FIRST Take has announced a big-time broadcasting change with the ESPN program moving Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith out of their usual surroundings.
Qerim and Smith will be out of the debate show’s regular studio for multiple shows, with one already taking place next week.
First Take has shown its appreciation of HBCU football programs in the past by hosting live shows from the colleges since 2023.
And that will once again be showcased for the upcoming college football season.
On Monday, ESPN revealed in a press release that the network will have four shows live at HBCU Universities during the 2025 college football campaign.
The first will be on August 28 at Norfolk State University, where Michael Vick will have his coaching debut against Towson University.
The second live show will then be on October 24 to highlight the Amazon Magic City Classic in Birmingham, Alabama, between Alabama A&M against Alabama St.
Five days later, First Take will broadcast from Delaware State before their matchup against Norfolk State on October 30.
That game will be a battle of two program coaches by former NFL teammates, Delaware State’s DeSean Jackson and Norfolk State’s Vick.
The last First Take taping during the HBCU Tour in 2025 will then come on November 20 from Bethune-Cookman University ahead of their matchup against Florida A&M on November 22.
Stephen A.’s alma mater, Winston-Salem State, will not be included on First Take this year.
The school was highlighted on the show in 2023.
This is First Take’s largest HBCU fall tour to date, the network shared.
Fans reacted to the show’s broadcasting decision on social media.
“Representation [fire emoji],” one wrote.
“I’m all for it. Really cool for the players,” another commented.
“Magic City Classic you say?” a third asked.
“Great news!” a fourth added.
Last year, First Take visited three HBCUs: Howard University, Tennessee State University, and Clark Atlanta at Morehouse College.
First Take airs weekdays from 10 am ET to noon ET on ESPN.
