First Take

Watch First Take

  • 2007
  • 20 Seasons
  • 5.5  (863)

First Take is a sports debate show that premiered on ESPN2 in 2007, featuring a rotating panel of commentators who discuss the latest news and controversies in the world of sports. The show has been hosted by several well-known sports journalists, including Skip Bayless, Stephen A. Smith, Max Kellerman, Molly Qerim, Cari Champion, and Dana Jacobson.

The show's format includes two or three commentators who debate various topics related to sports, often taking opposing sides and passionately arguing their positions. The topics covered range from current events in professional sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NASCAR to college sports and amateur athletics. Along with the debates, the hosts also interview notable sports figures, such as athletes, coaches, and journalists, to get their insights on current events.

The hosts bring their unique perspectives to the show, with each commentator offering their own take on the sports news of the day. Skip Bayless, for example, is known for his controversial opinions and sharp wit, while Stephen A. Smith is known for his passionate rants and knowledge of basketball. Max Kellerman provides a more analytical perspective, while Molly Qerim acts as a moderator and keeps the discussion on track. Cari Champion and Dana Jacobson also bring their own expertise to the table, with Champion focusing on social justice and advocacy issues in sports and Jacobson having covered a variety of sports over her career.

Viewers of First Take can expect a lively, entertaining, and informative discussion of the latest sports news and controversies. Whether debating issues like player contracts, team politics, or individual performance, the commentators bring their A-game to the show, often raising their voices and trading jabs with each other in the process.

In addition to the debates and interviews, the show also features special segments that highlight certain sports or athletes. For example, "A-List" showcases the best moments and plays of superstar athletes, while "Embrace Debate" is a rapid-fire segment in which the hosts each make a quick argument for or against a particular topic.

Overall, First Take is a must-watch show for any sports fan looking for in-depth analysis and heated debates on the latest news in the sports world. With its rotating cast of talented and opinionated commentators, the show keeps things fresh and exciting with each episode. For those who miss an episode or want to catch up on past ones, it's easy to Watch First Take Online and stay up-to-date on the hottest sports debates.

First Take
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Seasons
High on Cowboys, or Down on Eagles?, Legacy Defining Win for Dak?
56. High on Cowboys, or Down on Eagles?, Legacy Defining Win for Dak?
November 24, 2025
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.
Make or Break Start For Shedeur?, Jalen Hurts Criticism Justified?
55. Make or Break Start For Shedeur?, Jalen Hurts Criticism Justified?
November 21, 2025
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!
Does Jalen Hurts Deserve Blame?, Eagles Defense or Cowboys Offense?
54. Does Jalen Hurts Deserve Blame?, Eagles Defense or Cowboys Offense?
November 20, 2025
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.
Cowboys Playoff Chances?, What's at Stake for Dak?
53. Cowboys Playoff Chances?, What's at Stake for Dak?
November 19, 2025
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.
The Champ is Here!, Big Game Darnold?
52. The Champ is Here!, Big Game Darnold?
November 18, 2025
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?
51. The Champ is Here!, Big Game Darnold?
November 17, 2025
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.
Does AFC Run Through Foxborough?, Will Lions Expose Eagles?
50. Does AFC Run Through Foxborough?, Will Lions Expose Eagles?
November 14, 2025
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.
Concerned About Eagles?, Maye or Vrabel?
49. Concerned About Eagles?, Maye or Vrabel?
November 13, 2025
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?
Patriots a Lock For One Seed?, Chiefs, Bills, or Ravens?
48. Patriots a Lock For One Seed?, Chiefs, Bills, or Ravens?
November 12, 2025
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?
No Pack No, Spur of The Moment
47. No Pack No, Spur of The Moment
November 11, 2025
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?
What If Steelers Miss Playoffs?, Packers-Eagles Deciding Factors
46. What If Steelers Miss Playoffs?, Packers-Eagles Deciding Factors
November 10, 2025
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?
Broncos a Real Threat?, Monday Night Must Win?
45. Broncos a Real Threat?, Monday Night Must Win?
November 7, 2025
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.
Can Broncos Dethrone, NFC Favorites
44. Can Broncos Dethrone, NFC Favorites
November 6, 2025
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?
Episode 43
43. Episode 43
November 5, 2025
Summary is not available.
Cowboys Season Over?, Jerry Speaks on Micah
42. Cowboys Season Over?, Jerry Speaks on Micah
November 4, 2025
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!
Cowboys on Upset Alert?, Can Cowboys Make The Playoffs?
41. Cowboys on Upset Alert?, Can Cowboys Make The Playoffs?
November 3, 2025
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.
Are Ravens Super Bowl Threats?, Dolphins Keeping Mike McDaniel a Mistake?
40. Are Ravens Super Bowl Threats?, Dolphins Keeping Mike McDaniel a Mistake?
October 31, 2025
Summary is not available.
Who is the Best NFC North Team?, Top 5 QBs Right Now?
39. Who is the Best NFC North Team?, Top 5 QBs Right Now?
October 30, 2025
Summary is not available.
Pressure on Lamar Jackson to Make Playoffs?, Who Should Be Super Bowl Favorites Right Now?
38. Pressure on Lamar Jackson to Make Playoffs?, Who Should Be Super Bowl Favorites Right Now?
October 29, 2025
Summary is not available.
Greatest World Series Game Ever?, Can The Cowboys Make The Playoffs?
37. Greatest World Series Game Ever?, Can The Cowboys Make The Playoffs?
October 28, 2025
Greatest World Series Game Ever?, Can The Cowboys Make The Playoffs?
Did Packers Make a Statement Sunday?, Are the Packers or Eagles a Bigger Threat in The NFC?
36. Did Packers Make a Statement Sunday?, Are the Packers or Eagles a Bigger Threat in The NFC?
October 27, 2025
Summary is not available.
Cowboy Up, Best College Football Rivalry?
35. Cowboy Up, Best College Football Rivalry?
October 24, 2025
Live from Birmingham, Alabama.
Spur of the Moment, Knicks in the Mix
34. Spur of the Moment, Knicks in the Mix
October 23, 2025
Summary is not available.
Loss Angeles, Dallas Destiny
33. Loss Angeles, Dallas Destiny
October 22, 2025
Summary is not available.
Lions Den, That's My Quarterback
32. Lions Den, That's My Quarterback
October 21, 2025
Summary is not available.
Taking Command, Impact Player
31. Taking Command, Impact Player
October 20, 2025
Summary is not available.
Turning Back the Clock, Embarrassment of Riches?
30. Turning Back the Clock, Embarrassment of Riches?
October 17, 2025
Summary is not available.
Eagles Grounded?, Hail to the Chiefs
29. Eagles Grounded?, Hail to the Chiefs
October 16, 2025
Summary is not available.
Bear With Me, Trending Down
28. Bear With Me, Trending Down
October 15, 2025
Summary is not available.
Bear Necessities, State of Play
27. Bear Necessities, State of Play
October 14, 2025
Summary is not available.
Miami Meltdown, How 'Bout Them Cowboys?
26. Miami Meltdown, How 'Bout Them Cowboys?
October 13, 2025
Summary is not available.
Push Comes To Shove, Dart Takes Flight
25. Push Comes To Shove, Dart Takes Flight
October 10, 2025
Summary is not available.
Buck Stops Here?, Brotherly Love?
24. Buck Stops Here?, Brotherly Love?
October 9, 2025
Summary is not available.
Stayin' Alive, Best of the Best
23. Stayin' Alive, Best of the Best
October 8, 2025
Summary is not available.
State of Play, Leading Man
22. State of Play, Leading Man
October 7, 2025
Summary is not available.
Eagles Grounded?, At A Loss
21. Eagles Grounded?, At A Loss
October 6, 2025
Summary is not available.
Gold Rush, Fool's Gold?
20. Gold Rush, Fool's Gold?
October 3, 2025
Summary is not available.
Silent Count, Change Is Good?
19. Silent Count, Change Is Good?
October 2, 2025
Summary is not available.
Snap Decisions, Tricks of the Trade
18. Snap Decisions, Tricks of the Trade
October 1, 2025
Summary is not available.
Injury Bug, Dallas' Destiny
17. Injury Bug, Dallas' Destiny
September 30, 2025
Summary is not available.
Jerry's World, All Tied Up
16. Jerry's World, All Tied Up
September 29, 2025
Summary is not available.
Best Western, In the Clutch
15. Best Western, In the Clutch
September 26, 2025
Summary is not available.
Under Pressure, Marquee Matchup
14. Under Pressure, Marquee Matchup
September 25, 2025
Summary is not available.
Snap Decisions, Welcome Back
13. Snap Decisions, Welcome Back
September 24, 2025
Summary is not available.
Baltimore Blunder, Don't Panic?
12. Baltimore Blunder, Don't Panic?
September 23, 2025
Summary is not available.
Bear Necessities, Steeling the Show
11. Bear Necessities, Steeling the Show
September 22, 2025
Summary is not available.
This Tua Shall Pass, Vintage Rodgers On Deck?
10. This Tua Shall Pass, Vintage Rodgers On Deck?
September 19, 2025
Summary is not available.
Chief Concern?, Underappreciation?
9. Chief Concern?, Underappreciation?
September 18, 2025
Summary is not available.
Fitting The Bill, Dak To The Future
8. Fitting The Bill, Dak To The Future
September 17, 2025
Summary is not available.
Charged Up, Say It Ain't Joe
7. Charged Up, Say It Ain't Joe
September 16, 2025
Summary is not available.
Episode 251
6. Episode 251
September 15, 2025
Summary is not available.
Ahead of the Pack?, Upset Alert
5. Ahead of the Pack?, Upset Alert
September 12, 2025
Summary is not available.
Shake It Off, Upset Alert?
4. Shake It Off, Upset Alert?
September 11, 2025
Summary is not available.
Chief Concern?, Ahead of the Pack?
3. Chief Concern?, Ahead of the Pack?
September 10, 2025
Summary is not available.
Viking Age, Bear With Me
2. Viking Age, Bear With Me
September 9, 2025
Summary is not available.
Baltimore Blunder, Big Blues
1. Baltimore Blunder, Big Blues
September 8, 2025
Summary is not available.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    May 7, 2007
  • IMDB Rating
    5.5  (863)
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