If video from ESPN’s “First Take” can be taken at face value, Stephen A. Smith actually said a couple nice things about 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in the wake of the 49ers’ 48-46 victory over the New Orleans Saints.
CLICK HERE if you are having a problem viewing the video on a mobile device
Took it like a man, they said. Bravely waived off the general anesthetic and settled for sedation, they said.
“Jimmy G. had a nice afternoon, 349 yards passing,” Stephen A. said. “It was very, very impressive. Had four touchdowns, no doubt about it. He had an exceptional afternoon. Does that mean I have to stop the presses and act like he’s the like he’s the second coming of Joe Montana or Steve Young? Could you do it come the postseason? All of a sudden anointing Jimmy G.?” I’m going to hold off on that.”
Funny Stephen A. should mention the two greatest 49er quarterbacks. Because I recently took possession of a couple of old Betamax cassettes. It is said they were found, previously undiscovered, laying right next to the Dead Sea Scrolls.
One had this play recorded on it:
You really, really have to listen hard to hear it, but it is said Stephen A. provided a postscript for that play: “Joe Montana had a nice afternoon. Does that mean I have to stop the presses and act like he’s the like he’s the second coming of John Brodie or Y.A. Tittle?”
The second cassette bore this recording:
And Stephen A’s P.S.: “Could you do it come the postseason? All of a sudden anointing Stevie Y.?” I’m going to hold off on that.”
Back to the future.
“He had a damned good afternoon. Oh by the way, he’s had a damned fine season,” Stephen A. said about Jimmy G., grudgingly. (But) I’ve got issues with the New Orleans Saints defense. If anybody thinks for one second that that means Stephen A., it’s time to ordain Jimmy G., Hell no! I’m not doing it yet.”
In the interest of full disclosure, here is the entire Stephen A. screed. A better non-affirmation affirmation you may never see again in your lifetime.
SEASON PASS DIGITAL OFFER
If you have not already, we strongly encourage you to sign up for a digital subscription, which gives you access to all content on the Mercury News and East Bay Times websites. With your support, we can continue bringing these stories — and much more — to your screens. Here’s where to sign up for the season pass: Mercury News, East Bay Times.
