A brief moment between ESPN Anchor Stephen A. Smith and Jerry Jones quickly took over social media during the Dallas Cowboys’ Week 9 game against the Arizona Cardinals.
As Smith watched on, fans were convinced he was holding back his laughter about the Cowboys’ performance in front of Jones. The clip has spread fast across social media, sparking thousands of jokes and commentary.

How Did Fans React to the Moment Between Stephen A. Smith and Jerry Jones?
The clip went viral on social media, with many high-profile accounts sharing the interaction between Smith and Jones. The timing, context, and setting made the situation even more hilariously awkward, and the fact that it was caught on camera was remarkable for social media.
Here are tweets about the embarrassing moment.
This fan pointed out what many others caught in real time. As soon as the Cowboys fumbled, the camera panned to Smith, looking like he had seen everything he needed to. The look on his face said it all, and he was probably already preparing for what he would say on television tomorrow.
Stephen A Smith “aight im out” to Jerry Jones after that cowboys turnover lol pic.twitter.com/9WMZ0uIUpy
— Tedd Buddwell 🏀🏈 (@TedBuddy8) November 4, 2025
This user posted a GIF that summed up how Smith felt in the moment, but couldn’t express it next to Jones. He clearly wanted to burst into laughter, but couldn’t since he was next to Jones.
Stephen A. Smith watching that fumble pic.twitter.com/SuPgIvtlfw
— Empress (@iwinagainnn) November 4, 2025
This post highlights how the usually loud and animated Smith had to keep his emotions in check in real-time. Instead, viewers had to imagine what he would’ve done if he weren’t next to Jones.
Stephen A won’t be cackling next to Jerry tonight pic.twitter.com/KsogfoepJ6
— Shan Shariff (@1053SS) November 4, 2025
“Stephen A. Smith is childish,” says another commenter. Yes, Smith might be childish, but it is part of his appeal as a television personality. His ability to poke fun and react dramatically to sporting news is why people tune in to him.
Stephen A Smith is childish 🤣🤣🤣
— Muu (@mudriq_real1) November 4, 2025
Another fan summed up the moment perfectly. Smith laughing at the Cowboys for their lack of success is nothing new. As the Cowboys struggle, Smith thrives. As long as Smith is in the media, the Cowboys will have a dedicated hater.
Stephen A. Smith holding back laughter watching Jerry Jones’ Cowboys get embarrassed, per usual🤣 pic.twitter.com/l5taubUtml
— Zero Gravity (@zgsportsmedia) November 4, 2025
Even though some people aren’t fans of Smith, more people hate the Cowboys. Regardless of whether they like Smith or not, they will be bonded in their displeasure with the Cowboys, like this user.
I can’t stand Stephen A but them get him saying “I’m about to go” is meme worthy
— wavo. (@slimgrimpimp) November 4, 2025
In the end, the viral clip of Smith trying to contain his laughter beside Jones perfectly captured why he remains one of sports media’s most entertaining figures. It was unscripted, authentic, and emblematic of the ongoing love-hate relationship between Smith and the Cowboys’ fanbase.
For Smith, moments like this are gold, and the Cowboys’ struggles continue to fuel his brand of playful trolling, and fans can’t get enough.
