Michael Irvin could be one of ESPN’s replacements for Max Kellerman on “First Take.” Plus: a new, old gig for Stan Van Gundy; a partner for Robert Griffin III; a small shake-up for the NFL on CBS.
Irvin could be one of Smith’s new partners on First Take
ESPN is considering using NFL Network analyst Michael Irvin as a regular sparring partner for Stephen A. Smith on “First Take,” according to Front Office Sports. Irvin, who worked for ESPN from 2003-07 and has made guest appearances on “First Take” in the past, would be part of a rotation of “guest debaters” from both within and outside of the company. Smith’s current partner, Max Kellerman, is being removed from the show (at Smith’s behest, according to the New York Post). [Front Office Sports 8.24]
Stan Van Gundy reportedly heading back to Turner
The New York Post reported Monday that Turner Sports is rehiring former NBA analyst Stan Van Gundy, who was calling games for the company less than a year ago in the NBA “bubble” but departed soon after for an ill-fated coaching stint with the New Orleans Pelicans. Van Gundy, who had a brief stint working for ESPN prior to joining Turner in 2019, will again appear across both TNT and NBA TV.
Per the Post, Turner has yet to decide who will replace Marv Albert as its lead NBA voice and may not make a decision until during the season. [NYP 8.23]
RGIII to work with Mark Jones in debut season
New ESPN college football analyst Robert Griffin III will work alongside play-by-play voice Mark Jones this season, with the duo debuting on the September 4 Texas Tech-Texas game. Jones’ previous partner, Dusty Dvoracek, will now work with Dave Pasch. The since-departed Mike Golic Sr. was Pasch’s partner last season. [ESPN PR]
CBS NFL line-up undergoes small shuffle
CBS announced its NFL broadcast teams on Tuesday, with its no changes to its top teams of Jim Nantz and Tony Romo, Ian Eagle and Charles Davis and Kevin Harlan and Trent Green. With the departure of Rich Gannon, Adam Archuleta will move up the depth chart to work alongside Greg Gumbel. Archuleta’s previous partner Spero Dedes will now work with Jay Feely. Feely’s previous partner Tom McCarthy will now work with Tiki Barber. Barber’s previous partner Beth Mowins has not been assigned a regular partner. [CBS Sports PR]
