Moderator

  (9:57 AM)

first down topics today folks - Lebron told Cavs fans 'we're going to bring y'all a championship'...smart or dumb? 3 Cavs starters sat out last night...should they have played?

Moderator

  (9:59 AM)

got some late breaking KG news folks...did you hear the latest?? go ahead and weigh in...

Dana Jacobson

  (9:59 AM)

morning all! heard teh breaking news about kg, possibly out for entire playoffs? more straight ahead

Moderator

  (10:01 AM)

dunk contest today too folks....check out the candidates in the show coming up in a few minutes

Nathan (Chicago) [via mobile]

Absolutely DUMB!!! Why in the world would you set the bar so high? We all know da bulls are going all the way!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

KG out you say? Well there goes one TV ratings draw. Looks like the NBA will have to hang its hopes on Lakers v Cavs. Without that, no TV ratings for you!

myles High Point,Nc [via mobile]

yes they sould have played

Umor (detroit mi)

Boston, no garnett. it's over with.

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Boston will be out in the first round w/out KG.

Revis (Florence, KY)

One player does not make a team. Even without Garnett, the Celtics still have Pierce, Allen, and Rondo.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Dunk contest on Thursday. This is getting too confusing.

Moderator

  (10:17 AM)

c'mon Johnny...a little variety is nice, keeps everyone on their toes

Marvin, Toledo, OH

It was very smart for LBJ to say that, he wants to get the city excited, build drama for the League, and build his legacy before he leaves for NY.

Damian (Oklahoma)

With KG out look for Big Baby Davis to step up his game and intensity. Theres no better place for the guy to shine as hes shown us hints of clutch play throughout the year.

lawrence stowe vt

Lebron's mouth is writing checks his teamates cant cash. They got it handed to them both thimes from la who was a big man down when they played in clevland...la in 5

Dana Jacobson

  (10:18 AM)

BOB ryan coming up after the break

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I'm now over 40 so shouldn't I start shying away from variety and into comfortable regularity?

Moderator

  (10:19 AM)

if you want comfortable regularity...watch the weather channel...otherwise, stay young with us on First Take

Latrell ( Fresno )

Don't count my dark horse Sixers out!!!

Marvin, Toledo, OH

KG, doesn't make the team but he sure as hell is the "glue" that keeps Boston together. It will be tough for the Celtics to return to the Finals.

Calvin (Greenville, SC)

What's sad is that if the Celtics beat the Bulls in the first round, people will give very little credit to the Celtics for being a good basketball team. People will focus more on what the Bulls did wrong, instead of analyzing what the Celtics did right.

Moderator

  (10:20 AM)

Calvni, you're looking waaaaayyyyy too far ahead...

David (Statesboro, GA)

Promising a championship to Cleveland is both smart and dumb. It is smart because Lebron has finally shown some support for Cleveland, not Dallas or New York (i.e The Cowboys and Yankees). Yet to put the pressure on himself and his teammates is all time DUMB!! His supporting cast is good, but are they able to live up to the pressure that they now have on them?

Darryll (brooklyn ny)

no KG NO REPEAT LETS GO BULLS

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Since the NBA playoffs won't be over for several months, how about mentioning the most important event taking place today - the first regular season game at the New Yankee Stadium?!

Moderator

  (10:21 AM)

Johnny is it really that important to Mariners fans?

Revis (Florence, KY)

The Cavs will lose in the first round. Lebron needs to keep his mouth shut until he backs it up on the court.

Moderator

  (10:23 AM)

You just saw the dunks of the year candidates folks...rate 'em 1-10.. 1 Iguodala 2. Tyrus Thomas 3. Aldridge's dunk in Erik Dampier 4. D. Wade's jam

Andrew (Corvallis OR)

Whats up with first and ten? 6 Western teams had their playoff lives decided last night and you guys started with a pep rally and a game that didn't matter. dose skip worry so much about LBJ that he doesn't know anything about the other teams?

Moderator

  (10:25 AM)

Andrew, their playoff lives were already determined prior to last night...just seedings were decided...don't worry, we'll break down the matchups...but I'm with ya...maybe we're nitpicking Lebron's words too much

BL (NYC)

There's Mariners fans?

Umor (detroit mi)

J.A. right the only garantee that matter was broadway joe.s

Darryll (brooklyn ny)

dunk contest I like them all they all was full contact they all gotta get the same mark but since ima bulls fan i gotta give thomas the nod

Moderator

  (10:26 AM)

step it up Darryll...need a 1-10 grade to make your's an official vote

Mark

Thomas over Oneal was sick. He had to jump through a legit shot blocker and threw it down with authority.

Moderator

  (10:27 AM)

Mark...1-10 ratings get you in on the vote...talk is cheap

Marvin, Toledo, OH

D-Wade (TEN) no doubt, D-Wade is a flat out BEAST I can't wait to see him when he and LBJ leave for NY.

Moderator

  (10:28 AM)

there ya go Marvin! spelling out his rating...you'll get a shout out on the show for following the rules

Marvin, Toledo, OH

D-Wade 10 T. Thomas 8 Iquodala 8 Aldridge 9

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I didn't see any of the dunks so I would like to have my proxy vote for me. Can I do that?

Joel (North Carolina)

I have to go to work this morning, but please talk about FLORIDA, like i said day one of opening day, Florida wins the East and thats the end of the story ask skip if that will get them more fans?

Moderator

  (10:30 AM)

johnny, I hear we got 'em on Twitter, espn underscore firsttake...check 'em out

Damian (Oklahoma)

Iguo- 6 Thomas- 9.5 Aldrige- 6 D wade- 8

Cody (shaftsbury, vt)

Aldridge over dampier best without doubt. Look how hard he got fouled, knocked straight on his back.

Michael Cookstown, New Jersey

Bob Ryan needs to realize any team can get hot. I would look at for the 76ers.

Christian{carmel,IN}

ok thomas 10, wade 8, aldridge 9, iguadola 7

Dana Jacobson

  (10:31 AM)

Joel, winning will get them the fans they got when they won b/f. Its like the rays last year, everyone loves a winner. hard to root for a loser

Marvin, Toledo, OH

Thank you. Now I need to be on First and 10. Hey why not bring a true fan to battle Skip on 1-10. Sounds pretty fun to have a fan up there goin at Skip.

Revis (Florence, KY)

Dana, your teal shirt is missing a Panthers logo. What's up with that?

Jay Crawford

  (10:31 AM)

stand by marvin...it could be coming soon!

Darryll (brooklyn ny)

ok since you put it like that tyrus thomas gets a 10 the others 9.5

alex warwick ri

i have a question is the marlins and orioles for real

Damian (Oklahoma)

TYRUS! That was the kind of monster dunk that would make Grandma exclaim "oh dear...". If Skip and his crack team of dunk analysts disagree they're sadly mistaken!

Jay Crawford

  (10:31 AM)

akex... marlins yes...orioles no.

Mark ( melboure Fl.)

Iguodala 9, Thomas 10, Aldridge 9, D wade 8

Dana Jacobson

  (10:31 AM)

Revis, when they pay me, i'll wear it!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

So when will the inaugural First Take Flash of Leather vote happen? Baseball is here and I think we should recognize the great plays every week.

Jay Crawford

  (10:32 AM)

love it johnny!

James woodbury ct [via mobile]

wat are the chances that the jets will trade up to get mark sanchez? is he worth giving up 3 draft picks ioi including thelr 17th?

Moderator

  (10:32 AM)

Damian, like the reference, but you're busted on not giving a 1-10 rating...lets go...get the numbers out

James Hawaii ( cleve)

Can you tell skip to stop bashing LeBron and the cavs already he keeps talking about kobe this and kobe that kobe hasn't done anything since shaq left and it's obvious he will never win another ring so stop hating skip and i want you to take that shoe out of your mouth when LeBron and tha cavs win it all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jay Crawford

  (10:32 AM)

i do james...everyday!

Dana Jacobson

  (10:32 AM)

james, 3 draft picks seems a lot to me. But mcshay seems to think it's a real possibiilty.

stephen kc mo

Jay, you may get lucky to have your cavs in the finals. But lebron still has to prove he can step up in the playoffs before we can even think bout em beatin the lakers!

Jay Crawford

  (10:33 AM)

idk stephen..orlando scares me...

Umor (detroit mi)

Wade a 9 1/2, aldrige and iquodala 8 and Thomas a 10.

Cody (shaftsbury, vt)

I don't know if anyone heard about the couple who had a hole in one, thats amazing right after each other. I thought I hit a hole in one once because the ball roled to the cup and disappeared but it roled past.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:33 AM)

cody, they'll be on teh show later

Christian{carmel,IN}

how come no one is talking a about the hawks???? the hawks almost beat the champs last year.and they have flip murray this year, and joe johnson, and josh smith!!!!!!!!!!

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

Without Garnett, since they haven't really been stellar without "any" of the three-amigos, it looks like we can already count my Celtics out of it.

Cody (shaftsbury, vt)

I hate to say it but I beleive the average attendance for the rays last year ranked them in the bottom 10 last year.

wes(hixson,tn)

aldridge's dunk was sick,i give it a 9...wade's dunk was sweet..i give it a 7.....iguodala's dunk was good....i give it a 7...thomas's dunk was good i give it a 5...let's see what the dunk guru skip has to say....

Jay Crawford

  (10:34 AM)

rome wasnt built in a day cody

Cleo ( Trenton )

Iggy over the Ming wall. Off the hook!

Adam G. (Tampa, FL)

Jay I think Lebron is just extremely confident this year with these group of guys around him. I mean come on he got the Cavs to the finals with no help that year. Now he's got the experience and heart to get it done.

Moderator

  (10:34 AM)

Cleo...slap a rating number on that commentary, get in the game

Christian{carmel,IN}

tyrus's dunk was just amazing ok he dunked over a 6 10 power forward in jermaine o neal. it was contested, it had posterization, it had all of the ingredients for a good dunk. i give him a 10

Jay Crawford

  (10:34 AM)

i like the pressure adam...embrace and conquer

Matt

Give Tyrus a 10

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Dana: If you got a job at FIU, would they change your name to Dana Jacobsonson?

Mark (melbourne fl)

the marlins are

Revis (Florence, KY)

Iguodala 9, Thomas 8, Aldridge 9, Wade 4

Jay Crawford

  (10:35 AM)

heres one room... michigan offers greg paulus a scholarship....go...

Dana Jacobson

  (10:37 AM)

Hey get this...Greg Paulus said Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez has offered him a scholarship and a chance to compete for the STARTING QUARTERBACK position this summer and fall.

Christian{carmel,IN}

ok tyruses dunk was just amazing it had all of the ingredients for a good dunk it was contested by a 6 10 power forward in jermaine o neal. it had posterization, and had all of the ingredients i give him a 10!!!!!!!!!

David (Statesboro, GA)

Aldrige dunked on arguably the weakest Center in the NBA in Dampier. 4 Igouadala like Aldrige dunked on a weak center arguably the second weakest in the NBA in Ming. 5 Thomas had a nice dunk, but it was missing something for me..7 Wade is the runaway winner for me. He not only had an impressive dunk. He didn't really dunk over his defender he dunked "Through" the defender. 10

Moderator

  (10:39 AM)

Michael Vick reality show>?

Moderator

  (10:39 AM)

anyone wow'd by Ian Kinsler's cycle for the Rangers?

Michael Cookstown, New Jersey

I can understand why Mr. Vick wants to a TV Show. $600,000 would be nice, but I can think of more interesting people I would rather watch a show about.

Nathan (Chicago) [via mobile]

Dana, do you think the bulls can win the series now??

Calvin (Greenville, SC)

Paulus going to Michigan doesn't mean a thing. Michigan will still be garbage. Ohio State will continue to dominate them. Greg Paulus won't the savior for Michigan nor will he be the savior for the Big Ten-eleven.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

If Michigan offers Paulus a scholarship, for 2 semesters for an unproven entity, then it's a sure sign that RichRod is looking to make an exit... and by getting the alums on his back he'll be vacationing this time next year in puerto rico (or some beach) spending the buyout cash.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:40 AM)

nathan, i think that its an even more interesting series right now. can they - yes. will they win though, i don't think so

Christian{carmel,IN}

i think greg has tomake up his mind on what sport he is gonna play football then basketball and then now football whats gonna happen next, after he plays football for michigain is he going to enter the nba draft. im tired of hit does he want to play basketball or football??

Christian{carmel,IN

paulus needs to make up his mind on what sport he wants to play. first football then basketball then football again. whats gonna hppen next after he plays football is he gonna enter the nba draft i mean come on. make up your mind greg

stephen kc mo

IAn kinsler cycle, maybe first in a long line of Texas offensive accomplishments this year! Wow what a lineup!

Mike (Colchester, VT)

Its sad that people would watch that. Let the guy play football but don't glorify him off the field. What a joke.

lawrence stowe vt

will it be on after real world or big bro???

Dana Jacobson

  (10:41 AM)

Christian, do you honestly think he'd have an nba career? And NFL scouts have shown some interest...if that's a REAL possibility then he's got to get some college ball under his belt

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

Vick Reality Show? Pu-lease......definately a sad idea (not for Vick, but the network that signs him)..... I mean how much can that guy do that is truely interesting? What are they going to show that will create any sort of buzz, some animal rights advocates egging him coming out of the gym?

David (Statesboro, GA)

Alright maybe that will be what We Wolverines need to be back in the game. Paulus was a very good HS quarterback. Though it scares me he has been out since Senior Year in HS. I don't think it can make us worse than last year.

Christian{carmel,IN}

i dont think anyone would want to watch that reality show it would be so boring watching him work out and talk with his agent. horrible idea.

stephen kc mo

one scholarship is not going to get a coach fired. Its a no risk chance! Who knows, he could come out there and be a gun slinger!

Matt (Laramie, WY)

If you put Vick in a reality show why not just give one to Mike Tyson too?

Moderator

  (10:43 AM)

I think someone did that already

Dana Jacobson

  (10:43 AM)

David, he can compete for it..doesn't mean he'll get it. skip is saying what i was about to write. it'll be tough to get back into the flow...but unlike what skip just said the cupboard isn't bare...he's got a couple freshman folks have a lot of high hopes - especially tate forcier. if this gives tate a chance to sit back and watch is that bad?

lawrence stowe vt

Sitting out for a couple of years didnt seem to be to bad for matt cassell

Dana Jacobson

  (10:44 AM)

lawrence, difference there was he had practice snaps and spring ball in college, training camp in the nfl.

Matt (Laramie, WY)

You switch schools and play the same sport you have to sit out a year, so will Paulus have to sit out a season at Michigan going from one sport to another or has Paulus already graduated from Duke?

Ced

Ty Thomas gets a 10, hands down!! jermaine had the angle and still was part of a poster. Wade's duck was nice too, a close 9.8

stephen kc mo

Jay, you relieved about Garnett not gettin back?

Jay Crawford

  (10:45 AM)

not sure...orlando scares me man.

Revis (Florence, KY)

How bad are the Wolverines quarterbacks that a guy who hasn't played in years is the better option?

Cleo ( Trenton )

I'm sorry! I was caught up in the moment, Iggy big 10.

Mike(Minot, ND)

John Madden Retired!!! BOOM!!!

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Who will replace John Madden calling football games, there is no one like him?

Adam G. Tampa , FL

NO NOT MADDEN!!!!!!!!!!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I hope you know I was kidding about ESPN's devotion to the Yankees. Just trying to rile up the crowd.

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

Maybe madden can move to Nascar now. "You make a left turn right here, you make a left turn right here,..."

Mark nj

Is it any coincidence that Madden Retires the same yr Brett Farve Retires? Me thinks not.

Mike (Colchester, VT)

NO WAY! Losing Kalas and now Madden is retiring. Sad to see the old guard of announcers leaving their respective sports in one way or another.

Mark (melbourne Fl)

We will always have the the Madden video game!

Dana Jacobson

  (10:54 AM)

matt, to your earlier question about paulus (sorry had to do an interview) he doesn't have to sit otu b/c he hasn't played/practiced more than 14 days at that sport (football) at the collegiate level within his 5 year window of NCAA eligibitliy

Thompson (Indianapolis, IN)

If Paulus would go to Michigan he would have played in 2 of the best rivalries in all of sport...

Dana Jacobson

  (10:55 AM)

Thompson - great point!!! Then he'll have to pick up a baseball and play professionally for yankees or red sox to hit all 3 of the top ones

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

As long as they don't bring back Dennis Miller MNF will be just fine.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:56 AM)

Rob, umm. Hate to tell you but madden was on Sunday night football with Al Michaels. Remember the swtich a few years back?

Jamie ( Avalon, NJ )

Mark my words! Stafford The Next Elway..

Matt(New Britain,CT)

you really want paulus to be successful,what a story that would be

Mike(Minot, ND)

Frank Caliendo Replaces John Madden, Same Voice!!!

Dana Jacobson

  (10:57 AM)

mike, fantastic! couple others suggested as well like david from georgia

Mark nj

For your sake Dana, I hope Paulus isn't Drew Henson.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:58 AM)

mark, had drew henson stayed i think he would have been great!

Karl Irvine CA

Dana, how many games will it take LA to beat Utah?

Dana Jacobson

  (10:59 AM)

karl, 6

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

Ah Dana, you're quite right - my bad. Hard to keep it straight with MNF, SNF, TNF........LOL I'm so old school I remember Howard and DandyDon being the bomb - and DD eing stoned on-air and Howard mostly being ticked for off-topic comments.... times change, it'll all work out.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:59 AM)

rob its ok,

Darryll (brooklyn ny)

if he didnt play football at duke what makes you think he can play there they couldve gave scholarship to a kid that really need it

Dana Jacobson

  (11:03 AM)

rob i do stuff like that all the time, i just didn't want you to go throughout the day thinking it. never enough room in the brain!

stephen kc mo

how can you fault Paulus from trying to follow out a dream? his basketball dream ended and unlike most people he can also play another sport at a high level. Good luck Greg! He is the definition of class act, he deserves to do what he wants!

Revis (Florence, KY)

Giving Michael Vick a show is basically paying him for doing what he went to prison for. That's idiodic. Keep him off the air.

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

A Micheal Vick reality show can't be any lamer than The Hills or My Super Sweet 16.

Jay Crawford

  (11:03 AM)

good point brian

John, Austin

If Greg Paulus wants to play in the NFL, why would he go to Michigan to play QB in Rich Rod's offense?

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Let that commedian take Madden's spot on Sunday Night Football. He sounds just like him. Nobody would know the difference.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:03 AM)

john, because that's the only one offering a chance right now as far as we know

Darryll (brooklyn ny)

dana paulus is gonna be the next chris wienke lol

Dana Jacobson

  (11:05 AM)

darryll, not sure about that!

Mike (Colchester, VT)

its not that Paulus couldn't play at Duke its that he wanted to play basketball. He had football offers from the U and Notre Dame. It was just his choice.

Matt(New Britain,CT)

but does caliendo know anything about football? I feel the impersonation every week would get old fast

Dana Jacobson

  (11:05 AM)

mike i mean now. this is the only football offer I know of now. Adam rittenberg the big 10 blogger on espn.com has talked with paulus, check out his blog should be some stuff posted

Christian{carmel,IN}

you guys should get greg on the show so he can talk about it!!!!!!!

Dana Jacobson

  (11:06 AM)

Christian wanting and getting - 2 different things!!! We are trying for him and Rich Rod

John, Austin

Ok Dana, does he make your team better?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:07 AM)

John, right now no clue. He might. Haven't seen him throw a football but spring ball just started a few weeks ago.

Christian{carmel,IN}

no one is talking about cp3 and the hornets . theyahave a huge shot in winning it

Dana Jacobson

  (11:08 AM)

skip has talked a ton about them, and they're the hot pick for an upset...but dont think they'll win it

Christian{carmel,IN}

your gonna get greg and rich rod on wow. im watching that definetly. and cp3 and the hornets arent getting any love no one is talking about them when they have a pretty good shot.

Cedric (Memphis)

Is anybody else excited about two cycles in such a short time this week in baseball? Ian Kinsler was 6 for 6 with a cycle. One word. WOW!

Dana Jacobson

  (11:09 AM)

christian, go back and re read that. We are TRYING. We ask for a lot of people that can't come on, don't want to come on, name it. You'd be shocked if you saw the guest requests that go out!!!

Calvin (Greenville, SC)

Dana, random question: Considering the fact that the sports world criticizes World Wrestling Entertainment, why did ESPN choose to do a piece on Vince McMahon and Wrestlemania?

Moderator

  (11:09 AM)

I always viewed it as more a conincidence than anything else when someone goes for the cycle...you mean thats more impressive than going 5 for 5 with 2 doubles, two homers and a single?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:10 AM)

Calvin, I'm afraid you'd have to ask the E60 folks that. And ESPN stands for Entertainment Sports Programming Network, WWE fits into the entertainment part!

Mike (Colchester, vT)

The Hornets get plenty of love. I'm more surprised that everyone just dismisses the Blazers on lack of playoff experience. Like talent isn't a factor.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:10 AM)

mike i don't think they've been dismissed...its like the lakers are on top and everyone is below all with a shot but no one except fans entirely buys in to any.

John, Austin

Eli has a wax statue...who gets one first, you, Jay or Skip? God forbid its Skip!!!

Dana Jacobson

  (11:11 AM)

John, no doubt skip!!!

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

Hitting for the cycle is the hole-in-one of baseball.... too much luck involved

Mike (Akron)

Dana, do the Cavs make it to the Finals?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:11 AM)

Mike, i think so yes

David (Statesboro, GA)

It would be awesome...and hilarious if Paulus turned into the next Tom Brady for Michigan. Just more mobile..lots more mobile.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:11 AM)

David, I would dance a jig on the first and ten desk

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

The WWE piece ESPN did was too short for my liking. Didn't really go behind the scenes that much and only just touched on the controversal issues.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:12 AM)

Brian, I think that may have been its purpose. Not sure if E60 has a page on dot com, but maybe check...they might have more stuff on it

Pamela las vegas nevada

michael vick reality show John Madden retiring what is this world coming to

Mark nj

I love the draft: Even more than the Superbowl.

Moderator

  (11:15 AM)

Mark, explain yourself

Matt(New Britain,CT)

isn't j.a a reporter? doesn't he have to watch the draft? haha

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

I can't even explain why I watch the NFL draft but it's just so addictive.

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Hey, Mr. Moderator, what do you think of the Marlins now? They still have the best record in baseball.

Moderator

  (11:16 AM)

I'm just a moderator, I don't think

Christian{carmel,IN}

oh sorry about that i didnt know how hard it is to get people on. anyway so, the hawks are going to the eastern conference finals

Dana Jacobson

  (11:16 AM)

christian - no biggie! we're hopeful though. no the hawks won't be there...hawks won't get past the heat, i say. sorry don't hate me

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Who would really be a good replacement for Madden?

Ryan (Wilmington, DE)

Whats the deal with KG?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:17 AM)

ryan, the right knee. doc says he may not play in the postseason, can't play right now

Umor (detroit mi)

J.A. your so wrong, The NFL draft is inportant to your team. who will they pick. How will he fit in your team

Troy Hillsboro,Oh

Dana How about Chris Berman to replace John Madden?

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Crabtree overrated? Please put that comment on tape so we can look back at that comment and laugh.

Calvin (Greenville, SC)

I can't believe I'm going to type this, but I agree with Skip. He just said that Michael Crabtree, Matt Leinart, and Reggie Bush are all overrated.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:18 AM)

troy - same enthusiasm! remember, madden is the color guy no the play by play guy. find a former coach/player

Ryan (Wilmington DE)

Dana - Avery Johnson picks the 76ers to upset the Magic, Do you concur?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:18 AM)

ryan, love avery but no

Cedric (Memphis)

Just because I want to see that jig on the desk and Jay's expression because Michigan went out and got a basketball player to beat them, Let's go Greg, clap clap clapclapclap!

Dre(Memphis)

Skip is out of his mind, Crabtree is the best receiver in the draft, any percy harvin couldn't carry his jock. Ask skip if he wants to bet on who will be a better pro

Dre(Memphis)

Dana have you seen any tape on Paulus?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:21 AM)

dre - high school stuff and went back and read some hs stuff on him. he's a total unknown right now as far as i'm concerned..if the scholarship was just going to sit there why not??

Calvin (Greenville, SC)

Dana, yes, but we all know that ESPN covers "real" sports and everyone considers World Wrestling Entertainment to be "fake" even though its known as sports entertainment.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:21 AM)

Calvin, we also do thinks on celebrities and sports, musicians and sports. To do something on WWE i don't think that's that strange to be honest

Christian{carmel,IN}

hey jay, i dont think the cavs are winning it lbj jinxed it yesterday. and they are losing to the hawks in the second round. if not that somewhere in the playoffs.

wes(hixson,tn)

how about denny green to replace madden? that guy tells like it is... i think he would be great!!!

Jay Crawford

  (11:24 AM)

could be chrisitian

chris nac,tx

i know u r doing posterizing dunks but that dunk by k-mart last night was one of the best of the year

Mike(Minot, ND)

Please leave the Isaigh Thomas alone, he answered the questions about his so called "suicide attempt" he has a new job and is clearly trying to move on with his life and those actions alone also answers the questions about whether he wants to live or not.

Cedric (Memphis)

I say they give Madden's job to Brian Billick or a wild card, Bobby Knight. Yeah the Knight thing is crazy, but have you seen him throw a chair or drumset in his underwear? Who wants to mess with that guy? What's your take?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I'd like to see Mike Ditka taking over for John Madden. If you are looking for a former player to take over, Jim McMahon would make an interesting choice. If the game becomes a blowout, at least he'd have some great stories to entertain us with.

Mark nj

How about have Madden do the Superbowl or a Thanksgiving day game every season? Give us somethin John.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

Dana ~ you guys did a piece on "cup stacking" didn't you.... so how far off can WWE be in comparison?

Jay Crawford

  (11:25 AM)

saw that! awesome!

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Oh, Goody, more comments from Isiah Thompson coming up soon. FIU not knowing their new coach's name was even funier than Ron Zook mispronouncing "Illinois".

Mike (Colchester, VT)

Since he's retiring I wonder if Madden will continue to voice for the game. They could just reuse old voice overs or could the franchise shut down?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:26 AM)

Rob we've cup stacked, jumped out of an airplane, roped fake bulls, ridden fake bulls, longsnapped, name it. And we're quite proud of it

Drew (Buffalo)

Why do old people go to the bank so much?

Jay Crawford

  (11:26 AM)

i bet he does mike, he makes more from that than he does from actually calling games.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:26 AM)

Drew comment of the day!!! Talk about overkill

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

LeBron James didn't jinx anything. I wouldn't even call what he said that big of a promise. It was more of this is what we hope/plan to do. Jinxes are ridiculous anyway.

Christian{carmel,IN}

uh this is a question is it hard for you guys to answer all of our questions and then do the show and then answer questions. it looks hard.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:26 AM)

i hope youre right brian

Dana Jacobson

  (11:27 AM)

christian you're getting a ton of love today...um at times yes. On a breaking news day where segments float in and out and things are changing yes. Even on a regular basis just jumping in and out. Not hard as much as takes a lot of focus..but it's fun

DaShogun: Coastal, Tx.

CrabTree will perform at a very high level Skip is dead wrong about CrabTree. Its all about the system their are drafted into.

Jay Crawford

  (11:27 AM)

hope so! especially if the browns take him

Dana Jacobson

  (11:29 AM)

hey lions fans. Here's my idea based on stroud saying freeman should be available end first round/start second. Lions should draft jason smith with the top pick, maybe aaron curry, but you know i'm a smith fan and then with 20 take freeman. biggest knock on him was that he didn't have good receivers to throw to would have had better season if he had. read a lot of upside

Rob (State College, PA)

How can Greg Paulus get a scholarship from Michigan for football? He used up all 4 years of his eligibility playing basketball.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:31 AM)

different sport, look back in the chat we explained

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

There are still Lions fans after last season?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:32 AM)

Brian we are a beaten but proud group

Troy Hillsboro,Oh

Your right Dana my bad sorry, Hmm How about Tony Dungy?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:32 AM)

troy, too soft spoken

Jim (Williamsburg, VA)

Here's a quote from an Espn online article on the Paulus / UM situation: "Cutcliffe said he and Paulus "talked extensively" about the possibility of Paulus' joining the football team, but the bottom line was there was "no way" he could come out and try to play quarterback for the Blue Devils after such a long hiatus from the position." Interesting that UM is so desperate they can offer a scholarship to someone with one year of eligibility left who wouldn't be allowed to even try out for the same position at the school where he played basketball for 4 years.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:34 AM)

Jim, desperate perhaps...but rich rod is a great judge of talent, how do you know that he isn't the smart one here? ALSO what's the harm? Snaps? Please.

Lew (Chicago)

Too soft spoken to turn your team around??? I thought Matt Millen was gone lol

Dana Jacobson

  (11:35 AM)

Lew, I believe the dungy replacement is for madden not millen...sunday night football

lawrence stowe vt

Michael strahan would be awesome...

Dre(Memphis)

I think Deion Sanders should replace Madden

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Bill Cowher to replace Madden, he is not soft spoken.

Matt(New Britain,CT)

still gotta say,bob costas for madden

Marvin (Camden, NJ)

Wes, Denny Green will be coaching in that new start up league. I don't think he'll have the time to step into the booth

John, Austin

Dana, do you really think Freeman can make the Lions better? He couldn't even elevate KState.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:36 AM)

John, as I said different level of talent. I wouldn't entirely judge him on that. I'm going by the draft reports i keep reading on him

Mike (Colchester, VT)

Thats surprising. They make it sound like Duke's football program is something special. Paulus should go prove them wrong at Michigan.

Umor (detroit mi)

Dana what you say about the lions makes some sense. Something a parcells or bellichek would do. So the lions will never do it.

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Since you have hockey people voting on the slam dunk, the winner should be able to play goalie for the Capitals.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:37 AM)

Umor don't i know it!!! If only I was GM for a day. Then again if I was wrong, not sure I could handle the hate

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

RichRod is BRILLIANT = he either pulls it off and the alums love him, or Paulus tanks and RichRod is getting his contract bought out and he's looking for his NEXT payday. ;)

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

Alley-oop in french means posterize!

Mark nj

Melrose said Aldridge dunked over a smaller man? Isn't Dampeir 7'0 tall? Stupid Hockey guys.

lawrence stowe vt

Do you think barry m. could dunk if he didnt have the mullet?

Cody (shaftsbury, vt)

Strahan for the replacement of madden sounds good.

Calvin (Greeville, SC)

Shannon Sharpe to move up and take over Madden's job. Shannon Sharpe is hilarious and passionate about the game.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:39 AM)

rob and others, man...calm down. this is not going to make or break rich rod. UNLESS focier shows great promise, paulus starts, stinks and he keeps him in. And for the alumns already against rich rod...learn something about rebuilding. Not easy, sometimes it takes time. Be patient, get angry, yes...i disagree with stuff rich rod has done, but give it some time...every college coach needs 5 years. you need your full class, your guys. just how i feel

Lew (Chicago)

Oh my bad!!! You're right then

Dana Jacobson

  (11:39 AM)

Lew, understandable mistake!!!!

Marvin, Toledo, OH

Dana the Lions Fans should "Trade" the entire front office and Ownership to the CFL.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:40 AM)

marvin, it's a thought. although ill just go ownership

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Dana, you are wrong about David Cutcliffe. He is a great coach. Most Volunteer fans wanted him to be the head coach when Fulmer was fired. Duke will be bowling next year and Michigan will still stink.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:41 AM)

calvin, i'm not saying he's a bad coach - i'm saying i think rich rod is a great judge of talent. And in a different situation.

Cody (shaftsbury, vt)

When I say nothing, strahan comment, it gets posted, but when I agree with skip and say crabtree is the best receiver in a weak class no love.

Moderator

  (11:41 AM)

dry your tears, Cody

Christian{carmel,IN}

the goal of the year was better than the dunk of the year. but the nba game of the year is better than the nhl game of the year

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Dana, The Lions playing the Wolverines last season, who would win and who would you be rooting for?

Calvin (Greenville, SC)

How are these guys analyzing something that they couldn't even do in their dreams? There's no reason for any of them to give anything less than a 8 on these dunks.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:42 AM)

matt the lions. pro team always beats college, different speed and size

Drew (Buffalo)

Barry Melrose can do anything he wants to do, including dunk with the mullet.

Dre(Memphis)

You agree with skip and expect love....you kiddin me!!!

lawrence stowe vt

Barry is espn's version of chuck norris

Matt(New Britain,CT)

barry melrose on 1st & 10,book it

Rob (State College, PA)

The NHL playoffs are 2nd best in sports behind March Madness. The quality and passion is there. Any fan who loves sports should watch the NHL playoffs, a playoff hockey game is just ridiculous. Thankfully I've seen the Flyers play a few in my day. I've felt agony and ecstasy, incredible stuff the NHL playoffs are.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

Dana ~ I am in way angry, I just fail to see how ANY former HS-QB can be expected to contribute in his first season after not taking a snap for 4 years...... Like I said earlier, it took Weinke 2+seasons to mature at Florida State (same deal, former HS All-American) and Paulus doesn't have that kind of time.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:49 AM)

And rob, no qb in the pros did what casell did this year. WHy are you angry? There's a competition..if threet hadn't transfered, he'd be there getting snaps.

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Dana, give me a break, Michigan is in a much better position than Duke. Michigan has a great tradition of winning and kids who still want to play there. Some people don't even realize Duke has a football team. Duke hasn't really done anything in football since Spurrier left. Cutcliffe's job is much tougher than RR's. You can quote me on this, Duke will be bowling this year.

Drew (Buffalo)

NHL playoffs > spending time with my girlfriend.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:50 AM)

Calvin, what does a tougher job as you see it, have to do with this? We disagree. If the fact that one coach doesn't want a guy meant a guy didn't have talent, no one would have talent...ever.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla)

Dana ~ I am in NO way angry, I just fail to see how ANY former HS-QB can be expected to contribute in his first season after not taking a snap for 4 years...... Like I said earlier, it took Weinke 2+seasons to mature at Florida State (same deal, former HS All-American) and Paulus doesn't have that kind of time

Mike (Colchester, VT)

Wow 2 holes in one for 1 couple. Better lucky than good! Tell that couple to go buy 2 lottery tickets ASAP!

Dana Jacobson

  (11:52 AM)

rob, you said you were angry that's why I asked. And none of us except rich rod know what the expectation is...maybe its to teach leadership to the other qbs. different sport but paulus knows about leadership and hardship at times.

Marvin, Toledo, OH

I just want to thank you guys for giving me some Love today, my son thinks Im Da Man. So thanks Dana and Jay

Dana Jacobson

  (11:52 AM)

Marvin you are the man

Lew (Chicago)

When will Stephen A. be back to lay a smackdown on Skippy???

Dana Jacobson

  (11:53 AM)

Lew, he's on friday i believe

darryll (brooklyn ny)

THAT GOAL THAT THEY SHOWED WAS HOT I WONT LIE HOCKEY DO HAVE ALOT OF GOOD PLAYS I THINK WE SHOULD HAVE A GOAL OF THE WEEK ALSO

Christian{carmel,IN}

wow 2 hole in ones in 30 minutes that is amazing. i havent gotten a hole in one ever

Mike(Minot, ND)

Husband and Wife both get holes in one! thats a nice story for the grandkids!!!

Mike (NewYork)

Do you see any way the Celtics could beat the cavs without garnett?

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Hey guys how do you all decide what gets posted on the chat and what does not?

Moderator

  (11:55 AM)

just try to compliment the show thats airing as we chat...sometimes no rhyme or reason, whenever Jay and Dana get a second to click on a few comments...they are amazing at multi-tasking

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

I'll take your girlfriend then Drew. LOL.

Brian (Cincinnati, OH)

I'd watch more hockey if it was a more available channel other than VS. ESPN needs to get a contract with the NHL again!

Dana Jacobson

  (11:56 AM)

Brian, talk to the nhl about that i think

Matt(New Britain,CT)

so its official about paulus? going to compete for the starting qb job,what potential this has

Brandon (Greenville, SC)

Isiah Thomas just isn't coach material he needs to get out of the spotlight and move on,

TJ (Atlanta)

Isiah Thomas is crazy... FIU is gonna regret this move

Mike (colchester, VT)

Isiah Thompson, what a character. He just needs to admit it or deny and leave it alone. Letting it hang out there is just going to make things worse.

lawrence stowe vt

why does he need to address it at all?

Matt(New Britain,CT)

that reporter should leave isiah alone,let him coach

Steven (Philadelphia, PA)

Hey Dana, love the show as always. I would do as I've seen others do & propose marriage to you, but my wife might have issues with that (*LOL*) Anyway, Regarding my favorite mullet Barry Melrose's opinion that my San Jose Sharks could be upset by the Ducks, anything is possible, but I truly believe that the Stanley Cup will find it's way to San Jose (Sorry, Dionne.....*LOL*) Being a lifelong Raiders fan, it was sad to see John Madden retire. He clearly did change the way we look at NFL analysts, as well as how we play video games. He will be missed.

Dana Jacobson

  (12:05 PM)

steven, good stuff!

Dave W (Brandywine, Md)

Thanks for chatting with us Dana!

Dana Jacobson

  (12:05 PM)

Dave, thank you for chatting with us!

Jaz ( OhiO )

Why can't you all leave Isaih alone? The media has no cooth!

Dana Jacobson

  (12:06 PM)

Jaz, let's not forget according to police and reports from thomas' camp...basically isaiah tried to put this on his teenage daughter. The police didn't let him do it and reported the real facts. I loved isaih in detroit, but the man has put himself back in the public spotlight. This is what happens. Same as I always will get questions about any past transgressions, he will get them about his

Dana Jacobson

  (12:07 PM)

PLEASE NO MORE BOOK IT!!!!!!!!!!

Jake (Syracuse)

We should be applauding Isiah for giving his salary back to a program that needs a boost

Dana Jacobson

  (12:08 PM)

JAKE, there you go you just did

John (Indiana)

Hey Dana lets get MLB topics started now

Dana Jacobson

  (12:08 PM)

John we're closing it out...but i'm sure we'll get there again tomorrow. crazy day of breaking news today.

lawrence stowe vt

Dana you certainly look like an angel, surely you dont have a past??

Dana Jacobson

  (12:10 PM)

sure lawrence. we all make mistakes...and sometimes there's even misinformation in the reporting of those. i think what chris did on SC yesterday was the right thing. A lot had been reported, she was trying to give him a chance to set the record straight. Not everyone gets that chance. He clearly didn't want it.

Dana Jacobson

  (12:11 PM)

thanks for chatting all - talk with you tomorrow!!