Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: 3 & Out - Ben Johnson Goes to Chicago, Why Did the Raiders Miss Out, Has Jerry Gone Rogue
Release Date: January 21, 2025
Host: Adnan Burke
Provider: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Introduction
In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Adnan Burke delves into the recent significant developments in the NFL, with a particular focus on Ben Johnson's appointment as the new head coach of the Chicago Bears. Burke provides an in-depth analysis of what this hiring means for the Bears, comparisons to other coaching changes in the league, and the broader implications for the team's future.
Ben Johnson Hired as Bears' Head Coach
Timestamp: [02:20]
Adnan Burke begins by announcing the Chicago Bears' hiring of Ben Johnson as their new head coach. He expresses skepticism about the timing and implications of this move for Bears fans, considering the team's tumultuous recent history.
"There's no way it's a great day if you're a Bears fan for what's been a rough time... we'll dive into the good, the bad, the ugly when it comes to Ben Johnson."
— Adnan Burke [02:20]
Burke discusses the immediate impact of Johnson's hiring, including the potential pressure on him and the General Manager, Ryan Poles, both of whom are relatively young and inexperienced in their respective roles.
"Ben Johnson is going to get a lot of credit if things go well, but if they don't, it's not going to be his fault if Caleb is not performing."
— Adnan Burke [14:30]
Impact on the Chicago Bears
Timestamp: [05:45]
Burke analyzes the strategic advantages Johnson brings to the Bears, given his familiarity with the NFC North division and his previous experience as an offensive coordinator. He contrasts Johnson's situation with other coaches who have faced immediate high expectations upon their hiring.
"He's been game planning against the Bears defense, which now is his defense... his comfort level with the personnel in these six games honestly couldn't be higher."
— Adnan Burke [05:45]
He emphasizes the challenges ahead, particularly focusing on the Bears' quarterback situation with Caleb Williams—a promising but unproven talent whose success is now closely tied to Johnson's leadership.
"Caleb is now in a partnership with Ben Johnson. If Caleb is good, Ben gets a lot of credit."
— Adnan Burke [14:50]
Comparisons to Other NFL Coaching Hires
Timestamp: [09:15]
Burke draws parallels between Johnson's hiring and other notable coaching changes in the NFL, such as Sean McVay's tenure with the Los Angeles Rams and Josh McDaniels' challenges with the Las Vegas Raiders. He discusses the high stakes involved in transitioning from a coordinator role to a head coach position.
"Sean McVay is an outlier. The best case scenario is he's more Kyle... but we don't see Adam Gase 2.0 with Ben Johnson."
— Adnan Burke [09:15]
Expectations and Pressure
Timestamp: [12:40]
The discussion shifts to the expectations placed on Johnson and Poles. Burke outlines the high expectations for the Bears to perform well in their division, leveraging their improved roster and draft picks. He also touches upon the broader NFL landscape, where teams like the Eagles, Chiefs, and Bills are setting competitive standards.
"The expectations are going to be really, really high. We have a better roster than the Commanders... Can we compete for a wild card spot? That is a successful first season."
— Adnan Burke [12:40]
Jalen's Performance vs. Other Quarterbacks
Timestamp: [23:50]
Burke compares Caleb Williams' performance to other prominent quarterbacks like Tom Brady, Josh Allen, and Jalen Hurts. He critiques media perceptions of Williams' abilities, arguing that while Williams shows promise, consistency remains a concern.
"Jalen gets criticized for not being able to throw, and the other two are praised for winning. Why do you think the media shifts in the way that these quarterbacks are discussed?"
— Adnan Burke [23:50]
He attributes the disparity in media treatment to the established reputations of quarterbacks like Brady and Allen, who have longer track records of success.
Future Outlook for the Bears
Timestamp: [18:30]
Looking ahead, Burke speculates on the potential trajectories for the Bears under Johnson's leadership. He discusses the importance of team chemistry, the integration of new coaching strategies, and the pivotal role of Caleb Williams in the team's success.
"If Caleb is good, Ben is going to be a 50-50 shareholder in this operation. It's like Sean McVay with Jared Goff and the Rams."
— Adnan Burke [18:30]
Burke emphasizes that the Bears' fortunes are now closely tied to the synergy between Williams and Johnson, and how effectively they can navigate the pressures of the NFL.
Audience Mailbag
Timestamp: [28:10]
The latter part of the episode features Burke addressing questions from listeners. Topics include the effectiveness of Ben Johnson compared to past coaches, the media's role in shaping quarterback narratives, and the broader dynamics within NFL front offices concerning risk-taking and team-building strategies.
"I would just bet fail. My favorite football podcast. If the Eagles lose this weekend, do you think Howie would swoop into the Ben Johnson sweepstakes?"
— Adnan Burke [28:10]
Burke provides candid opinions on coaching effectiveness, organizational pressures, and the intricate balance between making bold moves and maintaining stability within NFL teams.
Conclusion
Adnan Burke wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of Ben Johnson's hiring and the potential it holds for revamping the Chicago Bears. He underscores the delicate interplay between coaching, player performance, and organizational expectations that will define the Bears' journey in the upcoming season.
Notable Quotes:
-
"There's no way it's a great day if you're a Bears fan for what's been a rough time... we'll dive into the good, the bad, the ugly when it comes to Ben Johnson."
— Adnan Burke [02:20] -
"Caleb is now in a partnership with Ben Johnson. If Caleb is good, Ben gets a lot of credit."
— Adnan Burke [14:50] -
"The expectations are going to be really, really high. We have a better roster than the Commanders... Can we compete for a wild card spot? That is a successful first season."
— Adnan Burke [12:40] -
"Jalen gets criticized for not being able to throw, and the other two are praised for winning. Why do you think the media shifts in the way that these quarterbacks are discussed?"
— Adnan Burke [23:50] -
"If Caleb is good, Ben is going to be a 50-50 shareholder in this operation. It's like Sean McVay with Jared Goff and the Rams."
— Adnan Burke [18:30] -
"I would just bet fail. My favorite football podcast. If the Eagles lose this weekend, do you think Howie would swoop into the Ben Johnson sweepstakes?"
— Adnan Burke [28:10]
This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the Chicago Bears' latest coaching change, situating it within the broader context of NFL dynamics and offering listeners insightful commentary on what to expect in the season ahead.