Summary of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" – Episode: 3 & Out - Mailbag
Release Date: January 2, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Introduction
In the episode titled "3 & Out - Mailbag," Colin Cowherd delivers a dynamic and engaging session focused primarily on listener interactions and current sports debates. Skipping over the usual advertisements and non-content segments, Colin dives deep into various topics ranging from NFL playoff predictions to the intricacies of college football scheduling. This summary captures all the essential discussions, insights, and conclusions presented during the episode.
Personal Health Update
At the outset, Colin shares a personal health update with his audience, adding a relatable and human touch to the episode.
Quote:
"Your boy was really hurting yesterday during the day I've had back to back. My IV lady has come over twice and honestly it might have saved my life because I was not literally, but I was in pretty bad shape..."
Timestamp: [02:15]
Summary:
Colin recounts experiencing significant health issues, necessitating two IV treatments. While he emphasizes gradual improvement—mentioning reduced fatigue and a slight recovery—he candidly discusses the challenges he faced, setting a transparent tone for the episode.
Mailbag Segment 1: NFL Divisional Round Predictions
Colin addresses a listener named Kellen's thoughts on a potential Chargers vs. Chiefs divisional round game.
Quote:
"As a Chargers fan, I am hungry for another shot at KC and we have a better chance of winning in Kansas City than going on the road to Buffalo or Baltimore..."
Timestamp: [04:20]
Summary:
Kellen, a Chargers supporter, expresses optimism about his team's prospects against the Chiefs, highlighting historical matchups and home-field advantages. He believes the Chargers have a strategic edge playing in Kansas City over facing teams like Buffalo or Baltimore on the road. Colin engages with this analysis, discussing momentum shifts and the Chiefs' recent performances, particularly noting their decision to start Carson Wentz and the potential impacts on their playoff run.
Mailbag Segment 2: General Managers’ Rehiring Practices
A listener questions why general managers (GMs) rarely receive second chances after their initial tenure.
Quote:
"We don't get second chances, not like coaches... But sometimes you look for the next best thing..."
Timestamp: [10:45]
Summary:
Colin reflects on insights from a former GM, explaining the industry’s reluctance to rehire GMs compared to coaches. He suggests that financial decisions and organizational reputation play significant roles in this trend. The discussion touches upon the challenges GMs face, such as missed draft opportunities or poor free-agent signings, and why these missteps can lead to hesitancy in rehiring.
Mailbag Segment 3: Analyzing Draft Prospects – Scatter Boo
A listener inquires about Scatter Boo’s draft prospects following his impressive performance in the Peach Bowl.
Quote:
"Anyone with a brain, if you watch him, that guy's a football player and a really good football player."
Timestamp: [16:00]
Summary:
Colin assesses Scatter Boo’s chances in the NFL Draft, predicting he will likely be a second-day pick rather than a first-round talent. He reasons that while Scatter Boo demonstrates exceptional football instincts and physicality, concerns about his 40-yard dash time at the combine could negatively impact his draft stock. Despite this, Colin praises Scatter Boo’s football intelligence and potential, suggesting that teams valuing instinctual play may still find him an attractive pick.
Mailbag Segment 4: College Football Playoff Scheduling
A listener proposes a restructuring of the college football playoff system to ensure a more accurate representation of the top teams.
Quote:
"The SEC would never agree to that. The Big Ten would never agree to that..."
Timestamp: [13:30]
Summary:
The listener suggests reducing the number of conference games and standardizing non-conference matchups to level the playing field and ensure the top teams are accurately represented in the playoffs. Colin analyzes the feasibility of this proposal, highlighting the financial dominance and contractual obligations of major conferences like the SEC and Big Ten. He concludes that while the idea has merit, the powerful conferences are unlikely to agree due to their lucrative television deals and competitive advantages.
Mailbag Segment 5: Coach of the Year Debate
Colin discusses why Dan Quinn isn’t garnering sufficient momentum for the Coach of the Year award despite significant team improvements.
Quote:
"If he beats the Lions, I have no issue with him winning the award."
Timestamp: [21:00]
Summary:
Colin contemplates the nature of award momentum, pointing out that early narratives often dominate over substantial achievements made later in the season. He acknowledges Dan Quinn’s success in transforming a struggling team into an 11-win contender but notes that other coaches like Kevin O’Connell have maintained consistent visibility and support, making it harder for Quinn to secure the accolade despite his accomplishments.
Mailbag Segment 6: Running Backs’ Value in the NFL
A listener explores the changing market dynamics for running backs and their relationship with franchise quarterbacks.
Quote:
"I think it varies player to player... The reality is you don't really have to make that decision because the cost of running backs is so low."
Timestamp: [23:30]
Summary:
Colin delves into the resurgence of running backs in the NFL, linking their value to the presence of franchise quarterbacks. He debates whether teams should prioritize dynamic receivers or consistent running backs when building their rosters. Colin suggests that while star running backs on rookie contracts provide significant value, the low average cost of running backs allows teams flexibility in roster construction without heavy financial commitments.
Mailbag Segment 7: Seahawks’ Quarterback Dilemma
A listener from the Seahawks seeks advice on whether to continue backing Geno Smith or to explore other quarterback options.
Quote:
"I think the best option would be, you know, I would sign Sam Darnold. I would take Sam Darnold over Geno."
Timestamp: [26:15]
Summary:
Colin advises the Seahawks to view Geno Smith as a bridge quarterback while considering long-term solutions such as drafting a new quarterback or exploring trade options. He emphasizes the importance of balancing immediate competitiveness with future planning, suggesting that while Geno has been solid, investing in a younger talent like Sam Darnold could provide better long-term benefits.
Conclusion
Throughout the episode, Colin Cowherd effectively engages with his audience through thoughtful analysis and candid discussions. By addressing a wide range of topics—from NFL playoff scenarios and general manager practices to college football scheduling and player evaluations—Colin provides listeners with comprehensive insights into the current sports landscape. His ability to blend personal anecdotes with professional analysis makes the episode both informative and relatable.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Personal Health:
"Your boy was really hurting yesterday during the day I've had back to back IVs..."
[02:15] -
Chargers vs. Chiefs Discussion:
"As a Chargers fan, I am hungry for another shot at KC and we have a better chance of winning in Kansas City..."
[04:20] -
GMs’ Rehiring Practices:
"We don't get second chances, not like coaches..."
[10:45] -
Scatter Boo’s Draft Prospects:
"Anyone with a brain, if you watch him, that guy's a football player and a really good football player."
[16:00] -
Coach of the Year Debate:
"If he beats the Lions, I have no issue with him winning the award."
[21:00] -
Running Backs’ Value:
"I think it varies player to player... The reality is you don't really have to make that decision because the cost of running backs is so low."
[23:30] -
Seahawks’ Quarterback Advice:
"I think the best option would be, you know, I would sign Sam Darnold. I would take Sam Darnold over Geno."
[26:15]
This structured summary encapsulates the essence of Colin Cowherd’s "3 & Out - Mailbag" episode, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners and those who may not have tuned in.