Stephen A. Smith’s bizarre ‘leverage’ rant raises questions after Molly Qerim departure

The recent college football game between Georgia and Tennessee drew an impressive average of 12.4 million viewers, marking a significant milestone for ABC as its largest audience of the season. This thrilling overtime match not only showcased the excitement of SEC football but also highlighted the growing popularity of college sports on television. Such high ratings are crucial as they reflect the increasing engagement of fans and the potential for future broadcasting opportunities.

Stephen A. Smith has made it clear that he has no intention of entering the political arena, but he hasn't completely ruled it out for the future. This clarification comes as he continues to be a prominent voice in sports commentary, and his potential political aspirations could influence public perception. His openness to the idea keeps fans and followers curious about his future plans, highlighting the intersection of sports and politics.

Don La Greca from ESPN NY has stirred controversy by suggesting that the NFL might manipulate outcomes to ensure the Kansas City Chiefs defeat the New York Giants, preventing the Chiefs from starting the season 0-3. This statement raises questions about the integrity of the league and the fairness of the games, as fans and analysts alike ponder the implications of such claims. La Greca's comments reflect a growing concern among fans about the potential for bias in professional sports, making this a significant topic of discussion in the sports community.

Rob Manfred, the Commissioner of Major League Baseball, has announced that the league has reached agreements in principle with major broadcasters NBC, ESPN, and Netflix. This is significant as it opens up new avenues for MLB to reach a wider audience and enhance its broadcasting strategy, potentially leading to increased viewership and revenue. The partnerships with these prominent networks could also bring innovative content and coverage to fans, making baseball more accessible and engaging.

The UFC Contender Series is back for its ninth season, bringing 10 weeks of thrilling mixed martial arts action starting tonight at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN+. Last week, five fighters secured UFC contracts, showcasing the high stakes and talent on display. Tonight's main event features a bantamweight clash with Spain's Hecher Sosa, promising an exciting matchup that fans won't want to miss. This series is crucial for aspiring fighters looking to make their mark in the UFC, making it a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.

ESPN's College Gameday has set new viewership records, particularly during last Saturday's Georgia-Tennessee SEC matchup, which became the second-most-watched regular season event ever. Analyst Kirk Herbstreit expressed his gratitude to fans on social media, highlighting the show's growing popularity. This surge in viewership not only reflects the excitement surrounding college football but also underscores the show's significant role in bringing fans together, making it a vital part of the college sports landscape.

Texas A&M football's position in ESPN's latest FPI strength of record rankings has been updated, providing fans with insights into how the team is performing compared to others. This ranking is significant as it reflects the team's competitive standing and can influence perceptions and expectations for the season.

Molly Qerim's departure from ESPN marks the end of her nearly ten-year tenure as the host of First Take. This change is significant as it opens the door for new talent in sports media, and fans are already speculating about potential replacements. Her exit reflects the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting and the ongoing search for fresh perspectives in popular shows.

Cam Akers, the former running back for the New Orleans Saints, is making headlines as he returns to a familiar team in free agency. This move is significant not only for Akers, who is looking to revitalize his career, but also for the team that will benefit from his experience and skills. Fans are excited to see how this reunion will impact the upcoming season.

The discussion around potential replacements for Molly Qerim on ESPN's 'First Take' has sparked interest among sports fans. As Qerim's role has been pivotal in shaping the show's dynamic, exploring new hosts could bring fresh perspectives to the program. This matters because 'First Take' is a significant platform for sports commentary, and changes in its lineup can influence viewer engagement and the overall tone of discussions in sports media.

Amazon has secured the rights to broadcast the first two rounds of the 2026 Masters tournament, joining ESPN and CBS in covering this prestigious golf event.

Editor’s Note: This is significant as it expands the viewing options for fans of the Masters, allowing more people to enjoy the tournament. With Amazon entering the mix, it highlights the growing competition in sports broadcasting and the evolving landscape of how major events are shared with audiences.

Tyrese Haliburton, a known wrestling fan, is set to make his debut in WWE's Wrestlepalooza, which will be aired on ESPN+. This event marks a significant collaboration between sports and entertainment.

Editor’s Note: This is exciting news for both wrestling fans and sports enthusiasts, as it highlights the growing crossover between different entertainment sectors. Tyrese's involvement could attract a wider audience to WWE events.

Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers is receiving high praise from coach Pat Murphy as he continues to impress in his age-33 season. With a recent performance of 3-5 at the plate, including a home run and three runs, Yelich is proving his worth to the team. This recognition is significant as it highlights Yelich's enduring talent and contribution to the Brewers, especially as he chases impressive personal milestones.

The Houston Astros secured a thrilling 6-5 victory over the Texas Rangers, with Jeremy Peña shining by going 3 for 3 and scoring twice. This win is crucial as it helps the Astros maintain their position in the AL West and boosts their wild-card chances. Despite nearly losing a commanding 6-0 lead, the team's resilience showcased their determination to stay competitive in the playoff race.

Miley Cyrus is thrilled for her friend Taylor Swift, who just announced her engagement to Travis Kelce. In a recent chat with The Mirror, Cyrus expressed her excitement and confirmed that she has already congratulated Swift. This news is significant as it highlights the strong bond between the two stars and adds to the buzz surrounding Swift's personal life, which often captivates fans and media alike.

In an exciting turn of events, the Seattle Storm stunned the Las Vegas Aces with an 86-83 comeback victory, ending the Aces' impressive 17-game winning streak. This thrilling game not only showcased the Storm's resilience but also set the stage for a decisive Game 3, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The victory is significant as it highlights the competitive nature of the league and the potential for unexpected outcomes in playoff scenarios.

On September 16, local high school volleyball teams showcased their skills in a series of matches, with Fargo Davies, Bismarck High, and West Fargo securing impressive victories. These results highlight the competitive spirit and talent present in the region's high school sports scene, engaging students and communities alike. Such events not only foster school pride but also provide a platform for young athletes to shine.

The Indiana Fever showcased their determination in Game 2 of the WNBA playoffs, forcing a decisive Game 3 against the Atlanta Dream. With a strong performance from players like Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell, the Fever rallied to secure a crucial victory. This win not only keeps their playoff hopes alive but also highlights the team's resilience and potential to make a deeper run in the postseason, making it an exciting time for their fans.