Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith were notably absent from ESPN’s First Take on both Monday and Tuesday, leaving fans wondering about their whereabouts. This absence coincided with significant changes to the network’s broadcasting schedule due to the college football slate, which has taken center stage during this time of year.
On Monday, the hosting duties were taken over by Shannon Sharpe and Shae Cornette, who were joined by Dan Orlovsky. The following day, Cornette and Sharpe continued their hosting stint alongside Domonique Foxworth and Desmond Howard. This shift in lineup has sparked curiosity among viewers, especially regarding the reasons behind Smith and Qerim’s absence. As of now, there has been no official explanation provided by ESPN.
Changes in Broadcasting Schedule
First Take typically airs at 10 AM ET from Monday to Friday, but with college football dominating the main channel, the show will be moved to a different slot on New Year’s Day. On that day, it will be broadcast on ESPN2, as the network prepares to showcase three college football quarterfinals. Coverage kicks off with the Peach Bowl, featuring Arizona State against Texas at 1 PM ET, followed by the Rose Bowl, where Ohio State will meet Oregon at 5 PM ET. The day wraps up with the Sugar Bowl, showcasing Notre Dame versus Georgia at 8:45 PM ET.
The Pat McAfee Show also faced scheduling changes, as McAfee will not be hosting his usual show on Tuesday or Wednesday. Instead, he will be part of a special edition of College GameDay, which will air from 10 AM ET on New Year’s Day. This shift in programming highlights the impact of college football on ESPN’s lineup, raising questions about the future of First Take’s scheduling.
What’s Next for First Take?
As fans eagerly await updates, it remains uncertain whether Smith and Qerim will return for the New Year’s Day edition of First Take. The possibility of Sharpe, Cornette, and another host filling in the hot seats adds an element of intrigue. Viewers are left to speculate about the dynamics of the show moving forward.
While Smith was away from the ESPN cameras, he maintained his presence through his YouTube channel, The Stephen A. Smith Show. In a recent episode, he addressed criticism directed at fellow analyst Ryan Clark regarding his comments about Lamar Jackson. Smith expressed his frustration over Clark’s decision to delete a social media post after facing backlash, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in one’s beliefs.
Smith’s Take on Lamar Jackson
Clark had labeled Jackson the most underappreciated quarterback in the NFL, but some viewers felt the discussion veered into racial territory. Smith passionately defended Clark, stating, "I’m p***ed off. But I’m not pissed off at all of you guys, nor am I pissed off at Ryan Clark for what he said." He articulated his disappointment over Clark’s retraction, asserting that it undermined the strength of his argument.
Smith elaborated on the challenges faced by Black quarterbacks, noting that while some, like Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson, have never faced questions about their position, others, like Jackson, have had to fight against stereotypes and doubts about their capabilities. "Nobody was questioning whether Deshaun Watson was a quarterback. Nobody was questioning whether Patrick Mahomes was a quarterback. They were questioning whether Lamar Jackson was a quarterback," Smith pointed out.
This passionate defense of Jackson highlights a broader conversation within the NFL about race, representation, and the narratives surrounding Black quarterbacks. Smith’s insights resonate with many fans who recognize the historical context of these discussions.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL season progresses and college football takes the spotlight, fans are left to ponder the future of First Take and its beloved hosts. Will Smith and Qerim return to their roles, or will the show continue to feature a rotating cast of analysts? The uncertainty adds an element of excitement to the upcoming broadcasts.
In the meantime, the NFL community is abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming bowl games and the implications they hold for college players looking to make the leap to the professional level. As teams gear up for the playoffs, the stakes are high, and fans are eager to see how the narratives unfold.
With college football dominating the airwaves, the NFL’s storylines remain ever-present. Whether it’s the discussions surrounding player performances, coaching strategies, or the impact of social issues on the game, there is no shortage of topics to delve into. As the New Year approaches, one thing is clear: the passion for football, both college and professional, continues to thrive, captivating audiences and sparking conversations across the nation.
As we look forward to the next chapter in both college and NFL football, the excitement is palpable. Will we see Smith and Qerim back in their seats soon? Only time will tell, but for now, fans can enjoy the rich tapestry of football that unfolds before them.
