STEPHEN A. Smith received a pointed message from an ESPN colleague during a discussion about Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders.

The fiery personality defended Deion Sanders on a topic concerning the media, and he was criticized for it on live television on Wednesday’s edition of First Take.

ESPN college football analyst Paul Finebaum took aim at Stephen A. Smith during a debate concerning Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders


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ESPN college football analyst Paul Finebaum took aim at Stephen A. Smith during a debate concerning Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion SandersCredit: ESPN

Smith was expressionless during Finebaum's rant on himself and Sanders
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Smith was expressionless during Finebaum’s rant on himself and SandersCredit: ESPN
This week, Sanders called out the media and reporters who he believes are “envious and jealous” of college players making more money than them due to their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL).

“Once upon a time, you guys never attacked college players,” Sanders said during his tirade.

“Now they’re making more money than y’all. And some of y’all are envious and jealous about that so you’re on the attack.”

College football analyst Paul Finebaum appeared on First Take and slammed Sanders, saying his rant was “purely gaslighting.”

Stephen A. didn’t agree and called Finebaum’s accusation “extreme.”

It’s safe to say Finebaum didn’t take Smith’s opinion too kindly.

“I am really shocked by you trying to split the baby here, Stephen A. You know better,” the disheartened Finebaum said.

“Deion Sanders is completely wrong here.

“There’s no justification for him castigating the entire media for something that never happened…don’t sound like one of these politicians coming here and blaming it all on the media.

“That doesn’t work in college football.”

Smith defended his stance, saying he trusts Sanders’ claim that “some” reporters attack Sanders’ Colorado players, but also admitted he doesn’t have evidence supporting the claim.

But Finebaum continued to rip Stephen A.

“Stephen A, when you go to your alma mater on Friday, you might want to take your degree back,” Finebaum said.

“I’ve always had great respect for you as a journalist, and I still do, but you’re going through some unbelievable lengths breaking your back trying to make a case for Deion Sanders.”

Sanders reacts on the sideline during a game against North Dakota State Bison on August 29
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Sanders reacts on the sideline during a game against North Dakota State Bison on August 29Credit: Getty
Fans were impressed with Finebaum taking shots at Smith, who usually doesn’t get pressed by his colleagues.

“This was good TV Paul,” one wrote.

“Soon as Finebaum started talking I knew Smith was cooked,” another added.

“Good for Finebaum! He’s got a new listener,” a third said.

The 2-1 Buffaloes will take on the Baylor Bears this weekend.

First Take takes place each weekday from 10 am Eastern to noon.