ESPN, Stephen A. Smith, Shae Cornette

First Take

A Sports podcast

#35 in Sports · 🇳🇬 #37 in Sports · 🇺🇸

Good podcast? Give it some love!

About the show

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

Newest episodes

Hour 2: Do the Bills need to make a significant trade?

Nov 10, 2026 46 min

First Take resumes as the trade deadline looms over a lot of NFL teams today. Although the Bills are 7-1 do they need to make a big defensive trade to keep up with the Jacksonville Jaguars? Do the Vikings need to trade for a QB? Next, with the Cowboys having a disappointing season, could we see a surprise trade from them before the deadline? Should Dallas be looking into trading George Pickens with his upcoming free agency? Then Stephen A. gives his post-week nine top five NFL teams with a new number one that you won't want to miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hour 1: How much of the Vikings' offensive struggles are on O'Connell?

Nov 10, 2026 48 min

First Take begins with the Minnesota meltdown last night. Carson Wentz and the Vikings' offense had an all-time bad performance which led to their second straight loss. With the trade deadline looming today, will Minnesota make a move? Next Puka Nacua is likely to be placed on IR after injuring his knee against the Commanders. Is this the nail in the coffin on the Rams season? Where do they go from here? Then co-host of UnSportsmanLike on ESPN2, Chris Canty, gives his top 5 college football teams this season as we get closer to the playoffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hour 2: Is Joe Burrow the best QB in the NFL right now?

Nov 9, 2026 47 min

First Take resumes with the Bengals big win in Madrid over the Falcons. Joe Burrow put together another big game and now has 23 passing TDs and a 74% completion percentage on the season. Is this the best we've seen of Joe Burrow in his career? Next Shedeur Sanders stepped in for the injured Deshaun Watson and threw for almost 300 yards despite the Browns taking the loss. However the Browns released a statement saying Deshaun will still be the starter. Are the Browns making a mistake going with Deshaun? Then controversy in Miami-Notre Dame as a last second Miami touchdown was ruled incomplete as Notre Dame knocked off the number one team in the country. Listen to hear Michael Irvin's take on the call! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Similar podcasts

ESPN FC ESPN

The Athletic FC Podcast The Athletic

Arseblog Arsecast, The Arsenal Podcast arseblog.com

Talk of the Devils: The Athletic FC's Manchester United show The Athletic

First Things First FOX Sports

The Bill Simmons Podcast The Ringer

The Totally Football Show with James Richardson The Athletic

Football Weekly The Guardian

All episodes

The newest 50 of 227 episodes

Hour 2: Do the Bills need to make a significant trade?

Nov 10, 2026 46 min

Hour 1: How much of the Vikings' offensive struggles are on O'Connell?

Nov 10, 2026 48 min

Hour 2: Is Joe Burrow the best QB in the NFL right now?

Nov 9, 2026 47 min

Hour 1: Is your belief in the Bears still the same after last night?

Nov 9, 2026 49 min

First Take begins as Chicago survived a game where Caleb Williams had four interceptions to beat the Buccaneers on a game winning field goal. Tampa Bay has a great defense but does Caleb's struggles in this game cause any concern? Next elsewhere in the NFC North the Packers traveled to Foxborough and demolished the Patriots in a statement game to the rest of the NFC. Has Jordan Love entered the MVP conversation? Then the Cowboys bounced back with a win yesterday against the Colts. However the game was still much closer than it should have been and required a game winning Dak Prescott drive. Did this game do anything to change how we feel about the Cowboys? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hour 2: Who has been more impressive so far this year: KD, Curry or LeBron?

Nov 6, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 1: Is Stephen Curry's championship window still open?

Nov 6, 2026 49 min

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? Could they still make the playoffs if they lose? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hour 2: How much blame does Dak Prescott deserve for the Cowboys 3-5 record?

Nov 5, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Are the Philadelphia 76ers Finals Bound?

Nov 5, 2026 49 min

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

Hour 2: How will Lane Kiffin look if LSU misses the CFP this season?

Nov 4, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Are the Seahawks in jeopardy of missing the playoffs?

Nov 4, 2026 48 min

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

Hour 2: Will Draymond Green be a detriment to the Warriors success?

Nov 3, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Are the Bears the best team in the NFL?

Nov 3, 2026 49 min

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

Hour 2: Should the Cowboys trade George Pickens?

Nov 2, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Has Lamar Jackson played his last game as a Raven?

Nov 2, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Are the Bears the most complete team in the NFC??

Oct 30, 2026 48 min

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

Hour 1: How far can Jordan Love take the Packers?

Oct 30, 2026 45 min

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

Hour 2: What should the Packers identity be on offense?

Oct 29, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Can the Bills win the AFC despite their defensive struggles?

Oct 29, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Is Lamar Jackson still on the same tier as Josh Allen?

Oct 28, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Should the Colts trade Jonathan Taylor?

Oct 28, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Are the Cowboys the best team in the NFC East??

Oct 27, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: What did we learn about the Cowboys after last night's win??

Oct 27, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Is the Cowboys season on the line tonight??

Oct 26, 2026 45 min

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

Hour 1: Is the bigger story from last night the Chiefs struggles or the Seahawks Dominance?

Oct 26, 2026 48 min

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

Hour 2: Who will win the NFC North?

Oct 23, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: How dangerous does Caleb Williams make the Bears?

Oct 23, 2026 49 min

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

Hour 2: Are we more impressed with the Lakers or Timberwolves?

Oct 22, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Does LaMelo Ball unlock an MVP year for Anthony Edwards?

Oct 22, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Are the Bears good enough to win the Super Bowl?

Oct 21, 2026 45 min

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

Hour 1: What's the biggest reason the 76ers won last night?

Oct 21, 2026 48 min

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

Hour 2: Are the 49ers the best team in the NFL?

Oct 20, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Which team is the biggest threat to a Knicks Repeat?

Oct 20, 2026 49 min

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

Hour 2: Are both Notre Dame and BYU threats to win the CFP?

Oct 19, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Who is most to blame for the Cowboys woes on offense?

Oct 19, 2026 48 min

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

Hour 2: Will the Cowboys players-only meeting have a positive impact on their game Sunday?

Oct 16, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Is it fair to criticize Bo Nix after last night's win?

Oct 16, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Is Bo Nix holding the Broncos back from being Super Bowl Contenders?

Oct 15, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Does the 3-0 series say more about the Brewers or Dodgers?

Oct 15, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Who will have a bigger game Sunday night: Dak Prescott or Jordan Love?

Oct 14, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 1: Where does Josh Allen Rank Among Mobile QBs?

Oct 14, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 2: October Brew

Oct 14, 2026 46 min

First Take is here, and we’ve got plenty to say! Monday Night gave us a game for the ages, with an MVP battle that lived up to the hype. Who made the biggest statement, and what does it mean for the rest of the season? We’re breaking it all down! Meanwhile, Washington is dealing with the aftermath, and the NFC Least is living up to its name. Can anyone step up and take control of the division? And you know we can’t leave without talking about America’s Team! HOW BOUT THEM COWBOYS?! The takes are coming, the debates are heating up, and we’re covering it all! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hour 1: Clock it!

Oct 14, 2026 49 min

First Take is in the house! Monday Night Football delivered an absolute masterpiece, and the MVP showdown has everyone talking! We’re breaking down the biggest moments, the key takeaways, and what it all means moving forward! Plus, the fallout continues in Washington! Can anyone in the NFC Least get their act together, or is the chaos just getting started? And last but certainly not least… HOW BOUT THEM COWBOYS?! We’re debating all the biggest storylines and bringing the heat on today’s episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hour 2: Which NFC East team has been the most Disappointing?

Oct 12, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Who is more to blame for the Commanders blunder: Jayden Daniels or Dan Quinn?

Oct 12, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Did Dak prove his critics right?

Oct 9, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: How Embarrassing was the Cowboys Loss to the Bucs?

Oct 9, 2026 47 min

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

Hour 2: Who is Stephen A's number one team in the NFL after week 4?

Oct 8, 2026 46 min

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

Hour 1: Who should the Cowboys target for trades?

Oct 8, 2026 48 min

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

Hour 2: How should we assess the SEC so far this season?

Oct 7, 2026 45 min

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

Hour 1: How much trouble are the Eagles in without Lane Johnson?

Oct 7, 2026 48 min

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

See all 200 episodes

–

0 ratings from members

Rate this podcast

No reviews yet — be the first member to rate "First Take".

This podcast, its content and its artwork are not owned by, affiliated with, or endorsed by Castquire.

Hour 2: Do the Bills need to make a significant trade?

Share this podcast

Live Chart rankings

Chart history

🇳🇬 Sports Best #35

Holding at #35 — the line fills in as this chart moves.

🇺🇸 Sports Best #34

Podcast details

Created by: ESPN, Stephen A. Smith, Shae Cornette
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 10, 2026
Episodes: 227
Release period: Daily
Avg. episode length: 46 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

Links

Official website ↗ Apple Podcasts ↗ RSS feed ↗

Is this your podcast?

Claim it to show it on your profile. Using the email from your RSS feed approves it instantly.

Keep listening

Discover more podcasts like this.

Browse podcasts See the charts