ESPN host Stephen A. Smith has taken a bold stance in defense of Taylor Swift against the criticism she has faced for attending Kansas City Chiefs games to support her boyfriend, Travis Kelce.
Recent comments by Fox Sports analyst Skip Bayless and OutKick founder Clay Travis pointed fingers at Swift, suggesting she might be a distraction to Kelce and the Chiefs.
However, Smith strongly disagreed, particularly addressing fellow “First Take” panelist Chris Russo’s inclusion of Kelce’s name on a list of players under Super Bowl pressure.
“I have to take a moment to come to the defense of Taylor Swift,” asserted Smith on ESPN’s “First Take,” countering claims that Swift’s presence might negatively impact Kelce’s performance.
Smith highlighted Swift’s success with her Eras Tour, emphasizing its substantial impact.
“Excuse me, she did her job! That Eras Tour? Off the chain. Generated billions,” exclaimed Smith, acknowledging Swift’s influence in the entertainment industry.
Smith continued “She’s going to support her dude. To show up at a football game and the cameras are on her – that ain’t her fault!
“And excuse me, by the way, she went to the games after the concerts. It’s not like she used the games to bump up the concerts. Oh no! Those kids were going to her concerts whether the NFL was promoting her or not!
“Taylor Swift is that girl. Let’s show some respect. She probably is gonna have a positive on Travis Kelce’s performance, okay? I’m not trying to disrespect Taylor Swift,” he concluded.
Responding to critics who argue that Swift is a distraction because cameras focus on her during games, Smith emphasized that it’s not her fault.
“And excuse me, by the way, she went to the games after the concerts. It’s not like she used the games to bump up the concerts.”
Swift’s presence at Chiefs games has been a topic of debate, with claims that she might be affecting Kelce’s performance.
Both Bayless and Travis faced derision from NFL fans and Swift’s supporters, pointing out that the Chiefs’ challenges are on the field, not in the stands.
Swift, in a Time interview last month, addressed the complaints about her camera time during NFL broadcasts, stating, “I’m just there to support Travis.”
Despite the ongoing noise, the Chiefs secured the AFC West division title and their spot in the postseason, facing the Miami Dolphins in the Wild Card round.
