Summary of "3 & Out - Eagles-Rams Reaction, Kauff on Campus" Episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Release Date: January 20, 2025
Host: John Middlekauff and Intern Jackson
Duration: Approximately 88 minutes

1. Reaction to Eagles vs. Rams Game

The episode kicks off with John Middlekauff and his intern, Jackson, providing immediate reactions to the recent NFL playoff showdown between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Los Angeles Rams. John expresses his enthusiasm about the game's intensity, highlighting the impact of weather conditions and key player performances.

John Middlekauff [04:30]: "It was the best. When the snow started coming down, it literally started falling right as Saquon was scoring his first long touchdown of the game."

They discuss how the snow affected gameplay, particularly the Eagles' ability to manage footing and maintain control, ultimately leading to their victory. John credits the Eagles' organizational strength and Saquon Barkley's exceptional performance as pivotal factors.

2. Key Player Performances and Analysis

Saquon Barkley:
Saquon Barkley's outstanding performance is a focal point. John details Barkley's impressive stats and game-changing runs.

John Middlekauff [07:15]: "Saquon Barkley runs for 205 yards, two massive explosive runs."

He likens Barkley's versatility and explosive speed to legendary players like Barry Sanders, emphasizing his ability to dominate games with sudden bursts of energy. Barkley's runs, including a 62-yard and a 78-yard touchdown, were decisive in the Eagles' triumph.

Jalen Carter and Jared Verse:
John highlights the defensive prowess of Jalen Carter and Jared Verse, noting their critical plays that thwarted the Rams' offense.

John Middlekauff [09:45]: "Jalen Carter, who forced a huge fumble on Kieran Williams when it felt like the Rams were about to take over the game, had the sack on the second to last play."

Zach Bond and Makai Becton:
The discussion extends to offensive linemen Zach Bond and Makai Becton, emphasizing their immediate impact since joining the NFL.

John Middlekauff [12:30]: "Bond is an all-pro, Pro Bowl level guy, and Becton is just fantastic."

3. Quarterback Comparison: Jalen Hurts vs. Matthew Stafford

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to comparing the quarterbacks, Jalen Hurts of the Eagles and Matthew Stafford of the Rams. John critiques Stafford's performance, particularly his struggles within the pocket under adverse weather conditions.

John Middlekauff [14:50]: "Stafford had his moments, but he played a different sport from within the pocket compared to Jalen Hurts."

Conversely, Jalen Hurts is praised for his adaptability and effectiveness, especially in managing the game when under pressure.

John Middlekauff [17:10]: "Jalen has an elite running game and when the snow hit, he couldn’t function within the pocket, yet still led the team effectively."

4. College Football Focus: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Transitioning from the NFL, John and Jackson delve into college football, previewing the impending clash between Notre Dame and Ohio State. They analyze the coaching dynamics, particularly focusing on Marcus Freeman of Notre Dame and Brian Kelly of Notre Dame's past tenure.

John Middlekauff [25:00]: "Marcus Freeman is already being talked about as an NFL coach. He has Elon's competitive nature that’s driving Notre Dame forward."

They discuss Freeman's leadership and his ability to transform Notre Dame into a formidable program, contrasting it with Brian Kelly's previous coaching challenges at Notre Dame.

John Middlekauff [27:30]: "Freeman’s victories over Georgia and Penn State have solidified his reputation as a top-tier coach, potentially surpassing Brian Kelly's legacy."

5. Player Evaluations: Riley Leonard and Carson Beck

The conversation shifts to evaluating college quarterbacks Riley Leonard of Notre Dame and Carson Beck of Miami. John assesses their potential impact in the playoffs and their prospects in the NFL.

John Middlekauff [49:42]: "Riley Leonard is showing NFL-level passing ability, making him a standout candidate for higher draft rounds."

Carson Beck's move to Miami and his $4 million contract are scrutinized, with John debating the wisdom of such contracts given Beck's injury status.

John Middlekauff [52:38]: "If Carson Beck stays injured, Miami's investment could backfire, placing immense pressure on his performance in the upcoming season."

6. Overall Reflection on the College Football Season

In wrapping up, John and Jackson reflect on the broader landscape of the college football season, noting the success despite conference realignments and an expanded playoff system. John praises the sport's growing popularity and the financial gains for both players and coaches.

John Middlekauff [79:10]: "College football is a great time to be involved. The popularity is sky-high, and the financial rewards are unprecedented."

However, they also voice concerns about the future quarterback talent pool and the consistency of elite performers.

John Middlekauff [83:20]: "The biggest story next year is going to be Arch Manning. Can he live up to the family legacy and become a standout player in college and the NFL?"

7. Notable Quotes

Throughout the episode, John and Jackson provide insightful commentary, peppered with memorable quotes:

• John Middlekauff [07:15]: "Saquon Barkley has a little Barry Sanders quality to him this year."
• John Middlekauff [12:30]: "Their running game is elite, their defense is pretty damn good."
• John Middlekauff [14:50]: "Stafford played a different sport from within the pocket."
• John Middlekauff [25:00]: "Marcus Freeman is 100% a top-three or top-four coach in college football."
• John Middlekauff [49:42]: "Riley Leonard is getting drafted higher than I thought."

Conclusion

John Middlekauff and Jackson deliver a comprehensive analysis of both professional and collegiate football landscapes in this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd. From dissecting pivotal NFL playoff games to forecasting the implications of college football's evolving dynamics, the duo offers listeners a rich tapestry of insights, underscored by detailed player evaluations and strategic breakdowns. Their engaging dialogue ensures that both avid fans and casual listeners gain valuable perspectives on the current state and future trajectories of football.

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