Mike Ditka is known for his toughness.  However, he was taken down - at least temporarily - yesterday.  He suffered a minor stroke but is resting comfortably after being admitted to the hospital.  He is expected back to ESPN soon, but his recovery is far more important than his opinions on football right now.

According to Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune, Ditka's stroke was very minor in nature.  Pompei says Ditka's motor skills started to fail while playing cards yesterday.  He knew something wasn't quite right and was taken to the hospital.  He is doing better now.

"I feel good right now and it's not a big deal," Ditka said from the hospital. 

Ditka reportedly hasn't had any medical problems since he suffered a heart attack in 1988 while still coaching the Chicago Bears.  Ditka has had a long career in the NFL.  He played in the NFL for 12 seasons.  He then coached from 1973-1999.  Ditka now acts as an NFL analyst on ESPN.

While Ditka obviously won't be able to perform his duties this weekend, ESPN expects him back soon.  Ditka also expects to be back soon.  The stroke appears to have been minor enough to allow for a speedy recovery.