Dana Jacobson

  (9:46 AM)

good morning everyone. Happy Friday! Just a diet coke by my side today so I'll do my best to keep up. How bout my wings!!

Michael (Boston, Ma)

I know hockey really isn't thing, but by the way the bruins played last night, I think their chances are real good to win the cup? Who do you think is the best team?

Dana Jacobson

  (9:48 AM)

Michael, good chances to come out of the east I think. Though I really liked how the penguins looked the other night. Like they turned a switch on. BUT and yes I am a fan, but truly...the red wings last night just dominated the bluejackets. I haven't seen a lot of games this year and couldn't believe how strong they looked. I'd go wings-bruins final and be quite happy

Mike Fent Harrison MI

don't you think that it will be better for the lions to get mark sanchez since there line sucks and he was the fastest QB in the draft so he could scramble around and maybe we wouldn't have the most sacked QB this year

Dana Jacobson

  (9:49 AM)

mike, thanks for making me chuckle early. Speed will help whoever is back there. I threw this out yesterday how about taking jason smith with the one and then packaging some picks with #20 to move down and take josh freeman. On todays show dan pompei in cover2 talks about freemans stock rising. I said yesterday I've been reading really high praise.

robert swartz rochester n.y.

last year the dodgers had manny have his hair trimmed. why is it so long this year. is he gonna be this years t.o. well maybe i shouldnt say t.o. because ima die hard bills fan. but baseball is a gentlemans sport in my mind. you dont see that on the yankees nor facial hair.

Dana Jacobson

  (9:51 AM)

Robert, I don't think his hair being long makes him a cancer. Until we know if he disobeyed a team order need to elave that alone. As for baseball being a gentlemans sport and the whole facial hair thing, times have changed. No facial hair on the yankees now a days doesn't equal postseason success. The rays had mohawks and go to the world series. Unless its harming someones play, why does it matter? Remember the mountain man jonny damon back in the red sox days? I just don't have a problem with it.

John, Florida

Recently a question was asked on 1st and Ten.....Which event do like better: Super Bowl Sunday, Masters Sunday, or March Madness. You forgot the NFL Draft.

jay crawford

  (9:51 AM)

what's up room! let's rock it!

Dana Jacobson

  (9:52 AM)

John, it actually was what is the best sports day of teh year. Skip argued masters sunday and I believe pat forde who was on said the first day of the tournament. The others we brought up like the NFL draft...i'd still go tourney day one

Jarad (Boston)

You should see the city of Boston right now.... It feels like the Celtics just ended a tough season and fell short of the playoffs.. We're still in though and we had a 62 win season two years ago we lost 18 in a row... I STILL BELIEVE!!!!!!

Dana Jacobson

  (9:53 AM)

Jarad, we're talking celtics at the top of the show. Good perspective thanks

Dwayne Washington D.C.

Lebron made a huge mistake of saying that the Cleveland Lebron's are going to win it all. If Kevin Garnett does come back by a miracle I think that the Celtics will beat them in the eastern finals only to lose the the Lakers.

Jared, Fort Lee NJ

I find it funny that the first RBI's at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field were by guys named Kelly and Jody.

Jay Crawford

  (9:56 AM)

good point jared.,...and by the visiting teams.

Jay Crawford

  (9:57 AM)

here's a weird stat...the first grand slam at old yankee stadium, tris speaker, the cf for the cleveland indians. the first slamn at the new shrine....indians cf grady sizemore....

Moderator

  (9:59 AM)

hey gang...lot of NBA predictions to make today...weigh in on how the playoffs will play out!

Moderator

  (10:02 AM)

you guys think Stephen A. should be worried about the Yankees yet? He's on with Skip today on 1st and Ten

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla.)

Celts will lose in the semifinals (house of cards is missing a card), and the Spurs can't win without Ginobli.

Jarad (Boston)

I just replaced my KG wheaties box with some Lucky Charms.. Will this help Celtics??

Nathan Daytona Beach,Fl

The baseball season is still early why are people so worry

pat (des moines,ia)

spurs vs magic nba finals, to win a champioonship u need a team not one person like the lakers and cavs are.

Brian Thompson( houston texas)

why are we even discussing the cavs and the pistons. the cavs are going to win unless lebron gets hurt. the piston are completely disfunctional.

Rob (salt lake city)

Enough about Garnett's knee let's talk some Hockey.

alex (bozeman, mt)

Where will amazing happen? Not Boston baaaaahha

Ryan C. (San Diego)

YANKEE NATION IS NOT WORRIED. Stephen A. will school skip on how the Yankees are going to get hot, especially when A-Rod is back. At the all-star break the yanks will have the best record in baseball.

Moderator

  (10:14 AM)

Yankee smack talk coming all the way from San Diego

Leland, NC

Stephen A. Smith should be very worried about the yankees. The bullpen is just terrible. They won't make it to Mo Rivera because they don't have a setup man to work the 8th. Unless Rivera can pitch 2 inning saves everyday they are in trouble.

Tarzan (Bronx,NY)

There are not going to be any suprises this year in the playoffs. Based on the seeding, the cavs and lakers should end up in the finals as predicted especially now that Garnett is out, the cavs should have no problem because orlando isn't quite there yet.

Sean (TR NJ)

With KG out its the Cavs to loose but I don't think the west is a closed issue as many would like to think. I could see a Denver team going in and creating some noise so for now (lol) I will go with Cavs vs Nuggets and Cavs in 6. * Card Subject to Change*

Rich (Erie,Pa.)

The Pistons will be swept by the Cavs putting an end to the terrible move for Iverson .

Marshall (St. Louis)

Yes Stephen A. should be worried, because for the last 8 years or so the Yankees have tried to buy the World Series with high profile free agents that simply dont work out, the Yankees need to rework there farm system and spend there billions on rasing good solid ball players. Winning is process somewhere on long the line the Yankees have forgotten that

Marvin, Toledo, OH

Go get him Stephen A. Whew "I got my popcorn ready".

Matt(New Britain,CT)

absolutely agree with skip,this team will step it up and play with a new heart knowing they will not kg. and stephen a. smith,quit it,the celtics are better with good young talent

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Culture of losing in Boston? Skip, how many NBA titles do the Celtics have?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

OK for me to join the chat today?

Moderator

  (10:19 AM)

we don't print invites, Johnny, hop in

James Denver

Good Stephen A Smith is on someone who knows basketball finally hell crush Skip in first down all day.

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

What does Kevin Garnett know about "College Rah Rah attitude"? He didn't go to college.

Matt(New Britain,CT)

don't expect a-rod to be himself when he comes back,yanks are in trouble

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla.)

"You are smokin' somethin'"...........LOL......... great line Stephen A............LOL

Chris (El Paso, Tx) [via mobile]

I like the assesment by Stephen A.

Brian Thompson (houston texas)

bulls all the way the celtics are overated and have always been overated. if the refs call the game as it is played and not the way they think it should be...

Adam G. Tampa, FL

The Bulls will win this series in 6. Derrick Rose is a stud and Ben Gordon will finally live up to the hype. The Celts win if KG pulls a Willis Reed.

Moderator

  (10:21 AM)

how many people on this chat have no idea who Wilis Reed is?? You kids know your history??

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Skip is right on with the Pistons not winning a game against the Cavs.

Marvin, Toledo, OH

A.I. being 33 yrs old and on the down side of his career he just needs to "Be a team player" and get ready for free-agency, at some point he's gonna have to get comfortable with coming off the bench, unless he goes to a losing team and just go there to keep his numbers up.

Nathan Daytona Beach,Fl

The Yankess are overrated just show you that money cant won championships look at the Floridsa Marlins under a 38 million dollar payroll and is in first place

Sean (TR NJ)

So what the Celtics win one championship last year and now we have to forget about all the years before it? Well I guess I just made up the fact that they were once holding out hope in the lottery not to long ago. Skip is right on this one with the loosing culture in Boston.

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Skip, the Iverson trade was not made to make the Pistons better, it was made to free up cap room for the Lebron James' free agency sweepstakes.

Matt (Laramie, WY)

How great is A-Rod really, he cannot get the Yankees over the hump to win the title. So basically saying A-Rod will make the Yankees win is a big joke. Look at the pitching of this team and the age and there you will see the problem.

Will, Cape May NJ

I know who willis reed is of course...we all should know who he is Mod...

Joe (Davis, CA)

Wikidpedia tells me willis reed was a baller for the knicks inducted to the hall of fame in '82.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Willis Reed was the inspiration for the Knicks last NBA title. I was a mere tot when it happened. He was courage personified.

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Willis Reed: Didn't he invent the reed instrument. I love his music!

James Denver

Thank you Detroit for taking AI and giving us hometown hero Chauncey back. Denver owes you one.

Chris (Lakeland Florida)

Hey Mod, thanks for the printed invite you mailed out. The signed photo of the First Take cast was a nice touch.

Moderator

  (10:28 AM)

Chris that was supposed to be kept quiet...I can't be schlepping invites and autographs all day

Matt(New Britain,CT)

more wikipedia info on reed,he is currently the VP of basketball operations of skip's hornets

Calvin P (Greenville, SC)

The Yankees are definitely missing A-Rod, but I wonder (once he returns) how many games he'll be able to play before Yankees fans start booing him again.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla.)

I know Willis Reed - but today's game is so much faster with more banging inside, and KG is never what could be called a wide-body presence, that any comparison or wish of a comeback from the injury that you can be sure the Celts have shut him down for the year. It's just not worth the risk.

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Willis Reed from the Knickerbockers, he played when the Knicks were relevant.

Kevin (New York)

Why aren't we talking about the demise of the Red Sox if everyone in Yankee Universe should be scared? Boston is in LAST PLACE!

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Sean, what about the Celtics in 1957, 1959-1966, 1968-69, 1974, 1976, 1981, 1984, 1986? Obivouly, a culture of losing there!

James Denver

Most of chatters didnt know about the Willis Reed come back until they tried to compare Pierces last year.

Moderator

  (10:32 AM)

so we need Garnett to pull a Pierce...thats more appopriate than pulling a Willis Reed

Jason (Chicago, Il)

Steven A needs to understand that this team is not even meeting "mediocre" expectations. The Yanks have spent a large amount of money to put a stellar team on the field. Even if the yanks pull it together, their still only at an average level of play.

Drew(Leland,NC)

Stephen A. is absolutely right for ONCE!!! Jaba has to be the setup man if the Yankees want even a chance to win close games this year. Good Job Stephen. LOL

Jason (Chicago, Il)

Boston didnt spend a half a billion dollars on 4 players this off season Kevin

Scott (Colorado Springs)

Stephen A. you just got shushed by Dana. Stop talking about the Yankees it isn't worth the time. They are done!

Brian Thompson( houston texas)

who cares about 10 games in a 100+ game season be for real. thats like caring about how you come out the blocks at a marathon be for real

Dana Jacobson

  (10:34 AM)

scott, shushing those guys is being kind!! it's like being a kindergarten teacher sometimes

Moderator

  (10:34 AM)

takes about 40 games to truely assess how a baseball team is going to do in a season

Mark (Burlington)

Harry Kalas was 73 when he passed, and John Maddon is the same age, was happened to Kalas a wake up call for Maddon and influenced hsi retirement?

Dana Jacobson

  (10:36 AM)

mark, a few others asked that yesterday. madden didn't say it was, such a big decision i'm sure he was thinking about it for awhile, but maybe he saw that and it reinforced feeligns he was having. haven't seen any indepth stuff with maddon about it, till we do , all speculation

Rick Ft. Lauderdale

I'm a die hard Boston Bruins fan,How come we are not debating the six ORIGINAL playoff series going on now?? Boston vs. Montreal...It doesn't get better than that!

Dana Jacobson

  (10:36 AM)

rick, sadly we rarely debate hockey. but some great series, and i loved watching last night

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

So Dana does that make the boys easier or harder to deal with than a group of 2nd graders?

Dana Jacobson

  (10:37 AM)

johnny, about the same.

Matt (B-More, MD)

Well we know the Orioles and the Blue Jays aren't going to stay on top of that division. So I think the Yankees are still ok. If A-Rod doesn't have a good come back they could be screwed.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla.)

Mod ~ Pierce had a boo-boo, Reed had a substantial injury to his knee. Garnett needs to pull a Reed, but it's smart money that the team won't let him.

Moderator

  (10:37 AM)

fair point

Dana Jacobson

  (10:38 AM)

Matt, that's what history tells us but remember last year no one thought the rays would be in it in the end. I'm not saying blue jays and o's will...but there's always that team, add an injury here and there... happens

Moderator

  (10:38 AM)

nice touch with the 'boo boo', Shakespeare

Mike (Edinboro,PA)

Totally agree with Skip about C.C. Look at how the former Cy Young looked at the beginning last year against AL hitting and in the post season the season before. He benefited last year from switching leagues, cashed out and will now get to show off his mediocrity on the big stage.

Will (Wv)

People people people....we just finished tax season 2 days ago.....it is way too early to say that boston and the yankees are in trouble....get over it!

Tyler (Hershey, PA)

Im with skip. Lebron will get calls the same as crosby gets calls with the Penguins. The NHL and NBA both want their young superstars to go far in the playoffs.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:40 AM)

Tyler, come on superstars have always gotten calls. ALWAYS. you need more than that to win.

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Ok we got Batman and Joker in the house today Dana's catwoman and Jay's alfred

Dana Jacobson

  (10:40 AM)

adam, very funny

Scott (Colorado Springs)

Hey Dana, our wings are smoking hot. We were talking about Michigan St. lifting Detroit?s morale, I think the Red Wings are going to do the same thing and I think more people watch hockey in Michigan than Basketball.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:42 AM)

scott, no doubt. and for those who said sure now i'm talking hockey. no one asked anything hockey related b/f playoffs. get over it!

Jarad (Boston)

Dana, I think it's fair to say Jordan won at least one of his championships solely on getting every call.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:43 AM)

Jarad, seriously? please tell me that's sacrcasm.... I used to hate seeing it...does it help, yes but come on folks when calls go your way you have to do something with it. and not EVERY call does. Some biggies yes, some unfair ones yes...but really!!

wes(hixson,tn)

Michael kim is robin!!!!!!!!!!!show him some love!!!

Christian{carmel,IN}

the lakers basicly get an automatic bid to the conference finals.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:43 AM)

Wes, good point.

Steve Austin, TX

Why does hockey get less than 10 minutes on a two hour show? Hardly a mention, if any, during the Mike and Mike show. Could it be because ESPN doesn't show any NHL games? By the way, I just happen to be the biggest Red Wing fan and have been for over 40 years. I never waivered, even during the 70's.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:45 AM)

steve, we've talked about this the past couple days. the audience just isn't there. I know, there are a lot of you out there, but not compared to other sports. It's a chicken-egg debate, if you talk about it will it grow...but it doesn't seem to. There are alot of things i think we talk about too much and don't talk about enough! no one is ever happy.

Kevin (New York)

Why do Yankee haters continually bring up salary when we all know a high payroll doesn't guarantee a world series? The yanks have proved this the past decade, but if you're saying you would have been upset that your team signed CC, AJ and Mark Teixera...you're lying to yourself.

Ryan Compeau: Fond du Lac, WI.

Dana I watch your show every day and I enjoy all of your debates that you guys have. But I want to know why hockey always seems to be put on the back burner. It is the start of the playoffs, and we are talking about basketball that havent even started the playoffs yet. I understand that hockey is more of a northern sport, but you now have two California teams playing eachother. Last night we had two good games and one amazing game in the Hawks, Flames game. Lets get some hockey one the show.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla.)

Simply put - Jordan got calls because he controlled the ball for the Bulls and he spent the majority of his career above the rim in the paint......... that's how it works ;)

Bryon Russell (retired)

Yeah, like the time Jordan pushed off against me in the 98 finals. Funny how they only show the one camera angle on that play...

Dana Jacobson

  (10:45 AM)

Ryan, people don't watch for hockey...at least not enough.

Jeremy (lafayette, IN)

good point Steve.....I think thats exactly why they dont talk about it...why promote someones else progamming

Rich Rodriguez

I read Skip's chat transcript yesterday, and people who think they can debate him and win need to get lives.

Mac (Akron, OH)

Playoff predictions 1st round: LAL w's 4-1, Port w's 4-3, Dal w's 4-3, Den w's 4-3; East Cle w's 4-0, Mia 4-3, Orl w's 4-1, and Bos 4-2! 2nd round: LAL w's 4-2, Den w's 4-2; E Cle w's 4-2, Orl w's 4-2. 3rd R: LAL w's 4-1, Orl w's 4-3. Champs=Lakers 4-2! Kobe Finals MVP!

Dana Jacobson

  (10:45 AM)

jeremy nothing to do with not promoting someone else's stuff. the tourney is on cbs

Dana Jacobson

  (10:46 AM)

gota go do 2nd down...when i get back i know we'll be back to baseball and basketball

Mac (Akron, OH)

Will you guys please talk a little hockey. Lastly, Go Lakers! Kobe=24 1 up on that guy who resides by the mistake on the lake!

Moderator

  (10:46 AM)

very thorough, Mac...tedious to read, but thorough..you're ready for the playoffs

Jay Crawford

  (10:46 AM)

hey mac! we did wed and thursday... i agree though...should have a little each day.

Jeremy: Memphis, TN

How come Joe Girardi isn't catching all the heat like Torre always did?

Kevin (New York)

It's because Skip hates hockey and threatens to leave the network if ESPN shows more than an hour worth of footage per day.

Moderator

  (10:47 AM)

Jeremy, you reading the NY tabloids online in Memphis?? Girardi got labled 'Clueless Joe' on the back page by Easter

Jeremy (lafayette, IN)

Man skip drives me nuts...but he is very entertaining:)

James Denver

Most calls in NBA Finals history went to D Wade a couple years back. He had 94 free throws in 6 game series MJ never had more then 86 in 7 game series.

Kevin (New York)

Dana who wins in a fight, Skip on five diet mountain dews or Barry Melrose?

Moderator

  (10:52 AM)

depends on what Melrose had to drink

Sean ( TR NJ)

Steve good point actually impressed that staement was posted since I mentioned basically the same thing in a couple posts to not make it on here.

Tj (columbus,oh)

Come on Skip. Mike didn't win a title till his 7 seasons. Stop hating on Lebron and just be a witness. Stephen A. keep up the good work.

Jay Crawford

  (10:54 AM)

TELL HIM TJ

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Best Mullet on HDTV goes to Barry Melrose.

Jay Crawford

  (10:54 AM)

no doubt adam!

Donny (Boston)

I think a Skip vs Don Cherry would be a much better fight!

Jay Crawford

  (10:54 AM)

id watch donny!

Matt(New Britain,CT)

chris collinsworth replacing madden? say it ain't so

Dana Jacobson

  (10:54 AM)

sean, lot a pots...a lot doesn't get on

Jay Crawford

  (10:55 AM)

not a fan matt? what do you think room???? madden or collinsworth?

Mac (Akron, OH)

Utah has no shot at upsetting the Lakers! Icing does not mean a thing when you play a game have a day off or even two days off!

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Thanks for this story I live 15 minutes from New Port Richey.

Jay Crawford

  (10:55 AM)

i taped it earlier this morning adam. great hs baseball down there!

Dana Jacobson

  (10:55 AM)

mac, not sure he's saying that they have a shot at upsetting them, just extending the series. The ice was in reference to the rest of the playoffs and that kobe can use some shorter series up front

Matt (Laramie, WY)

3 no hitters straight, or a husband/wifeeach getting a hole in one on the same day, which is the bigger feat and which one is harder?

James Denver

Hey Scott in Colorado Springs you cant be Red Wings fan and live in this state. You have 2 hours to leave.

Dana Jacobson

  (10:56 AM)

james may have a point here scott

Jay Crawford

  (10:56 AM)

i like that matt! we bring you the unimaginable here on espnft!

Jeremy (lafayette, IN)

madden..although collinsworth is good

wes(hixson,tn)

what bout some racin' talk?? go JR.!!! where's marty smith at when you need him?

Ross (minneapolis, MN)

why is hockey never debated? It might not be the most popular sport, but maybe some tv time might help!

Michael (Kentucky)

MADDEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jason (Chicago, Il)

Three consecutive no hitters is AMAZING on any level... good for him

Mac Akron, OH

Hey Jay, O-H... got a quick question for you, you gonna attend the Spring game or watch the NFL Draft?

Jay Crawford

  (10:57 AM)

mac, i-o!!! no i'll be in nyc...go bucks!

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Skip v Stephen A. in a steel cage best of three falls. Definitely a PPV must see.

Buster South Bend In

Dana have you ever seen a superstar like LaBron who is such a great player and yet does every gimmick (the powder, the fake photo opps before games)he can to get tv time

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Yep, it's Girardi's fault that the pitchers purchased for him can't get people out. He can only use what he has.

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Madden or Collinsworth, Madden hands down!!!

Dana Jacobson

  (10:58 AM)

Buster you say its for tv time...i think he's having fun, the fake photo is about the team. the man doesn't need to do anything to have tv time. when i did sidelines he'd turn down doing interviews sometimes...so its not all about tv

Sean (TR NJ)

Collinsworth would not have been my first pick but he is servicable at best perhaps Boomer Essiason would have been a better fit alwyas enjoyed his input.

Scallinno (Florence, South Carolina)

Collinsworth will have me watching games on mute.

Sam (Durham, NC)

Who watched the games on Sunday or Monday JUST TO HEAR MADDEN? I understand how influential of a coach and announcer he was. But John Madden was not my sole reason for watchin the game. That's like goin to an atm and pressin the Spanish button just to hear Penelope Cruz tell you about your money.

Christian(carmel,IN)

6 straight no hitters!!!!!!!!!! wow

Jeremy (lafayette, IN)

yep looks just like JAY!!

Mac Akron, OH

GO TOM! I love the support for the kid! Yanks could use someone like him!

Christian(carmel,IN)

wow flat stanley i remember that. lol. i used to love that thing

Jason (Chicago, Il)

I dont want to discredit Madden at all, but I can clearly say that myself and many of my friends would mute the games just so that we did NOT have to hear him babble about everything

Mac Akron OH

Does this mean that this is the last year for the video game EA Sports Madden?

Pete (NC)

Sorry ESPN, but anyone is better than Tony K. Is he still doing MNF? I hope not. I love the guy on PTI, but MNF is not his game.

Kevin (New York)

Collinsworth's ok, but no Madden obviously. Besides the coaching/tv/video games, he gave one of the best pep talks ever in Little Giants, he's the reason they pulled off the upset over the Cowboys.

Will (WV)

Hey hey hey....is the Madden curse over for athletes?

Brian Thompson (houston, texas)

why do you people worry abot the history of a franchise. Bird is going to make the Celts win. jordan isnt gonna make the bulls com back to life, its not about magic in la its kobe. the dream cant do anything for the rockets nightmares. we live in the present let go of the past

Brian Thompson (houston, texas)

Robert Ayers the next Mario Williams

James Denver

They better keep making Madden Football.

Lew Chicago

I will miss Madden but as he will tell you the game goes on. And i love the game. I mean if you have to get over Jordan you can survive anything!

Val: Burleson, TX

Jay... Flat Stanley! Nice... my 7 yr. old did FS last year in Kindergarten. Her's was not as fortunate to visit the ESPN First Take studios :-o

Adam G. Tampa, FL

How does Harry Kalas's voice not bring chills through your spine.

Christian{carmel,IN}

wow flat stanley in espn studios thats great!!!!

Mac Akron, OH

You should of asked Ayers about what he thought about Tenn new head football coach Kiffin?

Rick Ft. Lauderdale

Dana or Jay, Is there anything in the manual for Duct Tape that shows how to use it on Skip?? LOL...

Brian Thompson (houston, texas)

phillies need to hire todd to replace his old man

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Lew chicago I still haven't gotten over Jordan lol.

James Denver

NFL films will never be the same!

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

What? No Ashburn family member throwing out a first pitch? Let's not forget Kalas-Ashburn was a team for a long time. The Phillies should remember both men tonight.

James ( Avalon NJ. )

My wife made a great point to me yesterday. She said if the NFL has learned anything from Madden hopefully the broadcasters learned that the fans truely respect a man that leaves the football jargon to the coaches. The fans love to be talked to not talked at!

Joe (Minnesota)

Hockey Playoffs!! I'm talking about PLAYOFFS!!! You consistantly talk about the nfl draft months in advance, but when theres a sport like hockey with playoffs underway it still doesn't get talked about. why?? why isn't college hockey ever covered too?

Lew *Chicago*

Please tell my man Stephen A. it is going to take more than just stopping Derrick Rose to beat the BULLS.

James Denver

Not for the Celtics if they stop Rose no chance for Bulls.

John (Indiana)

The Bulls are going to get destroyed!!!

aaron ((chi heights, IL))

IF TYRUS THOMAS PLAYS WELL THE BULLS HAVE A CHANCE

Mac Akron, OH

Joe hockey is like Wrestling, we are just a minority of fans compared to the other big sports!

Drew (Buffalo)

Joe- stop whining.

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Skip stop it, Denver's too physical.

Will (WV)

wouldn't it be great if this year, we had teams like the hornets and the Hawks in the finals?

Christian{carmel,IN}

i agree with stephan a and skip the hornets are gonna win in6 against denver. because of cp3.

Brian Thompson (houston, texas)

skip is abolutelty right about the nuggets and the hornets but he hornets will lose to the mavs. its called payback

Michael (woodbridge, VA)

Stephen A. agrees with Skip!!! lol

Damien Weekes (West bloomfield michigan)

I'm from michigan a definite Pistons fan and as much as I hate to admit it... Dumars made a huge mistake letting chauncey get out of town

Mike (Colchester, VT)

Skip would pick the Spurs to beat Jordan's Bulls if he could. Hes a man obsessed.

Todd (Toledo)

I love that at least the entire world isn't in love with LeBron...keep standing your ground Skip!

Matt(New Britain,CT)

talk about old,no shot for the spurs against the mavs

Adam G. Tampa, FL

I disagree, Tony Parker will torcher Jason Kidd like CP3 did him last year!

torrey (lousiana)

i cant beleive steven a and skip can agree on soomething

Christian(carmel,IN)

i agree with skip the spurs are going to win because tony parker and tim duncan is gonna dominate. this is how its going to end in game 7 roger mason hits a buzzer beater to win it.

James Denver

Denver beat the Hornets just a few weeks ago in New Orleans and dominated. They both won on each others home courts but Denver didnt have Melo when it lost at home. With JR Smith Denvers bench will be to deep. Denver in 6.

John (Indiana)

The Spurs only have Nowitzki and Parker that's it

Moderator

  (11:25 AM)

John, double check your Spurs roster on who they have

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Dana/Jay: Do you stuff cotton in your ears when Skip and Stephen A. appear on the show together? You can tell us.

Scott (Kalamazoo, MI)

Please tell Stephen and Skip to disagree on something. This is no fun to watch.

John (Indiana)

oh and Duncan

Will (WV)

Its a scary day in the studios....Skip and Steven are agreeing on more than one topic! Jay/Dana....do something!

Matt(New Britain,CT)

what's happening stephen? agreeing with skip on the last 3 topics?

Christian(carmel,IN)

i agree with skip and stephen a. the hawks are going to win in 7 because of team. the hawks have 6 players that can score over 20 as stephen a said. and the heat have 2 or 3.

Matt(New Britain,CT)

yanks could use that high school pitcher,better than what they are getting now

Mike (Colchester, VT)

WOW all this agreeing. Where's the fire from earlier in the show? Get Skip started on LeBron again!

Lew *Chicago*

Is Greg Oden in the NBA???

Jay Crawford

  (11:27 AM)

sorry guys, been busy today on and off the air...

Matt (B-More, MD)

It looks like Stephen A. got in to Skip's diet Mountain Dews... Why is he talking so fast?

James Denver

What has CP3 ever done Chauncey won the Finals MVP and will out play CP3.

JC ( Philly )

That's it now I'm confused! Did I just hear S.Smith agree with Skip? Twice!

Jay Crawford

  (11:28 AM)

for those wondering about robery ayers and lane kiffen, he told me off air, he loves the guy! he said the players do too. he believes he will have a great impact on the program in a short period of time...

Adam G. Tampa, FL

SKIP COME ON STICK WITH THE MAGIC.

Digger Phelps (Tampa, FL)

In the 2nd round the Lakers will beat the Blazers in a PAYBACK GAME.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Anyone know what kind of tip-off times are scheduled for the NBA playoffs? Seems like they've had games in the past beginning after 10:00 PM Eastern time. Nice for the West Coast fans but with the Lakers having fans all over the country, this can be an issue.

Will (WV)

Who is Skip's new mancrush?

Jay Crawford

  (11:28 AM)

not lebron

Christian(carmel,IN)

man 4th down is going to be good. who is gonna win it all??? well i have the spurs winning it all.

Mac Akron, OH

Todd I don't love LeBron Lol and i'm from his home city. haha My friends hate it but I love talking crap!

Jake (Syracuse)

Portland will win the west, write it down, Blazers baby

Brian Thompson (houston, texas)

no one with a good nfl team or a good nba team cares about hockey. stop winning about it. let hockey freeze and preserve it for a generation that cares about it.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:30 AM)

Brian, in all fairness detriots had some good basketball teams, and they care about hockey.

Will (WV)

Jay....your Buckeyes are going down!

Dana Jacobson

  (11:30 AM)

Will, i have no idea what this is in reference to b/c i've been on the set computerless but i like it!

Mike (Colchester, VT)

Magic over Lakers in 7 for the rings

Val: Burleson, TX

Dana... I still feel the NBA playoffs is overrated and - frankly - just not exciting. Compare it to the NFL, MLB, NCAA Basketball, even LLWS. The NBA postseason is too long and allows too many teams. Your take on how [if] the NBA can add some pop to their postseason?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:32 AM)

Val, the length is ridiculous!!!! I agree. I liked the first round as 5 game series better but understood the reason for the change. But the drawn out schedule is a joke. you get great basketball but tighen it up!

Gianco (Chicago)

Does else anyone think KG injury for the playoffs is a conspiracy?

Dana Jacobson

  (11:36 AM)

ummm, no.

Jarad (Boston)

Dana, Dwayne Wade probly got the most calls ever in his title run? Sorry I can't let it go.

Matt(New Britain,CT)

blazers in 5,nice young team,could make some noise in the playoffs,watch out la

Scott (Colorado Springs)

To the hockey fans, I do like hockey so don't beat me up after I post this. Hockey is equal to Soccer in the US. We would rather watch golf or talk about the NFL draft. It isn't that interesting to the US and it could because of all the international players. So First Take won't spend that much time talking about hockey. Most of their audience just wants to hear about the NFL, MLB, and NBA. That is the way it is.

Dana Jacobson

  (11:37 AM)

and clearly that's the only reason they won! sorry i'm not letting you let it go

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

I cannot believe it. MLB Extra Innings is not carrying the Phillies game tonight. That stinks!

Jay Crawford

  (11:38 AM)

what about tampa bays coverage calvin?

torrey (lousiana)

more basketball the better i just cant get enough of king James

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Ian Kinsler wishes he was as good as Rickey Henderson. Comparing him to a member of the HOF. Good luck with that.

Karl Irvine

Gianco, I think maybe

Will (WV)

I need help trying to figure out the fantasy baseball scoring system...anyone?

torrey (lousiana)

he is crazy the nba is not overrated its great intertainment with the greatest players in the world

Will (WV)

Skip and Lebron...sitting in a tree.... Aw.... dont let Skip hear this one!

Mike (Colchester, VT)

Ian Kinsler the human red bull. What a nickname haha

Dana Jacobson

  (11:39 AM)

Karl and Gianco meet skip behind the trhird car in the parking lot that has the letter L in the first 3 of his plate number, then you can... sorry..no conspiracy

Jay Crawford

  (11:39 AM)

i liked that too mike!

Will (WV)

We always focus on this big market/powerhouse teams falling apart and getting injured near the post season. Why can we put our energy into talks about the lower seed teams that had great seasons and are making playoff pushes!

Christian(carmel,IN)

get flat stanley on again at the end of the show!!!

Jay Crawford

  (11:40 AM)

i will! you dig flat stanley

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Jay you and Stephen A fly out here today we'll go to the Rays game together , then pop bottles then get models haha

Jay Crawford

  (11:40 AM)

funny adam! i would love to be heading to tampa today! love that place

Matt(New Britain,CT)

ian kinsler or pedroia? who would you rather have?

Jay Crawford

  (11:41 AM)

no doubt, pedroia!

Scott (Kalamazoo, MI)

Jay, It may be a unimportant stat about the grand slams at yankee stadium but I think it is cool how history tends to repeat. And it never hurts when someting good happens to the indians.

Jay Crawford

  (11:41 AM)

good answer scott. i just thought it a bit odd...

darryll (brooklyn ny)

im a mets fan but im a griffey fan mlb and /or espn should put seattle games on tv i dont wanna jinx it but griffey looks like hes gonna have a year

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Yeah its 85 degrees here

Jay Crawford

  (11:42 AM)

wow! that would work! meet ya at shephards!

Jarad (Boston)

I think when Lebron gets out of bed before every playoff game a whistle will blow.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Hockey may not ever get the U.S. love that football, baseball, and basketball do and that's a real shame. The sport can do better though. The outdoor game on New Year's Day has been a real spectacle over the past two years. They really need more recognizable names and faces if they want to even begin to compete with the other three sports for TV ratings. All that said, I don't believe the NBA is all that much more popular than the NHL.

James Denver

Scott get of your soap box your a Red Wings fan and you live in Colorado get out of my state move to Detroit.

Jessie WC Pa.

The Sixers are totally sniperless and a one dimensional team ain't cutting it against the multi dimensional teams their up against! I still love my Sixers.

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Everyone says that hockey is not discussed here but neither is NASCAR. NASCAR has the largest viewing audience of any sport and you never see it mentioned here.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

The NBA post season is so long that guys retire in the middle of them.

Mike (Colchester, VT)

This year should be a great first round but you guys are right about the length. Should be som of the best playoff basketball in a while though. Huge potential for upsets!

Mac Akron, OH

I like how Ayers likes Kiffin and I think he is going to be a good college football coach; he learned something from that guy at USC. lol

Mike (Colchester, VT)

These coaches need to get over optional practices. Make them manditory or accept the fact that not all players will show up.

James Denver

I dont remember CP3 winning any NBA Championships. BBBBBBBILLUPS.

James Denver

Yeah Steve Blake is going to lead Portland all the way.I hate to steal line from Steven A but what have you been smoking. Houston in 6

Mike (Colchester, VT)

KG the next Ty Lawson? Here comes the Celtics roaring back! Seriously though I think Garnett has alot more dignity than that.

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Second Best Show besides First Take, drum roll... "Quite Frankly"

Dana Jacobson

  (11:44 AM)

Mike its a CBA thing. They can't make them mandatory right now. But you are right if its not accept some wont be there...if they're in shape, may need to get over it

Jay Crawford

  (11:44 AM)

love the drum roll reference!

Gianco (Chicago)

Jay, How bout you guys get Lebron on the show to debate skip in the off-season

Jay Crawford

  (11:44 AM)

it almost happened last year. we're constantly working on it...my hope is if they win it all, he will do just that!

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Lets start a petition to get Quite Frankly back on the air Jay.

Jay Crawford

  (11:45 AM)

i'd sign it.

Matt(New Britain,CT)

interesting choice,would you want manny(w/ manny being manny) or josh hamilton(team player who can put up similar #s)

Jay Crawford

  (11:45 AM)

john is a beast! and younger...josh!

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Hey Jay, It's 25 here and 9 or 10 inches of snow on the ground and it is still falling, would that work also?

Jay Crawford

  (11:45 AM)

matt, i love to ski, so sure...

Will (WV)

GREAT....the post season is here!

Christian(carmel,IN)

i think skip is going to pick the spurs to win it all. i did lol.

albert (chicago)

BULLS OR CELTICS

Jay Crawford

  (11:46 AM)

celts!

Matt (B-More, MD)

I'd pass on Stafford... He is just another Kyle Boller or Rex Grossman. Good physical tools. He won't make it in Detroit! Sanchez on the other hand would embrace that type of leadership role.

Jay Crawford

  (11:47 AM)

i dont see stafford going number 1. wouldn't be shocked to see him dive like brady quinn.

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

Jay, in Tampa Bay, the Rays are on tonight. No one here would broadcast the game and if a sports bar could get a feed, why wouldn't MLB Extra Innings have it?

Jay Crawford

  (11:47 AM)

not really sure. it doesnt make sense.

Dennis (Clinton Mass)

Indians need to wake up. I picked them to take the Central!

Jay Crawford

  (11:47 AM)

they need to wake up for more than just you picking them to win the central!

Dana Jacobson

  (11:48 AM)

the indians can stay asleep..just fine with me

Will (WV)

So is anyone hosting a tailgate/draft party/bbq next weekend?! I am making fried twinkies!

Jay Crawford

  (11:48 AM)

fired twinkies, the best food ive ever tasted!

Jay Crawford

  (11:48 AM)

watch it dana! we will catch your tigers and the cavs will send your pistons packing!

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla.)

An indian's fan in Mass, don't let your neighbors find out Dennis or they'll burn your house down.......LOL

Val: Burleson, TX

Jay... do you think the Titan's 13-3 mark of last season was a fluke? I love Fisher and hate to think he will never win a Super Bowl (w/ Tennessee).

Jay Crawford

  (11:49 AM)

it was part fluke, part fisher genius. doing it again...dont count on it...

Jake (Syracuse)

Any chance Stafford or Sanchez falls to the Jets? I hope so, don't know if Clemens is the answer.

Jay Crawford

  (11:49 AM)

jake, not likely that far, but possible.

Mike (Colchester, VT)

I'm getting out the deep fryer and the hot sauce for the homemade buffalo wings! Theres nothing like getting back into football mode!

Matt(New Britain,CT)

isn't it too early to judge player's careers when they are not even a member of a nfl team yet?

Adam G. Tampa, FL

Josh Freeman is the QB gem of this draft.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

I think the First Take crew can use the Supernanny.

Jay Crawford

  (11:51 AM)

i wouldn't bank on him as a star at the next level josh. he played in a league where passing the football was easy, and he was middle o the road stats wise...

Tom (River North)

When the Cavs don't win the title and the Indians and Browns finish last in their respective divisions, I'm going to start calling it the Jay Crawford jinx.

Jay Crawford

  (11:52 AM)

go ahead tom. i was born in 65..the last title for a cleveland team, 64!

Will (WV)

Josh Freeman is this year's Joe Flacco!

Jay Crawford

  (11:52 AM)

hmmm, we'll see will. talk to me in november.

Jessie ( West Chester Pa. )

Jake Plummer stated that Denver made a great decision to let Shanahan go due to the fact that over a long period of time the same system of coaching tends to go stagnant! Would you agree that this is the case in Philly with Andy (we'll getum next year)Ried?

Will (WV)

Good point Jay, but so was the same situation for Joe Flacco!

Jay Crawford

  (11:53 AM)

no, he was 1-aa and had great numbers.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Born in '65? Thanks for making me feel younger, Jay.

Jay Crawford

  (11:53 AM)

i know johnny. im an old coot! lol

Val: Burleson, TX

Sorry ESPN, not diggin' the Couch Potato segment. Who can eat 7 bags of chips?

Jay Crawford

  (11:53 AM)

i know val...id be dead!

Paul (Denver)

Going to A-basin to ski tomorrow with at least 20 inches of fresh powder!

Jay Crawford

  (11:53 AM)

im jealous paul!

Scott (Kalamazoo, MI)

Jay Crawford curse. Does that mean we can call Jay the goat.

Mike (Colchester, VT)

WOW DID SKIP JUST PICK THE CAVS?!

Jay Crawford

  (11:54 AM)

ummm, if you must

James Denver

If Denver doesnt take Sanchez or hes gone I would love Josh Freeman as Bronco.

Jake (Syracuse)

Even though Flacco played D-1AA football, he was a bit more proven in college, Freeman didnt lead K St anywhere

wes(hixson,tn)

the shwab rules!!!! have a awesome weekend everybody!!!

Jay Crawford

  (11:54 AM)

my point exactly jake

Matt(New Britain,CT)

couch potato making me hungry with those chips,lol

Christian(carmel,IN)

lol stephen a is mocking skip

Jay Crawford

  (11:54 AM)

and he does it well...

Calvin W (Clearwater, FL)

What a jerk! He is wearing a Rangers jersey. Go Devils!

Nathan Daytona Beach,fl

Josh Freeman will be an another Akil Smith Book it!!

Jay Crawford

  (11:55 AM)

lol! love the book it reference.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Jay think of it this way, you aren't as old as Skip.

Christian{carmel,IN}

that was hilarious when stephen a mocked skip

Jay Crawford

  (11:55 AM)

ahhh. true...thankful

Will (WV)

Jay, where is the best fit for Freeman?

Matt(New Britain,CT)

the skip jinx,nice

Mike (Colchester, VT)

Everyone remember that Skip picked the Cavs as soon as he flops over to the Spurs or Hornets!

Jay Crawford

  (11:56 AM)

somewhere he can learn for a few years. he's just not ready. flacco did it because he had a great defense, didnt need to do much offensively.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla.)

Freeman???? COME ON!!! He looked great against nobodies (North Texas and Montana State and Louisiana-Lafayette).... but literally lost EVERY game of consequence against quality teams

Cj (San Francisco)

How long do you think it will take the Giants starting rotation to turn things around?

Jay Crawford

  (11:56 AM)

worried they may not...

Matt(New Britain,CT)

jets should trade up for sanchez

James Denver

I thought Skip doesnt change his picks stick with the Hornets Skip there loosing in first round to Denver.

Matt (Laramie, WY)

Jay, who do you see the Lions picking at No. 1 if not Stafford? As I have said here for days there draft history is not good as the like the glitz guys and not the guys for need. Staffor does feel a need but i think they would be better off holding off a year and taking a QB next year.

Jay Crawford

  (11:57 AM)

matt, whoever it is, it will be the wrong guy.

Nathan Daytona Beach Fl

I think First Take should make "Book It" T shirtts and have the money donate to the V foundation!

Jay Crawford

  (11:57 AM)

i like the idea!

Val: Burleson, TX

Jay, Dana, Skip... awesome show as usual. Thanx and have a great weekend!

Jay Crawford

  (11:57 AM)

you too val. thanks!

Matt(New Britain,CT)

the cavs will win at least 1 playoff game,book it(haha)

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Maybe Josh Freeman will be the next Tavaris Jackson.

Andy (Fort Collins CO)

Put it on the board. Nuggets in 5 games!!!

Jay Crawford

  (12:02 PM)

book it!

Moderator

  (12:02 PM)

have a good weekend everyone

Lew *Chicago*

Enjoy the weekend and watch the BULLS pull one out lol

WIll (WV)

The weekend's here! Enjoy everyone!

Moderator

  (12:02 PM)

enjoy will

John (Indiana)

Yeah, great show Jay and Dana have the greatest weekend ever!!!

Jay Crawford

  (12:02 PM)

live like its the last day of school!

Adam G. Tampa, FL

HAVE A GOOD DAY JAY DANA STEPHEN A SKIPPER

Lew *Chicago*

You guys should extend your hours!!!

James Denver

How dare you ? Skips picks dont you know he was only person who thought Jay Cutler was any good and he was only person who didnt think Reggie Bush was a everydown back.

Kevin ((Chicago))

how do you think the celtics'll do without kg?

Matt (Laramie, WY)

I did not know a human in a buck suit would actually fit through a basketball hoop.

Jay Crawford

  (12:03 PM)

exactly matt. man that was funny though... sorry he got hurt though

Adam G. Tampa, FL

How do you become a Mascott lol

James Denver

See you guys Monday Ill be celibrating Nuggets game 1 win.

Rob (Tallahassee, Fla.)

GREAT idea nathan

Matt(New Britain,CT)

have a great weekend,looking like its going to be a so-so weekend(weather wise)

Will (WV)

TO everyone in the studios...enjoy your weekend!

Umor (detroit mi)

Oh the the joker in a good mood today. I pcked cleveland to jinx them.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Gotta run. Thanks again to the entire First Take crew for giving me a chance to chat. Finally looking like spring here in the Northeast. I think I'll catch a little AAA baseball. Be save and have a great weekend all. Peace.

Jay Crawford

  (12:04 PM)

much love chatters! gota scoot. go cavs! go indians! live like its the last day of school!

Dana Jacobson

  (12:05 PM)

folks have a great weekend, enjoy all the games! talk to you monday