Amy Nelson

  (9:27 AM)

We'll be chatting at 10 a.m. ET on First Take, so don't miss it!

Amy Nelson

  (9:55 AM)

Hi Guys, We are going to get the chat started very soon. I know LeBron will be a hot topic, as will Matt Cassell/Tom Brady trade talk and anything else you want to say, or tell Skip Bayless. So send in your comments and questions and I'll read a few on air.

Amy Nelson

  (10:05 AM)

Ok let's get it started today...

Lance (New York, N.Y.)

I thought I'd like to share a little story to kick things off. I'm trying to find someplace to eat before going to watch the Cavaliers-Knicks game live. I decide on having Nathan's famous hot dogs. It was good and then I went to the game. Little did I realize that on a corner I missed, FREE HOT DOGS WERE GIVEN AWAY!!! Do you know who gave them? It was none other than Nike and the LeBron James machine. With all due respect to Cleveland fans, I never felt so giddy and agonized at the same time. The worst thing about this is we still have 582 more days to endure the torture before July 1, 2010. P.S., they were giving "Witness" T-shirts as well. I feel disappointed in myself for missing all of this.

Amy Nelson

  (10:06 AM)

I was watching the pregame and couldn't believe it when they said that. Pretty awesome

Kevin Il

Knicks are again going to put everything into one guy?? how is starbury??? i rest my case

Amy Nelson

  (10:08 AM)

thought it was intersting when leebron said he wouldn't take a pay cut

Jake (Syracuse)

Memo to all Knick fans, if Jersey moves to Brooklyn, he will be going there, dont get your hopes up

Adrian, (Houston, Texas)

The perfect place for Lebron should play is the Houston Rockets. Ron Artest contract ends this season and Tracy McGrady's contract ends the same time as LeBron's. Coincidence? Houston is in the top ten in market size and will play alongside Yao Ming and a young Rockets team. The Rockets would have tons of cap space for LeBron. With a good coach in Alderman and a team that makes the playoffs, LeBron definitely should not rule out Houston.

Chris (Philadelphia)

How can you compare Starbury to Lebron. Starbury was washed up when he got to New York whereas Lebron will be coming into his prime.

Amy Nelson

  (10:11 AM)

agreed...i think thepoint was that putting everyting into one player is part of what has the knicks in this position. that and a whole host of other things...

Kevin (Houston)

Lebron's ego is the only thing bigger than the paycheck he is about to receive

mike (new york)

i think lebron james will defintaly be a new york knick or nj/brooklyn net. they will brin in another super star like bosh or stoudamire and the knicks will be the next up and down the ccourt team like the suns of old ... except the knicks will win a championship

Kevin Il

Labron Labron Labron i got one word for skip KOBE

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

LeBron to the Rockets? Seriously? New York is better for making money off of the court and the Nets don't cut it. LeBron will be a Knick.

mike (new york)

they knicks will bring in atleast one other all-star with lebron james and lebron will go to ny because they will pay him and he loves the city

Preston (Prudhoe Bay, Alaska)

Trade Lebron James NOW!! Get as many first round picks as you can.... His bags are all but packed in Cleveland. Start a bidding war for his services. You won't be able to get much next year.

Nathan Daytona Beach Fl

I just say to cleveland just trade him Im sick of this story let him go play in new york and let him not win in a diffrent city

Chris (Denver)

Since when did basketball become an idividual sport? If the knicks wanna championship learn from last year Celtics

Chris (Philadelphia)

How are they going to bring in bosh or stoudamire...You are just saying things that don't even make any sense.

Amy Nelson

  (10:16 AM)

i dont understand how that would happen...

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Why does everyone say that NY is the place to make money off the court. Last I checked Lebron has been in Cleveland for 6 years and I'm pretty sure he's still making money in endorsements.

James (Va)

If LeBron had gone to college and got a bit more educate, he would now realize NY is not where he wants to be

Amy Nelson

  (10:16 AM)

And why is that?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

No one is going to trade with the Cavs knowing that LeBron is becoming a FA and the Cavs aren't going to trade him anyway because they want to get all they can out of him. It isn't like his contract is up at the end of this season.

Peoria il

TRADE BRADY ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!! CAssle was the backup for the reason. send him to detroit or buffalo

Jake (Syracuse)

Cassell will be the starting QB in Philly next year

Amy Nelson

  (10:17 AM)

Ah ha! That will be intersting...

KYLE (pa)

Lebron will play over seas. did u see what players are getting to play overseas and not just the paycheck

Amy Nelson

  (10:18 AM)

um how do i say this? NO WAY

James (Va)

NY is a poison to good players

Kevin (Houston)

If the NBA had a franchise tag like the NFL Cleveland should continuously franchise lebron just to keep him from leaving.

steven (kentucky)

you cant win the whole thing with one guy but he is a great player

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Cassel in Philly would be funny. After his first INT and verbal beating, he'll be begging to be released.

Brandon (Minnesota)

Trade Brady because its obviously just the system. ANd you could get a couple high round draft picks for him.

Amy Nelson

  (10:20 AM)

it so isn't just the system. so you're saying cassell is just as good as brady?

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

McNabb will be gone after this year, and will make a play for Cassel.

Peoria IL

uncertain future with brady? Are you kidding me? I would lose so much respect. How bout making the nfl a better place send him to buffalo. so we can have another team in the mix for AFC. make every game fun to watch. well maybe not the lions.

Lance (New York, N.Y.)

Chris from Philadelphia, the trades on Friday cleared over $27 million dollars of committed salaries for 2010. As long as they leave that cap space untouched, they have almost enough space for 2 max contracts. That's where Chris Bosh, Amare Stoudemire, or Dwyane Wade come in.

Greg M (Delaware)

Cassel will be a raider or a niner next year. Philly won't give up on Kolb that quickly

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

Mcnabb pride is hurt, we know what that means he will try to do too much which will result in injury or losing his starting job for good.

Gray (Chicago)

Matt Cassel = Scott Mitchell Part 2.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I'll be happy to have McNabb as the Vikings QB next season. Hand the ball to AP, throw a few 15-yard outs every now and then. I see good thinks in Minnesota if he is running the on-field show.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

I just want to answer the question that was just posted on first and ten. what have i learned about lebron james? well he is one of the top 3 players in the assocation, he has the cavs in second place in the eastern conf. and HE IS STILL IN CLEVELAND!!!!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

People are forgetting that Isiah isn't in charge in New York any more. Trust me, Donnie Walsh knows what he is doing and there will be help for LeBron if he chooses to play for the Knicks.

Kevin (Houston)

You people are seriously over valuing Cassel the system and scheme the patriots are using is what makes him have the stats he's having.

Chris (Philadelphia)

Cassel has one of the best offensive lines in the NFL and two very good receivers in Welker and Moss, so lets not give Cassel all te credit.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

The Eagles will want somebody who has proven they can play in the NFL, and Kolb hasn't done that - and probably won't by the end of this year. But McNabb is gone, believe that. He has hated Philly since he got booed in the draft, and still hasn't got over it.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Being from Ohio, I just want to say one thing to Lebron. If you leave your home state of Ohio you will be the most hated man in the state. Yes, you will move in front of Art Modell. I would hate to see how the fans of Cleveland would treat him if he does decide to leave.

Amy Nelson

  (10:26 AM)

Josh, My dad grew up in Cleveland and that's hard for me to believe...

Lovie Smith (Chicago)

I like Orton and all, but it is time for McNabb to come home.

Amy Nelson

  (10:26 AM)

Thanks, Lovie.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Chris: On the other hand, who does Cassel have helping him with the running game? BenJarvis Green-Ellis?

Amy Nelson

  (10:26 AM)

Theyve never had a great running back...

Garrius (La Grange North Carolina)

Matt Cassel will command to much money to be a back up in New England. Brady won to many big games in a 7 year span. They also draft Kevinj O'Conell in the 3rd round of the past draft so they probably kenw Cassel leaving was a huge possiblity

Gray (Chicago)

Oh no, hated in Cleveland? One more reason not to ever go there.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Andy Reid isn't going anywhere Skip, get over it. 3 more years at almost 17 mil owed, you think Jeff Lurie's going to cough up another 20 mil to bring someon else in? Who are the Eagles going to get to coach, Charlie Weis?

Chris (Philadelphia)

THE EAGLES WILL START KOLB NEXT SEASON!! He hasn't even been given a chance and they are not going to get a new QB. They need receivers and a new offensive line because both offensive tackles contracts are up this year and one of them being big JOHN RUNYAN!!

Kevin peoria il

USC Quarterbacks are all well coached and cassell and leinart are both good. leinart needs to grow up. wont be long until booty takes the feild in the nfl

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Come to Minnesota, Donovan. Climate controlled football guaranteed eight times each year and the best part, you won't have to listen to the Philadelphia fans!

Lance (New York, N.Y.)

Josh is absolutely right. While I will continue to fantasize about LeBron in New York, Cleveland is a contender this year. That said, GM Danny Ferry MUST use Wally Szczerbiak's expiring contract to get another excellent player for the Cavaliers in order to really compete and give LeBron the idea that the team wants to give him an excellent chance at winning.

Amy Nelson

  (10:30 AM)

I just don't understand why this is an issue. Just because he went to NY lastn ight? This can't possibly be talked about for the next two years can it?

Paul (Ohio)

News Alert.......Rich Kotite to return as Eagles head coach

Amy Nelson

  (10:31 AM)

sweet.

dave (nj)

cleveland will NEVER be a contender with lebron because he doesnt have a supporting cast around him

Chet (LA)

If the Eagles want to make a splash, they should fire Andy Reid and bring in BILL COWHER to coach them next season. Move from Pitt to Philly.

Amy Nelson

  (10:32 AM)

I know a friend of mine is pining for Cowher to go to the Chargers...

Donte Chicago, IL

Skip I love your opinions but there is nothing wrong with McNabb joking during a press conference. It is our faults as fans that we have taken sports to a different level where people can't have fun with it anymore. Everything has to be so serious.

Amy Nelson

  (10:32 AM)

I agree...I mean please. Let the man have a sense of hunor.

souza (tampa, fl)

cowher will be tha jags new coach next yr

Jonathan (Orlando,FL)

Theres no way pats will trade brady hes one of the best qb in nfl histroy

Chris (Philadelphia)

Amy here in Philly we have established that the laughing during press conference is a defense mechanism so he doesn't have to answer the question.

Amy Nelson

  (10:34 AM)

Well of course it is...still doesnt' mean he can't have fun. Better than him being a total jerk

Chet (LA)

The talk of trading Brady is just stupid. He's the best QB of his generation. Just give it a rest already. he's not going anywhere.

Jake (Syracuse)

I think Cowher was waiting for Fox to get fired in Carolina, so he could stay close to his family, but that wont be happening unless they dont make the playoffs after there good start.

Jimmy (Otto, IL)

Vick should forget about returning to the NFL and consider the Arena League.

Amy Nelson

  (10:36 AM)

I totally disagree. I think the man should be back in the NFL as soon as possible. Yes what he did was wrong, but he paid for it and I think the holier-than-thou attitude by fans and the media is comlpletly unfair. Just my opinion. I think it'd be a great storyline to see him return...

skip (west palm beach,FL)

i think he should appreciate still having his job and embrace that so he can keep his job next year or have an opprotunity to go to a better team ... like thee vikings

Chet (LA)

I thought the Phillies getting a championship would shut up all the Philly fans. I guess I was wrong. They'll never be happy!

Jim (Philly)

I'm sorry, but nobody will ever be more hated that Art Modell. He took an entire team that was founded in Cleveland from the Cleveland. LeBron is one person. Let him make his millions elsewhere.

Jasko (Detroit Michigan)

MATT CASSEL IS GOING TO BE IN DETROIT NEW YEAR.

Drew Rosenhaus (Bristol)

Next Question..

q (the beach)

Cowher doesnt live in Pitt anymore....he's in raleigh, nc

Christopher (San Antonio)

Matt Cassell was a back up at USC for a reason. The system he plays in, along with the supporting cast in New England is the reason for the success he is having. In a similar situation at USC, Cassell couldn't even get a snap in. Of course Pete Carroll said great things about him in the press conference, would anyone have expected to hear him say anything negative about Cassell?

Jake (Syracuse)

Amy, he served jail time for do fighting, yes it happens all over the country but its wrong. The man should be chased by pitbulls in his workouts for NFL teams.

dave (nj)

wrong amy,vick shouldnt be in the nfl

Amy Nelson

  (10:39 AM)

Why? I think that's ridiculous. He didn't murder any human beings? He didn't kill someone in a DUI (like other NFL players have) ... yes, it was wrong. But we need to get off the soapbox. The man deserves another chance. I might not be welcome back to my job but comparing that is foolish. It just doesn't work when it comes to Pro sports.

Fred (Minnesota)

I don't understand some of the people on here! If you admit that Cassell is a product of the system, then doesn't that mean the system works? Why is that bad? Why is that a reason to sit him? Trady Brady and get some worth!

Peoria il kevin

have we leanred nothing from pac man??? he will notr change.

Amy Nelson

  (10:40 AM)

Who says these two men are the same at all? Vick has spent time in prison. It's totally different, I think that comparation is way off.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

if they gave pacman a 5th chance, they have to give vick a second.

dave (nj)

he was never a good qb when he was in the nfl and what he did to those poor animals was sick and it should be done to him

Amy Nelson

  (10:41 AM)

of course it was, but it's also part of a culture. I'm not saying it's right, but I think we need to put this in perspective. Beating a woman is a whole lot worse but athletes get away with doing that all the time and there aren't any represussions...

Kevin Peoria

not holier than thou. if you were a doctor and did something similar would the same hospital invite you back????? arena to prove your self first.

Thomas(Berwick, PA)

Here's the problem I see. People are jumping all over McNabb, but those people aren't jumping all over Reid. I think they deserve equal blame on this. Reid needs to bring balance to that offense, using the running game more and they would at least be different. It's easy to keep a team down when you're a defense if said team is throwing it 60 times a game.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Can someone ask Jon Ritchie to play fullback for the Eagles for the rest of the year? If he's not busy or anything...

q (the beach)

Vick will def be back in the NFL, probably as a wr or kr in my opinion

Amy Nelson

  (10:43 AM)

what makes you say that?

Kevin Peoria

he would benifit the wildcat o. but he has not earned the right. so many players dream to be in the nfl from the days of pop warner. and for him to disrespect the oppertunity those people were denied means he has to earn it with more than a prison term. that repays debt to society not to nfl

Matt (Baltimore)

Matt Jones got caught with cocaine and still hasn't been suspended by the league and you guys want to keep Vick out for dog fighting? Doesn't make sense

Amy Nelson

  (10:45 AM)

no kidding. the double standard is ridiculous.

Terence (cleveland)

GIVE VICK A CHANCE!

Dan (Buffalo, NY)

Reinstate Vick, but not until 2010. If he gets out in July, he shouldn't get to come back to a team right away.

Amy Nelson

  (10:46 AM)

i could see that. he probably needs the time to get into game shape no? I know he's been working out ... but still.

skip (west palm beach,FL)

spending time in jail is punishment enoungh... he will and should get another chance to play in the nfl

Jake (Syracuse)

Vick and Pacman are 2 totally different cases, but i do agree on the DUI that killed someone, Leonard Little right?

Amy Nelson

  (10:46 AM)

yes leonard little. i mean, seriously -- he killed a woman.

jonathan (frankfort,ky)

vick lied about all that he did wrong, he should be allowed back in the nfl

Fred (Minnesota)

When was Pacman in jail? He wasn't. This is why there is a legal system. He was tried, convicted, and will have served. If people don't like the U.S. government system that is a whole different issue. Welcome back Michael!

Jake (Duluth)

Vick should be banned for life, just like Pac Man. Playing in the NFL is a privelage. And they dont deserve to be in it.

David(Dayton,OH)

I think Vick's getting reinstated back into the league should have a lot to do with how he has changed as a man,on the inside and his state of mind.If he truely can show remorse for what he did,and acknowledge his wrong's and show a desire to change his image and being REAL with everyone,then he deserves a chance.God only knows Pacman Jones is getting one more chance that's one more too many!

q (the beach)

bc Vick was already inaccurate as a qb and i dont think that would change.....hes still fast and hard to tacckle in the open field

Evan (Menomonie, WI)

Here is how you keep LeBron in Cleveland. With a new huge contract, you make him part owner of the team. This is the only way Cleveland can keep pace with New York's mega offer.

Rich Rodriquez (Ann Arbor, MI)

The people in this chat need to get lives.

Kevin (Houston)

All sports proves is that it doesn't matter your character or the crimes you commit as long as you can contribute you have a job and that isn't how it should be.

Amy Nelson

  (10:51 AM)

If you go to prision and pay for your crime, why can't you be given another chance? Especially if you're remorseful?

Chris (Philadelphia)

Including yourself Rich.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

It's this easy. Vick is reinstated and if he is ever convicted of another crime, misdemeanor or felony, he never sets foot on an NFL field again.

Andy (SoCal)

I think that VIck got a raw deal. And there are several teams out there that will give him a shot

dave (nj)

i believe vick is not remorseful amy

Amy Nelson

  (10:53 AM)

how do you know that?

bob stoops (norman,ok)

so do we deserve to be in the bcs title game people? and by the way we also should be ahead of texas, we blew out tech 65-21 thank you

Fred (Minnesota)

People fail to understand that playing in the NFL requires someone to want you. I highly doubt that Vick will be a walk on. He will have to petition, be accepted, and be offered a job. This isn't easy!

Amy Nelson

  (10:54 AM)

I think it's easier than some make it out to be...

Andy (SoCal)

how can he not be remorseful he has lost everything!

Casey (Lake Mary, FL)

Per Kevin in Houston if you break one law you should never be allowed to work again. WOW. The point of going to jail is to pay for your crime. Let the legal system handle any criminal activity and the NFL handle fines for endzone celebrations.

Chet (LA)

How can you say Vick doesn't deserve another chance? He paid his price to SOCIETY. All of you people are basically saying that someone can't change. Dog fighting is very common in the United States. Vick made a major mistake, but he's paid the piper and he deserves another shot in the NFL.

Amy Nelson

  (10:55 AM)

totally agree.

Jake (Duluth)

So if your a laywer who just got out of jail for dogfighting, you think that they should get another chance to be a laywer again?

Amy Nelson

  (10:55 AM)

A lawyer would lose his right to practice,. you can't compare,. Lawyers takes oaths to uphold the law.

q (the beach)

how r u ahead of texas after losing to them??

Josh (Orrville, OH)

rich shouldn't you be getting ready for a bowl game...oh wait....

Kevin (Houston)

Because I work in the land of background checks and responsibility if I had federal charges against me I would never be anywhere near where I am now. Becasue Vick can throw a football all is forgiven because he SAYS he is remorseful.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

The key is being remorseful Amy. If Vick ever gets into trouble again though, his NFL career should be history, don't you agree?

Amy Nelson

  (10:56 AM)

I would think so, yes.

Brian (NYC)

I can't think of a worse defense then "it's part of a culture". Racism is part of a culture in the South too and that is disgusting. Drug dealing is "part of the culture" in many cities, but that probably makes it ok right?

Amy Nelson

  (10:57 AM)

What about cock fighting in the Dominican ...that's part of the culture down there and its legal.

David(Dayton,OH)

I would agree..Reinstate him,but one mess up,and his career in the NFL is over.

Gray (Chicago)

Dog fighting is common? Then our society has some serious issues.

Rich (Pawtucket, RI)

Amy, before I get cut off @ 11am Have a Happy Thanksgiving & Catch you out here next time :)

luke (newark,del)

vickj should be banned for life if he hets back in im not watching anymore games and i will boycott everywhere he plays, and he just makes me sick

dave (nj)

do you think vick is remorseful,amy?

Amy Nelson

  (11:01 AM)

I think we should take his word for it. How else do we know?

John Madden (Madden Cruiser)

Amy, what are you having for Thanksgiving? I am having 4 turduckens. You take them and BOOM! you throw them in the oven and BOOM! they cook and then BOOM! you eat them. BOOM!

q (the beach)

how would u know if anyone is remorseful??? The only way to know is to see how his future goes

Amy Nelson

  (11:04 AM)

Agreed but i dont think it's fair to say hes not. he says he is, and I understand why he would be. We'll see down the line...

Kevin (ATL)

Pacman has also been remorseful 5 times already.

Amy Nelson

  (11:05 AM)

But jsut because he has been before and messed up again doesn't mean we shouldn't take Vick's word. This is a very different situation.

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

People are so quick to judge, nobody in this world is perfect. The critical people should be oh so critical of yourself.

bradley (atl,ga)

I think vick should ask Bush for a pardon. That way its like his crime never happened and he come back and be a dirty bird

Kevin (ATL)

Look, I am not saying Vick should not get a second chance, but of course he or any other athlete is going to say he is sorry, i mean what else are they going to say. They are prepped on what to say.

James (Toms River, NJ)

I'm tired of all these second chances being given to NFL players. When do you draw the line and say it's not OK to something illegal? If you take away the second chance, then players will be more conscience of breaking the law when they are presented with the opportunity the first time.

Jordan (NJ)

Luke, you are the only loser who wouldn't watch a football game because Michael Vick got reinstated. You are worse than the Michigan Fans who "need to get a life."

Tim (Athens)

In LeBron's interview with Stephen A he said that you need to play defense to win in the playoffs. Did anybody at ESPN catch that jab at Dantoni? Anyone catch him going out of his way to mention Tim Duncan staying in SA? Honestly I'm suprised ESPN let those comments error, he basically said he was staying in Cleveland.

Amy Nelson

  (11:08 AM)

Hmmmm, I think that may be reading into it a bit too much.

Barry Bonds

clean your own closet before you come clean mine, or in this case vicks.

Goose (Chicago)

Amy, could you please explain to me why MSG is considered the mecca of basketball? I am 30 and nothing of note has happened there in my lifetime.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Amy I'm getting sick of people wanting to fire Charlie Weiss. The guy hasen't even had one season with all of his players in the system. I think there should be a minimum signing for a college coach to five years. They would have four years with the previous coaches player and a chance to get 4 good recuting classes in and then one more year to have just his player in. That might be obsurd, but what do you think.

luke (newark,del)

hey jordan its my opnion and im fine with whatever isay, i more a college football fan these days cause the pros get paid too much money and all they do is mess up and whine and complain about how they are underpaid

James (Bay Area, CA)

Hi Amy, Happy Thanksgiving. I think there are greater talents coming out of college for the NFL than teams wasting time with Michael Vick. I wouldn't want him near my favorite team. I also don't understand why Pacman Jones gets so much attention, what has he ever done? Its not like he is a premier player.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

I agree with Goose, even though they don't play there shouldn't the Boston Garden be considered the mecca of basketball?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

James from Toms River: Athletes in all sports are getting second chances, not just in the NFL. Second chances should be given because people make mistakes. My issue is with the 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc. chances being handed out. Does anyone really think John Daly should still be on the PGA tour? The guy is a disaster waiting to happen!

Bippity (Minnesota)

No kidding.... and if that idiot gets chance after chance, why not let Vick at least get a second chance. He has most definately done more to right his wrongs than PacMan has

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

Amy. I think it is jealousy that make people so critical, everybody makes mistakes, but just because youre an athelete you don't get a second chance. Don't get me wrong, I think it is very stupid the places and situations they put themselves in.

Amy Nelson

  (11:13 AM)

I think it's very easy to judge, and we are too quick to do that sometimes.

Frank NY NY

Hi Amy lets talk Turkey, CC Sabathia doesnt want the money so the Yankees should go after Peavy, sign Pettitte and put Joba in the rotation, then wait til July and get a pitcher for the stretch run to the World Series again!!! And they should trade Matsui and keep Bret Gardner in center, the hits and homers he'll catch will make up for his .250 avg....

Amy Nelson

  (11:14 AM)

I wouldn't say CC doesn't want the money...BUT, he would love to be in Cali. I know Torii Hunter is campaigning CC hard ... CC is beloved by many around the league. I still will be surprised if he ends up in NYC.

Amy Nelson

  (11:14 AM)

But not shocked...

Peoria Il

CC will be a halo. Peavy will be a brave. griffy will be a yankee.

Adam G. (Tampa, FL)

Andy Pettite is signing with the Dodgers sorry Yankees fans.

Amy Nelson

  (11:16 AM)

raiders, bucs ... who else?

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

I know it's Wednesday, but how come we're not talking about some of the big NFL matchups this week? (Giants/Skins, Pats/Steelers, etc.)

Kevin Peoria Il

for vick if he comes back he will be a dolfin. parcells will step on him. wildcat O and might not have to step into falcons stadium for quite a while. if he is lucky.

Jake (Syracuse)

Have a great Thanksgiving Amy, Puda Vida

Amy Nelson

  (11:19 AM)

pura vida!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Adam: No need to be sorry. Pettitte is at the end of his career. He isn't worth the money at this stage.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

I think CC is one of the classiest guys in all of sports. I really hope CC gets his chance with a contender to win a championsip. I think if the Angles get him they will be the team to beat next year, wether or not they sign K-Rod.

Adam G. (Tampa, FL)

OHhhhh!!

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Wow amy, bashing mike, thats harsh.

Amy Nelson

  (11:23 AM)

Mike from Redding Ct is a little clueless...sorry.

Tommy (ATL)

Stuffing and mashed potatoes over Pumpkin Pie...are you kidding me???

Amy Nelson

  (11:24 AM)

Im a big fan of the greenbean casserole...

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

Oh Amy, that was cold, but true.

Peoria Il.

since the lions sold out can the rest the country get blacked out? PLEASE

Amy Nelson

  (11:25 AM)

I think I have a problem with this ... why would you take it away from them? And then reinstitute it ...

Edil (Puerto Rico)

The "tampering LeBron" email was a joke...do you guys have a sense of humor?? Don't fall into Skip's Grumpy Old Man mood...he was mad at McNabb for joking on the press conference??? please!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Chocolate ice cream pie is better than pumpkin pie.

Amy Nelson

  (11:26 AM)

never had that ...how about pumkin cheesecake?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Well one good thing about the Lions being on TV tomorrow. At least I won't be distracted from eating by trying to watch the game.

Amy Nelson

  (11:28 AM)

LZ says stop. It's been a tradition in this country for 50 years, why take away the Lions game now? I totally agree with him...

Johnny Austin,TX

am i the only one that understands what coach Pete was trying to say??? he meant..matt Casell is really good and i look forward to coaching him next year in SanFrancisco!!! See ya soon Matt!!!

Wayne (virginia)

Skip's right. I've been ahuge Carolina fan for 30 years and I've never seen them as loaded as they are this year. Even better than the Perkins, Worthy and Jordan days. Their 8 through 12 players could make a run in the NCAA tourney.

Bob

Ugh. The Lions should lose the Thanksgiving game. Forget tradition.

Amy Nelson

  (11:29 AM)

i don't agree with th at ...why?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Hey gang I'm heading out of here. Have a great Thanksgiving all. Enjoy the meal but more importantly, enjoy the time with your family and friends (even Skip).

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Maybe they could replace the live Lions game with a game when the Lions had Barry Sanders, I think that would be more entertaining.

Amy Nelson

  (11:31 AM)

those were the days....

David(Dayton,OH)

If they NFL wont change the traditon of making fans suffer thru a laugher Lions game..then I say this..if you're gonna make us watch them,then put them against another similarly horrible team and at least make it a "close" matchup that everyone doesn't already know how it will end up!

Tommy (ATL)

Here is a better question: Why is it tradition that the Lions play on Thanksgiving??

Kevin Peoria

Other than the superbowl this is the time for the NFL to impress people that do not watch all the time. You want to impress you need your best product on the feild. the lions are not even close and have not been for a very very long time.

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

Cowboys and Lions that should always be and now with NFL network we get plus one.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Amy a good question was posed on Mike and Mike. Do you eat twice on Thanksgiving or just once. I'm a twice kind of guy. We go to my wifes family at noon, and then to mine at about 5 and it's the best. Two huge meals in one day, it's awsome.

Amy Nelson

  (11:32 AM)

for me just once., i think twice is a little much..

Bob

Tradition only holds us back. People still think that Notre Dame should get special treatment because they're Notre Dame. Baseball took forever to get replay in baseball because they try to go the tradition route. The Thanksgiving game should be like a flex game but we get the winless Lions. It's so bad that we have to get a 3rd game to make up for beating they are going to take. Like I said forget tradition.

Thomas(Berwick, PA)

The Tar Heels are loaded, but they won't go undefeated, it's too hard to do and especially in the ACC. They have to play Duke twice, and they have Notre Dame today. The Tar Heels are the #1 team in the NCAA, but I doubt they go undefeated.

David(Dayton,OH)

Traditons are made to be broken at some point in time,and the Lions on Thanksgiving has been long overdo at this point.Unless & until they can ever become even close to a competitive team.The NFL should be wanting a big time marquee matchup taking place for all of their Thanksgiving Day games,to draw even more ratings/money.

AJ (Raleigh, NC)

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Regardless of your opinions on the issues discussed, just realize how blessed we are. Millions of people will be without food, clothing and shelter this holiday season. But, how great our lives must be that we can spend time debating whether Charlie Weis should get millions of dollars or tens of millions of dollars and whether we should have a CIA doggy task force going around investigating doggycides throughout the nation. Let's use this time to be thankful for what we have and pray for our fellow man.

Mike (Minneapolis, MN)

I have to agree the Lions play on Thanksgiving and always should if you don't want to watch turn off the TV and hang out with the family.

Wayne (Virginia)

If the Lios HAVE to play on Thanksgiving, put them on at night on the NFL Network. At least not everybody will have to watch...

Amy Nelson

  (11:35 AM)

there's a solution!

Mike (Nashville, TN)

I'm fine with the Lions playing and entertaining my Titans for Thanksgiving. It gives Chris Johnson a chance to break rushing records in front of a national audience.

James, Orlando,FL

How about a pardon for Mike Vick? Lawrence Tynes is trying to get one for his brother who was convicted of trafficking drugs.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

I can't wait to have a nice big Thanksgiving dinner washed down with copious amounts of Guinness, followed up by going out and booing McNabb for three and a half hours. Philly fans are the gifts that keep on giving.

Kevin Peoria

no amy its not. i know i have to PAY for the nfl network and i dont want to pay for that!!!!!!!

Amy Nelson

  (11:38 AM)

see that's the point...if you really want it you pay, and the tradition remains. and we get better games on the free networks

David(Dayton,OH)

I agree Wayne! Because it sure seems like Time Warner Cable here will never get NFL Network,so then I would not be missing anything I cared about if they just stick the Lions traditional game on there! haha

Mike (Minneapolis, MN)

No David rules are made to be broken traditions are made to stay thats why they are traditions.

Amy Nelson

  (11:39 AM)

wow theres a 73-yaer-old man who went back to basketball college team adn we have footage of it

Thomas(Berwick, PA)

I have nothing against the Lions playing on Thanksgiving, as I know it's tradition, but I honestly would like to see other teams and games that have more implications on that day. It's nothing against the Lions, but we have the Pats/Steelers, Saints/Bucs, Giants/Skins. I mean, I understand going with tradition, but at the same time, some people won't be able to see some of the playoff/division type games that will happen Sunday.

Amy Nelson

  (11:40 AM)

they call him golden oldie and medicare man...awesome.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Who's that in the basketball uniform, Al Davis? I guess they don't get much sun in his part of the world. They should nickname him "The Cryptkeeper".

Amy Nelson

  (11:41 AM)

oh that's mean,.

Mike (Ohio)

Like most traditions, it's past it's time. The NFL hasn't become the #1 of the major sports by shirking on change.

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Nobody cares about this guy...

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Wow thats like my grandfather playing basketball with me. Can't even picture that.

Amy Nelson

  (11:42 AM)

i think it's awesome.

Amy Nelson

  (11:43 AM)

this is all happening at roane state

David(Dayton,OH)

Props to this guy for actually getting out there and being crazy enough to do it at his age!!!

Josh (Orrville, OH)

And with the first pick in the NBA draft the New York Knicks select, some 73 year old guy from Rone State.

Amy Nelson

  (11:44 AM)

nice

Al Davis (NFL Films)

Wingo must go down...and he must go down hard.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

What's on his iPod, that's awesome. I'm betting Glenn Miller...

Lance (New York, N.Y.)

Archie Moore and Greg Maddux have got nothing on Ken Mink. Young in spirit personified never seemed so awesome.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

I bet that guys rocks out to Jay-Z, Luda, and Weezie.

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

What about the kid whose lost his spot for this publicity stunt and is actually good enough to play on this team? I give this guy credit for being in-shape, but go play pick-up games at the gym!

Amy Nelson

  (11:46 AM)

oh come on it's a good story.

Amy Nelson

  (11:47 AM)

so is everyone at work now, or aleady home?

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Come on Kevin, as much as you want to bash the guys or make fun of him. You have to be pulling for the guy. Good for you Ken.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

If I'm playing against that old guy's team, I'm looking for that dude when we have the ball, and I'm going to set picks on him until I knock his dentures out.

Amy Nelson

  (11:48 AM)

hard core

Wichita, KS

Chiefs need MATT CASSEL!!!!

Mike (Minneapolis, MN)

The record of the teams doesn't always determine the quality of the game. Lions played the Panthers though just a couple weeks ago, and jumped on the Bucs last week and will probably not get blown out by a usually low scoring Titans team.

Amy Nelson

  (11:49 AM)

it's always hard to predict the quality of teh game, though a winless team isn't a great start

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Josh, not making fun of him. Just think it's more of a stunt by the school. Power to him if he's invited to play on the team.

Kevin Peoria

Home cant wait for me and my friends tradition of hanging out at our favorite bar watching NCAA hoop tourneys. 10 years running.

Jeremey(Louisville, KY.)

No. I'm still here.

Amy Nelson

  (11:49 AM)

so am i!

Bob

I agree with Kevin. If I lost my spot on the basketball team because of this, I was be ticked off. This is nothing but a publicity stunt and it worked. With that said, I hope I'm in as good of shape as he is when I get to his age.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Home. Got paid this morning, and don't have to go back until Sunday night. There is a god.

Matt (IN)

We don't work, Amy. We play on ESPN's chats all day.

Amy Nelson

  (11:49 AM)

sweet

Tommy (ATL)

Better movie: A Christmas Story, or Christmas Vacation?

Amy Nelson

  (11:50 AM)

ooh hard one. have to stay xmas story

James (Orlando,FL)

I think Texas-FLorida would draw the biggest BCS championship fever.

Kevin Peoria

You'll Poke your eye out!!! A christmas story!!!

St. Louis, MO

Bob Stoops is overrated in big games. In big bowl games, the sooners always lose, USC, Boise State, West Virginia, and LSU. The only big bowl game the sooners won was the 2000 national championship game against FSU. That was because the sooners should have played Miami that year.

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Oh tough on Tommy, I would have to say Vacation. That is one of the best movies of all time. "I don't know MARGO!!!!"

Everyone's Bosses (at the beach)

Get back to work you slackers! Just because we're off doesn't mean you are too!

Ralphie

Oh fuuuuuudggge.

Kevin Peoria

Texas USC rematch!!

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

Tommy, great question!!!! I'm Christmas Story all the way...it almost cost me my fiance. Her family is Vacation (also a great movie), while mine is Story all the way. Those debates were heated!

Kyle (Wichita, KS)

SOOONERS Win against OSU and beat Mizzou there is no way they wouldnt have a better hype in the NC game!

Jeremey (Louisville)

Texas-Florida no. Eight team playoff yes. Go Obama!

Bob

As long as it's the Big 12 champ vs the SEC champ, it doesn't matter who plays the championship game to me.

James (Orlando)

Miami always gets hated on by the Polls and the NCAA. I will never forget that game against OSU. They got cheated!

Josh (Orrville, OH)

Amy thanks for another great chat. You have a good Thanksgiving and wish the whole crew from First Take a happy Thanksgiving from me also. Have fun and be safe tomarrow everyone.

Amy Nelson

  (11:55 AM)

Agreed on that note have a great holiday everyone.

Amy Nelson

  (11:55 AM)

Thanks for chatting see you next time.