First Take

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First Take is always a heated discussion as Stephen A. Smith, Max Kellerman and guests debate about the day's top stories.

ESPN, Stephen A. Smith, Max Kellerman, Molly Qerim


    • Feb 6, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 45m AVG DURATION
    • 3,207 EPISODES

    4 from 5,132 ratings Listeners of First Take that love the show mention: first take, ryan hollins, skip bayless, love skip, skip's, stephen a smith, best sports show on tv, best show on espn, skip and stephen, love first, sas, thanks espn, change the subject, broussard, max kellerman, sports debate show, steven a smith, skip and shannon, love stephen, 3 30.


    Ivy Insights

    The First Take podcast is an entertaining and informative show that provides strong opinions about sports. It features hosts Stephen A. Smith, Shannon Sharp, Molly Qerim Rose, and a variety of guest hosts who bring different perspectives to the table. The addition of Shannon Sharp has been a great move for the show, as his NFL analyses have gained him a dedicated fanbase. Overall, the show is fun to listen to and keeps listeners engaged with its serious discussions.

    One of the best aspects of The First Take podcast is the dynamic between the hosts. Stephen A. Smith brings his trademark charisma and passion to the show, while Molly Qerim Rose does an excellent job of keeping things flowing smoothly. The variety of guest hosts adds new voices to the conversation and provides fresh insights into sports topics. Additionally, the show covers serious subjects in a way that is both entertaining and informative.

    However, there are also some drawbacks to The First Take podcast. Some listeners may find that they always agree with Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharp, which can make it less interesting when other hosts or guests have differing opinions. This lack of diversity in perspectives may detract from the overall experience for some listeners.

    In conclusion, The First Take podcast is an excellent show for fans of sports analysis and strong opinions. While there may be some drawbacks in terms of limited perspectives at times, the overall entertainment value and informative nature of the show make it a top choice for sports enthusiasts. Whether you love or hate Stephen A. Smith's takes, there's no denying that this podcast delivers engaging content on a daily basis.



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    Latest episodes from First Take

    Hour 2: Does Drake Maye Need to Play Well in the Super Bowl?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 45:29


    First Take resumes with Drake Maye's future. What will the storylines be on Monday if he has another bad game? (0:00) Then, Deion Sanders dishes on Super Bowl picks, college football, and, of course, Shedeur Sanders! (9:50) Next, would Sam Darnold be considered elite with a Super Bowl win? (23:30) And, the crew finally makes their Super Bowl picks. (38:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Did the Voters Get MVP Right?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 48:45


    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? (0:00) Then, 3-time Super Bowl champ Emmitt Smith tells us how he prepped for the big game. (23:20) Next, we're still flustered by Tom Brady's comments. How can the GOAT not root for his former team? (41:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: More Likely - Seahawks Blowout or Pats Win?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 45:57


    First Take resumes with a Super Bowl preview. Mina Kimes joins to tell us how the Seahawks can blow out the Patriots, and how Drake Maye can exploit a hobbled Seahawks secondary! (0:00) Then, multisport legend Bo Jackson is PUMPED UP for the big game! (11:40) Next, another year passed without a Cowboys conference championship appearance. Has Dak Prescott's Super Bowl window closed? (22:55) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Is Drake Maye Playing with House Money?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 48:08


    First Take is live from San Francisco with all of the Super Bowl and trade deadline coverage! Second year sensation Drake Maye has arrived. Is he playing with house money vs. the Seahawks? (0:00) Then, Maye or Stafford? Who deserves MVP? (24:20) Next, the tanking Wizards swooped in to grab Anthony Davis during pre-agency. Does this trade make sense? (38:15) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Should Pickens be Cowboys 1st Priority This Offseason?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 45:39


    Live from San Francisco, First Take is on site at the Super Bowl; a place the Cowboys haven't been in 30 years! If they want to get back, should George Pickens be signed ASAP? (0:00) Next, is JSN the biggest x-factor in the Super Bowl. (12:00) Then, which QB is in a better position: Lamar Jackson or Joe Burrow? (20:30) Trivia: What was the number 1 song the last time the Cowboys won the Super Bowl? Hint: George Pickens Mariah Carey'd the Cowboys offense this year! He turned them from Boyz II Men! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Did the Cavs Make a Mistake Trading for James Harden?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 48:26


    First Take is live in San Fran with Mad Dog! Windy tells us exactly why James Harden requested a trade away from the surging Clippers. (0:00) Then, Darnold and Maye rode breakout seasons to lead their teams to Super Bowl LX. Cam Jordan tells us which QB is harder to game plan against. (22:00) Next, the Falcons hired a new GM who starts work with a tough decision: give Michael Penix Jr. one more shot, or move on. (38:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Shoulder Boulder

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 45:03


    The painful truth is here — Drake Maye'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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Questions

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 48:34


    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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: The Bowl in 6

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2026 45:00


    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Minnesota Mess

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2026 67:08


    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? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Coach Approach

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 43:18


    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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Bills Back Brady

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 45:37


    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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Giannis wants out

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 45:01


    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 Antetokounmpo's 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: The Brons' In Cleavland

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 49:40


    LeBron James and the Lakers were in Cleveland last night to face the Cavs in what could be LeBron's final return home as an NBA player. We're joined by Shams Charania with the latest on Giannis Antetokounmpo's 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Who is to Blame for Bill Belichick Being Left Out of HOF?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2026 46:00


    First Take resumes with a complete and total takedown of Bill Polian and The NFL Hall of Fame. Mad Dog is absolutely HEATED! (0:00) Then, Paul Heyman joins to talk Royal Rumble. (15:50) Next, the Bucks are officially listening to offers on Giannis. Knicks? Rockets? Who can make the best offer? (23:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Why Was Bill Belichick Left Out of the Hall of Fame?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2026 48:14


    First Take begins with an EGREGIOUS, INHUMANE HOF decision. Stephen A. wants names AND faces of everyone didn't vote for Bill Belichick! (0:00) Then, which Super bowl participant had a harder path? (27:00) Next, Stephen A. speaks on his Steelers hiring Mike McCarthy! (38:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Are the Lakers Title Threats?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 45:42


    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? (0:00) Then, who has more to gain by winning the Super Bowl: former bust Sam Darnold, or second year sensation Drake Maye? (13:15) Next, Stephen A. reveals his top 5 NBA teams! Only 1 East team?? C'mon Stephen A.!! (25:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Should the Browns Hire Deion Sanders?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 48:25


    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...(0:00) Then, Windy and Big Perk have some ideas on where Giannis may be traded! (26:00) Next, no one wants the Browns job even though it comes with a fully equipped pro bowl QB! Is Deion the answer in Cleveland? (41:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Has the Narrative Around Sam Darnold Officially Changed?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 45:46


    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? (0:00) Then, WWE superstar Seth Rollins talks Royal Rumble! (15:50) 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? (26:00) 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? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Has Sam Darnold Quieted Critics?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 48:29


    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? (0:00) 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! (22:30) Next, do you like the Steelers hiring Mike McCarthy? (39:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Does Stafford Need to be Elite for the Rams to Win?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 36:27


    First Take resumes with Matthew "HOF?" Stafford. Can the Rams still defeat the Seahawks if he isn't elite? (0:00) Then, after hearing Philip River is interviewing for the Bills head coaching job, RC and Cam throw their hats into the ring! (12:15) Next, JSN and Puka battle in a matchup of two of the best receivers in the league! Who has the edge? (26:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: What are Your Expectations for Jarrett Stidham?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 57:44


    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. (0:00) Then, LeBron "doesn't care how somebody feels about me." Windy and Stephen A. decide what the Lakers should do with the aging GOAT. (27:50) Next, you HAVE to hear Stephen A.'s Notre Dame rant. (40:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: How Did Buss Family Infighting Drive Lakers Sale?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 46:11


    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? (0:00) Then, after the Rams and Seahawks split their season series, which powerhouse does a third matchup favor? (14:30) Next, strengths collide when Kayshon Boutte and the Patriots offense meet Pat Surtain and the Broncos defense. Who has the edge? (28:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Should Giannis Demand a Trade Out of Milwaukee?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 48:27


    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? (0:00) Then, RC and DanO address SAS Broncos comments from yesterday. (31:10) Next, the Steelers interviewed Mike McCarthy for their open head coaching position. Is he a good fit? (43:35) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: What Chance Do You Give Broncos Sunday?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2026 45:31


    First Take resumes with the undermanned Broncos. Put a number on it. What percent chance do you give them to win? (0:00) 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: How Much Criticism Does Josh Allen Deserve?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2026 48:26


    First Take begins with Mad Dog's return, and he is fired up! You have to hear his defense of Josh Allen! (0:00) 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? (28:00) 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!" (40:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Is the Warriors Dynasty Officially Done?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 45:59


    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? (0:00) 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. (16:00) 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? (37:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Is Curt Cignetti Building the Next CFB Dynasty?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 48:12


    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? (0:00) Next, the last two MVPs are now coachless. Which job should free agent coaches value more: Buffalo or Baltimore? (22:50) Then, we grade the other head coaching acquisitions including Robert Saleh to the Titans and Jeff Hafley to the Dolphins. (41:15) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: How Should We View Josh Allen Right Now?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 46:20


    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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Bills Fire Sean McDermott + Tim Tebow's CFP Championship Preview

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 48:21


    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Would You Be Surprised if Caleb Williams Outplays Matt Stafford?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 45:32


    First Take resumes with a monster QB matchup in Chicago. Temperatures will be cold, but these QBs are bold. Will you be surprised if the young QB outplays the old? (0:00) Then, the crew makes their Patriots-Texans picks. (15:10) Next, Chris Fowler joins to explain just how improbable this CFP National Championship matchup is between Miami And Indiana. (21:15) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: How Concerned Are You About Sam Darnold?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 48:39


    First Take begins with Sam Darnold's oblique. RC and Cam aren't buying this late week injury! (0:00) Then, Stephen A. brings up the NIGHTMARE scenario for Miami: getting blown out by Indiana on their home turf! (24:40) Next, Josh Allen leads an injury plagued Bills squad into Mile High. Will he leave victorious, or suffer another postseason disappointment? (44:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: What are Fair Expectations for John Harbaugh?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 45:31


    First Take resumes with setting fair expectations for John Harbaugh in his first year with the G-Men. (0:00) Then, Josh Pate makes the case for Miami competing with Indiana in a galvanic Championship matchup! (15:20) Next, how confident are you that C.J. Stroud will bounce back after a miserable performance against the Steelers? (24:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Does Harbaugh Hiring Immediately Turn Giants into Contenders?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 48:38


    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? (0:00) Then, will Caleb William's hot streak continue against a beatable Rams defense? (31:00) Next, with his entire receiving core on IR, how concerned should we be about Josh Allen and the Bills? (42:20) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: What are the Top 5 NFL Head Coaching Openings?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 46:32


    First Take begins with Stephen A.'s top 5 NFL coaching openings and, more importantly, a 10/10 Mad Dog impression! (0:00) Then, with Harbaugh out in Baltimore, who should the Ravens pair with Lamar Jackson to ensure success through the rest of the decade? (9:50) 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! (29:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Did Tomlin Make the Right Decision Stepping Down?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 46:07


    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? (0:00) Then, the Eagles finally let go of offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo. Will this fix their offensive issues, and Swagu wants to trade who?? (27:30) 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? (43:20) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Is Aaron Rodgers Right to Defend his Past and Present Head Coaches?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 45:39


    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. (0:00) 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? (14:10) Next, Stephen A. lists his top 5 disappointing NFL teams this season! (24:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Should Aaron Rodgers Retire?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 48:37


    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... (0:00) Then, Ben Johnson will NOT apologize for his expletive laced Packers rant and quick handshake. Is he singlehandedly bringing NFL rivalries back? (25:30) 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! (38:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Which Team Had the Worse Weekend: Eagles or Packers?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 46:37


    First Take resumes with Wild Card Weekend losers. We check if the Packers or Eagles need to make drastic changes this offseason. (0:00) Then, would you rather have Rodgers or Stroud for Monday Night's monster matchup! (15:45) Next, Josh Allen donned his cape, battled against the villainous Jaguars, and left Jacksonville victorious. Will Superman finally reach a Super Bowl this year. (24:40) Finally, RC gives Steelers fans a MAJOR pump up speech as they head into battle against the Texans! (39:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: How Much Blame Does A.J. Brown Deserve For the Eagles Loss?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 47:33


    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? (0:00) Then, did Caleb Williams prove he's an elite QB with his big comeback victory against the Packers? (21:50) Next, Pittsburgh mayor Corey O'Connor joins to talk about the Steelers chances against the Texans! (40:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: How Big of a Deal is the SEC CFP Title Drought?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 45:40


    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? (0:00) Then, the Rams are heavy favorites against the Panthers who beat them in the regular season! Should Stafford and McVay be nervous? (15:30) And, Chris Fowler joins to take us through an all time Fiesta Bowl from his vantage point in the booth! (23:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: What Was the Deciding Factor in Ole Miss-Miami?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 48:51


    First Take begins with Ole Miss-Miami reaction and remembrance of an up and down season in Oxford! (0:00) Then, is Josh Allen's legacy on the line Sunday against the Jaguars? (26:10) And, with all other bye teams out, how disappointing would it be if Indiana doesn't win the CFP? (41:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Who Do You Trust More: Trinidad Chambliss or Carson Beck?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 47:45


    First Take resumes as the CFP semifinals kick off tonight! Are you riding with Big Bliss, or the Beckster! (0:00) Then, will the Bears shaky defense be their downfall against the Packers? DanO explains. (11:10) Next, Jerry Jones wants to retire as the owner with the most Super Bowls. You already know Stephen A. has some thoughts! (21:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Was Jimbo Fisher Right to Call Lane Kiffin Selfish?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 49:16


    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! (0:00) Then, Stephen A. responds to Garrett Wilson. (14:00) Next, Desmond Howard on the CFP and Mike McDaniel getting fired. (30:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Which Team is the Best Fit for John Harbaugh?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 46:27


    First Take resumes with Harbaugh landing spots. Which team is the best fit for the recently fired head coach? (0:00) Then, Stephen A.'s crazy rant on the fumbling, bumbling, stumbling New York Jets! (18:30) Next, Mad Dog is mad at the Cowboys, Bills, and Tom Brady! (31:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Was Firing John Harbaugh the Right Decision?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2026 48:16


    First Take begins with a shocking Ravens decision! Swagu, Mad Dog and Stephen A. are fired up about John Harbaugh getting fired! (0:00) Then - which team winning the CFP would be the best story? (28:40) 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?? (42:25) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: What's Wrong with the Knicks???

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 45:39


    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? (0:00) Then, Stephen A. gives a quick take on the Knicks after a disastrous 30 point loss to the Pistons. (11:10) Next, who's the biggest x-factor in Eagles-49ers? (19:10) And, Stephen A lists his top 5 QBs under the most pressure in the playoffs! (26:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: Is Having No Traditional Powerhouses in CFP a Big Deal?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 48:38


    First Take begins with Paul Finebaum breaking down the powerhouse-less CFP semifinals. (0:00) Then, Stephen A. reacts to the Cowboys firing their fourth defensive coordinator in four years! (22:10) Next, Finebaum is back to tell us if Ole Miss or Miami winning is the better story! (39:15) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Does Lamar Jackson Get a Pass For Ravens Missing the Playoffs?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 45:52


    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? (24:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 1: How Much Praise do Rodgers and Tomlin Deserve?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 48:22


    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? (42:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Hour 2: Are You More Disappointed in Alabama or Ohio State?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 46:07


    First Take resumes with disappointing college football powerhouses. Should Alabama or Ohio State be more disappointed with their early CFP exits? (0:00) And, hear what RC has to say about the dominant days of the SEC. (9:40) Then, the Seahawks and 49ers face off Saturday for the NFC's top seed! Which team needs homefield advantage throughout the playoffs more? (18:40) Finally, who's the better QB prospect: Fernando Mendoza or Dante Moore? (28:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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