Evan Cohen talks ‘First Take’ future and hosting interest after Molly Qerim departure

Drake Maye, the new quarterback for the New England Patriots, is drawing inspiration from Aaron Rodgers rather than Tom Brady, the legendary figure he is expected to succeed. Maye's approach to gripping the football reflects his admiration for Rodgers' style, which could signal a fresh direction for the Patriots. This shift is significant as it highlights Maye's willingness to innovate and adapt, potentially bringing a new dynamic to the team's offense.

Recently, Tom Brady was spotted in the broadcast booth during a Las Vegas Raiders game, which sparked discussions about his involvement as a minority owner. Stephen A. Smith came to Brady's defense, emphasizing that his presence shouldn't be misconstrued as interference in team matters. This situation highlights the intersection of sports ownership and media presence, raising questions about the roles of former players in broadcasting.

The Tush Push rule in the NFL, which allows quarterbacks to be pushed by teammates during sneaks, has its origins in a controversial decision made in 2005. ESPN's Mike Greenberg recently discussed how this rule came about as a response to the need for simpler officiating. This change has sparked debates about its impact on the game, highlighting how rules evolve over time and the influence of past decisions on current gameplay.

Emmanuel Acho has raised questions about Stephen A. Smith's approach to Molly Qerim's recent departure from ESPN. This discussion highlights the dynamics within sports media and the impact of personnel changes on audience perception. As fans and analysts alike weigh in, it underscores the importance of transparency and communication in the industry.

The Florida Gators have found themselves in a tough spot after their Week 3 loss to the LSU Tigers, landing on ESPN's 'bottom 10' list. This ranking reflects the team's struggles and highlights the challenges they face moving forward. It's a wake-up call for the Gators, who had a chance to win but fell short, and it raises questions about their performance this season.

In a recent WWE event, Paul Heyman revealed that he suffered a serious injury during a match involving Roman Reigns at Clash in Paris. The injury, which involved busted blood vessels in his eye, highlights the physical toll that wrestling can take on its performers. This incident not only underscores the risks associated with professional wrestling but also adds drama to the ongoing storyline between Heyman and Reigns, making fans more invested in their rivalry.

Bill Simmons has expressed skepticism about the excitement surrounding Tom Brady's recent appearance in the coaching booth with the Raiders during their game against the Chargers. While many fans are buzzing about the potential implications of Brady's involvement in coaching, Simmons believes the hype may be overstated. This discussion is significant as it highlights the ongoing fascination with Brady's career and future roles in football, reflecting how fans and analysts interpret the actions of sports legends.

ESPN executives recently discussed their deal with WWE regarding premium live events, emphasizing that their strategy is not focused on counterprogramming AEW but rather on following the lead of wrestling star John Cena, particularly in relation to Brock Lesnar. This conversation highlights the ongoing dynamics in the wrestling entertainment industry and how major media outlets are positioning themselves to attract audiences.

The recent departure of Molly Qerim from ESPN's 'First Take' has left a noticeable gap in the show's dynamic. Known for her behind-the-scenes contributions, Qerim was a key figure in maintaining the show's engaging atmosphere. Her absence raises concerns about the future of the program and how it will adapt without her unique touch. Fans and viewers are left wondering how the show will evolve and whether it can retain its appeal without one of its most influential members.

Kawhi Leonard's recent knee surgery has raised eyebrows, especially since he kept Team USA in the dark about it until just weeks before the training camp for the 2024 Paris Olympics. This lack of communication has frustrated coaches and executives who were preparing for the upcoming games, highlighting concerns about Leonard's commitment and transparency. As the Clippers star navigates his recovery, this situation could impact both his relationship with the national team and his performance in the NBA.

Stephen A. Smith's impressive career earnings, which are now revealed to be close to $40 million annually from his contracts with ESPN and SiriusXM, highlight his significant influence in the media landscape. This financial success not only underscores his talent and hard work but also sets a benchmark for others in the industry, showcasing the lucrative opportunities available in sports media.

ESPN has announced that a significant number of cable subscribers will not have access to the upcoming 'Wrestlepalooza' event unless they pay an additional fee. This decision has sparked frustration among fans who are eager to watch the event but may be deterred by the extra cost. The move highlights ongoing tensions in the sports broadcasting landscape, where pay-per-view events are becoming more common, potentially alienating casual viewers and loyal fans alike.

Ashton Jeanty, the rookie running back for the Las Vegas Raiders, opened up about his disappointing workload in Week 2. His candid remarks resonate with fans who share his concerns about the team's performance. This discussion highlights the ongoing dialogue between players and supporters, emphasizing the importance of player engagement in understanding team dynamics.

Kelvin Obot, a promising offensive tackle from Idaho, has seen his recruiting ranking soar as he now sits in the top 5 nationally according to Rivals. This is significant not just for Obot's future but also for Idaho's football program, as it highlights the growing talent in the region and could attract more attention from college scouts.

Gunner Stockton, the starting quarterback for the Georgia football team, is making headlines as his high school plans to retire his jersey. This comes after a strong start to the season, highlighted by a thrilling victory against Tennessee. Retiring his jersey is a significant honor that reflects his impressive journey and achievements in high school football, inspiring future athletes and showcasing the pride of his community.

Bayern Munich kicked off their 2025/26 UEFA Champions League campaign with a solid 3-1 victory over Chelsea, marking a significant milestone for captain Manuel Neuer, who celebrated his 100th win in the competition. This achievement not only highlights Bayern's strong start but also emphasizes the importance of teamwork in achieving success, as Neuer expressed that winning alongside his teammates is what truly matters. This win sets a positive tone for Bayern's journey in the tournament.

Inter Milan's manager Cristian Chivu has showered praise on young striker Francesco Pio Esposito following a solid 2-0 victory against Ajax in the Champions League. Chivu highlighted Esposito's impressive debut, calling him a 'real man' and emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent in the team. This win not only boosts Inter's standing in the tournament but also showcases the potential of emerging players like Esposito, making it a significant moment for the club's future.

Exciting news for MMA fans as Steven Asplund, a newly-signed heavyweight, is set to make his UFC debut against Sean Sharaf at UFC Vegas 112 on December 13, 2025. This matchup promises to be thrilling, showcasing the talents of two rising fighters in the Octagon. The event will take place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, a venue known for hosting high-stakes bouts. Asplund's entry into the UFC is highly anticipated, and this fight could be a significant step in his career, making it a must-watch for fans.