ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith sparked widespread mockery after making an egregious error during an episode of First Take.
While discussing Sunday’s highly anticipated showdown between the Lions and Vikings, Smith attempted to critique Minnesota quarterback Sam Darnold.
However, Smith unfortunately had his information wrong … very wrong.
“We’re talking about Sam Darnold and again, he deserves credit, we know he’s had a stellar season (but) the man hasn’t thrown for 300 yards since November 24th against Chicago,” Smith shockingly stated.
Of course, the comment was immediately disproven, as Darnold has surpassed the 300-yard mark twice since that date.
NFL fans, quick to fact-check Smith, flooded social media with reactions and corrections.
One X user posted: “Sam Darnold threw for 347 yards on December 8th against the Falcons and 377 yards just last Sunday against the Packers.”
“If you think Stephen A is a devoted & informed NFL consumer, that’s on YOU,” another posted.
“Morgan Freeman voice Sam Darnold had, in fact, thrown for over 300 yards twice since then. He had 347 against Atlanta and 377 less than a week ago against Green Bay. But nobody told Stephen that he was wrong,” another fan sarcastically shot back.
“He threw for 377 yards last week against one of the best pass defenses in the NFL,” another pointed out.
Darnold, who has revitalized his career with the Vikings this season, has been instrumental in their 14-2 record.
His stats are eye-popping: 4,153 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and only 12 interceptions, all of which have positioned Minnesota to clinch the NFC North title and the conference’s No. 1 seed.
This resurgence comes at a critical juncture, with Darnold set to become a free agent after the season.
There are rumblings that Minnesota’s front office is leaning towards signing Darnold to a long-term contract and possibly trading 2024 first-rounder J.J. McCarthy out of town.
Darnold has played at a near-MVP level and will look to add another stellar performance to his resume in Sunday night’s high-stakes showdown against the rival Lions.
As you certainly know by now, the winner of the game will not only win the division but also clinched the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
What is your prediction for the matchup?
As for Smith, are you surprised that he made such an enormous mistake???
