CFP game had his phone exploding with text messages!

Can The 49ers Win The NFC?, Will DK Metcalf's Suspension Derail The Steelers Season?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Mad Dog! He hates holidays and 49ers skeptics! Does he really think the Fightin' Shanahans can get to the Super Bowl, though? Then, FOOTBALL! Does Lamar get a pass for this dreadful Ravens season? How do you view Kalen DeBoer right now? Have the Eagles FINALLY righted the ship? And, Mad Dog's Nice List! You don't want to miss who he has number one!!First Take resumes with DK Metcalf's 2 game suspension. Is it too harsh, and how much will Aaron Rodgers miss his number one receiver? Then, we look at the big picture in the NFC North. Next, what is Mad Dog mad about this week?? Finally, Jake Paul joins to tell us which is more difficult: fighting Floyd Mayweather, or being in the WWE!

Should DK Metcalf's Suspension Have Been Upheld?, Who Owns Christmas: NBA or NFL?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with DK Metcalf's two game suspension. Is that too many games, or not enough? Next, would you rather have Jalen Hurts or Josh Allen heading into the playoffs? Then, we bring on Kendrick Perkins to discuss the Lakers most recent loss to the Suns and JJ Redick's comments on his squad's effort.First Take begins with the battle of Christmas. Fraser Firs, Mariah Carey, and a warm fire...are you thinking of the NBA or NFL? Then, it's Bears vs. 49ers in a battle that could decide the one seed in the NFC. Who needs this win more? Next, Jeff lists his top 5 NFL teams after week 16! Finally, two of the Thunder's four losses have come at the hands of Wemby. Are the Spurs their kryptonite?

Would You Start a Franchise With Wemby or SGA?Spoiler Hidden

Merry Christmas! First Take begins with NBA superstars. If you're starting a franchise today, do you want SGA or Wemby? Then, LeBron faces KD in a Christmas night showdown! Which team is more likely to make the finals: Rockets or Lakers? Next, who cracks RC's list of NFL teams that will bounce back in 2026? 

Does LeBron Need to Leave The Lakers?, Bigger Threat to OKC: Spurs or Nuggets?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with an NBA Christmas Day recap! Has the LeBron-Lakers relationship run its course? Then, Michigan has zoned in on former Utah coach Kyle Whittingham as their next leader. Is he a good fit? Next, with the Cowboys eliminated, should Dak Prescott play next week?First Take resumes with the faltering Thunder as Wemby, De'Aaron Fox, and Dylan Harper made them look human. Who's their bigger threat: Spurs or Nuggets? Then, Travis Kelce's last home game and a cross-conference showdown between the Eagles and Bills. Next, a potential NFC conference finals preview between the Bears and 49ers will certainly deliver, but which team has more at stake? Finally, with a playoff spot clinched and injuries mounting, should the Packers rest Jordan Love against the Ravens? 

Should The Steelers Move on From Tomlin?, Is Myles Garrett The MVP?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a shocker in Cleveland! Shedeur took down Rodgers, and the Tomlin doubters return. Do the Steelers need to find a new head coach? Then, how much can we really trust the injured, potential NFC one seed 49ers? Next, a heated debate about the Bills decision to go for 2 at the end of the game. First Take resumes with a steaming hot MVP take from Cam! Then, the Bears and 49ers battled in a Sunday night classic! Cam and David Dennis Jr. question whether either teams defense can hold up in the playoffs. Next, Nick Sirianni and A.J. Brown had opposite reactions to a massive Eagles win. Find out if Cam trusts them to make a deep playoff run. Finally, the Giants saved their best ball for the game they needed to lose the most. Was beating the Raiders a mistake?

Are You Confident Rams Can Still Make Super Bowl?, Which NFC Contender Can Overcome Their Biggest Flaw?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the stumbling Rams. Two weeks ago they were Super Bowl favorites. Now, three road games await them in a daunting NFC playoff field. Then, Paul Finebaum predicts a HUGE upset in the CFP. Next, would not reaching the Super Bowl this season be the biggest playoff disappointment of Josh Allen's career? First Take resumes with flawed NFC contenders. Then, which team has the best chance to pull off a CFP Quarterfinals upset? Next, Jason McCourty lists his top 5 NFL teams. Finally, the AFC North Title is on the line in week 18. It's another Harbaugh-Tomlin showdown, but this edition comes with higher stakes...

Is a Steelers Rebuild on The Line Sunday?, Do You Trust Stafford or Hurts More in The Playoffs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with (potential) future on-air personality Mike Tomlin! Is a rebuild on the horizon for the Steelers if they lose on Sunday? Then, Desmond Howard gives Miami the formula to upset Ohio State! Next, we hand out NFL New Year's Awards! First Take resumes with a QB debate for the ages! Both Super Bowl Winners. Both members of stacked offenses. Would you rather have Stafford or Hurts in the playoffs? Then, Josh Pate joins to talk everything CFP. Next, Mad Dog is MAD about Sandy Koufax erasure, the NFL's weak schedule, and New Year's Eve Times Square goers!

Do You Believe Ole Miss Can Win The Title?, Are You More Disappointed in Alabama or Ohio State?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Ole Miss-Georgia thriller! Was Kirby Smart outcoached, and can Ole Miss win it all? Then, as Alabama fans long for the days of Nick Saban and Jerry Jeudy, Paul Finebaum tells us what's next for the Crimson Tide ("They're in shambles"). Next, it allll comes down to Steelers-Ravens for a playoff spot. Cam decides if Rodgers or Lamar faces more pressure to win!First Take resumes with disappointing college football powerhouses. Should Alabama or Ohio State be more disappointed with their early CFP exits? And, hear what RC has to say about the dominant days of the SEC. Then, the Seahawks and 49ers face off Saturday for the NFC's top seed! Which team needs homefield advantage throughout the playoffs more? Finally, who's the better QB prospect: Fernando Mendoza or Dante Moore? 

How Much Praise do Rodgers and Tomlin Deserve?, Does Lamar Jackson Get a Pass For Ravens Missing the Playoffs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a Steel City thriller! We assign praise and blame for the Steelers and Ravens. (0:00) Then, coming off of a massive win against the Niners for the one seed, how should we view Sam Darnold going into the playoffs? (26:45) Next, The Bengals are bringing back Zac Taylor for another season. Is this the right move?First Take resumes with a look at Lamar's turbulent season. Should we give him a pass for the Ravens missing the playoffs? (0:00) Then, the Raiders are moving on from Pete Carroll after just one year. Stephen A. has some thoughts for Tom Brady! (15:50) Next, the Giants ruined their draft position for the second straight season. How angry should Giants fans be at their seemingly incompetent front office? 

Is Having No Traditional Powerhouses in CFP a Big Deal?, What's Wrong with the Knicks???Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Paul Finebaum breaking down the powerhouse-less CFP semifinals. Then, Stephen A. reacts to the Cowboys firing their fourth defensive coordinator in four years! Next, Finebaum is back to tell us if Ole Miss or Miami winning is the better story!First Take resumes with crossover CFP/NFL Draft coverage! Who will win the Mendoza vs. Moore battle, and does the winner deserve to be picked number one overall? Then, Stephen A. gives a quick take on the Knicks after a disastrous 30-point loss to the Pistons. Next, who's the biggest x-factor in Eagles-49ers? And, Stephen A lists his top 5 QBs under the most pressure in the playoffs!

Was Firing John Harbaugh the Right Decision?, Which Team is the Best Fit for John Harbaugh?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a shocking Ravens decision! Swagu, Mad Dog and Stephen A. are fired up about John Harbaugh getting fired! Then - which team winning the CFP would be the best story? Next - Mad Dog is so mad at Stephen A.'s QBs under pressure list from yesterday that we had to revisit it! He wants to swap out Josh Allen for who?? First Take resumes with Harbaugh landing spots. Which team is the best fit for the recently fired head coach? Then, Stephen A.'s crazy rant on the fumbling, bumbling, stumbling New York Jets! Next, Mad Dog is mad at the Cowboys, Bills, and Tom Brady!

Was Jimbo Fisher Right to Call Lane Kiffin Selfish?, Who Do You Trust More: Trinidad Chambliss or Carson Beck?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with college football!!! Jimbo Fisher called out Lane Kiffin for not allowing some coaches to coach in Ole Miss's semifinal matchup. Stephen A. gets on the Lane hate train! Then, Stephen A. responds to Garrett Wilson. Next, Desmond Howard on the CFP and Mike McDaniel getting fired.First Take resumes as the CFP semifinals kick off tonight! Are you riding with Big Bliss, or the Beckster! Then, will the Bears shaky defense be their downfall against the Packers? DanO explains. Next, Jerry Jones wants to retire as the owner with the most Super Bowls. You already know Stephen A. has some thoughts!

What Was the Deciding Factor in Ole Miss-Miami?, How Big of a Deal is the SEC CFP Title Drought?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Ole Miss-Miami reaction and remembrance of an up and down season in Oxford! Then, is Josh Allen's legacy on the line Sunday against the Jaguars?  And, with all other bye teams out, how disappointing would it be if Indiana doesn't win the CFP? First Take resumes with a CFP title drought! 3 seasons have past since we last saw an SEC team play for the CFB crown. Is the changing landscape of college football good or bad? Then, the Rams are heavy favorites against the Panthers who beat them in the regular season! Should Stafford and McVay be nervous? And, Chris Fowler joins to take us through an all time Fiesta Bowl from his vantage point in the booth! 

How Much Blame Does A.J. Brown Deserve For the Eagles Loss?, Which Team Had the Worse Weekend: Eagles or Packers?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live from Pittsburgh! Steelers fans are waving their Terrible Towels and can't WAIT to hear about the Eagles massive loss to the 49ers. Their season came to a painful end, but the drama is just beginning! How much blame does A.J. Brown deserve? Then, did Caleb Williams prove he's an elite QB with his big comeback victory against the Packers? Next, Pittsburgh mayor Corey O'Connor joins to talk about the Steelers chances against the Texans!First Take resumes with Wild Card Weekend losers. We check if the Packers or Eagles need to make drastic changes this offseason. Then, would you rather have Rodgers or Stroud for Monday Night's monster matchup! Next, Josh Allen donned his cape, battled against the villainous Jaguars, and left Jacksonville victorious. Will Superman finally reach a Super Bowl this year. Finally, RC gives Steelers fans a MAJOR pump-up speech as they head into battle against the Texans! 

Should Aaron Rodgers Retire?, Is Aaron Rodgers Right to Defend his Past and Present Head Coaches?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a 7th straight Steel City stinker! Aaron Rodgers danced his way right into the arms of a suffocating Texans defense! Should he play another year, or ride off into the caves of Oregon... Then, Ben Johnson will NOT apologize for his expletive laced Packers rant and quick handshake. Is he singlehandedly bringing NFL rivalries back? Next, Hurts stock fell out of the Q&B 32 top 10 list, but is now the right time to buy low? QB Advisors Jeff Saturday and Chris Canty give us the lowdown!First Take begins with strong words from Aaron Rodgers on Mike Tomlin, Matt LaFleur, and NFL television coverage. Stephen A. speaks on the media not knowing what they're talking about when it comes to coach hirings and firings. Then, the Bills opened up as 1.5-point favorites against the Broncos. It's since flipped to Broncos -1.5, but which team deserves to be favored in this mile high matchup? Next, Stephen A. lists his top 5 disappointing NFL teams this season!

Did Tomlin Make the Right Decision Stepping Down?, What are the Top 5 NFL Head Coaching Openings?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with an AFC North coaching carousel. Tomlin steps down, Harbaugh and Stefanski are fired. What does Stephen A. have to say about all of these coaches on the move? Then, the Eagles finally let go of offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo. Will this fix their offensive issues, and Swagu wants to trade who?? Next, the Patriots and Texans came away with easy wild card weekend victories. Which team's dominant win gave you more confidence heading into their Sunday night showdown?First Take begins with Stephen A.'s top 5 NFL coaching openings and, more importantly, a 10/10 Mad Dog impression! Then, with Harbaugh out in Baltimore, who should the Ravens pair with Lamar Jackson to ensure success through the rest of the decade? Next, Rich Paul said on his podcast that the Lakers should trade Austin Reaves. LeBron disagrees. Stephen A. breaks down LeBron distancing himself from his own agent!

Does Harbaugh Hiring Immediately Turn Giants into Contenders?, What are Fair Expectations for John Harbaugh?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a midnight bombshell! The Giants are set to hire John Harbaugh. Will he immediately change the culture in the Meadowlands from trash, to bold and brash? Then, will Caleb William's hot streak continue against a beatable Rams defense? Next, with his entire receiving core on IR, how concerned should we be about Josh Allen and the Bills?First Take resumes with setting fair expectations for John Harbaugh in his first year with the G-Men. Then, Josh Pate makes the case for Miami competing with Indiana in a galvanic Championship matchup! Next, how confident are you that C.J. Stroud will bounce back after a miserable performance against the Steelers?  

How Concerned Are You About Sam Darnold?, Would You Be Surprised if Caleb Williams Outplays Matt Stafford?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Sam Darnold's oblique. RC and Cam aren't buying this late week injury! Then, Stephen A. brings up the NIGHTMARE scenario for Miami: getting blown out by Indiana on their home turf! Next, Josh Allen leads an injury plagued Bills squad into Mile High. Will he leave victorious, or suffer another postseason disappointment? First Take resumes with setting fair expectations for John Harbaugh in his first year with the G-Men. Then, Josh Pate makes the case for Miami competing with Indiana in a galvanic Championship matchup! Next, how confident are you that C.J. Stroud will bounce back after a miserable performance against the Steelers? 

Bills Fire Sean McDermott + Tim Tebow's CFP Championship Preview, How Should We View Josh Allen Right Now?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with more NFL coaching moves. Sean McDermott is out in Buffalo after another playoff heartbreaker. Then, Tim Tebow gives us his Indiana vs. Miami pick. Next, we break down CJ Stroud's all time stinker vs the Patriots. First Take resumes with Stephen A. going in on the Bills! They fired their head coach, but promoted their GM? Huh??? Then, how well does Carson Beck need to play against Indiana to give Miami a shot? Next, Mark Cuban on his relationship with Curt Cignetti and the IU football program! 

Is Curt Cignetti Building the Next CFB Dynasty?, Is the Warriors Dynasty Officially Done?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a wild finish at the CFP championship game! Indiana took home a third straight title for the Big Ten. Has the college football landscape officially shifted away from a dominant SEC, to an up-and-coming Big Ten? Next, the last two MVPs are now coachless. Which job should free agent coaches value more: Buffalo or Baltimore? Then, we grade the other head coaching acquisitions including Robert Saleh to the Titans and Jeff Hafley to the Dolphins.First Take resumes with Michael Irvin, Ray Lewis, and Jeremy Shockey down in the dumps after Fernando Mendoza late game heroics. Is the U back despite losing a heartbreaker to Indiana? Next, Sam Darnold threw 6 INTs in 2 regular season games vs the Rams. How concerning are his previous struggles going into a Sunday night NFC showdown. Then, with Jimmy Butler's ACL injury keeping him out for the rest of the year, should the Warriors make another trade to compete in the west?  

How Much Criticism Does Josh Allen Deserve?, What Chance Do You Give Broncos Sunday?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Mad Dog's return, and he is fired up! You have to hear his defense of Josh Allen! Then, Bills owner Terry Pegula is blaming Sean McDermott for drafting Keon Coleman. Supposedly, Brandon Beane didn't want him! Only the coaching staff did. What in the world is going on in Buffalo? Next, Mad Dog gives us his top 5 most improbable champions in sports history! Can you guess who is number one? Hint: "Lobs it, Burress, alone, touchdown!" First Take resumes with the undermanned Broncos. Put a number on it. What percent chance do you give them to win? Next, Mel Kiper has Fernando Mendoza going number one to the Raiders in his latest mock draft. Would he be a good fit for Las Vegas? Then, Mad Dog is mad at Sean Mcvay, DJ Moore, and Broncos-Bills refs. 

Should Giannis Demand a Trade Out of Milwaukee?, How Did Buss Family Infighting Drive Lakers Sale?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Brian Windhorst and Stephen A. on Giannis's best options moving forward. Should Milwaukee trade for another star, or ship him out? Then, RC and DanO address SAS Broncos comments from yesterday. Next, the Steelers interviewed Mike McCarthy for their open head coaching position. Is he a good fit? First Take resumes with Buss family infighting. How did a family feud drive the Lakers into selling, and will this be LeBron's last year as a Laker? Then, after the Rams and Seahawks split their season series, which powerhouse does a third matchup favor? Next, strengths collide when Kayshon Boutte and the Patriots offense meet Pat Surtain and the Broncos defense. Who has the edge? 

What are Your Expectations for Jarrett Stidham?, Does Stafford Need to be Elite for the Rams to Win?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Sean Payton doing what Sean Payton does: talking trash. Him and Kayshon Boutte traded barbs ahead of Sunday's AFC championship. Then, LeBron "doesn't care how somebody feels about me." Windy and Stephen A. decide what the Lakers should do with the aging GOAT. Next, you HAVE to hear Stephen A.'s Notre Dame rant. First Take resumes with Matthew "HOF?" Stafford. Can the Rams still defeat the Seahawks if he isn't elite? Then, after hearing Philip River is interviewing for the Bills head coaching job, RC and Cam throw their hats into the ring! Next, JSN and Puka battle in a matchup of two of the best receivers in the league! Who has the edge?

Has Sam Darnold Quieted Critics?, Has the Narrative Around Sam Darnold Officially Changed?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Darnold the Demon! Slingin' Sammy threw for 3 TDs and 346 yards! He's now led his team to a Super Bowl, but somehow there are still doubters? Then, Stephen A. declared the AFC championship a must win for the Patriots with Stidham starting. They clearly watch First Take, because that defense looked motivated as they took it to the Broncos backup QB! Next, do you like the Steelers hiring Mike McCarthy? First Take resumes with a fluctuating narrative. Darnold saw ghosts, led a Viking brigade to the playoffs, got banished from his Minnesota but found refuge in Seattle, and now soars his 'Hawks into the Super Bowl. How should we view him? Then, WWE superstar Seth Rollins talks Royal Rumble! Next, we have to talk Stafford's legacy. He has all of the stats AND a Super Bowl, maybe even an MVP soon. What more can he do? Trivia: which Seahawks WR made an acrobatic catch while lying on the ground to set up the Seahawks at the goal line before the famous Malcolm Butler INT?

Should the Browns Hire Deion Sanders?, Are the Lakers Title Threats?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the underwhelming Patriots. After running through a weak AFC and surviving Drake Maye's lackluster play, do the Patriots really have a chance against the Seahawks? Stephen A. doesn't think so... Then, Windy and Big Perk have some ideas on where Giannis may be traded! Next, no one wants the Browns job even though it comes with a fully equipped pro bowl QB! Is Deion the answer in Cleveland?First Take starts with LeBron, Luka and the Lakers. After cruising to victory over the Bulls, they're 5th in a star studded western conference. Can they really make the finals, or will a weak starting center and bench be their downfall? Then, who has more to gain by winning the Super Bowl: former bust Sam Darnold, or second year sensation Drake Maye? Next, Stephen A. reveals his top 5 NBA teams! Only 1 East team?? C'mon Stephen A.!!

Why Was Bill Belichick Left Out of the Hall of Fame?, Who is to Blame for Bill Belichick Being Left Out of HOF?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with an EGREGIOUS, INHUMANE HOF decision. Stephen A. wants names AND faces of everyone didn't vote for Bill Belichick! Then, which Super bowl participant had a harder path? Next, Stephen A. speaks on his Steelers hiring Mike McCarthy!First Take resumes with a complete and total takedown of Bill Polian and The NFL Hall of Fame. Mad Dog is absolutely HEATED! Then, Paul Heyman joins to talk Royal Rumble. Next, the Bucks are officially listening to offers on Giannis. Knicks? Rockets? Who can make the best offer? 

The Brons' In Cleavland, Giannis wants outSpoiler Hidden

LeBron James and the Lakers were in Cleveland last night to face the Cavs in what could be LeBrons final return home as an NBA player. Were joined by Shams Charania with the latest on Giannis Antetokounmpos future as trade buzz heats up ahead of the deadline, with several contenders reportedly in the mix. Plus, a look ahead to the Patriots as underdogs in the Super Bowl matchup with the Seahawks, and Celtics star Jayson Tatum opens up about his hesitation to return this season while recovering from injury. LeBron and the Lakers returned to Cleveland in what could be his final trip home as a player. We have the latest from Shams Charania on Giannis Antetokounmpos future as the trade deadline nears. Plus, a Super Bowl preview with the Patriots as underdogs against the Seahawks, and Jayson Tatum shares doubts about a potential return this season. 

Bills Back Brady, Coach ApproachSpoiler Hidden

First Take starts now! The Bills name Joe Brady head coach, elevating their longtime OC as Buffalo looks to finally break through to a Super Bowl with Josh Allen. The Eagles continue their coordinator carousel, hiring former NFL QB Sean Mannion as their fifth OC in five years. Plus, with the NBA trade deadline looming, all eyes are on Giannis Antetokounmpo as a struggling Bucks team listens to serious trade offers. Stephen A, RC, Windy, and Monica McNutt have the answers!Second hour of First Take: Josh Allen reunites with Joe Brady as the Bills promote their MVP-winning OC to head coach, while the Ravens hire Jesse Minter and look ahead to his partnership with Lamar Jackson. Who is under more pressure to make it to the Super Bowl? In the NBA, the Timberwolves knock off the Thunder behind a strong night from Anthony Edwards, and Teofimo Lopez Jr. defends his WBO title against Shakur Stevenson in a high-stakes showdown at Madison Square Garden. All this and more from Stephen A, RC, Windy, and Monica McNutt! 

Minnesota Mess, The Bowl in 6Spoiler Hidden

It's time for First Take. On a landmark anniversary, the stars were on the floor and this morning, we're not holding anything back. The players have arrived, the energy is building, but one HUGE question still hangs over the Patriots and we've got the answer. Plus, Justin Jefferson steps up and says what everyone's been thinking. The real debate? What does he believe about his own future in football, and should the league be paying attention?Justin Jefferson isn't holding back. He says what everyone else is thinking, but the real question remains: what does JJ see when he looks at his football future, and is the league ready for it? On a historic anniversary, the stars were on the floor, and this morning, the takes are going to be loud. The players are in, the tension is real, and one MASSIVE question surrounds the Patriots don't worry, we've got answers. 

Questions, Shoulder BoulderSpoiler Hidden

Wake UP! The painful truth is out Drake Maye has a shoulder issue, and we're breaking down exactly what that means as we race toward Super Sunday. Meanwhile oh, it's spicy Buffalo GM Brandon Beane is clapping back at his critics, and there are plenty of them. You do not want to miss what he had to say. AND while you were sleeping& BOOM an NBA blockbuster! A superstar on the move with just two days left before the trade deadline. Let's go!The painful truth is here Drake May's shoulder is an issue, and we're telling you exactly how much it changes the game as the clock ticks down to Super Sunday. Meanwhile hold on now Buffalo GM Brandon Beane is firing back at his critics, and trust me, the list is LONG. Wait until you hear this. AND while you were catching Z's& the NBA drops a BOMBSHELL. A superstar on the move with just TWO days before the trade deadline. This show is just getting started! 

Episode 107Spoiler Hidden

Episode 108Spoiler Hidden

Did the Voters Get MVP Right?, Does Drake Maye Need to Play Well in the Super Bowl?Spoiler Hidden

First Take wraps up Super Bowl week from San Francisco. Matthew Stafford took home his first MVP after barely beating out Drake Maye! Did the voters get this one right? Then, 3-time Super Bowl champ Emmitt Smith tells us how he prepped for the big game. Next, we're still flustered by Tom Brady's comments. How can the GOAT not root for his former team? First Take resumes with Drake Maye's future. What will the storylines be on Monday if he has another bad game? Then, Deion Sanders dishes on Super Bowl picks, college football, and, of course, Shedeur Sanders! Next, would Sam Darnold be considered elite with a Super Bowl win? And, the crew finally makes their Super Bowl picks. 

Are You Surprised by Seahawks Dominance?, Which QB's Stock Changed More: Darnold or Maye?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live from Disneyland with ALL of the Super Bowl storylines. Find out if Stephen A. was surprised by the Seahawks dominance. Then, Sam Darnold moved from bust, to champion in a matter of years. Should we look at him as an elite QB from now on? And, do the Patriots coaches deserve most of the blame?First Take resumes from Disneyland, and we're stock trading! Did Darnold or Maye raise their price this year, and should you sell high on either? Then, we're already looking ahead to next season! The Patriots schedule drastically ramps up as they'll have to face numerous playoff teams. Do you expect them to reign supreme in the AFC again?. Next, a major argument on Sam Darnold's QB tier. Do you have him above Dak? 

Pistons-Hornets Brawl Takeaways, Who will be Next Year's Seahawks?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with The Buzz City Brawl! Punches thrown, four ejections, and incoming suspensions. Perk, M&M and Stephen A. break down everything from the craziest NBA fight in years! Then, after a depressing loss to the Thunder with no Luka, LeBron called out his team's effort and roster building. "That's a championship team, we're not." Are the Lakers more of a dark horse contender, or fraudulent first round exit? Next, after Drake Maye led his team to the Super Bowl in just his second year, are we ready to say the AFC runs through New England (again)?First Take resumes with next year's out of nowhere NFL team. The Seahawks were 60-1 to win it all at the start of the season, and ended up in Disneyland with fresh rings! Could the Cowboys be next year's Seahawks? Then, Jayson Tatum was assigned to the Maine Celtics, pointing to a potential return to play soon! If Tatum comes back, are the Celtics favorites in the east over the bully-ball Pistons and high-flying Knicks? Next, Chris Canty gives us his Top 5 NFC QBs. 

Is Wemby the Most Dominant Player in the NBA?, How Much Confidence Do You Have in Drake Maye Going Forward?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Mad Dog, Chiney and Stephen A. in awe of Victor Wembanyama. Mad Dog compares him to a superstar from 50 years ago, and Stephen A. thinks the NBA is in trouble with all of these player absences. Then, what's more likely: Seahawks win one Super Bowl, or start a dynastic run similar to the late 90's Yankees? Next, the Knicks are too inconsistent, Pistons don't have enough scoring, Celtics are missing their superstar, Cavs employ James Harden, you don't trust the Raptors. Who is the team to beat in the East??First Take resumes with the Drake Maye dilemma. He racked up the 3rd worst QBR in a playoff run ever (min. 3 starts). The dichotomy of him finishing second in MVP but leaving a terrible taste in our mouths with a mediocre playoffs has Jeff and Stephen A. befuddled! Then, the NBA MVP is a prestigious award that should only be bestowed upon players who win games, AND put up big stats. Windy joins to make the case for SGA while Chiney picks Cade! Next, Mad Dog is mad about Mike Vrabel's coaching and tanking in the NBA. Trivia: Which two QBs finished with a worse QBR than Drake Maye in a single playoff run (Min. 3 playoff starts). 

Were the Seahawks Disrespected This Season?, How do you Rank the 2024 QB Class?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a party in the pacific northwest! The Seahawks parade was rowdy, and Ernest Jones made sure Darnold's doubters got what they deserved. Then, David Dennis Jr. is BEGGING the Knicks for some consistency! Next, KD spoke out against European players effort in the All-Star game. Is this the year the NBA's creme de la creme give us an intense battle like 2020?First Take resumes with the loaded 2024 QB class: Williams, Daniels, Maye and a few more still trying to prove themselves. Mina Kimes picks her favorite. Then, the Jazz pulled their starters going into the 4th quarter of a close game. Other teams like the Nets and Pacers are preparing to go into MEGAtank mode after the All-Star break. Has the NBA's tanking issue officially gone TOO far? Next, a bad Super Bowl performance and subpar playoff run from Drake Maye has us wondering if the Patriots should be AFC favorites heading into next season. 

Are the Lakers Poised for a 2nd-Half Surge?, More Likely to Win the West: Thunder or the Field?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live with the ageless king. LeBron gave us a triple-double to go along with a win vs. the Mavs heading into the all-star break. Should we prepare for a second half surge from the Lakers? Plus, Windy, Shump, and Stephen A. solve tanking! Then, Trinidad Chambliss won his case and is eligible for another CFB season. He'll have another season to prove himself to the draft experts! Next, which current QB bust is primed to break out like Sam Darnold?First Take resumes with western conference dominance. The Thunder have stumbled a tad, mainly because of injuries to key players, but still head into the all-star break with the NBA's best record. Would you take them or the field to make it to the finals out of the west? Then, Stephen A., David Dennis JR., and Shump discuss the new USA vs. World All-Star Game format. Next, which NBA team was the biggest disappointment in the 1st half of the season?

Did the NBA Fix the All-Star Game?, NBA Ready for an American Resurgence?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live with a new and improved All-Star game!! The US vs. World format proved successful as players tried, LeBron skied, and Kawhi turned the tide! Wemby and Ant led the way, and may have started a "face of the league" off. Is this All-Star game rendition here to stay? Then, LeBron seems ready for life without the NBA, but is the NBA ready for life without LeBron? Who can we look at as the league's torch carrier after King James calls it quits? First Take resumes with the young Americans being crowned ASG champs after taking down a European god squad and a group of aging legends. Should we brace for an American takeover after years of overseas dominance? Then, CP3 quietly called it quits over the weekend, officially putting an end to his unfortunate retirement tour. Did the Point God deserve a better send off? Next, breaking news!! The Dolphins released Tyreek Hill. Is a Chiefs reunion imminent? Finally, who is the next face of the league: Ant or Wemby?

Pistons or Knicks? Spurs or Thunder?, Does the NBA Need a Face of the League?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Eastern Conference favorites. Will the Pistons and Knicks face off in the ECF, or can James Harden finally get the Cavs over the hump? Next, Stephen A. thinks Wemby can carry the Spurs deep into the playoffs. Finally, are the Celtics real threats in the East if Jayson Tatum returns? First Take resumes with the NBA's future. With LeBron, Steph and KD on the brink of retirement, does the NBA need to quickly find a new face of the league? Next, KD and the Rockets stumbled heading into the All-Star break. Can they return to form and make noise in the West? Then, Stephen A.'s top 5 NBA title contenders. Finally, No. 9 overall basketball recruit Dylan Mingo commits live! 

Is Giannis a Good Fit for the Lakers?, What's the Biggest 2nd Half NBA Storyline?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live with Giannis questions... Would he fit well with Luka in the City of Angels? Then, tomorrow night, the Knicks aim to avoid a season sweep at the hands of the mighty Pistons. Mad Dog gives us the keys to victory in this budding Eastern conference rivalry! Next, how much would the Chiefs improve with Tyreek Hill? And, with 1/3 of the league tanking, should Adam Silver embrace the suck rather than run from it? First Take resumes with 2nd half of the NBA season storylines we're looking forward to the most! Then, is franchise tagging George Pickens the right move for the Cowboys? Next, Mad Dog is mad at Bryce Harper, Kansas State, and his missing Pebble Beach invitation!! 

Are you More Confident or Concerned with the Knicks, Can the Knicks Compete with the Pistons?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a showdown in the Garden! The Pistons and Knicks face off in a matchup that could determine the 1 seed in the East! And, LeBron declares the Lakers can still compete for the title if healthy! Then, Stephen A. has an issue with Darryn Peterson missing another second half. And, future NBA commissioner Draymond Green??? First Take resumes with more on the Knicks-Pistons battle. With a win tonight, would the Knicks prove they're on the Pistons level? Then, Perk comes in with a banger!! Darius Acuff Jr. is the best guard Coach Cal has ever coached??? Better than D Rose and John Wall?? And, Perk lists his top 5 NBA box office stars!

Stephen A. Declares Knicks Season Over!, More, Less, or Same Faith in a Knicks Finals Run?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live with an ENRAGED Stephen A. Smith. Do the Knicks have any shot of coming out of the East after another blowout loss at the hands of Cade and the Pistons? Then, Perk, Monica and Stephen A. react to Mat Ishbia's tanking comments. Next, which Western Conference team should worry OKC the most?First Take resumes with another MSG massacre. Will Big Perk declare the Knicks title hopes officially dead? Then, If Steph wants that elusive 5th ring, does he need to leave the Warriors? Next, are the Bears on the move? Indiana passed a bill hoping to lure them away from their long-time home in Chicago.

Is Jaylen Brown the MVP?, Are the Rocket Officially out of Title Contention?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with another Celtics beatdown. Has Jaylen Brown officially entered the MVP conversation? Then, Shaq gave some wise words to KAT on his playstyle. Next, after the undermanned Thunder drubbed the Cavs, should we be worried about Spida and Harden's finals chances? First Take resumes with Big Perk's case for Jaylen Brown winning MVP. Then, after blowing an eighteen point 4th quarter lead to the Knicks, should we stop taking the Rockets seriously as title contenders? Next, WWE superstar Trick Williams talks Elimination Chamber!

Are Spurs the Best Team in the NBA Right Now?, Which Team Will Draft Ty Simpson?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the sensational Spurs! Wemby's block party stumped Cade and Pistons. Which team has a better chance of reaching the finals? Then, is this a prove-it year for George Pickens if the Cowboys choose to franchise tag him? And, CM Punk and AJ Love prepare us for The Elimination Chamber Saturday at 7 ET!First Take resumes with Mel Kiper Jr's updated mock draft! Find out where he has Ty Simpson and Fernando Mendoza! Then, Kevin Durant sounds off on USA basketball critics. And, does Cade Cunningham own the Knicks? Monica says to pump the brakes!

Issues with Luka Passing up the Final Shot?, Are the Thunder a Top 8 Team Without SGA?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Loss-Angeles! Luka deferred to LeBron with the game on the line, passing up two open looks! How much trouble are the Lakers in? Then, Stephen A. just wants the Knicks to put him out of his misery! KAT, WHERE ARE YOU???? YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO GO TO THE FINALS!!! Next, who has the better MVP case: -9.2 NetRtg Jaylen Brown, or +14.0 NetRtg Nikola Jokic? Stats don't tell the whole story. Watch the games! First Takes resumes with Stephen A.'s smoking hot Thunder take! How much can we trust them without SGA? Then, Browns GM Andrew Berry on Shedeur's chances to start week 1! Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Olympic hockey OT, Tarik Skubal, and Aaron Glenn!

More Impressed with Jokic and the Nuggets or Tatum-less Celtics?, Can Luka Lead a Championship Team?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a mile high MVP showdown. Nikola Jokic thoroughly outplayed Jaylen Brown leading to a Nuggets beatdown. Can the Celtics really contend without Jayson Tatum? Then, is Fernando Mendoza the clear-cut number 1 pick? Plus, Jay Will responds to KD's criticism of USA basketball!First Take resumes with Luka the Leader! He leads the league in turnovers/game, points/game, and ref-complaints/game! Could The Don lead the Lakers to a championship? Then, WWE star Jey Uso joins! Next, Todd Monken is high on Deshaun Watson AND Shedeur Sanders! Who is the Browns front runner to start week 1?

How Loud was the Lakers Loss to the Suns?, Should OKC Worry About the Spurs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take resumes with another LOUD Lakers Loss. Luka's counting stats were phenomenal, again, but shouldn't he be more of a two-way player? Then, breaking news!! the Cowboys are franchise tagging George Pickens. When will they learn?? Next, Seth Rollins!! First Take resumes with the West's top seeds. Should the Thunder worry about Wemby and the Spurs, or can they coast to the finals again? Then, Peter Schrager on his one true love: Sonny Styles. Next, the true barometer of NBA contenders has leaked: Brian Windhorst booked his hotels for the finals!

More Concerned with Spurs or Confident in Knicks?, Problem with Draymond Defending Nico Harrison?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with an MSG shellacking! Brunson's Knicks demolished Wemby's Spurs in a potential finals preview! Is it time to panic about the Spurs lack of depth and inconsistent shooting, or praise the Knicks deep bench and tenacity? Then, how far away are the Cowboys from being true contenders? Next, The Celtics took down a shorthanded Sixers squad led by Neemias Queta's impressive low post game. Are they the team to beat in the East?First Take resumes with Draymond's bizarre defense of Nico Harrison... Stephen A. digs deeper into his rant. Then, DanO tells us which QB impressed him most at the NFL Combine! Next, the Nuggets puzzling clutch time offense struggled again against Ant-Man and the Wolves. Are you confident he could lead them past the Nuggets, Thunder AND Spurs?? 

Was Giannis Returning the Right Move?, Was Criticizing Zion's Weight Problem Fair?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a Milwaukee beatdown! Hugo and the Celts dominated the Bucks, spoiling Giannis's return. Should the Greek Freak push for the play-in, or watch the Bucks freefall into the draft lottery? Then, should the Jets trade up for Fernando Mendoza? Next, which NBA team is under the most pressure to reach the finals?First Take resumes with Zion opening up about his injury issues. Perk and Stephen A. defend their past takes on his fluctuating weight. Then Seth Greenberg tells us who the best freshman NBA prospect is right now! Next, we react to Chris Canty's top 5 NFL trades he wants to see! Myles Garrett is heading where??

More Confident in Cavs or Pistons Going Forward?, Stephen A. Smith Responds to the Pelicans!Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Cavs take down of the Pistons sans Donovan Mitchell. Should we view them as the favorites? Then, is Daniel Jones getting transition tagged a good or bad sign for the QB market? Next, the Bengals fumbled Trey Hendrickson's entire contract situation. Now he'll most likely walk away when they could've traded him for multiple picks years ago! Should Joe Burrow be confident with his future in Cincinnati?First Take resumes with a NOLA takedown! The Pelicans responded to Stephen A.'s Zion roast by showing off his top tier athleticism in a tweet! SAS has some words for the 19 win, tanking Pels... Then, which NBA team has the highest ceiling? Next, is there anything the Lakers can do to prove they're contenders?

More or Less Confident in Knicks After Loss to Thunder?, Which NBA Team is Under the Most Pressure to Reach Finals?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with SGA's impression of Harden in the Garden!! Shai mastered the art of the foul bait en route to a 7th straight win in MSG! Are we more or less impressed by the Knicks after a close loss to the reigning champs? Then, Dak had some wise words for George Pickens on how to deal with NFL contracts! Next, does Miami (OH) need to win the MAC tourney to reach the NCAA tourney?First Take resumes with NBA teams under the most pressure to reach the finals! Do the Knicks NEED to snatch the Thunder's crown this year? Next, Luka KONcic/KONu Ginobili lit up TD Garden in a Buzz City coming out party vs the Celtics! Are we ready to give Kon Knueppel ROY over Cooper Flagg? Then, the age-old question; what Bostonians have pondered for a decade while enjoying winning season after winning season... Is this Jayson Tatum's or Jaylen Brown's team?  

Is Wemby the Best Player in the NBA?, Does Tatum Make the Celtics Favorites in the East?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Wemby's extraterrestrial performance against the supposed finals contender Pistons! David Dennis and CC are ready to give him his "Best Player in the League" Belt, but Vinny can't quite get there!... Yet! Then, Jayson Tatum's is COMING for his "Best Player on the Celtics" belt! Next, DJ is head to Buffalo. Did Bills Mafia correctly appoint Josh's next capo? Finally, Is Luka underachieving as a superstar?First Take resumes with the new look Celtics! Does adding the former all star make them the favorites in the east? Then, CC lists his top 5 QBs on the move! Next, would you rather pay to see Wemby's graceful strides on fast breaks and earth shattering blocks against frightened guards, or Shohei's ferocious bat speed through the zone and sophisticated demeanor on the mound?

Are the Celtics Winning the East with Tatum?, Can the Knicks Go on a Deep Playoff Run?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the return of Tatum! The Celtics went 2-0 over the weekend with big wins over the Cavs and Mavs! Can they win the title with Tatum in his current form?? Then, does Maxx Crosby make the Ravens title favorites? And, how worried should the Nuggets be after a Knicks trouncing over the weekend? First Take resumes with the consistently inconsistent Knicks. Kenny Smith is picking the Celtics over them in the East playoffs, especially after Tatum's triumphant return! Then, Michael Jordan weighed in on the GOAT debate! Next, Kenny asks Stephen A. if he'd prefer Wemby or Jokic on the Knicks!

Did SGA secure MVP Last Night?, Is Lamar Officially All Out of Excuses?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with SGA securing MVP vs Jokic. His step-back dagger three secured the win against a hungry Nuggets squad. Can we officially hand him the trophy? Then, the consistently inconsistent Knicks can't find the blend. Stephen A. thinks they may be closer to irrelevancy than winning the title. Next, Dwoody tells us his favorite moves from day 1 of NFL free agency. First Take resumes with Lamar's super team. Is he officially all out of excuses going into next season? Next, Steve Kerr is NOT a fan of the current NBA schedule. What's the solution to keep players from sitting out games? Then, Stephen A. weighs in on Dana White's most recent comments!

How Impressed are you With Bam's 83 Point Night?, Did the Ravens just Become NFL Villains?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Trey Hendrickson on his way to Baltimore! Are the Ravens or the league to blame for this debacle? Then, Mad Dog is NOT impressed with Bam's record breaking night. Next, Jaylen Brown needs to be a better example to the kids of America. Kids read these mid-game tweets, Jaylen! Finally, Mark DeRosa doesn't know the WBC rules?? Did he cost the USA a chance at a world title? First Take resumes with the new Jokers of the NFL! Baltimore backed out of the Maxx Crosby trade at the last minute. Will they become the NFL trade market black sheep? Then, was Bam's 83 point performance a "remember where you were" moment? Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Thanksgiving Eve football, Danny Dimes new deal, and Big Dumper's handshake refusal!!

Are the Ravens Better Off With Trey Hendrickson?, Does Jaylen Brown have an MVP case vs. SGA?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the new look Ravens. Did Maxx Crosby's "failed" physical get them a player who is 80% of the Raiders star while also saving two future first round picks? Then, the Vikings are on the clock! Will they make a move on Kyler Murray? Next, Gordon Hayward went on UnSportsmanLike on ESPN2 and ESPNU to call out Bam for stat padding his way to 83 points. How different was his game vs Kobe's? First Take resumes with Jaylen Brown's MVP case!! Putting his -8.7 Net On/Off aside, should he be in the MVP conversation. Then, RC gets a chance to clap back at Vinny for his Bam take! Next, RC tells us his top 5 free agent signings so far!

Is Jaylen Brown's SGA Complaint Correct?, What was the Most Impressive NBA Performance Thursday Night?Spoiler Hidden

First Take resumes with a SHOCKER. Jaylen Brown logged another complaint, this time about SGA's foul baiting. Does the second best player on the Celtics have a point? Then, Kyler Murray agreed to a one year deal with the Minnesota Vikings. Can KOC turn the former number one overall pick's career around? Next, Seth Greenberg previews Duke's massive semifinal matchup vs Clemson. Can they survive without Caleb Foster? First Take resumes with the most impressive performance from a chaotic night of NBA games! Did Luka's 50 ball outshine yet another Jokic triple double? Then, Windy, Vinny and Forty react to Erik Spoelstra's reaction to fans reacting to Bam Adebayo's 83 point performance! Next, Geno Smith is returning to where it all started in the Meadowlands! Are the Jets finally on the right track?

Who Got the Worse Draw: Duke or St John's?, Can Darius Acuff Jr. Lead Arkansas to the Final Four?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with brackets!! Did the number one overall seed Blue Devils get hosed? Or, did 5 seed St. Johns just prove winning your conference tournament doesn't even matter? Then, the red hot Lakers won their 5th straight game over the weekend. This time, taking down Jokic and the mighty Nuggets. Are we ready to move them into the title contenders tier? Next, Andraya Carter answers: Uconn or the field?First Take resumes with Coach Cal's best guard ever? Darius Acuff shined during the SEC Tournament, leading Arkansas to March glory with a win over Vandy in the finals. Can he continue this dominant stretch into the NCAA Tournament? Then, Stephen A. is NOT happy with his New York Knicks after an embarrassingly close victory against the Steph-less Warriors. Next, which legendary coach had the more impressive season: Pitino or Calipari?

What is the Lakers Ceiling?, Is Luka a Lock for All-NBA 1st Team?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the box office smashing Hollywood Lakers. LeBron's newfound defensive prowess and Luka's paint dominance earned them a sixth straight win! Are they in the same tier as the Spurs and Thunder in the West? Then, Perk is taking a stand for Darius Acuff Jr.! Would you rather have him or A.J. Dybansta for the NCAA tournament? Next, is Jayson Tatum's return hurting Jaylen Brown's MVP case, or are Brown's tour date-esque nightly shooting numbers doing enough on their own?First Take resumes with Luka's All-NBA 1st Team case... Is he a lock after the Lakers recent run? (0:00) Then, breaking news!! The Dolphins traded star WR Jaylen Waddle to the Broncos. Get DanO's immediate reaction to this blockbuster move! Next, with Shams reporting that NBA expansion is imminent, is the talent pool deep enough to fill two more teams? 

How Much Criticism Does Aaron Judge Deserve?, Mad Dog Reveals His Final Four!Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a devastating USA loss. Aaron Judge went hitless in the WBC Finals vs Venezuela, leading to a second straight championship loss for the Americans. Then, will the NCAA Tournament determine the number one pick in the draft, or has it already been decided? Next, the Knicks have taken advantage of a light spot in their schedule to throw together a mini winning streak! Could they steal the two seed from the Celts? And, Chiney on a HISTORIC new CBA for the WNBA.First Take resumes with Mad Dog's Final Four. Two 5 seeds?? Mad Dog has officially gone...crazy. Then, does Jaylen Waddle put Bo Nix and the Broncos on top of the AFC? Next, Mad Dog is mad about Matt Leinart's unretired jersey, people who make multiple tournament brackets, and the Oscars having ten best picture nominees! 

What Does Cade's Injury Mean For the Eastern Conference?, Which Head Coach Would You Want in the East Region?Spoiler Hidden

First Take resumes with injury news coming out of Detroit. Cade Cunningham will be sidelined multiple weeks with a collapsed lung. Then, the Lakers won their 7th straight on the backs of LeBron and Luka 30 balls. Are you taking them seriously as contenders? Next, which one seed will be eliminated first: Florida, Duke, Arizona or Michigan? Finally, can Jaylen Waddle's speed and finesse take a slower, mediocre Broncos offense over the top in 2026?First Take resumes with legendary head coaches. Would you rather have Izzo, Hurley, Pitino, or Bill Self in the NCAA Tournament? Then, Windy and Stephen A. rhapsodize over the advisory council partially formed by Tom Brady and Dwyane Wade to council athletes in financial literacy. Next, Joe FortenBets picks 5 first round upsets on the Men's side!

Should Luka get NBA MVP Consideration?, Did AJ Dybantsa Secure Draft Stock Despite Loss?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with another Luka BANGER! 60 pts, 5 ast, and 7 reb led the Lakers to an eighth straight win. Who's ahead of him in the MVP chase? Then, should we be concerned about Duke's lackluster performance against Gerry McNamara and Siena? Next, Wemby's game winner sent the Spurs to the playoffs for the first time since 2019! How important was his shot for Wemby's legacy? First Take resumes with Dybantsa vs. Acuff Jr. Which surefire lottery pick had the more impressive performance in round 1? Then, High Point's coach Flynn Clayman went OFF on Major conference schools not scheduling mid-majors! Next, who would you want for a playoff run: Wemby or Luka? 

Should Darryn Peterson Be a Top 5 Draft Pick?, Are the Lakers on Spurs/Thunder Tier?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the St John's-Kansas dogfight! Pitino's Johnnies emerged victorious on a Dylan Darling buzzer beating layup. Darryn Peterson's college career came to an end, and his lackluster play throughout the season has Stephen A. and Jay-Will wondering if he should go top 5...  Next, basketball savant Jay-Will breaks down Iowa's game winner against Florida. Then, which blue blood program's future are you most concerned about?First Take resumes with the surging Lakers. Are they on the same level as the Spurs and Thunder? Next, with zero mid-majors reaching the Sweet Sixteen, can we officially declare Cinderellas dead? Then, WNBPA president Nneka Ogyumike tells all on the WNBA's new CBA! 

Is Defense First LeBron the Best for the Lakers Titles Hopes?, Luka, SGA, Wemby: Pick One!Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the next version of LeBron. This time, he brings a defense first mindset to a high powered, offensively driven Lakers team. Is this the best formula for a shot at the title? Then, do you agree with Josh Hart? Is criticizing Mikal Bridges unfair? First Take resumes with a battle of NBA superstars! You can have Luka, Wemby or SGA for the rest of the season. Which one is winning you a title? Next, Jayson Tatum is shooting a career low 38% from the floor since returning. Combined with Jaylen Brown's subpar play, are they hindering the Celtics from being Eastern Conference Champs? Next, what does Tiger Wood's return mean for golf?

UNC Fired Hubert Davis... Kenny "The Jet" Smith Time?, Should the NBA Abolish the 65-Game Rule?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Hubert Davis being relieved of his duties at UNC. Is Kenny "The Jet" Smith the right fit for UNC, or will his lack of coaching experience hinder his ability to attract five star talent and compete with Duke? Then, Jess Mendoza goes toe to toe with Stephen A. and Doggy on the Dodgers threepeating! Would it be good for baseball? Next, DanO defends his Simpson>Mendoza take. First Take resumes with a potentially short lived NBA rule. After outcry from Cade Cunningham's agent, the NBA may consider changing the 65 game minimum to win awards. Doggy doesn't wants EVERYONE to quit their whining! Then, Tiger's return to the TGL had us thinking.. would you want to play indoor golf with Stephen A.? Next, Mad Dog is MAD about Joe Burrow playing flag football, late Sweet Sixteen start times, and the MLB taking games away from local networks! Finally, Jess Mendoza's Top 5 teams that can stop a Dodgers threepeat!  

What Statement Did Celtics Make with Win Over Thunder?, Does Draymond Have a Point About Wemby?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the new SGA! Jaylen Brown used Shai's own foulbaiting tactics against him (two weeks after declaring he never foulbaits). Are we ready to put the Celtics in the Thunder/Spurs tier? Then, with AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson going out in the first weekend, is Darius Acuff Jr. the best player left in the NCAA tournament? Next, Luka already led one team to the finals. Is he playing well enough to carry ANOTHER past the Spurs and Thunder to reach his second? First Take resumes with Draymond's strong Wemby statement! He is TIRED of the media only caring about one side of the ball! SAS tells us if he has a point... Then, Adam Silver once again declared he is ready to stop tanking once and for all! Should we believe him? Next, which one seed is on the highest upset alert heading into the Sweet Sixteen? 

Arizona Dominance or Another Calipari Disappointment?, Which Sweet 16 Loss was the Most Disappointing?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with another early Calipari exit. Darius Acuff Jr. and the Razorbacks felt the wrath of Koa Peat and the Wildcats, losing big in California. Is Coach Cal to blame for the loss? Then, the Hornets smoked the Knicks in Charlotte. There's something brewing in Buzz City with the KonMelo duo. More importantly, Stephen A. responds to Josh Hart naming him a "part-time Knicks fan." Next, Seth Greenberg is riding with the Johnnies to beat Duke. How can they pull off the upset? First Take resumes with Sweet 16 thrillers! Illinois stomped Houston in their hometown, Iowa shocked Nebraska after a brutal coaching blunder from Fred Hoiberg, and Darius Acuff Jr. went out with a bang, losing big to Arizona. Which loss was the most disappointing? Plus, the crew rips on Will Wade's and LSU's lack of loyalty and backbone. Then, Shams breaks a few new tanking proposals. Surely these will be the ones that fix it! Next, Andraya Carter breaks down the most intriguing matchups from an insane weekend of college hoops!

Jay Williams Biggest Takeaway From Duke-Uconn Final Sequence?, Do you Believe UConn can Win the Title?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Jay Will facing the music! How can a Blue Blood like Duke suffer two of the worst tournament losses in back to back years? With all of those first round draft picks and brand recognition? Then, after another loss to a top team, can the Knicks be trusted in the playoffs? Next, what statement did Michigan make with a massive win over Tennessee? First Take resumes with a Final Four full of storylines! Can UConn really win it all, or is Arizona-Michigan the real title game? Then, The UConn Women made mincemeat of their competition on the way to another Final Four trip. Is anyone stopping this god squad? Next, is Jayson Tatum officially back after a 32 point performance against the streaking Hornets?

Was Pistons vs. Thunder an NBA Finals Preview?, Better Case for MVP: SGA or Wemby?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with yet another SGA MVP-esque performance. 47 points on 63% shooting?? Shades of Michael and early Stevie Franchise... Was this a finals preview? Then, Cowboys drama is heating up! George Pickens may not report to OTAs if Jerry fails to deliver a long term deal. Can the Cowboys afford to pay him and Ceedee? Next, are you more surprised with the Hawks shocking midseason turnaround post Trae trade, or the shorthanded Celtics surviving Jayson Tatum's injury to stick as the East's two seed? First Take resumes with a battle for MVP! Will SGA secure his second, or can Wemby steal it from his cold blooded 55 fg% hands? Then, WWE Superstar Trick Williams joins First Take! Next, the Bulls waived Jaden Ivey after making homophobic remarks. Stephen A. comments... 

Bigger Deal: Lakers Win Streak or Knicks Losing Streak?, Would it Be a Mistake for LeBron to Leave the Lakers?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with two teams headed in opposite directions. The Lakers continued their winning ways with a stomping of Harden's Cavs, and the Knicks fell deeper into the pit of despair after losing a blowout to Amen's Rockets. Then, a crossroads for Jalen Hurts and the Eagles. We finally sort out who is to blame in this debacle of a franchise in Philly. Next, Amar'e Stoudemire was officially inducted into the Hall of Fame! As a founding member of the 7 seconds or less Suns, and the prototype for many power forwards of today, does this NBA legend really deserve to be in the HOF? First Take begins with Lebron's uncertain future. Would a deep Lakers playoff run bring him back to The City of Angels for one last hoorah, or does the Kid From Akron already have one foot back in Cleveland? Then, which Promised Land is Aaron Glenn referring to when mentioning Geno Smith? Mount 5-12 ? Arch Manning Island? Then, Mad Dog is MAD at Carlos Boozer celebrating too early, the NFL for not agreeing to a new deal with their referees and playing an Australia game! Finally, 3-time Olympic gold medalist Mikaela Shiffrin joins First Take!

Trade Away, MVPTakeSpoiler Hidden

Kirk Cousins heads to the Raiders but with the No. 1 pick and Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza waiting in the wings, what does it mean for Vegas future under center? Wemby keeps asking, Why not?  After another big night, is an MVP and title run really within reach? And in the East, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown power a dominant Celtics performance dropping 147 on Miami in a statement win.The Raiders shake things up by signing Kirk Cousins but with the No. 1 pick likely bringing in Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza, is this a bridge move or a brewing QB controversy? In Boston, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown put on a show, combining for a huge night as the Celtics erupt for 147 against Miami. And Wimby's confidence keeps growing after his latest performance, could Why not? turn into an MVP and championship reality?

Lakers blown out and Luka Injured, High on the Huskies?Spoiler Hidden

A much anticipated battle between the 1 and 3 seeds in the west quickly turned ugly last night, we discuss which team the result said more about. We also have Coach Calipari here to give his thoughts on the Final Four and his 2nd season at Arkansas. Then we discuss if the NBA's 65-game rule will end up devaluing postseason awards.Hour 2! The crew is discussing both the men's and women's Final Four, will UConn reign supreme in both? Meanwhile, Pirates top prospect Konnor Griffin making his debut today, is it too soon? Hear what Stephen A has to say. Then we talk about who in the NBA can ACTUALLY win a championship.  

Should 10-Seed Warriors Have Brought Back Curry?, How Far Can LeBron Carry the Lakers?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Steph's Return! 29 points off the bench wasn't enough to take down the streaking Rockets in a pivotal seeding matchup. Are the Warriors good enough for Steph to risk injury in a return? Then, Geno and Dawn have beef? Chiney breaks down where the Handshake Fiasco really started... Next, what's more important in tonight's title game: coaching or player talent?First Take resumes with the ailing Lakers... How far can LeBron carry a Luka-less and Reaves-less LA squad? Next, Troy Aikman discusses his role with the Dolphins, where he feels empowered making personnel decisions. Subtle shot at Jerry Jones? Why is the Cowboys legend not helping Jerry with free agent decisions? Then, BREAKING NEWS!!! Angel Reese traded to the Dream??? What???

What Statement Did Michigan Make With Title Win?, Is This Michigan's Best Basketball Team Ever?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Victorious Wolverines! A dominant run for the ages capped off with a nail biter against the dynastic Fightin' Danny Hurleys. Stephen A. and Sean Farnham break down how Dusty May's squad got it done in Indy! Then, Stephen A. gives Mike Malone some advice as he prepares Chapel Hill for the long road back to Blue Bloodism. Next, fresh off of a national championship, and one hour of sleep, Dusty May talks with Shae and Stephen A.!!First Take resumes with Michigan's best basketball team ever...maybe? Is it possible the GOAT UMich team is one that never even won the championship? Then, what is Giannis's trade value right now? Is it worse or better off than what it was at the trade deadline? Next, Mike Malone looks to lead UNC back to the glory days of Jerry Stackhouse, James Worthy, and Brady Manek!

Is There a Gap Between the Celtics and Everyone Else in the East?, How Will Lakers Players Respond to JJ Redick Calling Them Out?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a sight not seen since Jaylen Brown had hair: Mad Dog and Stephen A. in studio together! They react to a bench clearing brawl in LA, the Celtics steamrolling an upstart Hornets squad, and more egregious tanking! Then, Shams takes us inside the fractured relationship between Giannis and the Bucks! Next, do you really believe Mike Malone and the Tar Heels can compete with Duke? First Take resumes with JJ Redick calling out his team! Vando can't make free throws, Ayton can't even catch a ball! It's complete dysfunction In LA with no Luka and Reaves! Then, would you rather have KD or Ant in the playoffs? Next, Mad Dog is fired up about the Marlins babying their catchers, NBA games during the NCAA Championship game, and valet service on Easter! 

How Costly is the Spurs Loss to the Nuggets?, Are the Knicks on Upset Alert?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with NBA Playoffs time!!! Best of the West: the Nuggets took down the Spurs to snag the 3 seed and set up an epic 2024 playoff rematch against the Wolves while the Lakers are looking for a vintage LeBron series to send KD back to the mean streets of offseason Twitter! Then, new Giannis quotes on his future with the Bucks! Has he played his last game in Milwaukee? Next, two legends in the Play-In: do Kawhi or Steph need to win it more? First Take resumes with the most intriguing first round matchup? The Knicks battle the Hawks, looking to avenge their 2021 loss when Ice Trae owned New York. Now, with the Knicks Killer gone, do Brunson and MSG Kings have anything to fear? Then, Joe Tessitore gets you PUMPED for WrestleMania this weekend! Next, who is more likely to reach the finals: Thunder or Celtics?

Episode 154Spoiler Hidden

Should LaMelo Ball Have Been Ejected?, What's the Lakers Recipe to Take Down the Rockets?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a thriller in Buzz City! LaMelo and the Hornets tripped up the Heat in an overtime Play-In victory. Should LaMelo have been ejected for his antics? Then, what would the repercussionS be for the Knicks if they lose to the upstart Hawks? Next, Liv Morgan on WrestleMania!!!First Take resumes with 3 cups Vintage LeBron, 1/3 cup Luke Kennard 40%+ from three, and 2 tsp. Marcus Smart defensive disruption. Then Kawhi Leonard planted roots in LA six years ago. Is his time as a Clipper running out? Next, Mel Kiper Jr. convinces Stephen A. that Sonny Styles to the Cowboys at 6 (after a trade) may be the missing piece to their much maligned defense! 

Who was More Impressive in Win: Steph or Draymond?, What Does Kawhi Leonard's Future Hold?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a battle of legends in LA! Steph and Draymond outlasted Kawhi and Brook Lopez to set up a 1 game elimination brawl vs the Suns. Draymond's stifling defense neutralized Kawhi, while Steph's gravity gave Al Horford a runway to drop threes like '24 DiVincenzo. Which Warriors star gave them the larger edge? (0:00) Then, is Celtics vs. Sixers an intriguing series, or has this rivalries shine worn off? Next, Seth Rollins takes shots at Paul Heyman! Finally, is Ant vs. Jokic officially a rivalry?First Take resumes with Kenny Smith giving us the real on Kawhi Leonard's future. Then, can Jalen Brunson, who led his team to the WCFs past a dominant Celtics squad, and finished top 5 in MVP voting, be the best player on a championship team? Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Aaron Rodgers yearly waiting game, Wemby's load management, and Amazon Prime! 

Live From Las Vegas for WrestleMania 42!!!, Live from Las Vegas with Logan Paul and Danhausen!Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live from Las Vegas from WrestleMania. Trick Williams! Triple H! We get you prepped for a massive weekend filled with stars! Plus, who is the most important player in Warriors vs. Suns? And, is it unfair that Ant was denied his awards appeal while Cade and Luka were given eligibility? First Take resumes with Logan Paul, and he is READY for the weekend! Then, do you expect the Knicks to make front office changes if they don't get out of the Eastern Conference? Next, Roman Reigns talks about his upcoming match with CM Punk! And, Dana White feels boxing is "broken." His plan to fix it here on First Take!! 

Did Spurs Prove They're Built for a Deep Playoff Run?, How Much Stock do you Put in Lakers Game One Win?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with wonderful Wemby!! The Spurs star dropped 35 pts in his playoff debut. Is he ready to make a run at SGA and the defending champion Thunder?? And, A.J. Brown is surely getting traded post June 1st. Right or wrong move for the Eagles? Then, Dexter Lawrence is headed to Cincy with the 10th overall pick going back to the Giants! Who won this trade? Next, which title contender had the more impressive game one: Celtics or Thunder?First Take resumes with LeBron's heroic game one effort. With KD out, how much stock do you put in the Lakes taking game one? Then, how scary would the Patriots be with A.J. Brown? Next, the Knicks laid the smackdown on the Hawks over the weekend. Did KAT's Improved defense and Josh Hart's tenacity give you hope for a Knicks title run? Finally, Steve Kerr's illustrious run with the Warriors may be coming to an end? Windy tells us what he's hearing! 

What Happened in the Latest Epic Knicks Collapse?, More Detrimental Game 2 Loss: Knicks or Nuggets?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Perk and Wilbon breaking down yet another Knicks playoff collapse. Reggie Miller, Haliburton, now McCollum. Knicks' villains possess powers only previously wielded by Darth Vader and The Wicked Witch of the West! Also covered: Ant is a demon! Then, who's the most intriguing player in the draft? Next, with Steve Kerr seemingly out the door in the Bay Area, should Steph take his chances with another franchise? First Take resumes with two clutch kings blowing it in the 4th! Jokic and Brunson both suffered heartbreakers as McCollum and Ant evened their series at a game a piece! Which loss hurt more? Then, are players mistaken staying in school to reap the benefits of NIL instead of gaining experience playing in the pros? Next, is Wemby already better than Scottie Pippen and Bill Russell? 

More Impressed by LeBron or Disappointed in KD?, Biggest Concern with Knicks?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Rockets/Lakers game 2! LA laid the smackdown once again to send this series back to Houston with the Rockets in must-win territory. The King displayed unimpeachable savvy and athleticism, while KD portrayed bashfulness and perhaps a tinge of rust! Mad Dog, Wilbon and Stephen A. grade their performances. Then, who needs to hit on their first round draft picks more: Giants or Cowboys? Next, will the Mets ever win again?First Take resumes with Knicks concern. After another all time playoff choke, can the Hawks take control of this tightly contested series? Or, will the power of clutch propel Jalen Brunson to a road win in Atlanta??? Then, Louis Riddick thinks the Chiefs must nail this draft if they want to extend Mahomes prime! Next, Mad Dog is MAD about Quinn Ellis, golf crowds, and the Jerry West Documentary.

Should Ty Simpson be a First Round Pick?, Was Knicks Game 2 Loss a Blessing in Disguise?Spoiler Hidden

First Take has all of the draft coverage! Is Ty Simpson going 1st round? Will Jeremiyah Love fall out of the top 5?? It's all right now on First Take!! Get Up resumes with NBA and the NFL! IS the Knicks devastating game 2 loss to the Hawks going to help them down the road? Is there a chance George Pickens gets traded during the draft? 

How Much Better Did Cowboys Get After 1st Round?, Did NFL Draft Make Cowboys NFC Contenders?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the NFC East coming for the "Best Division Belt!" The Giants and Cowboys bolstered their lines and defensive backs with OSU studs! Did they BOTH nail their first round picks? Then, Stephen A. goes OFF on the sorry Knicks. Mikal Bridges trade mentioned! Next, do you love or hate the Eagles trading up for WR Makai Lemon?First Take resumes with Cowboys positivity! Jerry came through again with an A+ 1st round, monumentally boosting his subpar defense. Could you see them in the NFC championship game next year? Then, RC loves Love. Best player available theory won out, and the Notre Dame star ended up in Arizona! Next, the contending Rams chose Stafford's successor in round one. Should the future HOFer view this as a slight?

Takeaways from LeBron & Lakers Game 4 Loss?, Do You Believe KD Is Disconnected From the Rockets?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with weekend NBA playoff takeaways! Any reason to worry about the Lakers after a game 4 loss? And, are you back in on the Spurs playoff train after Wemby's triumphant return? Then, is it normal to trade five first round picks for a player then play said player 20 minutes per game. Next, is it officially time for the Sixers to move on from Joel Embiid? Would anyone really trade for his monstrous contract? First take resumes with KD's Drama. From burners to benchings, the drama never ends with Durant! Is he disconnected from his Rockets teammates? Then, DanO already hit on Ty Simpson. Now, he's calling his shot on the best QB drafted outside of the first round! Next, KAT's triple double led to the Knicks evening a tightly contested series vs the Hawks. Is having Brunson play off ball while KAT play-makes the true key to Knicks success?

Are Wolves in Danger of Losing Series?, Did Cooper Flagg Deserve Rookie of the Year?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with special guest TheKidMero! He tells us what's at stake for Jokic in this Wolves series! Then, Mero comes guns BLAZING defending his beloved Knicks. He even inspires confidence in known doom-and-gloom Knicks fan Stephen A.??? How?? Then, Perk explains why KD's time as a valuable NBA teammate has come to an end!First Take resumes with shock and awe in the NBA's tightest Rookie of The Year race yet! Cooper Flagg had multiple 50 point games on one of the worst teams in the league, while Kon led the league in 3s on the upstart Hornets! Was Flagg the right choice? Then, should Devin Booker split town and join up with another star, or can he lure someone down to sunny Arizona? Next, are the Knicks doomed? 

Who's the Best Team in The East?, LeBron vs. JordanSpoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the old guard: Mad Dog, Wilbon and Stephen A. may have changed their tunes on the Knicks championship chances... Then, the Spurs wrapped up the gentleman's sweep against the upstart Blazers. Young teams often need playoff failure before eventually succeeding. Could the Spurs be an exception? Next, who has more pressure to lead the Cavs deep into the playoffs: Harden or Mitchell?First Take resumes with 40 straight minutes of the GOAT debate + Mad Dog is MADDDD!!!!

Are the Lakers in Trouble?, Is It Panic City for The Lakers?Spoiler Hidden

First Takes begins with the sputtering Lakers! From 3-0 to 3-2, the vibe shift in this one is immense. You can almost feel the general public clamoring for LeBron to be the first to blow a 3-0 lead. Imagine the GOAT debate if it happens? Without KD, is it feasible? Then, should Shedeur Sanders feel slighted by the latest Deshaun Watson news? Then, John Wall is the President! Howard University is in good hands!First Take resumes with Kenny Smith serves a Lakers panic entrée with a cup of Austin Reaves settle down juice. Then, does Jokic fall out of top-10 all time discussions with a first round loss to a decimated Wolves squad? Next, who's more dangerous right now: Knicks or Celtics? 

What Message Did The Knicks Send to The East?, Who's The Team to Beat in The East?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Big Apple Beatdown! The Knicks CRUSHED, DEMOLISHED, DESTROYED, and EMBARRASSED the Hawks. A 51 point loss at home? C'monnn Dyson Daniels?? OG Anunoby hit how many threes? Kat ANOTHER triple double?? New York forever baby!!! Then. Jokic is toast! Best player in the league belt? Gone! Legacy? In the gutter! Next, Suns owner Mat Ishbia wants Devin Booker to retire with the Suns. Is he telling the truth, or upping Booker's trade value? First Take resumes with Eastern Conference Chaos! The Knicks look like the '17 Warriors. Jaylen Brown looks exactly like he has all year, dragging the Celtics into the dirt with his poor play. The Cavs are in a rock fight with the upstart Raptors. Who's winning this conference? Then, can the Rockets be the first NBA team to complete the unthinkable 3-0 comeback? Next, boxer David Benavidez preps us for his monster matchup vs Gilberto Ramirez on Saturday! 

What's Wrong with Jaylen Brown?, Which Team is More Talented - 76ers or Knicks?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Jaylen Brown taking out his Sixers frustrations on the refs and Joel Embiid. Was Brown right to blame the first 3-1 blown lead since 2020 on everything and everyone but himself? Then, old foes reunite in MSG as Embiid and KAT face off for a chance at the conference finals! Who needs to show out more in this series? And, is the GOAT conversation officially over if Bron pulls off a miraculous upset over the reigning champion Thunder? First Take resumes with an old school matchup in the East. Embiid's Sixers take on Brunson's Knicks. Overall, which team is more talented? Then, Jaylen Brown enjoyed this year more than when he won the championship? Huh?? Next, Charlotte Flair joins the show! 

What Was Most Encouraging About Knicks Game 1 Win?, Is 76ers-Knicks Over?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live with Cam'ron! Welcome to New York City! Sixers and Down and Out! A dominant Brunson game 1 performance lifted MSG's finest over Philly. Who had the most impressive performance? Who needs to step up in game2? Then, was Ant-Man's surprise bench scoring barrage or Wemby's block party the bigger game 1 story? Next, Cam'ron sounds off on Jaylen Brown. First Take resumes with 76ers-Knicks. We're wondering if this series may already be over after just one game! Then, did game 1 of Wolves-Spurs change your outlook on the series. Plus, a special announcement from Stephen A! Old foes reunite! Next, Jacob Fatu takes down Roman Reigns!

Biggest Reason Lakers Were Blown Out?, Is Tracy McGrady Right About Jaylen Brown?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with another OKC win. LeBron balled out, SGA took a back seat to Chet. Who is going to step up on the Lakers with Luka still out? Then, Stephen A. has thoughts on James Dolan's latest crazy comments! Next, are we sleeping on Ant-Man and the Wolves?First Take resumes with a third straight day of crazy Jaylen Brown comments. T-Mac has sources saying JB is not happy with the Celtics! Could Beantown's second banana get traded? Then, Paul Heyman breaks down Bron Breakker vs. Seth Rollins Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Kentucky Derby Pageantry, Knicks fans choosing the Met Gala, and the Magic for blowing his parlay! 

Can The Knicks Win Without OG Anunoby?, Should The Knicks Feel Like Winners After Going Up 2-0?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with another Knicks win! The Positive: New York's finest are two games away from another Conference Finals. Negative: OG may be hurt. Could the Knicks still advance without him? Then, the Spurs showed their championship potential in a thumping of the Wolves! Who has the edge now in this battle of young stars? Next, another Jaylen Brown livestream! He's blaming refs, Embiid, and teammates for anything and everything!!First Take resumes with The Kid Mero, and he's drinking all of the Knicks Hype Juice!! Then, would a game 3 loss be more detrimental to Ant's or Wemby's Championship hopes? Next, The Miz joins! 

SKIP BAYLESS IS BACKKKK!!!!, Skip Ranks His Top 10 NBA Players of All Time!Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with SKIP BAYLESS! For the first time in ten years, Skip and Stephen A. are together again. Like recent divorcees, fireworks erupt anytime these two old foes reunite! Skip brings the heat with LeBron, Luka and James Harden takes! Are the Lakers actually better without Luka Doncic? Then, would you rather be a Knicks fan, or a Cowboys fan right now? Guess which one Skip picks... Next, Skip defends Wemby! First Take resumes with Skip's egregious, blasphemous, abominable Top 10 list. Check out how many guys he has over LeBron! Then, Seth Rollins ROASTS Skip for all of his atrocious LeBron takes! Next, Defend Your Take! Stephen A. and Skip look back on some of their craziest takes of all time! Finally, we're going back to Skip's Top Ten! Stephen A. can't get over LeBron being ranked nine. Skip won't budge. The bubble championship was "Mickey Mouse." 

Are The Knicks About to Win The Title?, Where Do The 76ers Go From here?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with STAND UP NEW YORKKKKK. The Knicks are headed to the ECF, again! Back-to-back. DOMINATION. Stephen A. is HYPED! Then, Wemby is throwing hands! What got into The Alien last night? Next, The Thunder boast a +128 pt differential through seven playoff games. They're steamrolling the West. Is this dominance good for the NBA? Finally, should the Wizards take AJ Dybantsa?First Take resumes with a suddenly eerie Sixers offseason. A week ago it was butterflies and rainbows celebrating a game 7 victory over the Celtics. Just one week later, we have questions about Embiid's health, front office malfeasance, and general atrocious vibes! Then, should Wemby be suspended for elbowing Naz Reid? Next, how would a sweep change LeBron's legacy? Does Kareem pass him all time? 

How Would You Evaluate LeBron's Lakers Tenure?, Should The Celtics Trade Jaylen Brown?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins and Cam'ron is BACK with an overview of LeBron's time in LA. One title, 7-8 playoff series record, and only missed the playoffs twice. Success? Then, Wemby is serving no suspension and paying zero fines. Perk has a MAJOR problem with this decision! He was fined just for shoving Jae Crowder! Fine that man!!! Next, we revisit some shocking clips from just a couple of week ago when the skies were red and yellow, not blue and orange...First Take resumes with Stephen A.'s List! Top 5 landing spots for LeBron. Then, does a Giannis for Jaylen Brown trade make sense for either side? And, should the Knicks be in on the Greek Freak sweepstakes after their flawless march to the ECF? Next, Draymond is SHOCKED that Wemby wasn't fined or suspended for his elbowing of Naz Reid.

What Planet is Wemby From??, Are The Knicks or Thunder More Dangerous?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with another confirmed alien sighting. An ET dropped into Frost Bank last night, dropped 25/15/5, and left the Wolves SHOOK heading into an elimination game 6. Then, has LeBron played his last game as a Laker? If not, where will he play? Next, should Tyrese Maxey want out of Philly? First Take resumes with the NBA's two hottest teams. Who has the upper hand in a potential Knicks vs. Thunder finals battle? Then, Alfonso Ribeiro dishes on the GOAT debate. Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Wemby not understanding flagrant fouls, hotel rooms still using televisions from the early 90s, and carpool lanes!

Were The Pistons Robbed By Late Game No-Call?, Who Should Knicks Fans Be Rooting For in Game 6?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with STRAIGHT ROBBERY! An all-time classic game 5 between the Cavs and Pistons marred by a late 4th quarter no-call on Ausar Thompson. Harden dropped 30, Cade fell asleep during OT, Mt. Mobley grows taller by the day! Then, have the Lakers taken LeBron for granted? Next, Steve Sarkisian is accusing SEC schools of not being academically inclined, especially when it comes to student athletes... Is he right? First Take resumes with Knicks fans! Should they want the Cavs to wrap it up in Cleveland, or Detroit to push it to a winner take all game 7? Then, HOFer Lisa Leslie joins the show! Next, should the Lakers focus on appeasing LeBron or Luka?

Does a Second Round Loss Ruin Ant's Legacy?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a fiery pair of Friday night game 6's! Ant can strengthen his already impressive playoff resume and force a game 7, while Harden looks to continue his hot streak! Then, NFL schedules are out! Let's predict the Cowboys record! Next, J-Will's and RC's Top 5 players (NBA & NFL) you'd want in a must-win game! 

Did Donovan Mitchell Save His Legacy?, Stephen A. Responds to Jaylen BrownSpoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a legacy redefined! Donovan Mitchell finally reaches the Conference Finals after an epic game 7 win in Detroit. Is Donovan Mitchell now better all-time than Embiid? Then, any issue with Ant-Man shaking hands with 8 minutes to go in the 4th, seemingly giving up while the game was ongoing? Next, P.K. Subban gets us ready for Habs-Sabres game 7!!! First Take resumes with Stephen A. going OFF on Jaylen Brown! Come on the show, JB!! Then, who are you more excited to watch: Wemby or SGA? Next, WOLFvestigative journalists! We're reading deep into some seemingly innocuous but potentially deadly player quotes from the Wolves. Are they talking about Julius Randle? 

How Much Trouble Are The Thunder In?, Are We Concerned About SGA?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with an all-timer from Wemby. Dominance in every sense of the word. Motivated by a second place MVP finish, willing to put his body on the line for his squad, Cam'ron can't even believe it! Then, Aaron Rodgers is back in the Steelers building prepping for another playoff run! Were the Steelers right to bring him back? Next, which NBA player needs a ring the most?First Take resumes with concern over the 2x MVP. SGA's struggles have widely flown under the radar due to the Thunder's dominant series wins. Is it time for one of the greatest guards of all time to step up? Then, which Knick needs to play the best tonight? Does KAT need another triple double? Four 3s from Mikal? Brunson 30 bomb? Next, Stephen A.'s top 5 pivotal players in each conference finals!

Did Cavs Choke or Is Brunson a God?, Are You More Confident in Knicks Title Chances Now?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Orange and Blue Skies! Jalen Brunson is a god walking amongst men. Mikal Bridges possesses the accuracy of prime Hawkeye. James Harden may have suffered the worst isolation beatdown of all time! Lets go Stephen A!!! Then, Thunder-Spurs game 2 is upon us. What's the biggest key for the Thunder to bounce back? Next, P.K. Subban breaks down Golden Knights-Avs. First Take resumes with playing the Knicks long game. We've seen them win defensive battles, high intensity offensive games, and everything in between. Could they hang with the Spurs or Thunder? Then, Jason Kidd is OUT in Dallas. Who should replace him? Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Alex Caruso, NFL fans, and his own MRI saga!

Are You More Confident in Spurs or Thunder?, Is Jalen Brunson The Greatest Knick of All-Time?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Thunder victory! Zay Hart successfully kept Wemby out of the paint, limiting his post touches and tip ins! Is this a sustainable strategy? Then, let's revisit Aaron Rodgers' illustrious career. One Super Bowl, 4 MVPs, countless McAfee appearances. How will you remember The Baaaaaaaad Man? Next, would expanding the CFP to 24 teams ruin college football for good?First Take resumes with the game AFTER the game! Coming off an all-time comeback against the Cavs, Jalen Brunson looks to put the Knicks up 2-0. How many points does KAT need for the Knicks to head to Cleveland in control of the series? Then, it's been three years since Joe Burrow threw a playoff pass! Is this the year the drought ends for Cincy's gunslinger? Next, The Kid Mero ponders the greatest Knicks of all time! Ewing, Reed, Frazier? Does Brunson pass all of them with a 2026 title victory?

Impressed By Knicks or Disappointed in Cavs?, Is Analytics Ruining Basketball?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with nine straight Knicks playoff wins! Brunson passed with the poise and finesse of CP3, shot with the touch of Curry, and led with the adaptability and strategic vision of LeBron. Are the Knicks on the verge of a sweep? Then, SGA's flailing and flopping playstyle is at the forefront of conversation again! After falling on nearly all of his shot attempts in game 2, is this something the league needs to address? Next, Lebron thinks the Lakers were "out-talented" by OKC. Is this a secret trade request?First Take resumes with Kendrick Perkins talking analytics. Josh Hart understands their importance, but doesn't think they should be solely relied upon for lineup decisions. Perk has some thoughts on these comments and math invading sports in general. Then, Chet has become somewhat of a joke to Wemby. He views him similar to how a senior in high school looks down upon a freshman. Should we be criticizing him for failing to stop the phenomenal Frenchman? Next, did LeBron sneak in a trade request during a recent podcast appearance? 

Are The Spurs In Control vs. The Thunder?, Should Cavs Go All In On LeBron?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a raucous and rowdy WCF! Wemby dunking over everyone. SGA making All-NBA defenders fall. Devin Vassell proving he's one of the top tier two-way guys in the league... Heading back to OKC, are the Spurs in control of this series? Then, with the Knicks on the verge of their first finals appearance since '99, we NEED to look back on the Greatest Knicks of all time! Does Brunson surpass Frazier and Ewing with a ring? Next, what can the Thunder do to stop the menacing Frenchman who reigned supreme over OKC in game 4?First Takes resumes with the fast-falling Cavs! Should they go all in on LeBron? Then, Mad Dog and Stephen A. dive deep into the Giants locker room issues with Jaxson Dart introducing Trump at a recent rally. Next, we've trashed the Mikal Bridges trade more than any other show... With his recent historic playoff shooting numbers, was trading five first round picks actually worth it for the Knicks? 

Are The Spurs In Control vs. The Thunder?, Should Cavs Go All In On LeBron?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a raucous and rowdy WCF! Wemby dunking over everyone. SGA making All-NBA defenders fall. Devin Vassell proving he's one of the top tier two-way guys in the league... Heading back to OKC, are the Spurs in control of this series? Then, with the Knicks on the verge of their first finals appearance since '99, we NEED to look back on the Greatest Knicks of all time! Does Brunson surpass Frazier and Ewing with a ring? Next, what can the Thunder do to stop the menacing Frenchman who reigned supreme over OKC in game 4? First Takes resumes with the fast-falling Cavs! Should they go all in on LeBron? Then, Mad Dog and Stephen A. dive deep into the Giants locker room issues with Jaxson Dart introducing Trump at a recent rally. Next, we've trashed the Mikal Bridges trade more than any other show... With his recent historic playoff shooting numbers, was trading five first round picks actually worth it for the Knicks? 

Encouraged By Thunder or Discouraged by Spurs?, Who Should Knicks Want to Face?Spoiler Hidden

SGA Dominates Wemby & Spurs! Is this Series Over?First Take resumes with the Knicks facing two juggernauts. Which WCF team should they prefer to see in the finals??

How Important is Closing Out Tonight For Thunder?, Whose Stock Rises Most With Ring: Brunson, SGA, or Wemby?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the WCF! Game 6 could see an SGA explosion, sending the Thunder to their second straight finals. Or, a Wemby mauling, bring us an epic game 7 in OKC. Do the Thunder NEED to finish off these pesky upstart Spurs tonight? Then, at the start of the playoffs, every pundit said the East was wide open! It's anyone's year! Now, the narrative is "this was a super easy path for the Knicks." What changed? Next, Kirby smart suggested the SEC seceding from the NCAA. Is this a SMART move?First Take resumes with fast rising assets. If you hold any Brunson, SGA or Wemby stock, do NOT sell now, even though it may be tempting. Hold, hold, hold. These gainers are only going to grow more! Then, SAS lampoons UnSportsmanLike's (6AM-10AM on ESPN2/ESPNU) own Chris Canty over his blasphemous SGA take! Next, every Knicks' role player from Mikal Bridges down to Deuce McBride took media heat all throughout the regular season! Which one has redeemed themselves the most in the playoffs? 

Does The Spurs Winning Game 6 Mean Anything?, Does Mitchell Robinson's Injury Change the Finals?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Spurs game 6 THUMPING of the Thunder! Wemby showed out, SGA shot tour dates again. What's going on with the back-to-back MVP? Then, former Pro Bowler Steve Smith Sr. is appalled by the idea of the Eagles being better without A.J. Brown. Next, the draft lottery is changing to help middling teams! Your last place finishing team has no stars or young talent? Too bad! What's the point of this change?First Take resumes with Mitchell Robinson's broken pinky. The Knicks' backup center is expected to play in game 1 of the Finals, but what if he has to go against Wemby with a broken finger on his shooting hand? How will Mitch hit his patented 12 ft middie? Then, do NCAA teams need a salary cap? Next, Gunther trashes Cody Rhodes ahead of their WWE Clash in Italy! Gunther! 

Brunson or Wemby Under More Pressure to Win Ring?, Wemby or Knicks Depth A Bigger Concern?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals over the weekend; does OKC deserve a pass because of injuries? Then, Stephen A and Perk debate who has more pressure to win their first title; Jalen Brunson or Victor Wembenyama. Next, the First Take crew discuss if it's the right move for the Patriots to trade for AJ Brown. First Take rolls on into the second hour, and the crew discuss Draymond Green's comments on the Knicks. Then, First Take reacts to breaking news of Serena Williams returning to professional tennis. Next, Stephen A and Chiney Ogwumike debate who more built to run the west long term, Spurs or Thunder? Lastly, the crew share their Finals picks. 

Gone GarrettSpoiler Hidden

It's time for First Take, and we've got blockbuster headlines everywhere! Garrett is done in Cleveland and headed west, joining what could be the NFL's next super team! Brown is moving on from Birdie and bringing his talents to New England, where the Pats are looking to make a serious statement! And finally, the wait is over bonjour to an NBA Finals matchup that's been years in the making and has the entire basketball world talking! 

Bye Brown ByeSpoiler Hidden

The biggest names, the biggest moves, and the biggest stage in sports! One NFL superstar is packing his bags and heading west in a move that could reshape the league's balance of power. Another is trading one iconic stop for another, looking to help launch the Patriots back into contention. And on the hardwood, the Finals are finally here. So whether you say hello or bonjour, get ready for one of the most anticipated championship matchups we've seen in years! 

Was Brunson The Most Impactful Knick in Game 1?, Who Was The MVP of Game 1?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Knicks-Spurs game 1!! MVP like performances from Brunson, KAT, and Hart led the Knicks to a tight victory in San Antonio! First Take is live from The Alamo breaking down all of the finals angles! Is this one already over? Is Wemby finally getting fatigued? How exactly did KAT's pregame mindset lead him to dominating Wemby in and out of the paint? First Take begins with Perk, SAS and Windy waxing poetic about the Nova Knicks. Years of bonding, team building, and ribbing have culminated in one of the greatest playoff runs of all time. What worked so well about the Knicks game 1 plan, and how can the Spurs adjust? 

Is Game 2 a Must Win for the Spurs?, Does Wemby Or Brunson Need to Show Out More in Game 2?Spoiler Hidden

First Take is live from San Antonio breaking down tonight's must win game 2 for the Spurs! Wilbon gives us some historical context on how deadly it may be for the Spurs to go down 0-2, while Windy has the inside info on where each locker room's confidence level is heading into a sure to be rock fight in the Alamo City! Then, Shump is puzzled why people are still underrating Jalen Brunson. To quote Sir Charles, "What more can he do?" Next, while the Mavs and Wolves sit at home lamenting iffy trades and egregious non-signings, the Knicks dine on Brunson's and KAT's impactful play. Which team regrets losing their star more?First Take resumes with major star power! Who needs to have a bigger game: the River Walk monk, or the braided magician from the mean streets of Manhattan? Then, Shump tells us if he would have struggled more guarding SGA or Brunson. Next, KAT has completely changed his public perception throughout these playoffs. Mobley-esque defense, Jokic-esque passing, and Billups-esque leadership has elevated his career trajectory tenfold! Can he keep it up throughout the rest of the finals?

What Do You Expect From The Garden Tonight?, Will Knicks Fan's Momentum Be Disrupted?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with MSG expectations!! Is this going to be the most raucous crowd of all time? Will President Trump's presence impact the team in a positive or negative manner? Then, Jalen Brunson is cashing in clutch shots like 2018 LeBron! Which HOFer does Stephen A. compare him to? Plus, Wilbon and Jay Will remember the great Stacey King. RIP. First Take resumes with Knicks Fan's craziness heading into game 3! Trump's presence at the Garden forced all watch parties outside of MSG to be cancelled. Will the president's presence disrupt the Knicks momentum? Then, with a ring, do you put Brunson above all ringless players? Even Chuckster and Melo? Plus, Stephen A.s top 5 NBA playoff atmospheres!  

Do Knicks Have Legitimate Gripe With The Refs?, Reaction to Trump's Comments About Stephen A?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Knicks first loss in over a month! Are the officials swallowing their whistles (then randomly calling segments of the game tight), Wemby's heightened play, or KATs regression to blame for the loss? Then, if the refs are allowing head punches, an abundance of hand checking not seen since early 2000s Artest, and one sided flagrant fouls, who does it favor? Next, is Sam Presti coming to SGA's defense over social media bullies the right or wrong move?First Take resumes with Stephen A.'s reaction to Trump doubting his IQ! "You need a high IQ (to run for president), I'm not sure SAS has that," said Trump. Stephen A. takes the podium to FIRE back at President Trump, and ask him why he felt the need to ruin what was supposed to be a magical night in MSG! Then, Mark Messier joins with his pick for game 4 of the Stanley Cup!! Next, KAT had his worst game of the finals in game 3, but was his poor play actually Brunson's fault?  

Is Spurs Physical Play Fair or Foul?, Is Game 4 of The NBA Finals a Must Win For The Knicks?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Spurs defense. Sometimes it seems like they have eight guys out there! Is their physical, menacing playstyle fair or foul? Should the Knicks fans focus their energy on the refs? Then, if the Knicks do end up losing the finals, how will we rank Brunson? Next, Mad Dog's top 5 MSG villains! First Take resumes with thrilling debate on game 4! Is this a must win for the Knicks? Then, LeBron mentioned the goat debate in a recent article. Is it okay for him to think he's the best player of all time? Next, Mad dog is MAD at Mike Brown and all of the reaction to the Brendan Sorsby catastrophe!  

How Improbable was Anunoby's Game Winner?, Is It Fair to Question Wemby in Big Moments?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with OG's improbably tip in! Where does it rank amongst all-time playoff moments? IS OG Anunoby now the king of New York? Then, do you give more credit to the Knicks for pulling off the shocking comeback, or criticism to the Spurs for blowing it? Next, Roger Bennett of Men in Blazers tells us which team is the Knicks or the World Cup!! First Take resumes with no clutch gene?? Is it fair to say a 22 year old can't handle big moments after Wemby's late pair of missed free throws? Then, MSG was rockin' last night! The celebs were out and cheering hard, second bowl residents kept it rowdy the entire game, and watch parties thrived. Shump even showed out! Did the MSG faithful redeem themselves? Next, is this series over?  

Episode 197Spoiler Hidden

How Impressive Was Knicks Title Run?, Finals MVP Jalen Brunson Roasts Stephen A. Smith!!!Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Stephen A.'s victory lap. It's the happiest we've ever seen our champion. It was the best sports night of his life. He can't stop grinning ear to ear. He's waited 53 long years for this exact moment. Come hear all of the emotion ooze out of SAS as he rhapsodizes about the greatest title team in recent memory! How did a six foot oft injured point guard immediately place himself on the Knicks Mt Rushmore of athletes? We were told he couldn't be the best player on a championship team. Let's look at KAT's journey from supposed "soft" center, to defensive stud. OG, Mikal, Josh Hart played pivotal roles, cementing Leon Rose as the top wheelin' and dealin' president in the league! KNICKS!First Take resumes with the Knicks miraculous playoff run. They cemented their legacy as an all-time great playoff team, going 12-1 after the first round. Is this an all-time great team, or did they just get hot at the right time? Then, P.K. Subban compares the Knicks run to the Hurricanes. In the future, which team will be looked back at as the better team? Next, Finals MVP Jalen Brunson throws every insult Stephen A. has hurled his way throughout the years right back in his face. Knicks fans, SAS haters, this is MUST LISTEN. 

Are The Knicks America's Team?, Best Landing Spot For Giannis?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Cam'ron's return! Two Knicks fans and Big Perk debate if the world champs are America's team now that they finally won a chip! Then, James Dolan begged his team to make a 10-week sacrifice for the duration of the playoffs. He asked them to eat healthier, become solely basketball focused, and give up... other things. Is it safe to say the long hated Knicks owner has fully redeemed himself? Next, Bradley Wright-Phillips gives us his World Cup picks!First Take resumes with next season's NBA championship odds. The Knicks are 4th behind SAS, OKC and BOS! Should the reigning champs feel immense disrespect from oddsmakers after easing their way to a title? Then, Giannis is on the move...soon!! Where should he WANT to go? Next, did James Dolan take a subtle shot at Thibs when he said "you needed a coach that would pull you together," or are we reading way, way too much into this quote? 

Is Brunson An All-Time NY Athlete?, Is Brunson a Top-5 Player in The NBA?Spoiler Hidden

First Take resumes with all-time New York athletes. Jeter, Eli, and Rivera hold a permanent spot on the Mt. Rushmore. Did Brunson just steal Clyde's spot? Then, the Morris twins debate Dybantsa vs Peterson. Who's going first overall? Next, after a star studded World Cup night that saw Haaland, Messi and Mbappe score multiple goals, Roger Bennett tells us who the favorite is a week in!First Take resumes with Jalen Brunson's stardom! He's made all-NBA teams the past 3 years, and now has a ring and a Finals MVP! Has he cemented himself as a top 5 NBA player? Then, mandatory minicamps means mandatory Cowboys drama! Are we sure that George Pickens is fully bought in this year? Next, Mad Dog is MAD at the Spurs, and Steve Cohen for sitting courtside at the Knicks game! 

Should Knicks Be Title Favorites?, Will Brunson Force NBA Stars To Take Less Money?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Stephen A.'s missing parade invite! It must've gotten lost in the mail. We're debating next year's title favorites, KAT's upcoming contract, and James Dolan's latest comments on the salary cap! Then, does it make sense for the Lakers to bring back LeBron? Next, is Giannis even worth multiple first round picks anymore? First Take resumes with Jalen Brunson changing the NBA forever. By winning a championship after taking a massive pay cut, will other NBA stars feel pressure to do the same? Then, can Messi put an end to the soccer GOAT debate with another World Cup title? Next, back to Brunson! Has he changed the way we'll look at small guards forever. It used to be "you can't win a title with a small guard as your best player." Should we lay that adage to rest? 

How Slept On Was Brunson Pre-Title?, What Did Jalen Brunson Prove With Finals MVP?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a look back to a time before the Knicks won thieir elusive title. We can't forget how this team was overlooked. The Brunson signing was detested, and pundits loathed the Mikal trade! Then, Sean Farnham tells us which rookies will make an immediate impact. Next, a preview of the US's mighty matchup against Australia!First Take resumes with new Brunson narratives. Can we remember how good he was this entire postseason when ranking players for next season, or will be put Donovan Mitchell ahead of him again? Then, which star is under the most pressure to win a title now? Time is ticking for Luka. Ant's supposed to be the face of American basketball, but he can't get one either. Next, are we overthinking this entire Darryn Peterson saga? Should the Wizards just draft him first overall? 

Breaking News on Giannis + The Mavs!, Dusty May ---> Mavericks???Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with impending Giannis news! He's getting traded before the draft Tuesday night to either the Celtics or Heat! Which team can offer the better package? Then, Stephen A. apologized to Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart for giving up on them numerous times, requesting they be traded, and generally never having a positive outlook on the Knicks, ever! Should the championship Knicks forgive Stephen A. for being so consistently rude to them? Next, is AJ Dybantsa the clear-cut number one pick? First Take resumes with major breaking news out of the college ranks! Dusty May is headed to the Mavericks??? After leading the Wolverines to their first championship since '89, he'll look to take the Mavs young core of Cooper Flagg and whichever former Michigan player they draft to the playoffs! Then. Roger Bennett is back discussing Team USA's meteoric rise and today's star studded matchups! Next, if Giannis ends up in Boston, does that vault them over the Knicks in the East? 

Did Bucks Make a Mistake Passing on Jaylen Brown?, Does Giannis Make The Heat Title Contenders?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the blockbuster we've been waiting on for years! The Bucks passed on Boston's offer of Jaylen Brown + a small piece, and went with the Heat's Tyler Herro package instead. It's the second time the Celtics have tried to trade their net negative Allstar, signifying they may think he's not good at basketball! Then, the draft is tonight, and we're debating Darryn Peterson's floor and ceiling! Next, how many goals does Ronaldo need to score today to move past Messi all time?First Take resumes with the new look Heat! They have Bam, Giannis, and a bench full of g-leaguers! Is that enough to win a title? Then, the Wolves sent Julius Randle to the Nets along with a pick in a clear salary dump. Is this a sign that Ant-man may be on his way out of Minnesota? Next, has Jalen Brunson singlehandedly brought back the small scoring guard? In a draft with 3-5 shorter players surely going in the top 10, we take a look at how New York's King is already impacting the NBA's future!  

Is Dybantsa Better Than Peterson?, How Good Are The Wizards?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with an epic first round of the draft! Dybantsa went first, one spot ahead of Darryn Peterson. Did the Wizards make the right move taking the more reliable player, or should they have gone with the risk in Peterson. Then, are the Celtics better off trading or keeping Jaylen Brown? Next, would you have Giannis and the Heat as favorites in the East next year? First Take resumes with the new and improved Wizards? Ice Trae, AD and Dybantsa??? Is there any way this squad misses the playoffs? Then, the Bulls have been searching for a savior ever since Jordan abandoned them in '98. We thought D Rose would bring the glory back to Chi-Town, but injuries cut him short. Is 4th overall pick Caleb Wilson the man for the job? Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Shinnecock, PCA being called out at 2nd, and Stephen A.'s comments towards Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart!  

Does LaMelo Make The Wolves Contenders?, How Scary Will Ant-Man/LaMelo Duo Be?Spoiler Hidden

First Take resumes with one of the all-time shockers! LaMelo is heading to Minnesota. Naz Reid is headed to Charlotte. Windy tells us how this trade came to fruition, Stephen A. tells us it's BLASPHEMOUS. Then, Jaylen Brown had some choice words for our very own Stephen A. Hear his response now! Next, Roger Bennett joins to preview USA's massive matchup vs Turkiye!First Take resumes with the Wolves new duo. Should the league feel scared of a LaMelo/Ant-Man back court? Then, Michael Rubin joins to plug Fanatic Fest! Next, some coach talk! Fever coach Stephanie White blasted the refs over numerous supposed "cheap shots" from the Mercury, and Micah Nori accepted a one year prove it deal with the Blazers. 

Will Giannis or LaMelo Be More Impactful in Their New Homes?, Does Giannis or Ant Need to Reach The Finals More?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Giannis and LaMelo! Who will be more impactful in their new role? Then, team USA suffered their first loss of the World Cup. Türkiye took down mostly American backups, assuring the US will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 32. What's the biggest challenge the US will face in their first knockout game of the tournament? Next, after a decade of questions surrounding Jaylen Brown's fit with Jason Tatum, should teams be weary of trading for the seemingly oft angry, pouty second banana?First Take resumes with our two blockbuster trades. Giannis landed in South Beach, and Ant received a brand new superstar in LaMelo Ball. Which player has more pressure to reach the finals next season? Then, which contender needs Jaylen Brown the most? Next, Luka want a star big man in LA next season. LeBron wants a new deal. Which one is more important for the Lakers?  

Should England's "Wire of God" Goal Have Counted?, It It Acceptable For LeBron To "Ring Chase?"Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with more controversy at the World Cup! England's 1st goal clearly hit a wire, and play should have been stopped! Should FIFA own their mistake? Then, Execs, coaches and scouts ranked Josh Allen ahead of Patrick Mahomes in Jeremy Fowler's newest Top 10 QBs list! Next, Jeff Passan tells us if the Dodgers have a chance to threepeat! First Take resumes with LeBron's ring chase! His agent, Rich Paul, claims it's not ring chasing when he could technically be of service to all thirty teams. Big Perk, thoughts? Then, will the Celtics eventually regret trading Jaylen Brown? Next, Herculez Gomez tells us how Spain can slow down France, and if England vs Argentina is secretly the championship! 

What Was Best Part of Home Run Derby?, Is Jalen Hurts Overhated?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with an electrifying home run derby! Jordan Walker clutched up in his final swings to eke out a victory over fan favorite Kyle Schrwarber! Is this new format here to stay? Then, Joe Fortenbaugh breaks down just how special Caleb Wilson's astounding summer league game against the Jazz was last night! Next, who should win the ESPY for best NBA player? First Take resumes with Jalen Hurts falling into the 6th tier of QB voting by execs, coaches and scouts! Is this correct? Has the league figured out he can't throw down the middle of the field? Then, comedian and ESPYS host Marcello Hernandez joins to preview his newest film, 72 Hours! Next, if your life depended on it, are you taking the Rams or the field? 

What Does France Loss Mean For Mbappé?, Are The 76ers LeBron's Best Chance For Another Ring?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Herculez Gomez RIPPING France and the USMNT for their lackluster exit performances! What does this loss mean for Kylian Mbappé, and will the US ever get over the hump? Then, how much better will LaMelo Ball make Ant-Man and the Wolves? Next, who should win the ESPY for the best championship performance? Was anyone more impressive than an injured Jalen Brunson dominating Wemby and the Spurs in a closeout game 5?First Take resumes with a Sixers deep dive! Does a Maxey, Brown, James trio make Philly Eastern Conference favorites? Then, World Cup! Where does France's loss to Spain rank on the list off all time soccer shockers? Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Coco Gauff, the Home Run Derby, and The Louvre!  

Encara Messi, Mira Messi, Encara Messi, Mira Messi, Sixty Years of Hurt, Never Stopped England DreamingSpoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Messi magic and English Disaster! Hey Jude, that match went bad. Watching Real Madrid highlights, won't make it better. Remember, Messi is the only GOAT. Then you can start, to recognize the abject heartbreak of that result! Football almost came home! Is this an all time bad loss for England? Then, does resigning George Pickens vault the Cowboys over the NFC's best? Next, are team friendly contracts ruining the NBA?First Take resumes with three lions on the shirt, Infantino still gleaming. Sixty years of hurt, have y 'all officially stopped dreaming? Then, who has more to prove this coming NBA season: Tatum or Brown? Next, a year after JSN snatched the number one receiver spot, what does Ja'Marr Chase have to do to win it back? 

What's the latest on Lebron?, More from Fanatics FestSpoiler Hidden

Its Fanatics Fest! Lebron gives a status update and we discuss where's the best place for him to go. We look ahead to the World Cup and we talk to Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman. Is Fanatics Fest! We have guests Logan Paul, Michael Rubin, and Robert Kraft joining us. We look ahead to the World Cup final and debate topics like is Jalen Brunson the greatest active winner in sports right now? 

Will they, Won't they?Spoiler Hidden

The World Cup is in the books, and Spain is celebrating on top of the soccer world! We'll break down the title run, the biggest moments, and everything you need to know. Here in the US- the Lebron watch is still going on. What is next, we don't know? And-We are on the road to Super Bowl 61. Which QB has what it takes to get their team there? 

Episode 214Spoiler Hidden

All Eyes on Lane, Media Day!Spoiler Hidden

Welcome to First Take! NFL training camps are officially underway, and the countdown to football season is on! Lane Kiffin is back in the spotlight. After changing sidelines, the pressure is already building. We'll tell you why he can't afford to waste any time proving he can win big at LSU. And here's the debate: Who has more at stake this season Ole Miss, trying to prove it can win without Lane Kiffin, or Lane Kiffin, trying to prove he can win at LSU? Training camp is here! The first NFL teams are reporting, and we're taking a look at the biggest questions, expectations, and storylines as a new season gets underway. Then, a potential leak has the basketball world talking could we have a clue about LeBron James' next move? And in college football, Alabama is chasing another championship run. We'll discuss what the Crimson Tide must do to get back into the national title conversation.  

Golden Arch, No Time to WasteSpoiler Hidden

It's First Take! Patriots veterans report to training camp today. Will New England take a step forwardor a step backwardthis season? Plus, is Arch Manning ready to become college football's next superstar and the favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick? And in the NFL, who is the team to beat in the AFC West? We'll debate it all, right now on First Take! Welcome to First Take! NFL training camps are open, the storylines are heating up, and football season is officially here. But first, all eyes are on Lane Kiffin. A new chapter begins, and the expectations couldn't be higher. Is the pressure on him to deliver immediately? That's today's debate: Who has more to prove this seasonOle Miss, showing it can thrive without Lane Kiffin, or Lane Kiffin, proving he can take LSU to the next level?  

Will LeBron and 76ers Struggles in Year One?, Does LeBron Become The Goat With Two More Rings?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with LeBron's new digs! The GOAT finally ended his long, drawn out free agency saga by choosing Philly! Can he take anything from the '08 Celtics and win in his first year with a new super team, or will it take a year of chemistry searching to get to the mountaintop? Then, let's dream and say the Cowboys DO make the Super Bowl... in that unfathomable scenario, who's their most important player? Next, Joe Tess joins to PUMP US UP for SummerSlam this Saturday and Sunday at 6 ET!!First Take resumes with Sir Charles ripping King James. After lambasting him for ring chasing while forgetting most NBA stars are three years into retirement by age 40, Chuck says LeBron needs TWO rings with the Sixers to pass Jordan. Then, which QB has the most pressure to win this season and why is it C.J. Stroud? Next, after getting absolutely zero help for Steph Curry this offseason, can we officially close the Warriors championship window?  

What's The Bears Ceiling?, Is This Year More Pivotal For Lamar Or The Ravens?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with UnSportsmanLike's Evan Cohen doubling down on his Bears take! He loves 'em! Also, which QB is most likely to bounce back after subpar 2025 seasons? Then, Shams says the Sixers want LeBron to play PG! Can Jaylen Brown adjust to being the fourth option? Next, how much pressure is on Dak to make the Super Bowl this year? Does the big game being on ESPN make it more important for him? First Take begins with a must win season for the Ravens. How well does Lamar need to play for the Ravens to be considered Super Bowl contenders? Then, the Knicks are still favored in the East after the 76ers signed LeBron. Does this officially remove LeBron from the goat convo? Next, Peter Rosenberg on who to watch out for at Summer Slam! 

Are The Cowboys Super Bowl Contenders?, Will The Warriors Make The Playoffs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a Jerry Jones bombshell! Supposedly, the Cowboys are in on multiple trade candidates! Is Maxx Crosby to Dallas a sure thing? Then, J.J. McCarthy and Kyler Murray will split 1st-team reps in training camp. Are the Vikings handling their QB situation the right way? Next, are the Cowboys or Eagles the team to beat in the NFC East? First Take begins with a sad and drawn out ending to Steph Curry's career. Draymond is returning, and it seems as if the Warriors are running back the "limp into the play-in" strategy for Steph's final years... Then Triple H talks Oba Femi vs. Brock Lesnar! Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Jose Caballero, Janik Sinner's withdrawal, and Notre Dame's greed!  

Does Joel Embiid Have More To Lose Than Goat James?, Does George Pickens Need To Have A Career Year For Cowboys To Contend?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Joe Burrow! Place yourself in a world where the Bengals miss the playoffs AGAIN. Will we have to officially move him below Jalen Hurts in the QB rankings? Then, Canty's A-List! Who are the top 5 QBs with the most on the line? Next, UnSportsmanLike's Evan Cohen and Chris Canty get into a HEATED LeBron debate. Does King James have more to lose this season than Joel Embiid?First Take resumes with an oddly quiet offseason for the Cowboys. George Pickens is back as one half of the most dangerous WR duo in the NFL. Does another 1400 yd, 9 TD season for him make the Cowboys Super Bowl contenders? Next, can Justin Jefferson have a big season with two mediocre QBs dueling for the starting job in Minnesota? Next, Jordan Rodgers breaks down Ohio State's and Indiana's schedules heading into a sure to be crazy college football season! 

Do You Like Dak's Beaming Confidence?, Will Eagles Offense Improve Under Mannion?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with GOTI. Huh? Yes, GOTI. Dak dubbed the cowboys high flying offense the "Greatest Offense There Is." Where is all of this confidence coming from, and is it a good sign for the Cowboys? UnSportsmanLike's own Evan Cohen ponders all of the Cowboys hype currently circulating. Then, former SEC loyalist Paul Finebaum joins to wax poetic about the Big Ten. Next, is Deion Sanders visiting Browns training camp an issue?Will Mannion bring out best in Jalen Hurts and the Eagles' offense, or will it be another disappointing season? 

Garrett Out Back, Will Eagles Offense Improve Under Mannion?Spoiler Hidden

Good morning! It's time for First Take. Deadline Day delivered a stunner with the Skubal shocker. So now the question is: Have the Dodgers become unbeatable? And after baseball's wildest trade deadline in years, are we one step closer to a lockout? Plus... Deshaun's Declaration. The Browns quarterback had plenty to say about his future in Cleveland. You need to hear itand we'll tell you what it really means. And in the NFL... Have the Kansas City Chiefs done enough this offseason to get back to the Super Bowl? Or has the rest of the AFC finally caught up?Will Mannion bring out best in Jalen Hurts and the Eagles' offense, or will it be another disappointing season? 

Bijan's Extension, Skubal's Defense of the DodgersSpoiler Hidden

The wait is over. Bijan Robinson has signed an extension of 3 years that is worth up to $75 Million. What does this record-breaking contract mean for the rest of the NFL, especially Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs? Plus, the Yankees dropped another heartbreaker against the Cardinals on Monday night. Did the Bronx Bombers do enough at the MLB trade deadline? Do they have enough to make a deep postseason run? All this and more on First Take.After Tarik Skubal signed with the Dodgers, he defended critics calling his new ballclub a super team. Does Skubal have a point? Who is the biggest threat to the Dodgers in the MLB? Plus, Jaylen Brown was back on Twitch, but this time, he expressed his excitement to play alongside LeBron James. Does Brown present a problem for the 76ers, or will he and James develop chemistry that can lead them to a title? All that and more on First Take. 

Are Dodgers The Team To Beat?, Into the NFC Unknown - The Philadelphia EaglesSpoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Tarik Skubal's Dodgers debut! The MLB's newest evil empire struck out against the Cubbies losing 5-1 with their new ace on the mound. Is the squad with the $400 million payroll the team to beat come playoff time? Then, Doggy runs through the Lions lackluster last place schedule! Is Detroit the best bounce back candidate heading into the NFL season? Next, are the Chargers too reliant on Justin Herbert? Have they failed the perennial playoff loser more than he has failed them?First Take resumes with the always controversial Philadelphia Eagles! Are there any certainties with this Jalen Hurts led squad, or are they the NFC's biggest unknown? Then, coming off of a disappointing 2025 campaign in which he tore his ACL and LCL, does Patrick GOAThomes have anything to prove this season? Next, Mad Dog is MAD about Tarik Skubal's tenure with the Tigers, people caring about NFL training camp, and PCA's Babe Ruth disrespect! Who are you drafting first in fantasy football: Mahomes or Hurts?

What Would Aaron Donald's Return Mean For The NFC?, Has Criticism Of Jalen Hurts Been Fair Or Foul?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Aaron Donald's potential return! The all time great defensive tackle may come back to a star studded Rams defensive line already equipped with Myles Garrett and Poona Ford. Would they be the clear cut favorites in the NFC? Then, Jeff Passan thinks the Dodgers recent slide means nothing, PCA could win MVP, and Aaron Judge may boost the Yankees offense back to its scoring ways. Next, Stephen A. has Michelle Smallmon's Packers starting out 6-0!!First Take resumes with the oft criticized Jalen Hurts. His stats don't align with any of the top players, and the eye test shows he can't even throw down the middle of the field... but he has won a Super Bowl. Should we stop criticizing Hurts, or berate him even more? Then, can Alabama football fly under the radar, or is this a completely conjured up story ripped from the depths of Nick Saban's illustrious brain? Next, Stephen A. and CC pick the Bengals schedule! You have pick 1.6 in fantasy: CMC or Amon-Ra. 

Are Lions The Team To Beat In The NFC North?, Is it Weird that Tatum and Brown Haven't Spoken Since The Trade?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Jahmyr Gibbs massive new contract! Gibbs inked a three year/$67.5 deal with the Lions making him the highest-paid RB in NFL history! Does this immediately make Detroit NFC North favorites? Then, Stephen A. addresses Caitlin Clark addressing social issues. Next, what in the world was Purdue AD Tommy McClelland thinking? Did he forget IU just won the national title in football? 1.03: Ja'Marr or Puka? First Take resumes with more suspicious Jaylen Brown comments. The Sixers fourth option said he hasn't spoken with Jayson Tatum since being traded to Philly. Weren't these guys best friends? Perhaps their relationship was more fractured than we thought. Then, Pablo found out... again. Kawhi had an undisclosed sponsorship deal with Daktronics, opening up yet another can of worms that may lead to Leonard leaving Toronto. Next, Stephen A. picks the Seahawks schedule! Joey Moneybags has them way under, while CC thinks they may repeat as champs!  

Does Micah's Absence Change Your View of The Packers?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a shaky start to the Packers season. A brutal schedule plus Micah Parsons most likely sitting until at least week 6 puts all of the pressure right on Jordan Love's shoulders! UnSportsmanLike's Evan Cohen goes off on the Green Bay's analytics darling! Next, UnSportsmanLike's Chris Canty threw a take into the ether: Patrick Mahomes has clearly declined. We respond! Next, Open Champion Ryan Fox gives us an update on life since joining the illustrious and exclusive club of one-time major winners!  

Are The Vikings Correct to start Kyler Over J.J. McCarthy?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Vikings announcing Kyler Murray as their week 1 starter! Can he take them to the playoffs, and how does this affect former 1st round pick J.J. McCarthy? Then, the Rays lead the Yankees in the AL East, but the Evil Empire is still favored to come out of the lackluster American League. Why? Next, noted Bears fanatic Shae Cornette predicts their daunting schedule!

Is The NFL Out To Get Jaxson Dart?, Is Brown's QB Race Still a Debate?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with preseason football! Jaxson Dart impressed in his 2026 debut with a rifle off platform touchdown pass to rookie Malachi Fields, but took another big hit and wound up in the blue tent. Postgame, he noted that NFL doctors seem to only take major precautions with him! Is Dart correct? Then, Kevin Clark has the Rams winning 15 games!! Next, are the Bears the team to beat in a loaded NFC North?First Take begins with the never ending, always intriguing Browns QB race! Did Shedeur or Deshaun take the lead after preseason week 1? Then, can Burrow and the Bengals afford another slow start, or would 0-3 out of the gates officially bury this era of Bengals ball? Next, what happens if Josh Allen doesn't win the Super Bowl this season?

What's Your Biggest Gripe With AP Preseason Poll?, Is The Cowboys Defense Good Enough?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the never ending, always intriguing Browns QB race! Did Shedeur or Deshaun take the lead after preseason week 1? Then, can Burrow and the Bengals afford another slow start, or would 0-3 out of the gates officially bury this era of Bengals ball? Next, what happens if Josh Allen doesn't win the Super Bowl this season? First Take resumes with fresh Cowboys takes. They've already added numerous pieces to their defense through free agency and the draft, but is it enough? Is another massive trade looming? Then, PGA superstar Chris Gotterup joins to break down his FedExCup Playoffs performance. Next, CC picks Bama's gauntlet of a schedule!

Can Mahomes Lead Chiefs On A Deep Run?, Do You Consider Jordan Love A Great QB?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with pondering Mahomes greatness! Can the three time Super Bowl champion really lead the Chiefs back? Then, are the Browns a QB away from dominating the AFC? Next, can Jalen Hurts lead the Eagles on a Super Bowl run? Considering he has a super team around him, what happens if the Eagles don't impress? First Take resumes with an all-time Jordan Love debate! Is he Good? Great? Elite? Trash? Mediocre? Is not having him in your top ten blasphemous? Then, Roger Goodell has "no doubt" about an NFL team being based outside of the USA within a few years. Are we pro or anti expansion? Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Jayden Daniels number issue, Tyrese Haliburton's unrealistic outlook on his small market, finals choking Pacers, and Little League teams treating a New Jersey slugger like he's prime Melky Cabrera!

Deshaun Watson Named Browns Starting QB, Deshaun Watson Named Browns Starting QB!!!Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a simply BLASPHEMOUS decision by the Cleveland Browns. Deshaun Watson takes the reins week one in an attempt to finally prove to the Browns he can play QB. Is he deserving of a 6th chance, or are the Browns making a monumental mistake by not starting Shedeur? Then, Ben Johnson seemed irrationally angry at Caleb Williams for missing Colston Loveland on a simple seam route. Are his comments something or nothing? Next, how confident are you in the Bucs this season? First Take resumes with the Browns naming Deshaun Watson starting QB! He hasn't been good in 5 years, and is afraid of fans booing him! Is starting him the correct decision? Then, Paul Finebaum hops on to talk Indiana and if they may be underrated heading into the season... Next, coming off of the news of Deshaun starting, Kevin Clark picks the Browns schedule! 

What Are Your Thoughts on Deshaun Watson's Apology?, Another Browns Blunder??Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with two stumbling pigskin powerhouses. The NCAA is in the thick of another eligibility controversy, while the Browns named a QB who hasn't won in 5 years as their starter. Then, C.J. Stroud looks to bounce back from a season in which he slid over 15 spots in our QB power rankings, and potentially cost himself tens of millions of dollars. How well must he play for the Texans to be Super Bowl contenders?First Take resumes with Evan Cohen filling in for Stephen A. Did the Browns make a massive mistake going with Deshaun Watson over Pro Bowler Shedeur Sanders? Then, Paul Finebaum joins to discuss the current College Football coaches on the hottest seat entering the 2026-2027 season. Next, Field Yates joins to tell you how to win your Fantasy Football leagues this year. 

SEC & Big Ten Approve Ban on Pro Players Returning to College, Who Are This Year's Super Bowl Contenders??Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a discussion on the approved bans of pro players returning to school by two of the biggest conferences in collegiate sports. Then a deep dive into the NFC North, are the Lions the best team? What is Jordan Love's ceiling? Next, will Mahomes & the Chiefs bounce back this season or is the dynasty coming to an end?First Take resumes with this year's Super Bowl contenders. Can Sam Darnold strike gold again in Seattle, or will he be shipped back East?? Next, the crew discusses whether the Broncos will take a step back this upcoming season. Finally, it's time to hear what Mad Dog is mad about this week.  

How Soon will we see Mendoza in a Regular Season Game?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Fernando Mendoza's poor pre-season performance. Does this change our view on Mendoza? How long will the Raiders start Kirk Cousins? Then a deep dive into UNC's schedule. How many wins is realistic for them this year? Will it be enough for Bill Belichick to keep his job? Next the crew discusses which offenses are harder to defend: AFC or NFC. 

Stephen A. and Aaron Donald Return!, Is USC No Longer a Football School?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the triumphant returns of Aaron Donald and Stephen A.!! Donald hasn't played football in three years, and it feels like decades since SAS last appeared on First Take! Whose return has you more pumped? Then, Bill Belichick and UNC started the season BLAZING hot with a massive 15-10 win over TCU! Were we all wrong? Is Ole' Billy Boy about to right the ship in Chapel Hill? Next, does Jordan Love need to play at 2016 Rodgers levels to lead the Pack to the playoffs?First Take resumes with a long lost football powerhouse. USC used to have Heisman winners and Pete Carroll. Now, Lincoln Riley is desperately trying to fill The Coliseum! Then, after adding Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett, are the Rams officially this year's villains? Next, Paul Finebaum joins to give us the latest with the SEC disputing a Louisiana judges ruling that the conference can't punish teams that add pro players returning to college!! 

Is Eligibility Dispute Over Ex-NFL Rookies a Distraction?, Is Myles Garrett the Number One Player in the NFL?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with Lane Kiffin's comments about his teams' support. Is this entire process causing more harm than good to LSU? Is recruiting these players even worth it at this point? Then a discussion on the Rams and what they need from Aaron Donald. How good should we expect Donald to be after a two year hiatus? Next, will Burrow and the Bengals finally get over the hump, or should we prepare for more of the same? First Take Resumes with the crew's prediction of the top 10 players in the NFL Top 100 List. Is Myles Garrett the clear best player in the NFL? Then Evan Cohen, host of UnSportsmanLike, discusses why he thinks Jalen Hurts is set up for a massive leap, potentially even to MVP. Next Paul Finebaum joins to take a look into the first official weekend of college football and discuss which teams should be on upset alert this weekend?

Is Lane Kiffin's Pursuit of NFL Players Embarrassing for LSU?, Are the Dallas Cowboys a Super Bowl Contender?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a break down of the comments made by Dabo Sweeney about Lane Kiffin and his recruiting tactics. Is Dabo in the right or does it come across as complaining? Next the crew gets into CJ Stroud's contract extension talks. Is CJ Stroud worth franchise QB money? Then Chris Fowler joins the show to preview the first full slate of college football this Saturday.First Take Resumes with a message from Adam Schefter warning Stephen A. that the Cowboys are coming. Will their offseason additions be enough to dethrone the Eagles in the NFC East? Next Jordan Rodgers breaks down Caleb Williams and what his ceiling could be this year. Will the Bears repeat their success from last season? Then a look into the Chiefs, will Mahomes be able to bounce back and perform at a high level even after his ACL surgery?  

Was the Clippers Punishment too Soft?, Should LSU be on Upset Alert?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Shams Charania and Brian Windhorst joining to discuss the punishments given to Kawhi Leonard, Steve Ballmer and the Clippers. Who got punished the most? Was Kawhi let off easy? Then Stephen A. and the crew dive into Deion Sanders and Colorado this year. How much does Deion have to prove this season? Could he be on the hot seat? Next Peter Schrager comes on to talk about the decline of Jalen Hurts and AJ Brown's relationship. Who has more to prove this season?First Take resumes with a preview of Clemson v LSU this weekend. Should we expect any tempers to flare between the teams due to their coaches' comments this past week. How much does Dabo Sweeney have to prove after some down seasons? Then Big Perk joins the show to give his opinions on the Clippers disaster and the punishments that came with it. Next Stephen A. goes over his top five NFL teams heading into the season, and some of his choices may surprise you.  

What Will Happen if Lane Kiffin adds his Pro Players to LSU's Roster?, Is Alabama Closer to a National Title or Irrelevancy?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with breakdown of the injunction granted to the ex-pro players seeking eligibility from LSU. Kiffin and LSU still have a big fight ahead of themselves against the SEC. Will these players ultimately be able to play? What impact is this whole situation going to have on their week one performance against Clemson? Next Stephen A. discusses last night's big win for Coach Prime and Colorado. How big of a win was Colorado's one point victory over Georgia Tech? Then the crew debates which win this weekend would be bigger, Clemson over LSU or Louisville over Ole Miss. First Take Resumes with a dive into Alabama Football. Is Alabama still a national championship or bust school? How much longer of a leash will they give Kalen DeBoer? Then the crew moves to UNC. Should they be regretting hiring Bill Belichick? How far can Belichick take them this year? Next, in order for Miami to make it back to the College Football Playoff and ultimately win does Darian Mensah have to be a Heisman Candidate? 

Was Western Michigan Robbed?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a major clock controversy at the Big House. Michigan connects on a last second hail mary to beat Western Michigan by one. But on the broadcast there was no time left after the play before, how was this possible? Next Dan Orlovsky said he wasn't shocked by Clemson's performance against LSU on Saturday. Did anyone else expect this result? Should we have? Does this signal the beginning of the end of the Dabo Swinney era in Clemson? Then both Trinidad Chambliss and Dante Moore had great games to power their teams to victory this past weekend. Who means more to their squad?

Which Team Will Make a Bigger Statement with a Win on Wednesday, Seattle or New England?, How will Aaron Rodgers be Viewed if the Steelers Miss the Playoffs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with a look ahead to tomorrow night's first game of the NFL season, Seattle vs New England. Which team comes out on top in this Super Bowl rematch? Should the new Christian Gonzalez contract change the way we look at this game? Next, with the injury to Pro-Bowl guard Tyler Smith how important is it for Dallas to get off to a fast start? Should we expect their offense to continue to produce at the same level? Will their defense let them down again? Then the first NFL game in history to be played in Australia is this weekend. How do we expect the travel to impact the Rams and 49ers? Will Aaron Donald play?First Take Resumes as co-host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN, Chris Canty, gives his first top five NFL teams of the season. The Los Angeles Rams are not his number one team, should we pump the breaks a little on the Rams hype? Then the crew discuss Aaron Rodgers and what his last season could mean for his legacy. Does he have anything left to prove? How far can the Steelers really go? Next, there's an update in the SEC v LSU court case. Will this battle linger on all season?

Should The SEC Expel LSU?, Should The 49ers be Concerned About The Rams Offense or Defense?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Finebaum flaming a failing entity. The NCAA and SEC embarrasses themselves daily! Now, the SEC may expel LSU? No shot, right? Then, NFL IS BACK!! Who wins tonight: Pats or Seahawks? Next, give it up for day three of Michigan/Western Michigan talk! The MAC now wants the result overturned! Should the record books show this as a WMU win? First Take begins with The NFL's Australia game. Do you give the 49ers any chance to score on the dominant Rams offense? Then, Stephen A. wonders if Joe burrow is lying about being in Cincinnati for "the long haul." Next, Paul Finebaum joins to lampoon Dabo Swinney after a shocking blowout loss at the hands of Lane and The Tigers! 

How Much is the Patriots Loss on Drake Maye?, Who Needs a Fast Start More: Jordan Love or Kyler Murray?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with a Super Bowl Rematch in Seattle. Injuries galore as both Sam Darnold and AJ Brown left the game. But in the absence of Darnold, Drew Lock was able to led the Seahawks to a comeback victory. Which injury will have a bigger impact on their team? Next Paul Finebaum joins the show to break down what Arch Manning needs to do to beat Ohio State this weekend. Will Arch step up? Then some controversy in Michigan as QB Bryce Underwood responds to his coaches' comments about his long-term QB status. First Take Resumes as Mina Kimes joins to break down last night's stunner between the Seahawks and Patriots. How much did Drake Maye's lackluster performance change your perception of him? Will he be able to bounce back next week against the Steelers? Then to the NFC North where the crew argues about who needs a faster start: Jordan Love or Kyler Murray. What version of Kyler do the Vikings need to make some real noise in the NFC? Next the crew talks some Josh Allen. Will his struggles continue against the Texans defense this weekend?  

Why Were The Rams So Sluggish?Spoiler Hidden

First Take resumes with the sluggish Rams! Perhaps arriving in Australia mere hours before their dual against the 49ers was the wrong move? Then, the Giants face the Cowboys in a Sunday night matchup sure to excite! OBJ, Malik Nabers and Skattebo return with plans to silence the Cowboys hype machine! Next, Desmond Howard defends Bryce Underwood's lackluster week one performance! Going Away Gift: Start Quentin Johnston this week! He will have 19.19 points!  

Did Lamar or Josh Allen make a Bigger Statement with their new Head Coach?, Does SNF Say More About the Giants or Cowboys?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with Josh Allen's takeover in Houston. Both Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson make big statements with their new head coaches with big week one wins. Should we be concerned with the Texans defense or can we just write it up to Josh Allen? Next Michael Irvin joins the show to go head to head against Stephen A. about the Cowboys lackluster performance on Sunday Night Football. Michael Irvin isn't concerned... but should we be? Then the crew breaks down the Bears beatdown of Carolina. Caleb Williams and the Bears almost score 60. Could this be the best offense in the NFL? First Take Resumes with more disfunction in Dallas. The Giants defense kept the Cowboys offense in check for the whole game. What does this say about a Cowboys offense we were expecting to be one of the best in the league? Next Paul Finebaum joins to cover the miracle comeback that Arch Manning and Texas was able to put together against Ohio State this past Saturday. Did Arch Manning have his Heisman moment? Then the Cardinals pull off a stunner and beat the Chargers. How much criticism does Justin Herbert deserve for the loss?

Are Chiefs Back as the Team to Beat in the AFC?, How do the Cowboys Fix their Defense?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins as we finally get some more Mahomes magic as the Chiefs down the Broncos on Monday Night Football. Chris Canty, host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN, joins to talk about how Kenneth Walker and the Chiefs defense shines as Bo Nix and Sean Payton take a rough week one loss. How concerned should we be with Denver? Next the Rams take on the Giants in week two of Monday Night Football. Could the Giants build on their week one performance and take down a reeling Rams team who is dealing with major injuries already? Then Stephen A. goes off on Kawhi Leonard as his trade to the Raptors is officially completed. How far back does this set back the Clippers franchise? First Take Resumes with Dallas' dreadful defense. The Cowboys spent the offseason revamping their entire defensive unit which was worst in the NFL last season. However the Giants were still able to run all over them and Jaxson Dart shined. Do we still expect this defense to be top half of the league? If Dallas' defense still struggles with all new personnel, is it time for some coaching changes? Next Stephen A. gives his top five NFL teams after week one. Are the Chiefs back? The Rams are already outside the top five? Then Joe Burrow and the Bengals got a big win against the Buccaneers on Sunday where their defense recovered four fumbles against Baker Mayfield. But does this game convince us that the Bengals are for real, or do we need to see more? 

Which Team Needs to Win More: Lions or Bills?, Can the Vikings Defense Slow Down the Bears Offense?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with some disruption in Dallas. Jerry Jones said he's optimistic that they can fix the defense and play better. This is now multiple years of a dreadful defense in Dallas however, so do we really believe him? Next, it's the game of the year in college football. Lane Kiffin brings his LSU squad back to his old stomping grounds as LSU takes on Ole Miss in Kiffin's first game back in Oxford after coaching them for the past six seasons. Then Stephen A. loses it over Mets fans cheering for Pete Alonso's 300th career home run AGAINST THE METS. Did Mets fans have a good reason to cheer? First Take Resumes with a big NFC North matchup this weekend. The Vikings take on the Bears as Carson Wentz and Brian Flores' defense look to bring the Vikings to 2-0 while the Bears look to prove that their week one offense was not a fluke. Next the Protect College Sports Act moves even closer to a vote in the Senate. If this bill is passed what could that mean for the landscape of college sports as we know it? Then Mad Dog is back so you know what that means... Why is Mad Dog Mad makes it's long awaited return! See what Mad Dog is upset about today! 

Is it a Mistake for Joe Burrow to Play if he isn't 100%?, Whose Offense is More Concerning: Steelers or Patriots?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with some big QB injuries. LSU may be going into their biggest game against Ole Miss WITHOUT Sam Leavitt as Lane Kiffin mysteriously listed him as doubtful late last night. In the NFL, Joe Burrow may be dealing with some back issues that could linger. Will Leavitt play? Will we have another injured season of Burrow? Next Mina Kimes joins the show to talk about the Chicago Bears. We all know how good their offense is but should the defense be a cause for concern? Then comments were made by Titans star defensive tackle, Jeffery Simmons, about Jalen Hurts ahead of their matchup this weekend. Has the Jalen Hurts slander gone too far?First Take Resumes as the crew touches on two teams in week one who struggled to put points on the board and did not impress anyone. Should we be worried more about the Patriots or the Steelers offense? Next 6-time Grammy Award nominee, Kenny Chesney, joins the show to give his thoughts on Tennessee football, the Patriots, Sean Payton and more! Then the crew takes a trip down to H-Town as the Texans may need a big bounce back win this weekend. Is CJ Stroud really capable of leading this team?

Are the Bills the Team to Beat in the AFC?, How Critical is Sunday's Game for the Cowboys?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with a breakdown of Thursday Night Football's matchup between the Bills and Lions. Josh Allen and the Bills offense shined for the second week in a row as they put up 41 points on a struggling Lions defense. Are the Bills the best team in the AFC? Next the crew heads to Oxford for what could be the biggest game in college football this season. Lane Kiffin makes his long-awaited return to Ole Miss, what should we expect from this game? Should LSU be road favorites? Then the crew looks ahead to week two of the NFL season. The Bears take on the Vikings in an NFC North showdown, who will come out on top? The Jags travel to mile high to take on the Broncos, will Trevor Lawrence continue to ball out? The Ravens play the Saints, will Tyler Shough be able to continue what he did in the second half against the Lions?First Take Resumes as the Dallas Cowboys look to avoid going 0-2 for the first time since 2010. Dallas takes on the feisty Commanders who look to bounce back from their close week one loss to the Eagles. Do we have confidence in Dallas to pull through? Next, Joe Burrow said yesterday that he has been going through some back tightness that has limited him in practice this week. How concerned should we be going forward this season with Burrow's health? He's expected to play but could this linger on? Then more LSU talk. Earlier this week Lane Kiffin stated that all the pressure is on Ole Miss. How could that be possible? How much is on the line for Lane to win this game?

Can the Bears Stay Afloat Without Caleb Williams?, Are We More Confident or Concerned About the Eagles?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with chaos in Chi-Town. Caleb Williams was carted off the field early in the 4th quarter with a hamstring injury. If Caleb is out long-term will the Bears be able to survive? Next, the Cowboys win their first game of the season but still looked shaky. Their defense struggled to stop the Commanders' rushing attack even after Jayden Daniels left the game with an elbow injury. Did their win restore our confidence in the Cowboys or does there still need to be improvement to be taken seriously in the NFC? Then CJ Stroud struggled as the Texans only scored six points. Is it time to start worrying about the Texans? How good does their defense need to be to carry the offense?First Take Resumes as Jalen Hurts led Philly to a game winning touchdown drive... but it was against the Titans. This is two straight weeks where the Eagles have struggled to put lesser teams away. Even though their 2-0, should we start to be worried about the Eagles? Next, Trinidad Chambliss and Ole Miss get their revenge against Lane and LSU. How does this loss change our view of Lane Kiffin? Then Todd Monken responds to the criticism the Browns have been getting with an all-time quote you won't want to miss! 

Can the Giants Keep their Season on Track Without Jaxson Dart?, Did the Rams Put the NFC Back on Notice?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with some trouble in Hollywood as another young QB goes down with an injury. Jaxson Dart left the game in the first quarter with a rumored MCL sprain. How long will he be out and how will this affect the Giants moving forward? Next the crew checks in on Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels after new injury news released. How long can either of these teams survive without their QB? Then Chris Canty, host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN, breaks down some 2-0 teams. Are the Vikings and Raiders actually good?First Take resumes as the Rams manhandled the Giants on Monday Night Football. They outgained New York 481 yards to 182 and had control of the game the entire night. Is this something we should expect, especially with New York playing their backup QB, or are the Rams who we thought they were before the season? Next Ole Miss plays another in another ranked matchup this weekend as they travel to Gainesville to take on the Florida Gators. Trinidad Chambliss is the front runner for the Heisman right now, but could he be an NFL starting QB? Then Stephen A gives his top five NFL teams after week two, you won't want to miss it!  

Is the Giants Season Over Without Jaxson Dart?, Do the Bears Have a Chance Against the Eagles Without their Top 2 QBs?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with some GIANT questions in New York. Jaxson Dart's knee injury turned out to be a lot more serious than originally expected as he is in jeopardy of missing the rest of the season. Where do the Giants go at QB from here? Next, who had the more impressive week two bounce back, Rams or Broncos? Which team is in a better spot going forward? Then a preview of some of the biggest College Football games this weekend. Should Florida be favored over Ole Miss? Should we expect LSU to bounce back vs Texas A&M? Will Arch & Texas be able to survive Tennessee?First Take resumes as the Giants aren't the only team with QB questions. The Bears will most likely be without Caleb Williams and Tyson Bagent, who is now in concussion protocol, in their game against Philadelphia. Do the Bears have a chance this weekend? Next the Bengals are back and may be better than ever. The same Bengals offense we all know with a defense that is much improved makes the sky the limit for the Bengals this season. Then tune in to catch what Mad Dog is mad about this week, you won't want to miss it! 

Are There More Questions About the Ravens or the Cowboys?, What Would a 3-0 Start Mean for the Raiders?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as Stephen A. is in Rio De Janeiro for the Cowboys Ravens matchup. With both these teams having shaky moments in games so far, who should we have more questions about? Will the Dallas rush defense crumble against Lamar Jackson? Next the crew moves to the NFC North where three of the teams sit at 1-1 after two weeks. Which of the North's .500 teams do we trust the most? Then the Rams take on the Broncos in a game that many people before the season marked as a potential Super Bowl preview. Is this still the case?First Take resumes as the NFL travels to Brazil for the Ravens and the Cowboys to face off. Both these teams sit at 1-1 with disappointing loses. Who needs the win more? Who is more likely to win their division? Next the crew previews some of the most underrated storylines heading into week three of the NFL. Deshaun Watson makes his 2026 home debut in Cleveland. What should the Browns do if he plays poorly? The Raiders are looking to go 3-0. Are they for real? What would a Jets win over the Lions mean? Then there seems to be a clear top two teams in the AFC. Who should we be higher on, the Chiefs or Bills? What do both of these teams need to do to win the Super Bowl? 

Is the Packers Season Over?, Are the Packers the Worst Team in the NFL?Spoiler Hidden

First Take Begins with an old friend making his return. Skip Bayless is back and you won't want to miss is!! First we head to Green Bay where the Packers were straight up embarrassed by Michael Penix and the Falcons, suffering the worst home loss in the Matt Lafleur era. Is it already time to start thinking about next year for the Packers? Next there is a rumble in Rio brewing. The Ravens and Cowboys travel south to Brazil for their game this weekend. How can Dallas' defense stop Lamar and the Ravens rushing attack? Then the crew goes back to college for another ranked Texas matchup. Arch Manning travels to Tennessee where his Uncle created a legacy to take on the Volunteers. Do you trust Arch Manning to come through?First Take resumes with more Packers problems. Could the Packers realistically be the worst team in the NFL right now? Are there any ways to fix the current roster this year? Will the return of Josh Jacobs change anything? Next, the NBA's top 100 list fully came out and there are a few surprises. LeBron James is ranked all the way at 18 while other vets like Curry and Durant are 12 and 13 respectively. After his monster season, Victor Wembanyama is ranked as the second best player in the league. What does Wemby have to do this year to take over that number one spot? Then the crew heads over to the AFC where there are four remaining 2-0 teams; Chiefs, Bills, Bengals and Raiders. Are the Chiefs the team to beat out of these four?

Are we More Disappointed in Dallas' Offense or Defense at the end of the Game?, Did Cleveland's Win Change the Way You View Deshaun Watson?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with a battle in Brazil. Ravens Cowboys came down to the wire and it took a 57 yard field goal from Baltimore to take home the win. There were some late game issues with how the Cowboys played down the stretch. Is their offense or defense more to blame for the loss? Next to the AFC North where a faceoff between the Bengals and Steelers took place. Aaron Rodgers turned back the clock to throw three touchdowns and beat the undefeated Bengals. Is the Bengals defense starting to slide once again? Then real concern in New England as Drake Maye has yet another turnover riddled game. Have we lost all confidence in Drake Maye? What does he have to do to bounce back? First Take resumes back in Brazil as Dallas' defensive concerns continue. Lamar and the Ravens rushed for almost 200 yards as Dallas consistently could not set or keep an edge. Did the outcome of this game mean more for Dallas or the Ravens? Next the crew breaks down the biggest storylines from college football week 4. What statement did Florida make with their blowout win over Ole Miss? Is a 1-game suspension enough for USC's Desman Stephens for his hit on Dante Moore? Then Stephen A. had a sit down with NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell. You won't want to miss some of the questions Stephen A had. 

Was Last Night a Bad Game or a Bad Sign for the Eagles?, Are the Eagles Still a Serious Threat in the NFC?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Bears' 3rd string QB, Case Keenum, threw all over Philly and their defense as he led the Bears to a 27-7 win. What statement does this make for the Bears going forward? How much credit should we give to Ben Johnson? Then, yesterday was NBA media day, and we got another LeBron moment. LeBron stated that he would have gone to the Knicks during this offseason if they did not win the championship. What does Stephen A. have to say about this? Next NHL legend, P.K. Subban, joins the show to break down some of the biggest storylines on the ice heading into opening night.First Take resumes as Chris Canty, co-host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN, breaks down what led to the Eagles collapse last night. Does more blame fall on the Eagles offense or defense? Should we start to question the Hurts-Sirianni pairing? Next Jeff Passan joins the show as the MLB playoffs begin tonight. Aaron Judge was officially left off the Yankees roster. Was that the right move? Then its the end of week three in the NFL so you know what that means. It's time for Stephen A's top five NFL teams. Will the Chiefs stay at number one? 

Should Cam Schlittler Be Anointed Mayor of Boston Immediately?, Who is The Team to Beat in The NFC North?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with Schlittler's dominance! He owns the Red Sox statistically more than any pitcher has ever owned another professional team! Is the Red Sox season about the end at the hands of the Yanks for a second straight year? Then, which floundering early season SB favorite needs a win more: Rams or Eagles? Next, Drake Maye panic button alert! Drake Maybe (thanks Skip) has lost his MVP ways of last season. He can't complete a deep pass, refuses to run, and looks like a shell of his former self! What happened? First Take resumes with the faltering NFC North! Predicted to be the best division in football, 3/4 teams have stumbled out of the gates (some due to injury). Now, 3 weeks in, which team looks the scariest? Then, a battle of 3-0 squads! The game of the week takes place in Las Vegas where Kirk battles Mahomes. How surprised would you be if the Raiders pulled off the upset? Next, Mad Dog is MADDD!!! 

What does the Joey Porter Jr. Trade do for the Cowboys?, If the Cowboys Falter, who Deserves the Most Blame?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with breaking news in the NFL world as Steelers corner, Joey Porter Jr, was traded to the Dallas Cowboys. How much can Porter realistically change this defense? Were they just one player away? Next the crew debates who you would rather have at QB right now, Joe Burrow or Trevor Lawrence. Evan Cohen, co-host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN, says he wants Trevor... is that crazy? Then this past week Odell Beckham Jr was officially waved by the New York Giants. What would his career have looked like if not derailed by injuries? First Take resumes with more defense talk in Dallas. Jerry invested in this defense heavily in the off season but it has yet to pan out. Is this yet another Jerry Jones blunder or is the coaching more to blame? Next there are some rumblings in New England that a rift might be forming between Drake Maye and Mike Vrabel. Might this be a reason for Maye's struggles so far this season? What do Drake and Vrabel have to do to point themselves back in the right direction? Then to Tampa Bay where some seats may be starting to get hot. With Tampa Bay potentially starting 0-4 and with Baker out with an injury, could we see the Bucs part ways with Todd Bowles this season?

How Bad is this Loss for the Steelers?, Have the Cowboys Proven they are Better off without Micah?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as Stephen A. sounds off on the Steelers after last night's poor performance. A loss to the Browns with some Rodgers controversy does not make for a good Thursday Night recipe. What's going on in Pittsburgh? Next the Eagles take on the Rams in a matchup that was supposed to be between two of the NFC's elite teams. Is this still the case? Who needs the win more? Then despite injuries piling up early yet again for San Fran, they are still 3-0. Brock Purdy has played some of the best football of his career so far. Is he the MVP? First Take resumes as Joey Porter Jr. is hoping to make his Cowboys debut on Sunday. How much will Porter actually improve this defense? Has Jerry Jones been able to make up for the loss of Micah Parsons through his trades? Next the crew looks ahead to week four of the NFL. Are the Browns legit contenders after their win against the Steelers? Could the Bills and Chiefs be on upset watch? Then Victor Wembanyama recently said he will not be promoting any betting sites. What do you think of Wemby taking a stand? Is this something that more NBA players should follow?  

Did the Cowboys make a Statement with their Win on Sunday?, Are the Cowboys Going to Run Away with the NFC East?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as Dallas wins the battle for Texas. CeeDee Lamb and Dallas' offense are able to hold off CJ Stroud and the reeling 0-4 Houston Texans. Did the Cowboys make a statement with their win? Did their defense show anything different? Next after the Patriots beat the Bills in Buffalo; Bills corner, CJ Gardner-Johnson, called Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism who caught the game winning catch a practice squad player who will never be heard from again. Could this cause some controversy in Buffalo? How will Joe Brady respond to CJ's comments? Then Sunday saw some referees in the spotlight. The NFL is reviewing multiple refs for their conduct towards Vikings and Cardinals players. What is going on with the stripes? First Take resumes as Michael Irvin claims that the NFC East is now Dallas' to lose. With Philly having offensive problems again, could this be true? Could a Jameis led Giants team stand in their way? Next the Raiders and Chiefs delivered a great game between two undefeated teams that took a last second interception for the Chiefs to put away Kirk and the Raiders. Kenneth Walker had another huge game on the ground. How much of a difference does K9 make? What did the Raiders show even in a loss? Then the Indiana Fever may no longer be in the WNBA playoffs but that doesn't mean the storylines are over. Kelsey Mitchell, star for the Fever, who is an unrestricted free agent this offseason said that some fans take things too far and playing for the Fever is not always easy. What should we make of these comments? Is it fair for Kelsey to speak out?

How big of a threat are the Falcons in the NFC?, Are the Cowboys Gold or Fools Gold?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Bijan Robinson and the Falcons demolished the Saints on Monday Night Football. Both Bijan and Brian Robinson ran all over the Saints defense as Michael Penix Jr. showed once again that he can be a true franchise QB for Atlanta. Could the Falcons make some noise in the NFC? Next the New York Yankees are one game away from losing in the American League Division Series for the second straight year. After only having one hit in game one and four errors in game two, could this series be going any worse for New York? Should Aaron Boone be managing for his job? Then the Knicks and their superstar center, Karl-Anthony Towns, are reported to be far apart on his contract extension. How long can New York let this linger? Do they have to sign KAT to still be a contender? First Take resumes as the crew debates what running back, they would take first in the NFL. Bijan Robinson has taken the NFL by storm these last couple seasons but Jahmyr Gibbs, James Cook and Derrick Henry have been the definition of consistency. Next LeBron James and Jaylen Brown made their 76ers debut this past week. However, LeBron is said to already be dealing with chronic arthritis in his foot. Is this a sign of things to come for Philly? How bad do the 76ers need LeBron for a title run? Then it's time for Stephen A's top five NFL teams this season. Who will Stephen A. pick as his best team in the league? Stay tuned to find out!

How much trouble are the Eagles in without Lane Johnson?, How should we assess the SEC so far this season?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Philadelphia Eagles received breaking news yesterday as Lane Johnson decided to retire. Johnson has been a staple of the Eagles offense since 2013. Where does Philly look now to help out their offensive line on the field and in the locker room? Next Dak Prescott said he does not regret sharing the team's G.O.T.I mantra this past offseason. While the Cowboys offense has certainly been good, the greatest might be a stretch. Could Dak's comments come back to bite the Cowboys at the end of the season? Then with Alabama's electric start to the college football season has the perception of Kalen DeBoer changed at all? Could Alabama win the CFP?First Take resumes as the Lane Johnson news has officially put the Eagles in Mad Dog's "teams that can no longer win the super bowl" list. Stay tuned to see what other teams make the list. Next, WWE play-by-play announcer, Joe Tessitore, joins the show to preview WWE's Money in the Bank show this Saturday in New Orleans. Then Mad Dog shares what he's mad about this week. Pittsburgh Football head coach, Milwaukee Brewers ground rules, primetime football scheduling... no one is safe. 

Who should the Cowboys target for trades?, Who is Stephen A's number one team in the NFL after week 4?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as Stephen A's Yankees were swept last night in the American League Division Series by the Tampa Bay Rays. This now marks 17 straight seasons without a world series title for New York, the second longest drought in franchise history. What changes do they have to make to get back to being the old Yankees? Next the Philadelphia Eagles lost another major player on their offensive line after trading away center, Cam Jurgens, yesterday to the Baltimore Ravens. Are all these Eagles changes putting too much of a load on Jalen Hurts? Then the crew previews one of the biggest matchups of the college football season, Georgia at Alabama. Who do we trust more in this game: Gunner Stockton or Keelon Russell?First Take resumes as Stephen A. and Mina Kimes compare their top five NFL teams after four weeks. Do they have the same team number one? Mina goes off on Stephen A. for his Vikings take? Then some breaking news has dropped... Jayden Daniels will start for the Commanders on Sunday after missing only two games with a dislocated elbow. Could a Jayden Daniels-led Commanders team make some noise in this discombobulated NFC East? Then Kirk Cousins and the Raiders travel to Foxborough to take on the Patriots after their big win against the Bills. Who do you trust more in this matchup?  

How Embarrassing was the Cowboys Loss to the Bucs?, Did Dak prove his critics right?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as Dallas loses in one of the biggest upsets of the NFL season so far. Undrafted rookie QB, Jalon Daniels, led the 0-4 Bucs to a win in Dallas against the Cowboys. The Bucs rushed for almost 250 yards in the game as Dallas' defense once again struggled heavily. Where do the Cowboys go from here? Next the reigning NBA Champions, New York Knicks, are having some contract issues as they decide to officially table all contract extension talks with Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart. How important is it for the Knicks to retain their championship core? Then LeBron James made his preseason 76ers debut as their entire new starting five played. Which version of LeBron do the 76ers need to compete for a championship?First Take resumes with more Cowboys talk. After the game a stadium staff member called Dak and the Cowboys performance "embarrassing" as Prescott walked by. Dak was not pleased by the comments but is there any truth to them? Has Dak given more reasons for his critics to talk? Next Kendrick Perkins joins to give some of his boldest Perkdictions for the upcoming NBA season. Could Anthony Edwards win MVP? Will the Celtics be just a play-in team? Then the crew gives you a history lesson on Virginia State's football and cheerleading teams as the campus has been alive and active the whole show! You won't want to miss it!  

Who is more to blame for the Commanders blunder: Jayden Daniels or Dan Quinn?, Which NFC East team has been the most Disappointing?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Washington Commanders may have made the biggest mistake of the season. With the ball in Giants territory and 50 seconds left, Jayden Daniels and the Commanders ran a play and then let the clock run all the way down to 0 before spiking it which led to a tie. Is Quinn or Daniels more to blame for the horrible miscommunication? Next to another wild coaching decision, Nick Sirianni and the Eagles kicked the ball off in play to the Jaguars with 8 seconds left in the game which led to a 50 yard kickoff return and ultimately a game-winning field goal for the Jags. What is the perception of Sirianni after the loss? Then Drake Maye might be back as he had 5 touchdowns in a big win over the Raiders. Are Drake and the Patriots back?? First Take resumes as the NFC East has once again become the NFC LEAST! With the Giants and Commanders game ending in a tie, the Eagles blunder in London, and the Cowboys embarrassment of a game against the Bucs on Thursday, no one seems to be taking control. Which team is going to break through and take this division? Next the Packers sent a message to the Bears this weekend with their 31-7 win. Can the Packers use this game to finally turn a corner against Ben Johnson? Can the Packers revive their season? Then Texas lost it's number one ranking in college football after their upset loss to Oklahoma. Arch Manning struggled yet again. Is it time to start worrying about Arch as a draft prospect?

Episode 267Spoiler Hidden

Where does Josh Allen Rank Among Mobile QBs?, Who will have a bigger game Sunday night: Dak Prescott or Jordan Love?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as Bills head coach, Joe Brady, warned running back, James Cook, that there may be consequences for his costly fumbles. However, Buffalo's rushing attack has been a major reason for the teams success. Has James Cook's fumbling actually become an issue? Next the crew decides if it's time to be patient or panic on some of the biggest names in the NFL. Is it time to panic for Bo Nix, Nick Sirianni and the Rams? Then Jessica Mendoza joins the show to preview the MLB's championship series. The Dodgers have kept Shohei Ohtani in the lineup for game three despite his struggles. Are they making the right choice? Who will take control of the ALCS between the Guardians and Rays heading into game three tied 1-1?First Take resumes as Dallas heads to Green Bay to take on the Packers. Micah Parsons will still be on the sideline for this matchup but that doesn't make it any less important. In a game where both teams are trying to turn a corner and start a run who will have the bigger game: Dak or Jordan Love? Next the Seahawks and Broncos face off on Thursday night football. In a battle between two of the best defenses in the league, who needs the win more? Then it's time to see what Mad Dog Russo is mad at this week. Kalen DeBoer yelling at his players, Sean McVay's OT play calling, Karl-Anthony Towns contract dispute, you won't want to miss it!

Does the 3-0 series say more about the Brewers or Dodgers?, Is Bo Nix holding the Broncos back from being Super Bowl Contenders?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Los Angeles Dodgers are in real jeopardy of losing their dynasty. The Milwaukee Brewers hold a 3-0 lead in the NLCS and look to close out the sweep tonight. What do the Dodgers have to do to get back into this series? Next Mel Kiper Jr. released his big board which has Arch Manning listed as the 24th best prospect and the 6th best QB. Is this a fair ranking for what we've seen from Arch so far this season? Then A.J Brown has returned to practice for the New England Patriots who already hold a head-to-head win over the Buffalo Bills. Can the return of A.J Brown help lead the Patriots to a division title? First Take resumes as Thursday Night Football is a matchup between two of the league's best defenses in the Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos. But, both of these teams come into this game with major questions about their offense. Who needs to show up and come away with the win more? Next Aaron Rodgers has had three straight games with over 200 passing yards and three touchdowns. Is Rodgers' success sustainable throughout the season? Has Rodgers' play raised expectations for Pittsburgh? Then week six of the NFL season has an intriguing matchup between the Panthers and the Eagles. Would you rather have Bryce Young or Jalen Hurts right now?

Is it fair to criticize Bo Nix after last night's win?, Will the Cowboys players-only meeting have a positive impact on their game Sunday?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins in Mile High as the Broncos defense stood up tall against the Seattle Seahawks. Five sacks and two interceptions for the defense helped propel the Broncos to the win. But Bo Nix still did not shine... or even just play well. Is Bo Nix holding the Broncos back? Next Jalen Hurts was found to have a blood clot in his calf which will keep him out for an unknown amount of time. Should Hurts even try to return this season? How does this impact Nick Sirianni's coaching seat? Then the college football playoff is nearing a deal that will expand the current playoff format to 24 teams as early as next year. How could a 24-team playoff change college football?First Take resumes as Dallas heads to Green Bay on Sunday to face the Packers. Will we see a rejuvenated Cowboys defense after their players-only meeting this past week? Are Jordan Love and the Packers turning a corner? Next Paul Finebaum joins the show to preview three top ranked matchups this Saturday. Ohio State takes on Indiana, Alabama takes on Tennessee and Notre Dame takes on BYU. Which game will be the best? Which upset has the highest chance of happening? Then Caleb Williams shut down questions about his hamstring injury during his latest media availability. Should Caleb be open and honest about his return timeline? 

Who is most to blame for the Cowboys woes on offense?, Are both Notre Dame and BYU threats to win the CFP?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Cowboys have hit a new low. Not only has their defense been horrendous this whole season, but now their offense is starting to struggle as well. Can Dallas still win this down NFC East or is their season over? Next, Jalen Hurts has officially been ruled out for the season by the Philadelphia Eagles. Will we see Philly try to make a move to save their season? Is Nick Sirianni's time soon over with the Eagles? Then Paul Finebaum joins the show as Steve Sarkisian has decided to give QB KJ Lacey Jr. more 1st-team reps in practice this week, although Arch Manning will remain the starter. What does this mean for Arch and Texas? First Take resumes as Stephen A., Dan Orlovsky and Michael Irvin all try to break down exactly what's gone wrong with the Cowboys this season. However, the Packers have now won three games in a row after their horrid start. Did this game say more about the Cowboys or the Packers? Next Paul Finebaum joins the show to discuss the Notre Dame BYU game we had on Saturday. Does the loss for Notre Dame make the Miami game a must win to make the playoffs? Then the Rams and Texans have been two of the most disappointing teams in the NFL this season. But who is the better 2-4 team right now?

Which team is the biggest threat to a Knicks Repeat?, Are the 49ers the best team in the NFL?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with more coaching controversy coming from the Commanders. After last week's absolute blunder of late game management, the Commanders threw the ball away last night on their key 4th down in the red zone. The only issue is that neither Jayden Daniels or Dan Quinn seemed to know that it was 4th down. Who looks worse from their coaching blunders? Then the NBA officially kicks off today so you know some hot takes were had. Can the Knicks repeat? Are the Celtics still contenders? Is Kawhi going to run the East? Next, the Eagles held a press conference where Nick Sirianni had to answer to the medical updates on Jalen Hurts. Did the Eagles put Sirianni in a bad spot forcing him to answer to the media?First Take resumes as the 49ers keep on winning. However, the injuries continue to pile up as Mike Evans may be the most recent casualty after leaving the game late in the second quarter. At 6-0 are the 49ers the best team in the league? Will the injuries ever catch up to them? Next the Rams are another NFC West team that has injuries stacking up on them. But the Rams have not been able to overcome it whatsoever. Now sitting at 2-4 on the season the Rams are last in the NFC West. Is their Super Bowl hopes over? Then Stephen A. had to update his top five NFL teams on the season after week six. Is there a new number one??  

What's the biggest reason the 76ers won last night?, Are the Bears good enough to win the Super Bowl?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Knicks had their banner night and officially unveiled their championship rings last night. But LeBron and the 76ers had to rain on their parade taking them down 106-100. What did we see already in just one game of these news 76ers? Next the Celtics blew a 22 point second half lead in their loss to the Pistons yesterday. Jayson Tatum really struggled shooting the ball going 6-23 from the field. What does Tatum have to do to lead this team without Jaylen Brown? Then Mad Dog, Stephen A. and Jordan Rodgers play Panic or Patience. Should we be panicking or be patient with the situations for some of the biggest names in college football? First Take resumes as this weekend sees a matchup between two top picks in Caleb Williams and Drake Maye. If Caleb Williams is able to stay healthy the rest of the year, can the Bears go all the way? Next the Giants announced that JJ McCarthy will be the starting QB this Sunday against the Texans. Are they making the right move benching Jameis Winston? Then Mad Dog let's us know what's got him mad this week. A new college football playoff format, defensive celebrations and Pat Murphy, you won't want to miss it!

Does LaMelo Ball unlock an MVP year for Anthony Edwards?, Are we more impressed with the Lakers or Timberwolves?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins last night in the NBA. We had our first look at the new duo in Minnesota as Ant-Man and LaMelo led the Twolves to a win in Miami. How far can a healthy Wolves team go this season? Next Luka Doncic and the Lakers took down the Warriors but it wasn't without some tempers flaring. Warriors rookie, Yaxel Lendeborg, after the game said he "lost all respect" for Luka after Doncic was complaining to the refs all game. Do you think Yaxel's message was right despite it only being his first game? Then Stephen A. and the crew preview tonight's showdown between the Bears and Patriots. Both teams have great young QBs and head coaches, but who wins tonight? First Take resumes as Yankees owner, Hal Steinbrenner, said that the players were the reason for their playoff exit during his press conference yesterday. Was it really all the player's fault or did the front office deserve some blame as well? Next the Chiefs and Kenneth Walker return to Seattle to face the reigning champions on Sunday. Seattle has had a bad run game all year. Was losing K9 the biggest reason for Seattle's struggles? Then the NFC North sees a showdown between the Lions and the Packers. Are we more confident in Jordan Love or Jared Goff right now? 

How dangerous does Caleb Williams make the Bears?, Who will win the NFC North?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Chicago Bears took down the New England Patriots last night. Caleb Williams and Luther Burden III balled out as the offense shined once again. How dangerous is this Bears offense at full health? Next the 76ers mounted a historic comeback against the Cavaliers in LeBron's first game in Philly. The Sixers came all the way back from down 29 to win. Does that say more about the Sixers or the Cavs? Then the Ravens have yet to say who is starting this week between Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley. If Lamar returns how should the Bengals defend the Ravens offense? How much fear does Lamar Jackson impose as a QB? First Take resumes as we have a battle in the North on Sunday. The Lions and the Packers face off as both teams try to keep pace with the Bears and Vikings. Which team is going to come out on top of the NFC North? Next Texas head coach, Steve Sarkisian, called Arch Manning "edgy" this past week with how the media and fans have been talking about his play. Sark acknowledged that they needed more from Arch but still believes in him. Will Arch be able to turn it around on Saturday against Ole Miss? Then getting in the Halloween spirit, Marcus Spears gives his scariest teams in the NFL. You won't want to miss it! 

Is the bigger story from last night the Chiefs struggles or the Seahawks Dominance?, Is the Cowboys season on the line tonight??Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins in Seattle as the Seahawks took down the undefeated Chiefs and held Kenneth Walker and their offense in check all game. Is this a turning point for Seattle this season? Next the Giants went on the road and won against the Texans to move to 4-2-1 on the season. Are the Giants in the driver's seat in the NFC East? Can JJ McCarthy really lead the Giants to the playoffs? Then the Ravens got blown out by the Bengals as Lamar did not play again. They now sit at the bottom of the AFC North. What is the biggest problem with the Ravens right now? First Take resumes as Michael Irvin joins the show to preview the Monday night football matchup between the Cowboys and the Eagles. Facing an injured and struggling Eagles team, is this a must win for the Cowboys to save their season? Next Texas football was able to get back on track after a big win against number seven ranked Ole Miss. Did Arch Manning play well enough to silence his critics for now? Then with the Chiefs and 49ers going down this week that leaves only one unbeaten team left in the NFL, the Minnesota Vikings. Even with being 6-0 is the Vikings offense holding them back from a deep playoff run?

What did we learn about the Cowboys after last night's win??, Are the Cowboys the best team in the NFC East??Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Cowboys dismantling of the Philadelphia Eagles yesterday. The Cowboys offense seemed to finally wake up dropping 38 points. Was this a product of going against a depleted Eagles team or was this a sign of more to come for Dallas? Next the WNBA Finals are about to wrap up as the Golden State Valkyries took a 3-2 series lead with their win last night. Can Angel Reese and company push this series to a game seven or are the Valkyries going to win the WNBA championship in just their second year? Then the AFC North has quietly become one of the best divisions in the NFL as the Browns, Steelers and Bengals all sit with only two losses. Which team is going to come out on top? First Take resumes as Chris Canty, co-host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN2, joins the show to break down the Cowboys big win over the Eagles. Did that win put the Cowboys in the driver's seat to win the NFC East? Next after trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo in the offseason the Miami Heat have started the season 0-4. Bam Adebayo went after the media for making him the "scapegoat" yet he has not played well this season. Was he fair to blame the media or is there some truth in pointing out his struggles? Then breaking news as Kawhi Leonard is set to miss multiple weeks due to knee swelling. What will Kawhi's legacy look like at the end of his career? 

Should the Colts trade Jonathan Taylor?, Is Lamar Jackson still on the same tier as Josh Allen?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins with the Colts fire sale that took place yesterday. All-Pro guard, Quenton Nelson, was traded to Seattle and DeForest Buckner was reunited with his old 49er teammates. Which move will have the bigger impact on their new team? Do the Colts now look to trading Jonathan Taylor? Next the Brewers are on the brink of their first championship in franchise history. Jacob Misiorowski takes the mound tonight as they hold a 3-1 series lead. Will the MLB season end tonight or can the Rays get this series to game six? Then Jerry Jones said the Cowboys can still win it all with some defensive progress of course. Wait till you hear what Stephen A. has to say about that.First Take resumes as Lamar Jackson and the Ravens have a major decision to make on Sunday. The Ravens have not yet made a decision on whether Lamar will be able to play against the Bills or not but they might not have much more time to wait if Lamar can't go. Sitting at 4-3 and last in the AFC North, does Lamar have to play? Then another division matchup takes place on Sunday between the Lions and the Vikings. Even at 6-0 is Kyler Murray and the Vikings offense holding them back? Do we really trust a Kyler-led team to go far? Then Mad Dog tell us what he's mad about this week and no one is safe! You won't want to miss it!

Can the Bills win the AFC despite their defensive struggles?, What should the Packers identity be on offense?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as Lamar Jackson was officially back at practice as a full participant on Wednesday. Does Lamar have to play against the Bills to save the Ravens season? Next some breaking news as the Tennessee Titans trade DT Jeffery Simmons to the Bears for multiple first round picks. Evan Cohen, co-host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN2, breaks down the trade. Did the Bears give up too much? Does this make them a Super Bowl favorite? Then the Rams sit at 3-4 on the season and are third in the NFC West. Could the Rams potentially miss the playoffs?First Take resumes with a preview of tonight's game between the Packers and Panthers. Jordan Love and the Packers have been able to turn their season around but still sit at 4-3 and in the middle of the wild card playoff race. Meanwhile Bryce Young and the Panthers have struggled the last couple of weeks. Which team will come out on top tonight? Next a matchup between two more NFC North teams will take place on Sunday. The Vikings travel to Detroit to take on the Lions in a massive game for the NFC North standings. Are you more intrigued to watch Kyler Murray or Jared Goff? Then the Bears take on the Seahawks on Monday Night. What impact will the Bears new trade acquisition, Jeffery Simmons, have on this game? 

How far can Jordan Love take the Packers?, Are the Bears the most complete team in the NFC??Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Packers put a beat down on the Panthers last night. Jordan Love put together another great game to help the Packers keep pace with the rest of the NFC North. Could this Packers team be a contender in the NFC once Micah Parsons returns? Next the opening week rivalry between Luka Doncic and Yaxel Lendeborg gets it's second chapter as the Lakers travel to take on the Warriors tonight. Will we see sparks fly once again? Then Chris Canty, co-host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN2, and Dan Orlovsky debate who would be harder to tackle, Derrick Henry or Bijan Robinson. First Take resumes as the Bears take on the Seahawks on Monday night in what could be an NFC Championship game preview. How will newcomers Quenton Nelson and Jeffery Simmons impact this game? Next the crew breaks down some early NBA overreactions. Are the Heat already finished? Are OKC's title hopes gone without JDub and Cason Wallace? Then the crew goes over some of the best teams in the NFL that might have something haunting over them. Chiefs offense, Bills defense, Vikings offense; which of these teams can overcome their haunting horrors?

Has Lamar Jackson played his last game as a Raven?, Should the Cowboys trade George Pickens?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the Cowboys once again collapsed and blew a 14 point second half lead against Gardner Minshew and the Cardinals. Is this officially rock bottom for Dallas? What do they do now? Next Lamar Jackson got hurt on his first play back of his return from his ankle injury. He will undergo surgery and may not play again for the rest of the season. With all the contract rumors circling, will we ever see Lamar in a Ravens jersey again? Then the Broncos survived some late game controversy to beat the Chiefs and take first place of the AFC West. Did Denver send a statement to the rest of the AFC? First Take resumes with more dysfunction in Dallas. The Cowboys now sit at 3-5 on the season, could they look to trade any pieces away? Should they keep George Pickens with his contract extension looming? Next the Lions took down Minnesota in an NFC North showdown as Kyler and Minnesota's offense struggled yet again. Did that game say more about the Vikings or the Lions? Then the Steelers blew out the Browns to take sole possession of first place in the AFC North. Aaron Rodgers has turned back the clock so far this year, but do we really trust him and the Steelers moving forward?  

Are the Bears the best team in the NFL?, Will Draymond Green be a detriment to the Warriors success?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins in Seattle where Jeffery Simmons and the Bears made a statement to the rest of the league that they're for real. Can Caleb Williams lead the Bears to the Super Bowl this season?? Next some big time college football programs have massive games on Saturday that could determine whether or not they make the CFP as Notre Dame takes on Miami and Alabama travels to LSU. Does Notre Dame need to beat Miami to make the CFP? Then Jerry Jones said he liked the way Dallas' defense is trending. Is he watching the games?? Is there anything Dallas can do at this point to turn the season around?First Take resumes back in Seattle. After the game Caleb Williams said that Chicago is a Bears town even through the times of Michael Jordan. Are Caleb and the Bears starting to get a little too ahead of themselves bringing up MJ? Next Draymond Green got his first ejection of the season last night after a dust up with Dillon Brooks and the Suns. Kendrick Perkins joins the show to debate whether or not Draymond will be a detriment to the Warriors this season. Then Stephen A. gives his updated top five teams in the NFL after week 8. With last week's first and fifth ranked teams losing this week, how will the list shake out? You won't want to miss it!  

Are the Seahawks in jeopardy of missing the playoffs?, How will Lane Kiffin look if LSU misses the CFP this season?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the College Football playoff rankings were released last night and they have a few people left scratching their heads. Notre Dame and Ohio State on the bubble? Texas ranked 7th? What did we learn from the first rankings? Next the Cowboys look to bounce back on Sunday as they take on the struggling Colts. But after losing last week to the Arizona Cardinals would it be a surprise to see them lose again? Then the Seattle Seahawks may be reigning Super Bowl champs but that doesn't guarantee a playoff spot this year. Sitting at 4-4 right now with a struggling offense, could Seattle really miss the playoffs? First Take resumes as Stephen A. and Mad Dog debate their top five teams in the NFL this season. Mad Dog's not out on the Vikings yet but Stephen A. doesn't even have them in his top 5. Check out what else they disagree on! Next LSU came in at 14 in the first CFP rankings which would put them outside of the top 12 and missing the college football playoffs. What will be the fallout if LSU doesn't make the CFP after the year they've had. Then CJ Carr, Marcus Freeman and Notre Dame have their biggest game of the year on Saturday. Notre Dame faces off against the number one ranked team in the country, Miami, in a game they have to win or else the playoffs might be out of reach. 

Are the Philadelphia 76ers Finals Bound?, How much blame does Dak Prescott deserve for the Cowboys 3-5 record?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as Skip Bayless is back and the NBA is heating up. Victor Wembanyama had an all time performance last night with 52 points, 24 rebounds and 8 blocks. Just how impressive was his game? Next Caleb Williams and the Bears are bringing the love of football back to Chicago but could Caleb and the Bears really be bigger to Chicago than MJ's Bulls? Then Luka Doncic has led the Lakers to a 7-2 record and tied for first place in the west so far this season. Are the Lakers and Luka better off without LeBron? First Take resumes as Skip gives his state of the Cowboys. Dallas is 3-5 but still remains in second place in the NFC East. Is there a world where Dallas wins the division? If not how much blame should be given to Dak? Next 2-time Paralympic Gold Medalist and current Dancing With The Stars contestant, Ezra Frech, joins the show and talks his favorite team, the Lakers. Is Los Angeles good enough to win the west? Then Deshaun Watson has been listed in concussion protocol and will miss this week's game which means Shedeur Sanders will get the start. Has Shedeur gotten a fair opportunity so far in Cleveland? Could this be it? 

Is Stephen Curry's championship window still open?, Who has been more impressive so far this year: KD, Curry or LeBron?Spoiler Hidden

First Take begins as the crew is live from Tuskegee University!! Last night in a Splash Brothers reunion between Steph Curry and Klay Thompson the Warriors came out on top. Is Steph Curry and the Warriors' championship window still open? Next Browns edge rusher, Jared Verse, called out his teammates for not defending him after he was body slammed by Steelers offensive lineman Mason McCormick. Could this signal some trouble in the Browns locker room? Then a huge matchup between LSU and Alabama takes place on Saturday. Do we trust Alabama to come away with a big win? First Take resumes as the NBA may be filled with young stars but the OGs still got it too. Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant and LeBron James have all still played pivotal roles in their team's early success this season. Who's start to the year has been the most impressive? Next the crew takes questions straight from the students of Tuskegee University. Listen and see what hard-hitting questions the students had! Then Caleb Williams and the Bears may be one of the best teams in the league but could they be on upset alert in week 9?? 

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