First Take

Latest Episodes:

Hour 1: SEC & Big Ten Approve Ban on Pro Players Returning to College Aug 26, 2026

Show notes

First Take begins with a discussion on the approved bans of pro players returning to school by two of the biggest conferences in collegiate sports. Then a deep dive into the NFC North, are the Lions the best team? What is Jordan Love's ceiling? Next, will Mahomes & the Chiefs bounce back this season or is the dynasty coming to an end?

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Hour 2: Another Browns Blunder?? Aug 25, 2026

Show notes

First Take resumes with Evan Cohen filling in for Stephen A. Did the Browns make a massive mistake going with Deshaun Watson over Pro Bowler Shedeur Sanders? Then, Paul Finebaum joins to discuss the current College Football coaches on the hottest seat entering the 2026-2027 season. Next, Field Yates joins to tell you how to win your Fantasy Football leagues this year.

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Hour 1: What Are Your Thoughts on Deshaun Watson's Apology? Aug 25, 2026

Show notes

First Take begins with two stumbling pigskin powerhouses. The NCAA is in the thick of another eligibility controversy, while the Browns named a QB who hasn't won in 5 years as their starter. Then, C.J. Stroud looks to bounce back from a season in which he slid over 15 spots in our QB power rankings, and potentially cost himself tens of millions of dollars. How well must he play for the Texans to be Super Bowl contenders? Next, UnSportsmanLike's (6AM-10AM on ESPN2/ESPNU) Evan Cohen breaks down the Ravens schedule.

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Hour 2: Deshaun Watson Named Browns Starting QB!!! Aug 24, 2026

Show notes

First Take resumes with the Browns naming Deshaun Watson starting QB! He hasn't been good in 5 years, and is afraid of fans booing him! Is starting him the correct decision? Then, Paul Finebaum hops on to talk Indiana and if they may be underrated heading into the season... Next, coming off of the news of Deshaun starting, Kevin Clark picks the Browns schedule!

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Hour 1: Deshaun Watson Named Browns Starting QB Aug 24, 2026

Show notes

First Take begins with a simply BLASPHEMOUS decision by the Cleveland Browns. Deshaun Watson takes the reins week one in an attempt to finally prove to the Browns he can play QB. Is he deserving of a 6th chance, or are the Browns making a monumental mistake by not starting Shedeur? Then, Ben Johnson seemed irrationally angry at Caleb Williams for missing Colston Loveland on a simple seam route. Are his comments something or nothing? Next, how confident are you in the Bucs this season?

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Hour 2: Did Mendoza or Stroud Shine Brighter? Aug 21, 2026

Show notes

First Take resumes with Mendoza vs. Stroud! Which QB impressed our experts more? Then, LSU alum Swagu picks their schedule! You'll be SHOCKED to see which game he has them losing! Next, Jerry Jones speaks up on fighting! He will fine any Cowboy responsible for causing a ruckus at joint practices!

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Hour 1: Are Raiders Right To Keep Starting QB In The Dark? Aug 21, 2026

Show notes

First Take begins with the Raider rumination! Mendoza or Kirk? Number one overall pick, or 15 year veteran? With subpar o-line play and an abysmal receiving core, is it better to keep Mendoza sidelined until his team improves, assuring the young Hoosiers' confidence isn't flushed down the MGM Grand drain? Then, Kevin Clark picks the Cowboys schedule! How many more losing season can Jerry suffer? Next, Dan Campbell's time is running low. Jared Goff racks up top 10 QB stats annually, while Jahmyr Gibbs is the top fantasy prospect in the league! Yet, the Lions still haven't reached a Super Bowl... Is this the year?

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Hour 2: Are The Eagles or Patriots More Dangerous? Aug 20, 2026

Show notes

First Take begins with the NFC's and AFC's most dangerous offenses! Which team will convert more explosive plays, more 60 yd runs, more trick plays leading to wide open touchdowns: Patriots or Eagles? Then, perhaps our overindulgence into the Vikings electric QB battle between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy has us forgetting about their immense untapped potential as NFC contenders? Next, Jordan Rodgers picks Texas's schedule!

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Hour 1: Why Does Jalen Hurts Hate A.J. Brown? Aug 20, 2026

Show notes

First Take begins the Patriots and Eagles joint practice! Quinyon Mitchell shutdown former teammate A.J. Brown. Jalen Hurts refused to exchange pleasantries with his former star WR teammate. Beef! Why do these two have so much disdain for one another? Then, Shedeur's upcoming preseason start! Here's the scenario: one QB is coming off of a mediocre rookie season making 5th round money. The other is coming off of 6 straight mediocre seasons and two torn ACLs but makes $50,000,000. Which one should start? Next, Myron Medcalf weighs in on the NCAA granting players who participated in training camps the option to go back to school!

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Hour 2: Do You Consider Jordan Love A Great QB? Aug 19, 2026

Show notes

First Take resumes with an all-time Jordan Love debate! Is he Good? Great? Elite? Trash? Mediocre? Is not having him in your top ten blasphemous? Then, Roger Goodell has "no doubt" about an NFL team being based outside of the USA within a few years. Are we pro or anti expansion? Next, Mad Dog is MAD at Jayden Daniels number issue, Tyrese Haliburton's unrealistic outlook on his small market, finals choking Pacers, and Little League teams treating a New Jersey slugger like he's prime Melky Cabrera!

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