Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: 3 & Out - Dallas Cowboys Win, Bryce Young Keeps Winning, Jayden Shines
Release Date: December 23, 2024
Host: Colin Cowherd
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction & Holiday Greetings

In this festive episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Colin extends warm holiday wishes to listeners, celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and the importance of spending quality time with loved ones. He reflects on recent podcast activities, including reactions to Saturday night games and college football playoffs, setting the stage for an engaging discussion on the latest NFL developments.

Dallas Cowboys' Thrilling Victory

Timestamp [02:50]

Colin dives into the Dallas Cowboys' exhilarating 26-24 victory, describing it as an "entertaining football game" that exceeded his expectations. He highlights the performance of quarterback Cooper Rush, who continued to impress by throwing multiple touchdowns and maintaining composure despite injuries within the team. Colin emphasizes the team's resilience, noting:

“What a, what an entertaining football game that was. … Sign me up for the violence of that game every day of the week.”
— Colin Cowherd [02:56]

He praises the Cowboys' defensive strategy, particularly the impact of newly returned player Micah Parsons, whose presence revitalized the defense, making them "dramatically faster up front." The crucial interception by defensive back Bland sealed the win, showcasing the team's determination to "battle till the bitter end."

Bryce Young's Continued Success

Timestamp [34:00]

Bryce Young, the standout quarterback, remains a focal point of Colin's analysis. After a challenging second year, Young has shown significant improvement, leading his team with newfound confidence and effectiveness. Colin acknowledges:

“Bryce Young comes back, he's a completely different human. … what he did is just awesome.”
— Colin Cowherd [34:20]

Young's ability to make decisive plays, both through the air and with his legs, has elevated his status among NFL quarterbacks. Colin compares Young's transformation to Jason Kelce's career resurgence after personal growth, underscoring the importance of mental toughness and maturity in Young's development.

Jayden's Stellar Performance

Timestamp [44:00]

Jayden, likely referring to a key player such as Jayden Daniels, shines brightly in Colin's discussion. His impressive performance, marked by multiple touchdowns, has become a critical factor in his team's success. Colin remarks:

“Bryce Young keeps winning, Jayden shines … Jaden throwing five touchdowns.”
— Colin Cowherd [44:15]

Jayden's ability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain consistent performance under pressure has not only propelled his team forward but also positioned him as a rising star in the league.

Quarterback Landscape: Baker Mayfield and PJ Darnold

Timestamp [38:00]

Colin offers a comprehensive analysis of the current quarterback landscape, focusing on Baker Mayfield and PJ Darnold. Mayfield's resurgence is highlighted as he leads his team with vigor, despite numerous injuries:

“Baker Mayfield, we're on track … he's easily one of my favorite college players to watch.”
— Colin Cowherd [38:25]

Darnold, on the other hand, is commended for his performance with the Minnesota Vikings, leading the team towards a potential top seed in the playoffs. Colin notes:

“Sam Darnold's career was crazy. Not only is he having a career year, he is leading the Minnesota Vikings.”
— Colin Cowherd [39:10]

He contrasts their careers with those of Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, emphasizing the diverse paths quarterbacks take to achieve success.

49ers' Struggles and Kyle Shanahan's Dilemma

Timestamp [45:30]

The episode turns to the San Francisco 49ers, where Colin expresses concern over the team's disappointing performance under head coach Kyle Shanahan. The 49ers' recent losses, marked by penalties and inconsistent play, have sparked discussions about Shanahan's future:

“The 49ers season has been a disaster … how terrible the 49ers season has been.”
— Colin Cowherd [45:35]

Colin scrutinizes the defensive shortcomings and offensive missteps, particularly questioning quarterback Brock Purdy's reliability and Shanahan's decision-making. He underscores the financial implications of high quarterback contracts and the challenges they pose to team dynamics and future planning.

Broader NFL Insights and Playoff Implications

Timestamp [46:00]

Colin expands his analysis to the broader NFL landscape, discussing potential playoff contenders and the impact of injuries on team performances. He speculates on the Atlanta Falcons and Washington Commanders, assessing their playoff viability based on current form and upcoming games.

“If the Bucks win these last two games and the Falcons lose to the Washington Commanders, that's on the front office.”
— Colin Cowherd [46:20]

He emphasizes the unpredictable nature of the season, highlighting how teams like the Cowboys and Falcons must maintain consistency to secure their playoff spots amidst a sea of injuries and fluctuating performances.

Closing Thoughts and Season Outlook

Timestamp [48:00]

In his concluding remarks, Colin reflects on the emotional and physical demands of football, praising players who demonstrate exceptional effort and resilience. He reiterates the significance of teamwork and strategic decision-making in determining a team's success:

“Every team worth their salt battles their ass off till the bitter end. Whether you're going to win four games, whether you're going to win nine games, whether you're trying to get the number one overall seed. It's what truly makes the sport special.”
— Colin Cowherd [48:03]

He anticipates a dynamic finish to the season, urging fans to stay engaged as teams vie for playoff positions and ultimate glory.

Notable Quotes with Attributions

• Colin Cowherd [02:56]:
  “What a, what an entertaining football game that was. … Sign me up for the violence of that game every day of the week.”

• Colin Cowherd [34:20]:
  “Bryce Young comes back, he's a completely different human. … what he did is just awesome.”

• Colin Cowherd [38:25]:
  “Baker Mayfield, we're on track … he's easily one of my favorite college players to watch.”

• Colin Cowherd [39:10]:
  “Sam Darnold's career was crazy. Not only is he having a career year, he is leading the Minnesota Vikings.”

• Colin Cowherd [45:35]:
  “The 49ers season has been a disaster … how terrible the 49ers season has been.”

• Colin Cowherd [46:20]:
  “If the Bucks win these last two games and the Falcons lose to the Washington Commanders, that's on the front office.”

• Colin Cowherd [48:03]:
  “Every team worth their salt battles their ass off till the bitter end. … It's what truly makes the sport special.”

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers an in-depth exploration of the NFL's current state, spotlighting the Dallas Cowboys' victory, Bryce Young's impressive form, and Jayden's standout games. Colin's analysis extends to broader team dynamics, quarterback performances, and the implications of high-stakes contracts. His insights provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the season's pivotal moments, making it a must-listen for football enthusiasts seeking expert commentary and thoughtful evaluations.