Stephen A. Smith Erupts Over Dillon Gabriel’s Snide Jab at Shedeur Sanders — “Did You Really Just Do That?!”

The NFL offseason has been anything but quiet, especially with the simmering quarterback rivalry between Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel heating up off the field.

What started as a seemingly casual comment from Gabriel quickly spiraled into a full-blown media spectacle — and Stephen A. Smith was not having it.

Gabriel, who has seen time both in practice and preseason starts, made remarks that many interpreted as mocking Sanders.

Stephen A. didn’t hold back, calling Gabriel’s comments “stupid” and “very idiotic.”

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His message was blunt: focus on your own game instead of stirring unnecessary drama by taking shots at a teammate or competitor.

“People compete everywhere — on TV, radio, Wall Street, Madison Avenue,” Stephen A. said.

“But you can’t have it both ways. You can’t say you played better and then disrespect the guy you’re competing against.”

Stephen A. took the opportunity to praise Sanders for his professionalism and mental toughness, especially given the intense spotlight and media scrutiny Sanders has endured since the draft.

He pointed out the double standard: if Sanders had made similar comments, the backlash would have been ten times worse, with every word dissected and magnified.

Stephen A. Smith blasts 'stupid' comments by Dillon Gabriel amid Shedeur  Sanders competition - On3

Sanders has shown he can rise above the noise, while Gabriel’s comments only added fuel to a fire that could have been avoided.

Despite the harsh critique from Stephen A., not everyone agrees that Gabriel was throwing shade directly at Sanders.

Colin Cowherd stepped in to defend Gabriel, saying his remarks were more about the media’s nature than a personal attack.

Cowherd argued that Gabriel was making a broader observation about how the media chases clicks and drama, not targeting Sanders specifically.

Still, Stephen A. Smith remained firm, insisting Gabriel crossed a line and made a big mistake.

Deion Sanders' friend rips Dillon Gabriel for taking jab at Shedeur Sanders  despite Browns rookie QB clarifying comments

The comments, in his eyes, created unnecessary distractions and put Gabriel in a difficult spot — one he brought upon himself.

The debate also brought to light the ongoing comparisons between Sanders and Gabriel as quarterbacks.

Stephen A. was clear: Sanders is the superior player.

He emphasized Sanders’ ability to perform under pressure, carry the weight of expectations, and thrive in the spotlight.

Gabriel, while talented, hasn’t shown the same level of consistency or poise.

Stephen A. Smith weighs in on the controversy surrounding Dillon Gabriel's  alleged comments about Shedeur Sanders | Marca

“I didn’t see any interceptions from Sanders when he was out there,” Stephen A. noted.

“I was impressed with Gabriel, but I’m going with Sanders. The pressure was on him, the spotlight was on him, and he showed up.”

Colin Cowherd echoed this sentiment, expressing serious concerns about Gabriel’s size and long-term viability.

He called Sanders “underdrafted” and said he’d pick Sanders without hesitation.

Chris Kanty also criticized Gabriel’s comments, labeling them cheap shots disguised as media critiques.

Colorado's Shedeur Sanders predicted to ride 'rollercoaster' start with  Browns before Dillon Gabriel takes over | Sporting News

Kanty stressed that players should focus on leading on the field, not creating off-field distractions.

Gabriel, sensing the backlash, attempted to walk back his remarks, claiming a “miscommunication” and promising to clean things up.

But many remain skeptical, noting the sharpness and apparent intent behind his original words.

This back-and-forth has evolved into more than just a spat between two quarterbacks.

It’s become a conversation about leadership, resilience, and accountability.

ESPN insider calls it a 'no-brainer' for Browns to start Colorado legend  Shedeur Sanders over Dillon Gabriel, Joe Flacco - Yahoo Sports

Sanders’ calm and composed handling of media pressure contrasts sharply with Gabriel’s misstep, reinforcing the narrative that Sanders is ready to lead.

Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as this storyline unfolds.

Gabriel’s credibility has taken a hit, while Sanders’ stock continues to rise—not just for his on-field play but for how he carries himself off the field.

At the end of the day, the question remains: who would you trust to lead your team?

The quarterback embroiled in controversy or the one who thrives under pressure and commands respect?

This debate is far from over, but one thing is clear: Shedeur Sanders’ star is shining brighter than ever, and Stephen A. Smith isn’t afraid to call out those who try to dim it.