Amy Nelson

  (9:21 AM)

Hi guys, I'll be starting the chat at 10 am for Your Take. Send in any thoughts or questions you may have (or anything you'd like to say to Skip Bayless) and it could be read on the air.

Amy Nelson

  (9:44 AM)

And if you guys have any thoughts about Michael Strahan send 'em in...

Amy Nelson

  (9:59 AM)

OK guys let's get this started...

Amy Nelson

  (10:01 AM)

I don't know if there are any Giants fans out there, but I'd imagine that they were hoping for him to come back.

Camron from Glasgow, KY

If you already have it made, why come back to possibly a non-playoff team? There is a very good chance Dallas and Philadelphia finish ahead of them this year. It would be pointless to come back, he doesn't need money.

Matt (IN)

Strahan made the right move unless he's getting divorced again.

Carl (Texas)

It's good he stayed retired. Leave out on top.

Jacob (Findlay, Oh)

I am glad that Strahan stayed retired because he was a great defensive end and would hate for him to have a down year.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

I think people have to remember with Strahan that he recently went through some pretty serious personal problems. After winning a Super Bowl, it might be best not to deal with his family.

Jacob (Findlay, Oh)

Well if Strahan would have came back at least it wouldn't have been as bad as when Farve came back.

Brian (Sandusky, OH)

The Giants were not going to win the Superbowl this year anyways. Why Pay Strahan 8 million dollars to come back? You might as well ask Tiki Barber to come back too!

Chris (East Lansing)

Everyone knew Strahan would stay retired. He pretended to mull it over just for aesthetic value. He's been waiting to start his broadcasting career for awhile now, and he loves that beach house. Super Bowl winner, he's the most certain retiree in some time.

brian sandusky, ohio

It would be the same expectations for The G-Men as last year!

Cory from York, PA

I am very happy that Strahan will not come back. Now McNabb does not have a greater chance of getting injuried.

Nick from Carmel,NY

I think Michael Strahan is not needed because with Mathias Kiwanuka at defensive end and Renoldo Wynn on the other side they will be fine.

Antonio from Fort Lewis

I'm a Giants fan. I'll say that if Strahan would have came back it would have been a plus, but since he decided to stay retired then that cool also. Since when you retired on top as the champ and to come back and maybe not have a successful season you lose that feel when u go out on top.

Nick (Carmel,ny)

The Giants are fine because Michael Strahan was past his playing days last year. He should retired last year. The situation is like Brett Favre's except he doesn't want to come back

Amy Nelson

  (10:08 AM)

I think he should stay retired as well...i can't relate to how difficult it is to retire, but he's set for his life and he went out the best possible way.

Brick (Baltimore, MD)

Strahan has nothing else to prove in football. He went out on top, it was a good decision on his part to stay retired.

Brandon (Ellensburg, WA)

Strahan made the right decision. He would have been coming back for the wrong reason had he accepted the Giant's offer.

brian (sandusky, ohio)

He went out winning it all and is old and tired and beat up-great time to stay retired and pull in 2 million to talk on TV. Not a bad gig......

Jeremey(Louisville, KY)

The Mets are finished!

Amy Nelson

  (10:09 AM)

And it's our first post-mortem comment on the Mets this morning!

Brian Sandusky, Ohio

Michael Strahan - Hall of Fame playing career. Class act. TV Sportscaster. Walked away while he still could, as a champion, and on his terms. Strahan is everything that all of you who criticized Favre's decision were calling for. A player who realized that he has nothing left to prove and nothing more to gain as a player.

Cory(PA)

Giants will finish last in the division this year. I really think the Redskins will finish better. I would be shocked if the Giants even get a .500 record. I see a below .500 record.

Josh (Texas)

Strahan pulled a Jerome Bettis, which is way better than pulling a Brett Farve.

Brad (Grand Rapids, MI)

Come on guys, this is a non story. How interesting is it when someone turns down a job offer? The real story here is that the vaunted Super Bowl Giants defense is all but shredded and it doesn't look like they'll be able save it.

Monty (DC)

Strahan had a tough decision to make. Play a minimum of 16 grueling games or make $2 million a year for talking about football for a couple of hours on TV. Come on now. Him even thinking about coming back to the NFL was as fake as TO's tears.

Steve, Chicago

How do you still have a job? I still remember your admittance of being inept. Give up your HoF vote to someone who actually knows baseball

Amy Nelson

  (10:12 AM)

ooh and we have a fan! actually, Steve, i don't have a Hall of Fame vote. It takes 10 consectuive years of being in the BBWAA to vote. I'm sure I won't be around that long since I'm not very good...

brian Sandusky, Ohio

i'd rather get paid 2 million a year talking about The Giants, than getting kicked around on a team that won't win the Superbowl anyways!

Mike Colonia New Jersey

It must be nice to be able to turn down 8 mil!!!

Taylor (Los Angeles, CA)

Strahan went out on top and he should stay retired. He has nothing left to prove and if he came back he wouldn't have been in football shape and might have gotten injured.

Cory(PA)

The Mets? How about those Orioles. They still have a chance.

Joey from New york

I was wondering who would replace Michael Strahan on the giants as a leader?

Amy Nelson

  (10:13 AM)

Giants fans ..anyone know?

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Steve=Amy's biggest fan!

Brick (Baltimore, MD)

The Mets have no pitching and no heart. This just looks like a repeat of last year. Blow 1st place and no playoffs.

Carl B. (Coralville,Iowa)

if Strahan retired he would not have his Superbowl ring. He also felt that he could play one more year.

Joe (Kenmore, NY)

I'm glad he stayed retired. He went out on top by winning the Super Bowl. Plus the Giants would have to pay him an outrageous amount of money, for someone who is not in football shape at this moment. Brett Favre should have done the same.

Cory(PA)

Ask Kordell if he can come back to play. Maybe the Bears?

Amy Nelson

  (10:14 AM)

hmmm i love the many suggestions by bears fans. they seem to pop up every week..

Taylor (Los Angeles, CA)

Osi would've replaced Strahand i would think, but he's injured so the Giants will struggle this season.

Brian sandusky, ohio

Looks like your leader is going to be Eli Manning this year!

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

Even though Fox said they would support his return, he didnt want too miss out if youve seen the fox football commercial they show a roller coaster going threw his gap in his teeth and he just couldnt wait, hed rather be on fox commentating every week.

Josh (Pittsfield, MA)

The Giants will be fine this year. It's going to be tough losing Osi, but with Kiwanuka moving back to defensive end the defense will be still be as good as last year. They will still be fighting Dallas for the division.

Monty (DC)

The Mets losing is a heads up that they will choke once again and the Phillies will walk away with the division. They will then know it was never Willie Randolph's fault but it was the GM's fault for getting the players that are put out onto the field.

brian sandusky, ohio

I have one thing to say about The Mets: "2007". all sumed up with that!

Roger (Lufkin, Texas)

My comment is regarding the story of the 9 yr old who was banned from playing baseball. I think what they did was completely wrong. It sends the wrong message to a child to tell them "You're too good to play". Something like that could break a childs confidence and self esteem.

Matt (South Bend, IN)

Amy, offense isn't the problem for the Bears right now, their defense can't stop anyone.

Randy (New York City)

Hey Amy! I am a big fan you should be on everyday! As for my Yankees are done. They make me sick to watch. With the money coming off the payroll they need to change the make up of the roster. I think A-waste just hit into another double play at breakfast!

Amy Nelson

  (10:17 AM)

i was listening to the game on the car radio last night and i just laughed when i heard about a-rod grounding into the dp...he just can't win, and can't hit with RISP. Do Yankee fans lay blame on Giaradi at all?

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Offense is still a problem for the Bears. Their offensive line isn't very good, their receiving corps is a joke, and their starting QB is...Kyle Orton.

Stefan(Welsh,LA)

Does Skip have a brother named rick who has a cooking show on PBS?

Amy Nelson

  (10:18 AM)

yes, great mexican chef..

Sumner, WA

Giants are done this year! Yankees and Mets are done this year! Knicks are probably already done this upcoming season. Looks like NYC is riding on Favre! GO HAWKS!

Taylor (Los Angeles, CA)

The Mets choked in the end of last season and last nights game...so why should this season be different?

Tim NY

why is it always blamed on AROD? Plenty of other people who are paid a ton and havent produce. Abreu was investment, not to mention how much of the payroll. Anymore you cant get bye, buying the top older past their prime free agents and win in baseball anymore.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

It's really hard to put this one on Girardi. Look at the injuries he's had to deal with this season. Darrell Rasner, Sidney Ponson, and Carl Pavano? How many of them are pitching in pinstripes if not for injuries? All things considered, it's amazing that the Yankees are still even alive in the playoff hunt.

Chris (East Lansing)

Roger is right. ESPN should get that 9 year old banned for throwing too hard and hook him up with Randy Johnson. Let him see that being big isn't so bad, no matter what disgruntled, envious parents say.

Josh (Texas)

The league who banned the 9 year old because he's too good should be disbanded. I hope the parent sue their pants off. I can't believe people are so wimpy to forfeit a game because they're scared when a challenge comes their way. Nice message to send the kids.

Amy Nelson

  (10:20 AM)

Is it right to automatically sue? Seems as though the kid's family is now trying tomilk this 15 for all it can get...I still think it's wrong by the league but to sue?

Jeremey(Louisville, KY)

One more year like this for the Yankees and they will clean house.

Mike (Chicago)

how about those Cubs.

Sumner, WA

Amy, i don't think the fans can blame Giaradi right now. First year and has the same make-up and chemistry of the last few years. They have agruably the best hitter right now in baseball with A-rod, it's just not their time to shine. What goes up, must come down. GO REDSOX!

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

I'm going to laugh at everyone here when the Mets win the World Series, and I'm not even a Mets fan. Postseason baseball is a bunch of seven game series. If the Cardinals won it a couple years ago, anyone who makes the playoffs can.

Antonio from Fort Lewis, Washington

I don't blame the skipper blame the players....they are getting pay to play a game that alot of ppl love and would have play to about the league minimum just be on the roster.

Randy (NYC)

I blame part of it on Giradi! His use of the bullpen and his X and Os on the bench have been awful. He wont bunt with Damon. He has def been part of the problem. Arod is a curse we wont win with him here!

Randy (NYC)

I am on my way to tryout to be the QB for my 49ers. I cant believe how aimless and inept a legendary franchise has become. Now they added the overrated Mike Martz

Randy (NYC)

Hey can the Yankees sign the 9 year old he is better then Rasner or Ponson!

Cory(PA)

The 9-year pitcher has 3 more years until he can play in the LLWS. So how fast will he throw then? 75? 80? 85?

Taylor (Los Angeles, CA)

The 9 year old kid has a gift and they should let him use it. but instead they are making it seem more like a curse.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Rules like that are common in kids' sports. My son's football league has a rule that says you can't carry the ball if you're over 105 pounds, even if you're the same age as everyone. Otherwise, the game is no fun.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Uh Randy, Damon admitted that he can't bunt. Girardi can call anything he wants but the players have to execute.

Travis (Pennsylvania)

If I was an opposing QB for a team in the NFC East I'm pretty happy this morning that I don't have to see Strahan twice again this year.

Randy (New York City)

Amy first I am huge fan! You should be on everyday. Now on the my Yankees (who are done), they make me physcially sick. I think A-waste just hit into another double play at breakfast. This teams needs to rebuild. With all the expiring contracts they can redo the roster.

Amy Nelson

  (10:25 AM)

They will be quite a bit, with all the contracts coming off the books

brian sandusky, ohio

At least that 9 year old won't buckle under the pressure like AROD!

Monty (DC)

Skip don't listen to them about your suit. I would wear the same thing...if someone paid me to.

Jeremey (Louisville, KY.)

Amy we now have instant replay, what you think about that?

Amy Nelson

  (10:26 AM)

I think it's intersting...I'm sure it won't even come up in tonight's games, Isn't that always the way it works? With home runs i don't have a problem anything else, no.

Pat IA

How do you think both of MLB's Central Division play out? Do you think either or both will get the Division birth and the wild card birth into the playoffs?

Amy Nelson

  (10:27 AM)

Think Cubs will hang on and win it, Brewers wild card. But what do i know? I picked the Mariners to win the West...

Mike, Ohio

I definitely think that the league is wrong to not allow the kid to play, but let's not get carried away here either. Throwing 40 mph at 9 is no guarantee that he will be dominant as a 12 year old. He could've already peaked for all we know.

Randy (NYC)

Johnny they I wouldnt hit him lead off or make Damon and Cano (another non bunter) should be taking bunting practice. Giradi is the manager and must do what it takes

Mike Colonia New Jersey

I cant believe that a 9 year old pitcher is banned from little league! Its unbelievable!!!! Way to go PARENTS way to take away YOUR KIDS DREAMS!!!

Thomas (Sumner, WA)

I like instant reply, but like Peter Gammons said; "Let's just hope that instant replay doesn't start creeping into the in field."

Adam Griffith (Tampa, FL)

Mets will get the wild card Amy

Amy Nelson

  (10:28 AM)

Wow, that's faith after last night.

Randy (NYC)

I agree on the Cubs and Brewers. They will go on to meet in the NLCS! Amy you are better then the other Nelly!

Amy Nelson

  (10:29 AM)

hah, i remember when nelly first came out and someone bought me one of his posters to put in my room. we all thought he would be a joke...looks who's rich now.

CJ (Lackey,Va)

I feel that the parents should be proud that their nine year old has this amazing skill so young and should push for him to go to an older age division.It can only make him better

Damion (melbourne,FL)

Jay just asked when a major sport has changed the rules in the middle of a season, as reference to baseball replay. I would like to point out the NBA changed their ball back to the old style in the middle of the season.

Amy Nelson

  (10:30 AM)

good point...rarely do you see leagues admit mistakes, especially midseason

Taylor: NC

Amy, Mariners to win the West? Seriously?

Amy Nelson

  (10:31 AM)

yep, but i'm inept so that's probably why...

Mike (Brooklyn)

I love the Mets bashers coming out saying the Mets are going to miss the playoffs because of last night's loss. 11-4 in their last 15, including a mostly favorable schedule down the stretch. Have fun in Wrigley this weekend Phillies.

mike:(longisland,NY)

yea amy some of nellys oldschool country grammer right? haha that was a joke

Amy Nelson

  (10:31 AM)

yeah and i think he had some weird bandana and straw hat on the poster. i could be making that up, though...

Ryan (Cleveland, Ohio)

Mariners looked promising before the season, exspecially when they signed Bedard.

Christopher (L.I., NY)

The Yankees will make it into the playoffs somehow!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I would love to see the Mets stuck home for another post-season. I want them to get stuck paying Johan for seven years without winning a playoff game.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Mariners? Maybe Steve's right that you should be fired.

Amy Nelson

  (10:32 AM)

Hah!

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

Changing a ball back to the old one and changing how a game is officiated are two different things.

Amy Nelson

  (10:32 AM)

true, but i think the point was that it's just very rare for a league to admit a mistake...no?

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

Boy, am I lucky I'm not a delusional Yankees fan..they're done.

Carl B. (Coralville,Iowa)

NASCAR often has also changed the rules halfway trough thier seasons

Amy Nelson

  (10:33 AM)

intersting..but is that more because of safety?

Chad (Savannah, GA)

What do they put in the water in NYC? Yanks and Mets fans both posting that they will make the playoffs.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Mike from Brooklyn: Any team that can lose a seven game lead in 17 games cannot book its passage into the playoffs without some doubt.

Carl (Texas)

I don't know if putting the 9yr old with an older age group would do any good. Remember he probably hits and runs like a 9 yr old so it's kinda unfair to push him up just because his skills excel for his age level.

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

Like Kruk said last night, MLB should have waited til next season. Could create more controversy over games played earlier this season.

Adam Griffith (Tampa, FL)

It's all good Mets fans Johan is on the hill tonight and we'll be back in first place.

Matt (South Bend, IN)

Carl B., don't remind me that has ruined Toyota's season.

Jim Riggleman (Seattle)

Amy, if you were around this team you'd have never made that prediction. We stink!

Mike Colonia New Jersey

I cant wait for football to start!!!.............HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO!

Aaron Cohen (Cherry Hill, NJ)

I don't see what is so wrong about pushing this 9 year old up a level. They say the kids he faces would gain good experience from facing someone of his skill level, wont this 9 year old gain some good experience from being with players that are truely better than him?

Ryan (Mesa, AZ)

Nah. Its good timeing right before the playoffs.

Mike (Brooklyn)

Understood, but people, even Mets fans, are coming out of the woodwork declaring they are going to miss the playoffs after one loss, albeit a bad one. I'm sick of the knee-jerk reactions.

Amy Nelson

  (10:36 AM)

I think that's what David Wright said after the game..

Thomas (Sumner, WA)

Riggleman imposter, we do stink, but hey! We have a 2 game winning streak :)

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

True, the NBA admitted their mistake. I just don't think you "try to implement" something in the middle of the season. Give it to the umps in Spring Training to get used to how it works, not in the most important part of the season. MLB wouldn't admit that tho.

Brandon (Ellensburg, WA)

When you think about it, instant replay isn't really a rules change. It's just using technology to make the right call. Personally, I like the use of instant replay for home runs. It'll make the game more fair and it won't be used very often.

Amy Nelson

  (10:37 AM)

not a rules change, but a fundamental change in procedure. i don't think it can be looked at lightly...i know the umps don't take it lightly (for good reason)

brian sandusky, ohio

I am glad they finally made the right decision about instant replay. Jason Varitek has lost 2 homers this season on bad calls from the umpire, Dustin Pedroia has also lost one. That is 3 instances that I can remember from just games that I have seen where a replay could have changed the outcome.

pete (saratoga ny)

The Jets have done nothing in the pre season and they want to give Frave the day off tomorrow? That's craZy

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Can we stop talking about NASCAR and talk about a real sport...college football.

Amy Nelson

  (10:37 AM)

yeah but i know you're biased ted...

mike (LongIsland,NY)

yea amy david wright did say that... at least he didnt call met fans front runners though like a certain philly last years NL MVP haha

Taylor (Los Angeles, CA)

COLLEGE FOOTBALL STARTS TOMORROW!!!!!!!!

Amy Nelson

  (10:39 AM)

ll cool j just said "i'm not old school i'm not new school i'm classic." he's on the show now. great line.

mike (LongIsland,NY)

oh man amy is going to ignore us now while she cleans the drool off her face while LL is on

Amy Nelson

  (10:40 AM)

hah! funny ...i can't see him there are like 20 ppl inthe studio now

Amy Nelson

  (10:40 AM)

he said he loves going to boston with yankees hat on...big yankee fan.

brian sandusky, ohio

Get LL Cool J on first and ten against Skip and call it " Any Given First and Ten"

Amy Nelson

  (10:41 AM)

he lieks nhl live and in person...i know you gusy want your ll updates

Ryan (Mesa, AZ)

boxing!?

Thomas (Sumner, WA)

All women in the studio trying to see LL i bet

Amy Nelson

  (10:42 AM)

um, and the guys too! i saw more guys asking for his picture than the women (though we are outnumbered)

Taylor: (NC)

LL Cool J likes hockey. Wow, wouldn't have guessed that.

mike (LongIsland,NY)

yea well some of us are watching and chatting at the same time i mean my tv is rite next to my comp, LL looks even bigger in HD mite i add

Aaron Cohen (Cherry Hill, NJ)

LL only made it through 7 innings of the MLB all star game? That is ridiculous. That game was history. I was awake for every inning and I would had been more siked if I were actually there. He was a waste of a ticket.

Jedi (fort worth, tx)

Ladies love cool Jay, Jay

Amy Nelson

  (10:44 AM)

oh jay will love that!

Thomas (Sumner, WA)

LL vs Lennox Lewis PPV? I think LL can take him

Amy Nelson

  (10:44 AM)

he said he wouldn't so dont think it will happen...

Randy (NYC)

hahahah I got the Rod Carew one right! wow Marcelles is a rap machine

Amy Nelson

  (10:46 AM)

marcellus. knows his hip hop

Amy Nelson

  (10:47 AM)

they jsut played a hip hop lyrics quiz with ll and marcelus was helping him...

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

Jay needs some cool shades, like LL's

Amy Nelson

  (10:48 AM)

now skip and ll and marcellus aer debating

Joe (Lexington, ky)

Skip's in trouble now!

Cory(York,PA)

Oh snap. LL vs Skip

Carl (Texas)

Yes!! Let LL perform at the Super Bowl. The last good halftime show was Micheal Jackson.

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

here we go, LL's gonna knock Skip out!!!

Amy Nelson

  (10:49 AM)

overrate or underrate, any given sunday? that's teh debate.

Adam Griffith (Tampa, FL)

Skip looks a lil bit nervous

Amy Nelson

  (10:49 AM)

skip trying to diss the movie...overrated skip says!

Amy Nelson

  (10:50 AM)

you gotta give skip credit for dissing movie with ll right there...

Josh (Texas)

I loved Any Given Sunday. It was definitely underrated.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

I hate to say it, but Any Given Sunday as awful. That may be the only thing Skip is right on.

Randy (NYC)

I gotta say I agree with Skip its too over the top and its overrated

Brick (Baltimorre, MD)

Amy, I have to say the best thing I have ever seen on your show, LL COOL J, I loved it, and maybe he will shut Skip up for once. Thank You I loved it.

Amy Nelson

  (10:52 AM)

wow ll killing skip

Adam Griffith (Tampa, FL)

HAHAHA get off that tanning bed

Amy Nelson

  (10:52 AM)

said skip lays ina tanning bed doing research all day...

Joe (Lexington, ky)

I haven't seen Skip put in his place since Woody Paige was on the show!

Monty (DC)

If LL Cool J played football he would be a mix between Chad Johnson and TO. He would be flashy and let people know how good he is.

Josh (Texas)

That was awesome. Now if they can only get Lebron on 1st and 10. The ratings would fly through the roof.

mike (LongIsland,NY)

haha amy why is nelly comin up so much today??!

Amy Nelson

  (10:53 AM)

i don't know, must be my influence...

Thomas (Sumner, WA)

Can someone get Skip a cold towel? LL is taking him to school right now. If they were talking numbers though Skip would have the upper hand

Amy Nelson

  (10:56 AM)

ok back to sports...

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Skip just got owned, not leased.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I only wish I could have seen the beat down of Skip. It had to be classic.

Amy Nelson

  (10:57 AM)

amazing...seriously amazing. skip went right athim though, i give skip a ton of credit.

Charles (Bronx)

The real reason Skip didn't like Any Given Sunday is because Terrell Owens is in the movie

Amy Nelson

  (10:57 AM)

wow charles, call of the day! that's getting read on the air...

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

To answer the question at the break, Mark Sanchez will start, and if he gets hurt, Aaron Corp will get the nod over Mitch Mustain.

Josh (Texas)

Let's talk some college football. I don't know who's winning the title this year but I hope Ohio St. doesn't go to the title game again. I'm sick of seeing them go over and over again just to get blown out of the water.

Brent (Greenville, Tx)

There is no argument that Skip got completely demolished by LL Cool J. The best part is LL wasn't far off the truth.

Ian (Louisiana)

As a avid First Take viewer this has been one of the most entertaining shows I have seen in a long time.

Jarred (Baton Rouge, LA)

Skip's a brave man. He's willing to put his neck out there on the line even with a guy like LL in front of him in order to stand up for what he believes in.

Matt (South Bend, IN)

Don't question Mark Sanchez, as a Notre Dame fan I know he's good.

Carl B. (Coralville,Iowa)

I am too sick of OSU

Bill (Newport, RI)

To answer Josh in Texas, Who in the Big Ten can stop OSU this year? The Big Ten makes the ACC look like the NFC East

rick (summit,ms)

underrated!!as close to a real locker room as i've seen in a movie

Randy (NYC)

speaking of TO I rather have him then AROD at least TO made it to the super bowl arod will never see a world series!

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

I'm sick of everyone always sucking up to USC. Sure they are good, but there are other teams in the country. They should change the name to USCN, instead of ESPN, as much hype as they get.

Amy Nelson

  (11:01 AM)

hmmm, think ted and other sc people might have something to say abotu that...

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Matt is right. I was at ND Stadium when Sanchez treated the Irish D like a redheaded stepchild.

Chad (Savannah, GA)

OSU gets rewarded for playing in a weak conference by getting to go to the championship game, even with 1 loss.

Randy (NYC)

wow I cant believe how much leinhart has underachieved. I still rather have him then alex smith

Jarred (Baton Rouge, LA)

Mark Sanchez hasn't proven anything yet. He wasn't good enough to start over Booty. Until he proves he can actually lead the team for more than a few spotty times throughout the season, he won't be considered a decent quarterback.

Chad (Savannah, GA)

USC and OSU are good but put them in the SEC or Big 12 and they would not be considered as great as people do now. They would compete but not be the cream of the crop every year.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Nice. I LOVE it when people hate on SC. ESPN will start giving other teams more love when other teams go to six straight BCS bowls and win five of them.

Andy Greensboro Nc

Dear josh from texas are you kidding !!!!i hate to tell you but you out of luck if The ohio state lives up to the hype it will end up The champs . last year they where there a year early !!! BCS flaw !!!

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

As a Ducks fan, I am also sick of all the OSU, USC talk.

Matt (South Bend, IN)

It's not sucking up Rob...it's called giving respect where it's due

Johnny (Greenville, SC)

When did ESPN turn into MTV. I could care less about anybodys new album. I want to watch sporting news. Sportscenter isn't Letterman. If crap like this is what we have to look forward to with new "Live" broadcasts then lets pass. What's next a Michael Phelps reality show!

Amy Nelson

  (11:04 AM)

i can't hate on LL, that was good television...

Jarred (Baton Rouge, LA)

With all the talent that USC recruits each year, one would think that they could get a decent quarterback.

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

LSU plays Troy and App State...are you kidding me..what a joke.

Aamer (Chicago, IL)

Rob, its not hype, they get the attention because they are THAT GOOD!

Carl B. (Coralville,Iowa)

the Big Ten is not a weak confrence

Adam Griffith (Tampa, FL)

The Dodgers are done! My boy Manny can't do it by himself.

Amy Nelson

  (11:04 AM)

there are a few players who aren't helping the team chemsity int hat clubhouse...

Randy (NYC)

these college football debates are a waste! I cant follow a sport without a real champion. Its fake till there is a tournament its like boxing without one. It is like the akward jealous friend of college hoops!

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

Johnny needs a hug and a warm cup of ovaltine..simmer down.

Joe (Lexington, ky)

I agree with Chad. All this talk about USC and OSU. The only three letters that matter in college football are SEC!

Chad (Savannah, GA)

USC has gone to 6 straight bowl games becasue the PAC-10 is weak. Who is there that can compete? The 2nd place PAC-10 team would finish 6th, at best, in the SEC or Big 12.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Please, Chad. The only teams that beat SC are either in the Pac-10 or have Vince Young at QB. SC beat the tar out of Auburn and Arkansas four times, and beat Virginia Tech the year they won the ACC.

Brick (Baltimore, MD)

As a Raven Fan, I think Flacco will be just fine as the starting QB. Certainly no worse than Boeler or Smith. Flacco will give the Ravens a good chance to win.

Aaron Cohen (Cherry Hill, NJ)

I loved seeing the Phillies payback the Dodgers by sweeping them in that 4 game series.

Jarred (Baton Rouge, LA)

What's with all the love every season for USC? I know they are good, but they are talked about on ESPN every day. Which team is the only one to win 2 BCS championships?

Cory(York,PA)

It goes. Smith first, Boller second, and Flacco third

Bill (Newport, RI)

Don't mind Randy. He's in New York City which is to college football what L.A. is to the NFL.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Hey, Jarred. LSU's starting QB was on the JV team at Harvard two years ago.

rick (summit,ms)

usc would do no better than 4th in the sec

Amy Nelson

  (11:07 AM)

I know we're talking college football here but if you were at Yankee Stafium last night, would you have booed ARod?

Mike (Brooklyn)

Is Troy Smith really starting for Baltimore? Yikes. I hope he's still the starter when they play the Giants.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Keep in mind also that Los Angeles is a big market, while Baton Rouge...eh, not so much.

Jarred (Baton Rouge, LA)

Despite being an SEC fan, I have to give USC some respect. In a non biased standpoint, USC has been one of the best teams in the nation the past 10 years, despite playing for a weak conference.

Chad (Savannah, GA)

LSU also played VTech last year and Washington next year and still plays in the TOUGHEST conference. If you play in a weak conference, Pac-10 and Big-10, you have to go schedule tough OOC games. Look at ALL of the computer rankings from the past 5 years. They ALL have the SEC as the toughest conference. And, yes this will change but for now the SEC is the toughest conference. In 2 or 3 years it might be someone else but right now the SEC is head and shoulders above the rest.

Matt (South Bend, IN)

If I was as diehard as the Yanks fans are...I probably would have yes

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

Yes, I'm tired of A-Rod...and I'm a Yankees fan.

Carl B. (Coralville,Iowa)

no i would laugh cause ARod is a joke

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Amy: I'll be at Yankee Stadium Friday and if A-Rod does that, yeah I'm booing him. He's paid to produce when it counts and if he isn't then boo away.

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

A-Rod always seems to come up big when the Yanks are leading 10-0

Mike (Brooklyn)

I'm biased because I can't stand A-Rod, but after the crap season he's turned in so far, definitely.

Aaron Cohen (Cherry Hill, NJ)

As a Philadelphia Front Runner, I would had booed ARod. 0-5 with 2 DP balls is booing stats. When he goes 4-5 though and the Yanks win he sure as heck deserves to be cheered. All Fans should be allowed to boo when a player or team does poorly just as they are encouraged to cheer when a player/team does well.

Aamer (Chicago, IL)

As a Yankee fan, it hurts to see A rod play the way he has been latley. However, I would not have booed him. If anything Petit, was the one who let the umpire get to him!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Making well over $20 million per season and hitting under .250 with RISP. That's getting booed every time. It's too expensive for fans to attend a game because of contracts like that so the least they should be allowed to do is boo a poor performance.

Jarred (Baton Rouge, LA)

A-Rod tends to choke during the most crucial and important times. Against the Red Sox is both crucial and important.

Andy Greensboro Nc

A Rod , is one of the most talented player's of all time , His time will come and i belive the yank's fans need to be more concerned about the starting rotation Than A rod .

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

If you boo a player at all and they supposedly play for youre team you are not a true fan.

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

ARod is like a locust, he comes up big once every 7 years.

Brick Baltimore

Who realy cares about the Yankees anyway, they are done for the year and A Rod is a joke.

Mike (Brooklyn)

As big of a bum as he's been this year though, a lot of Yankees are having bad offensive years. Namely that joke Robinson Cano. Should have been demoted along with Melky the superstar.

Brent (Greenville, Tx)

It is bad when you like a Superstar, but hate his team. Such as A-Rod & the Yanks. I would want to Boo the Yanks, but cheer him.

Josh (Texas)

SEC is obviously the best conference but I honestly think that USC can compete with them if they were in the conference. USC always plays almost everybody and has the toughest out of conference schedule.

Jarred (Baton Rouge, LA)

If you deserve cheers, you deserve boos. Darn right A-Rod should get booed for such a bad performance.

Ian (Louisiana)

You can't boo a player who is a future hall of famer who goes out there and gives it his all. You boo a player who doesn't give 100 percent or a coach who makes a bad call.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Personally I like A-Rod but I'd still boo the poor performance.

Adam Griffith (Tampa, FL)

AROD is as talented as any baseball player on the planet, but doesn't come through in the clutch. I think the highest paid player in a sport should be the most clutch performer. With that said show Manny the Money next year NYY!

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

How about a player who is trying too hard? Can you boo them?

Charles (Bronx)

The Yankees have a $220 million payroll. If you are going to boo a yankee because getting a ton of money and not producing you could start booing as soon as you show up. There's no need to single out A-Rod b/c as bad as his season has been this year its still the best on the team

Mike (Brooklyn)

Jeremy in Louisville you couldn't be more wrong, and the only times I boo my own team are when someone is so egregiously bad, or for lack of hustle. I booed Willie plenty of times. Relative to A-Rod's talent level, he's been egregiously bad this season.

rick (summit,mississippi)

they should boo the yakees entire team because no one has been outstanding this year

Chad (Savannah, GA)

NY is a different world when it comes to sports and especially their Yankees. A-Rod knew what he was getting into when he resigned with them.

John (Clearwater, FL)

I would have been booing my you know what off Amy. This guy I dont think can even spell clutch. Oblviously last year he pumped up his stats to get his new contract. As a die hard Yankee fan since I was born, he makes me sick

Amy Nelson

  (11:19 AM)

wow that's a little harsh, John.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Actually Rick, some of the mid-season call ups have done great for the Yankees. Funny how the guys not making the big contracts are the ones playing fairly well in the Bronx.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Today I boo the CT Little League who isn't letting a nine-year old pitch. BOOO CT!

Aaron Cohen (Cherry Hill, NJ)

Merriman is a beast, he needs to do what he can to get well and 100% and come back with a vengeance for whatever team he is on.

Amy Nelson

  (11:21 AM)

I think it's ludicrous to think he should play on that.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

How does one "pump up his stats?" Is it a conspiracy with the pitchers? Come on. These guys try to get hits every time they get up.

Jacque. Bellingham Washington

It is absurd for the lpga to require their players to be proficient in english by 2009. The greatest example of this being un-american is any call bank in the U.S. that is automated. What is the first directive? push 1 for english...The LPGA is singling out the Koreans because they dominate the tour.

Amy Nelson

  (11:22 AM)

it's absurd, and kind of fundamentally wrong, I believe.

Chad (Savannah, GA)

I think this LPGA announcement is just a knee jerk reaction to losing the Annika event in Charleston, SC due to lack of sponsorship. It was the largest non-major purse and now is gone after 2 years due to lack of sponsorships.

Aaron Cohen (Cherry Hill, NJ)

I think they should know enough English where they could be able to have a post tour interview with them and be able to comprehend what they are saying.

Amy Nelson

  (11:24 AM)

Do you know how hard it is to learn another language? I do, and it's extremely difficult, and then facing the media? I don't know how baseball players do it, i have all the respect for them in the world. What's the bar? How do you determine someone has learened enough?

Josh (Texas)

What is LPGA did is a PR nightmare. In the long run they hurt themselves because they are an INTERNATIONAL group that plays many tournments outside of the country.

Jarred (Baton Rouge, LA)

In no sport do the athletes HAVE to know the native language of the country they are playing in. Yao didn't know right when he came to the US. That's what translators are for. Discriminating against athletes for the language they speak is ridiculous.

Matt (South Bend, IN)

I understand why they're doing it Amy, because they're tough to market to the American public, but yeah I don't like it.

Amy Nelson

  (11:25 AM)

It shouldn't be a requirement...MLB doesn't make it a requirement, but they provide it to all their players

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

The LPGA is based in the US right? The language we speak here and what this country was founded on is English, right? It's not too much to ask. We are expected to learn other languages if we go to other countries.

Jack, Bronx

Absurd? not at all. Having LPGA players at least be able to conduct interviews in English would be an immense boost to promoting the product.

Amy Nelson

  (11:26 AM)

And I say the same thing to that: to make it a requirement is ridiculous.

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

The LPGA is on to something. All that's standing in between them and Super Bowl type ratings are a handful of ladies learning English. They're on the precipice of being trillionaires.

Amy Nelson

  (11:26 AM)

i wonder if your sarcasm translates...

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

So Aaron is really interested in post tour interviews where they tell you if they played well or badly? Really? Give me a break.

Tom (Chicago)

It's essentially racist, because some of the better players on the LPGA are Korean. I understand it from the marketing standpoint, but maybe they should provide English lessons or something, rather than requiring it.

Bill (Newport, RI)

Dear LPGA, To solve the problem I suggest employing translators. I believe there are native Korean-speakers in the United States, but if you have trouble finding them, there is a large Korean population in British Columbia. Sincerely, Rational and Reasonable People

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

The Olympics were based in China. Did Kobe Bryant have to learn Chinese?

Andy Greensboro Nc

What ? that could be the dumpest thing I have ever herd . The lPGA has lost thier minds ! What's next only being allowed to play if you have blond hair and blue eye's ?

Taylor (Los Angeles, CA)

Alot of baseball players can only speak spanish or japanese and its not a problem, so why is it in lpga?

Jack, Bronx

Do you know how hard it is to promote a league where no one in America knows even half (maybe more) of the top 10, because the sport can't market those players at all?

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

What the LPGA should do is the same thing that beach volleyball does: make the uniforms smaller and have some cheerleader types dancing around between shots.

Amy Nelson

  (11:29 AM)

yep, that'll do it!

Matt (South Bend, IN)

The problem Amy, you can't keep them out of the majors, even with that rule. So in that sense it's pointless.

Efrain (Bayonne NJ)

I bet A-Rod wishes he only spoke spanish.

Amy Nelson

  (11:30 AM)

hmmm, but i think boo translates.

Chad (Savannah, GA)

Americans are so pompous about their language. Maybe it is because this country is so large and we aren't surrounded by other languages. Go to Europe and see the effort that is made ther to communicate, and be polite about it, in other languages.

Amy Nelson

  (11:30 AM)

we are so lucky to have english as a language that is spoken worldwide. imagine if you're italian and you travel all throughout asia? english is usually spoken in most places...

Joe (Lexington, ky)

As Americans we can be so arrogant. Why should we make them speak our language. If you want to know what they are saying, try learning their language a little. We should thank them for making the LPGA relevant.

Chris (East Lansing)

It's not an issue in baseball because there are 20 guys on the team that can speak english, it's a team. Golf is a solo sport and if people can't relate to or understand a player, that player doesn't really matter in a lot of people's eyes. I think it's wrong to suspend, but I think it's right to encourage, for the sake of the sport and to make these women money.

Randy (NYC)

The LPGA needs to market itself better. They dont showcase the stars other then Michelle Wie and she isnt even good. They need to find a way to market the events better

Jarred (LeBlanc)

You can't keep certain athletes out of the majors because the owners and managers want them there. They want the best players even if they can't speak English. The LPGA doesn't have coaches or owners.

Brick (Baltimore)

As far as the LPGA goes I agree with their desicion. If an american goes to another country you have to speak their language. They should have to ours when they come here.

Amy Nelson

  (11:32 AM)

no you don't. what countries have you been to as a professional athlete?

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Brick, English is spoken almost everywhere outside the US.

Hayden (Logan,UT)

Who cares about the LPGA anyways? There probably doing this for publicity.

Carl (Texas)

This is all about money. That's the only reason why the LPGA is doing this. This is why I hate sponsorships. Before you know it Amy will have a This post is brought to you Toyota sign before every post on here.

Amy Nelson

  (11:33 AM)

oh don't think they don't think abuot that !

Larry (Bloomington, IN)

its not required to speak a different language, its just helpful. Phelps learned a little chinese before Beijing, it was his choice

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

If that's true, then Ted and Amy shoot down their arguments. Why is it a big deal for these players to learn it if they probably already speak it?

Amy Nelson

  (11:36 AM)

i wouldn't say they speak it, not all of them and to varying degrees.

Brandon (Winona, MN)

You do realize over half of the people who live in America don't speak english?

Chad (Savannah, GA)

The LPGA has tried to keep up with the PGA and cannot do so. They are now backpedalling to see what can work and have dug themselves into a PR nightmare with this one.

Brick (Baltimore)

None as a professional athlete but went to several countries as a member of the Army, and you do have to learn their language when you go there.

Amy Nelson

  (11:37 AM)

Ok, but professional athletes are living in a somewhat insulated world, where they are catrered to and protected ...it's not like they have to intereact much with locals unless they want.

Mark (NJ)

I dont care if they speak jibberish. I ain't watching womens golf regardless.

Nate (Madison)

I blame ESPN for this language rule. Why? I dunno, just seems like the thing to do.

Hayden (Logan,UT)

well.....Phelps is not human.

ben (michigan)

In golf they do have to interact with the locals on pro-am day which is required for all players.

Nate (Madison)

I haven't really read up on the rule, but I doubt they are making them become fluent in English. Probably just certain terms, like a elementary level at the least. Honest truth this is kind of a bad rule, but it also has it's benefits.

Rob (Lewistown, PA)

Playing a professional sport is a priveledge, not a right. Maybe thats how Yao and the other players that learned English look at it. Maybe they learned it because they are playing here and wanted to speak the language spoken here?

Amy Nelson

  (11:39 AM)

perhaps...but there are international tournaments. they all aren't in the US...

Josh (Texas)

Is it that hard to get a translator? Seriously that would solve everything right there. Sponsorships should be worried about bringing the best players to their tournment not shoving them away. This ain't smart no matter how you look at it.

Hayden (Logan,UT)

no offense Amy, but the only womens sport I can watch is Volleyball.

Amy Nelson

  (11:39 AM)

how bout lacrosse???

Ted (Flossmoor, IL)

Brick, if people in the armed forces all learned Arabic, why was there such a need for translators?

Chad (Savannah, GA)

When visiting a foreign country it is nice to know a few phrases to get you buy. I speak 2 languages but know how to ask " Do you speak/understand English?" in about 8 others. You will be suprised at the difference in reaction I get from people compared to others that I see walk into somewhere and just start assuming they speak or have a menu in English.

Amy Nelson

  (11:50 AM)

sorry guys the chat froze

Brett, New York

Sloppy work Amy. 80%, not less than 50% as Brandon suggests, of Americans speak English.

Amy Nelson

  (11:52 AM)

oh i posted because i figured people would want to correct the record...

Randy (NYC)

Amy its ok I hope the pic with LL Cool J looks good

Amy Nelson

  (11:52 AM)

hah he's gone, but i'm hearing rumblings he may be back to take on skip...

Amy Nelson

  (11:56 AM)

ok guys thanks for writing in today i'll post my ll pic next week. see you next wednesday.