Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Episode: 3 & Out - Kauff on Campus
Release Date: December 11, 2024
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Description: A thought-provoking, opinionated exploration of the top sports stories of the day.
Introduction
In the third episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," titled "3 & Out - Kauff on Campus," host Jackson engages in a dynamic conversation with Martha Stewart, delving deep into the current landscape of college football. This episode navigates through the intricacies of the newly implemented College Football Playoff (CFP) format, highlights standout players, analyzes team performances, discusses the impact of the transfer portal, and evaluates the relevance of traditional bowl games in the modern playoff system.
College Football Playoff (CFP) Format
Jackson initiates the discussion by questioning the effectiveness of the 12-team CFP bracket. He expresses skepticism about the predetermined seeding and matchups, highlighting concerns over the fairness and competitiveness of the format.
Notable Quote:
"What was something, I guess, that you like about the bracket?... everyone’s so negative. This is cool." ([09:54])
Martha acknowledges the natural human tendency to critique but emphasizes the excitement and potential of the expanded playoff system.
Notable Quote:
"This is the first year of anything that's ever successful, like the NFL, the Major League Baseball... you're gonna hit some roadblocks." ([12:33])
Team Analysis and Path to Playoffs
The conversation shifts to specific teams and their prospects within the CFP. Martha praises the inclusion of powerhouse programs like Notre Dame, Ohio State, Texas, and Penn State, noting their robust performances and historical significance.
Notable Quote:
"Just how cool is this? How about the four home games at Notre Dame, at Ohio State, at Texas, at Penn State? I mean, these are badass." ([12:35])
Jackson raises concerns about Oregon's challenging path, especially post their Big Ten championship loss, and the unpredictable nature of teams like Boise State and SMU that have secured playoff berths.
Notable Quote:
"Oregon has to play the winner of Oregon, Tennessee, Ohio State... it's definitely a bad look for the first year." ([81:08])
Player Highlights and Draft Prospects
A significant portion of the episode focuses on standout players, particularly quarterbacks Dylan Gabriel and Drew Allen. Jackson lauds Gabriel's performance, likening his skill set to that of an NFL quarterback, while Martha provides a nuanced perspective on his draft prospects.
Notable Quote:
"He was playing like an NFL quarterback in that game." ([14:54])
Martha discusses the physical attributes and limitations of Gabriel, debating his potential NFL career versus his collegiate prowess.
Notable Quote:
"Two things can be true. You can be an awesome player in college and not be a great NFL prospect." ([16:26])
Impact of the Transfer Portal
The episode delves into the evolving dynamics introduced by the transfer portal, highlighting how it has reshaped team compositions and player opportunities. Both hosts express concerns about the stability and consistency of team rosters, citing examples like Quinn Ewers of Texas.
Notable Quote:
"You could enter the portal and say I’m not... but it’s clearly out of whack." ([67:46])
Martha points out the complications surrounding academic qualifications and the ease with which players can transfer, questioning the integrity and long-term effects on team performance.
Notable Quote:
"It's very complicated... the ability to transfer stuff." ([70:17])
Bowl Games and Their Relevance
As bowl season coincides with the playoff discussions, Jackson and Martha evaluate the significance of traditional bowl games in the context of the expanded CFP. They acknowledge the sentimental value and player opportunities that bowl games provide but debate their relevance in the shadow of the playoff system.
Notable Quote:
"People make too big of a deal... it's a really big deal." ([71:23])
Martha emphasizes the unique opportunities bowl games offer to players who may not reach the playoffs, stressing their importance in a player's collegiate career.
Notable Quote:
"Most of these kids in most of these bowls are not Travis Hunter and Shadows. They’re not going to play in the NFL. It’s a really cool thing to get to play in football games." ([71:24])
Recruiting and Coaching Strategies
The discussion extends to the potential hiring of NFL legend Bill Belichick by North Carolina, exploring the feasibility and implications of such a move within the college system. Martha provides insights into Belichick's coaching philosophy and the challenges he might face in a collegiate environment.
Notable Quote:
"Bill Belichick could thrive in the economic environment where most college coaches hate it. He’ll embrace it, because if you suck, I’ll just cut you." ([63:02])
Jackson speculates on Belichick's recruitment approach, suggesting a heavy reliance on the transfer portal and strategic allocation of resources to maximize team performance.
Notable Quote:
"He can go, the transfer portal will give me the top 30 guys in the transfer portal." ([63:35])
Conclusion and Future Outlook
As the episode wraps up, Jackson and Martha reflect on the chaotic nature of the current football season and the anticipation surrounding the upcoming playoff games. They express optimism about the potential success and entertainment value of the CFP while acknowledging the growing pains of the inaugural format.
Notable Quote:
"It's only a matter of time until we're going to get to 16 teams." ([82:09])
Martha concludes by reiterating the excitement of witnessing historic moments in college football and the evolving landscape shaped by new regulations and player movements.
Notable Quote:
"It's gonna be a big moment for him, which is cool." ([41:32])
Final Thoughts
"3 & Out - Kauff on Campus" offers an in-depth analysis of the current state of college football, blending expert opinions with critical insights into the CFP's inaugural year. Jackson and Martha Stewart provide a balanced perspective, celebrating the sport's traditions while critically examining the changes reshaping its future. This episode is a must-listen for sports enthusiasts keen on understanding the complexities of college football's evolving landscape.
Note: All timestamps correspond to the original transcript provided and are included to highlight key moments and quotes from the discussion.