The First Take set heated up during a lively debate about Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow after the team’s 44-38 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Following Burrow’s strong individual performance, including 309 yards and three touchdowns, the conversation quickly turned to the turnovers that contributed to the Bengals’ defeat, and tempers flared among the analysts.
Shannon Sharpe and Dan Orlovsky Clash Over Burrow’s Performance
As the debate unfolded, Shannon Sharpe and Dan Orlovsky found themselves on opposite sides of the issue. Sharpe was quick to point out that despite Burrow’s impressive stats, his turnovers in critical moments—especially a fumble that led to a field goal and an interception in the second half—cost the Bengals the game. Sharpe argued that in such high-pressure moments, Burrow should have been more careful with the football, even though his stats were strong.
On the other hand, Orlovsky defended Burrow, emphasizing the difficulties he faced, including an exceptional defensive play by Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt that led to the fumble. Orlovsky pointed out that the tipped interception wasn’t entirely on Burrow either, as it was deflected by multiple players before finding its way into the hands of the Steelers’ defense. For Orlovsky, the turnovers weren’t indicative of poor play from Burrow, but rather a mix of bad luck and strong defensive efforts from Pittsburgh.
Stephen A. Breaks the Tension with a Joke
As Sharpe and Orlovsky continued to get more heated, First Take host Stephen A. Smith seized the moment for some comic relief. With his signature calm demeanor, Stephen A. quipped that he was, in fact, the “MOST CALM” person in the studio, given how intense the debate had become. His playful comment lightened the mood, with everyone on set breaking into laughter amid the fiery back-and-forth.
The Bigger Picture: Burrow’s Role in the Bengals’ Struggles
While Sharpe and Orlovsky were at odds over Burrow’s performance in the loss, a broader issue emerged about the Bengals’ struggles this season. With Burrow’s defense ranked among the worst in the NFL, both analysts agreed that it puts even more pressure on him to perform at an elite level each week. Some suggested that even with a strong performance, Burrow is sometimes forced into situations where a single mistake can tip the scales in a game.
Ultimately, the debate centered on the weight of Burrow’s turnovers in key moments, but Stephen A.’s playful intervention helped refocus the discussion, reminding viewers of the high stakes and the immense pressure on Burrow to carry the team each week. Despite his mistakes, Burrow remains a top-tier quarterback with incredible potential, and the debate will surely continue as the Bengals look to turn their season around.
Conclusion: The Most Calm Person in the Room
As the tension on the set of First Take reached a boiling point, Stephen A. Smith’s calm presence and humorous remark reminded everyone of the lighter side of sports debates. While the conversation about Joe Burrow’s performance will continue, for now, Stephen A. can enjoy his moment as the “most calm” person in the room—at least for one segment.
