Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: 3 & Out - Jayden Daniels & Commanders Win, Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills CRUISE & Week 17 NFL Recap Release Date: December 30, 2024
In this engaging episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host John Middlekauff delves deep into the Week 17 NFL action, focusing on the Washington Commanders' remarkable turnaround, quarterback performances, and broader league dynamics. Excluding the numerous advertisements interspersed throughout the episode, the following summary captures the essence of the main discussions, insights, and conclusions presented by Middlekauff.
1. Commanders' Playoff Triumph: A Dramatic Turnaround
[03:03]
John Middlekauff opens the episode by highlighting the Washington Commanders' impressive playoff victory over Michael Penix's Falcons. He emphasizes the team's significant improvement from the previous season, where they held the number two draft pick but are now boasting an 11-5 record. Middlekauff remarks:
“It's crazy how Commanders went from so bad to now this. Had a number two pick in the draft last year and now they're 11 and five playing the Cowboys.”
[03:30]
He attributes the Commanders' success to strategic management changes, including a new owner, quarterback, and general manager, leading to a cohesive and winning team dynamic.
2. Quarterback Analysis: Jaden Daniels vs. Michael Penix
[04:15]
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the contrasting performances of the Commanders' rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the Falcons' Michael Penix. Middlekauff provides an in-depth comparison:
“Jaden Daniels this dual threat, huge arm, runs around kind of like nonchalantly... it's like Jaden, you should probably run a little faster but maybe is running full speed.”
[05:10]
He praises Daniels' adaptability and growth throughout the game, noting how he remained calm under pressure and made pivotal plays in the second half. In contrast, Penix struggled with consistency and missed several throws, which Middlekauff attributes to limited practice time with his receivers:
“He just missed the throw. It's like, well, of course he hasn't practiced with these guys at all till 14 days ago.”
[14:50]
3. Sam Darnold's Resurgence: Overcoming Adversity
[28:47]
Middlekauff shifts focus to Sam Darnold, illustrating his journey of overcoming public criticism and enhancing his performance after a career-altering move:
“You are going to go through some shitty times in life. It is inevitable. It is not avoidable professionally. You are going to have a rough stretch.”
[29:10]
He commends Darnold's resilience and ability to maintain composure, leading to a standout season with the Minnesota Vikings. This segment underscores the importance of mental toughness and adaptability in an NFL quarterback's career.
4. NFL Week 17 Recap and Team Strategies
[40:00]
Delving into broader league dynamics, Middlekauff discusses the implications of various teams' performances on playoff prospects and draft strategies. He highlights the Washington Commanders' efficient play-calling and the Rams' playoff qualification, attributing their success to well-executed game plans and effective team management.
“It's not a great pass rush, but Jaden was off and it was unraveling... they settled down and all of a sudden they come on a 17 nothing run and they have a 24, 7 lead.”
[22:30]
This analysis provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how strategic adjustments during the season can significantly impact a team's trajectory.
5. Tom Brady and NFL Player Authenticity
[45:15]
In a reflective segment, Middlekauff muses on Tom Brady's transition from an NFL legend to a television personality, comparing his demeanor to other former players:
“Everyone likes him in the football world. He's the ultimate football guy. Then he gets on television and he becomes like the corporate guy.”
[46:00]
He expresses a nuanced view on Brady's on-screen persona, suggesting that his lack of authenticity may affect his reception among fans outside his legendary status.
6. Future Implications: Draft Picks and Team Building
[50:00]
Concluding the episode, Middlekauff explores the significance of draft picks for struggling NFL teams, emphasizing the Patriots' secured top-five pick and the potential for other teams to vie for the number one overall selection. He discusses how strategic drafting can reshape a franchise's future:
“Talent doesn't matter if you don't have the right coaching staff.”
[51:00]
This segment serves as a forward-looking analysis, anticipating how upcoming draft decisions will influence the competitive landscape of the NFL.
Conclusion
Throughout the episode, John Middlekauff provides a thorough and insightful examination of key NFL narratives, particularly focusing on the Washington Commanders' resurgence and the intricacies of quarterback performances. His comparisons and critiques offer listeners a nuanced perspective on team dynamics, player development, and the broader implications of strategic decisions within the league.
Notable Quotes:
- “It's crazy how Commanders went from so bad to now this.” [03:30]
- “Jaden Daniels this dual threat, huge arm, runs around kind of like nonchalantly.” [05:10]
- “You are going to go through some shitty times in life.” [29:10]
- “Talent doesn't matter if you don't have the right coaching staff.” [51:00]
This episode stands out for its in-depth analysis and balanced commentary, making it a valuable listen for NFL enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of the game's current state and future directions.