Molly Qerim 'abruptly' resigns from ESPN First Take, Stephen A. Smith says

In an impressive start, ESPN and Fox One have reportedly gained 1 million subscribers within just the first ten days of their new streaming service collaboration. This rapid growth highlights the increasing demand for bundled sports streaming options, making it a significant development in the media landscape. As more viewers turn to online platforms for their sports content, this partnership could reshape how fans access their favorite games and events.

Stephen A. Smith, the well-known ESPN personality, is making waves by launching a new political show called Straight Shooter with Stephen A. on SiriusXM's POTUS channel. This move comes amid swirling rumors about his potential presidential run, which adds an intriguing layer to his already impressive career, where he's nearing $40 million in annual earnings. This show could provide a fresh perspective on political discourse, especially from someone with Smith's influence and reach.

The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) is making significant strides in visibility by nearly doubling its exposure on ESPN and securing a new streaming deal with Victory+. This is a big win for women's sports, as it not only enhances the league's reach but also provides fans with more access to games. The increased coverage can lead to greater support for the teams and players, like Julia Grosso from Chicago Stars FC, and helps to elevate the profile of women's soccer in the sports landscape.

Stephen A. Smith recently spoke about Molly Qerim's unexpected departure from First Take, expressing his thoughts on the situation. This news is significant as it highlights changes in popular sports media and the impact of such transitions on the show's dynamic and audience.

In the latest roundup of sports and pop culture news for Wednesday, September 17, we highlight Cal Raleigh's historic season, marking a significant achievement in his career. Additionally, there are major developments with ESPN, as the network experiences a massive exit that could impact its future programming. These stories matter as they reflect the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment, showcasing both individual accomplishments and industry shifts.

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.

In a light-hearted moment before the Indiana Fever's playoff game against the Atlanta Dream, Sophie Cunningham playfully teased teammate Caitlin Clark about her all-black outfit, which included black Air Force 1 sneakers. This playful banter highlights the camaraderie within the team and adds a fun element to the competitive atmosphere of the playoffs.

The Georgia-Tennessee game has emerged as the most-watched matchup of College Football Week 3, capturing the attention of fans nationwide. This significant viewership highlights the growing excitement around college football and the fierce rivalry between these two teams, making it a key event in the season.

In Week 3 of the NFL season, the performance of quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts is under scrutiny. While Mahomes has shown some signs of slipping, Hurts appears to be optimizing his gameplay. Henry McKenna's latest QB rankings provide insights into their performances, highlighting the challenges and successes faced by these players. This analysis is crucial for fans and analysts alike as it sets the tone for the rest of the season and impacts team strategies.

Stacy Lewis, a prominent figure in women's golf and a significant player on the LPGA tour, has announced her retirement. Known for her determination and focus, Lewis has made a lasting impact on the sport over the years. Her retirement marks the end of an era for fans and fellow players alike, as she leaves behind a legacy of resilience and excellence in professional golf.

The Detroit Tigers are set to face the Cleveland Guardians on Wednesday, aiming to even the series after a tough loss in their home opener on Tuesday. This matchup is crucial for the Tigers as they look to regain momentum and build confidence early in the season.

As the Utah Jazz gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season, they are undergoing significant changes, moving away from veteran players like Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson. This shift highlights the team's focus on building a younger roster, which could bring both opportunities and challenges. Keeping an eye on potential trade targets will be crucial for fans and analysts alike, as these decisions will shape the team's future and competitive edge in the league.