Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Episode 3 & Out: Massive Mailbag

Release Date: May 9, 2025

Introduction

In the third installment of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," produced by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, host John Middlekauff dives into a comprehensive mailbag session titled "Massive Mailbag." Aimed at fostering interaction with his audience, Middlekauff addresses a wide array of listener-submitted questions covering the latest developments and perennial debates in the sports world, primarily focusing on the NFL. This episode showcases Middlekauff's analytical prowess and candid opinions, making it a must-listen for sports enthusiasts seeking in-depth discussions and insights.

1. Quarterback Speculations: Arch Manning and the Colts

Middlekauff opens the mailbag by exploring the potential of Arch Manning joining the Indianapolis Colts. He addresses the prevalent narrative that Arch is poised to follow in the footsteps of his famous uncle, Peyton Manning, rather than his father, Cooper Manning.

• Key Points:

  • Family Legacy Misconception: Despite being Cooper Manning's son, Arch is often compared more to Peyton, leading to public misconceptions about his lineage.
  • Colts’ Prospects: With the Colts anticipated to struggle, the opportunity for Arch to shine is plausible, though Middlekauff emphasizes that Arch's success is not guaranteed by his lineage alone.
  • Team Fit: Middlekauff questions why Arch wouldn’t opt for a team like the Giants, who have a history with Eli Manning, suggesting that team legacy plays a role in such decisions.

• Notable Quote:

  "Arch Manning gets discussed like he's Peyton's son, even more than Eli. It's like he's Peyton's guy." – John Middlekauff [12:45]

2. Ravens’ Performance and Coach John Harbaugh

A significant portion of the episode critiques the Baltimore Ravens' performance under Coach John Harbaugh during the Lamar Jackson era.

• Key Points:

  • Regular Season Dominance vs. Playoff Struggles: Despite strong regular-season performances, the Ravens have consistently faltered in high-stakes playoff games.
  • Coaching Decisions: Middlekauff suggests that promoting Mike McDonald earlier could have leveraged the Ravens’ defensive strengths better.
  • Player Accountability: He discusses moments like Mark Andrews’ drops and Lamar Jackson’s fumbles, debating the extent of Harbaugh’s responsibility in these plays.

• Notable Quote:

  "With a quarterback this dominant, it's on your coach to get it done. You want to become like John Harbaugh can become a legend by winning another Super Bowl." – John Middlekauff [25:30]

3. Patriots’ Draft Evaluation

Middlekauff evaluates the New England Patriots' recent draft strategies, highlighting their ability to address team needs while acquiring valuable players in mid to late rounds.

• Key Points:

  • Addressing Team Needs: The Patriots have successfully filled gaps without overspending high draft picks.
  • Player Potential: Middlekauff is optimistic about the Patriots’ selections, particularly offensive linemen with strong techniques that can be honed.
  • Long-Term Outlook: He emphasizes that the Patriots’ draft performance positions them well for sustained success in upcoming seasons.

• Notable Quote:

  "They hire fantastic coaches. I mean, Mike McDonald's pretty good hire. ... They are great at hiring defensive coaches." – John Middlekauff [33:20]

4. Cowboys’ Trade Decisions and Jerry Jones’ Management

The discussion shifts to the Dallas Cowboys, critiquing recent trade decisions made by owner Jerry Jones and their implications for the team’s future.

• Key Points:

  • Valuation of Trades: Middlekauff questions the Cowboys’ decision to trade for certain players at steep prices, such as giving up a third-round pick for a wide receiver like Dotson.
  • Financial Strategies: He highlights Jerry Jones’ reputation for being frugal despite the team's wealth, contrasting it with other NFL owners.
  • Impact on Team Dynamics: The trades are scrutinized for their immediate benefits versus long-term team building.

• Notable Quote:

  "He gave a third rounder for Dotson. We really needed a number two wide receiver. ... I just can't get behind it for a guy that is a one-year rental." – John Middlekauff [38:45]

5. Broncos’ Upcoming Season Outlook

Middlekauff provides his analysis of the Denver Broncos’ prospects for the upcoming NFL season, addressing team roster changes and draft picks.

• Key Points:

  • Roster Depth Concerns: Predictions indicate that the Broncos may field one of their weakest teams from a roster standpoint.
  • Draft Strategies: Discussion on the Broncos’ second-round picks, including defensive backs and running backs, and their potential impact.
  • Competition within Division: Emphasis on the rivalry with the Chargers and how draft decisions might influence future matchups.

• Notable Quote:

  "If you have a top quarterback in your area as a scout, you should see the guy. ... This is why when people ask like, do you even spend that much time? Well, if he's in your area, you spend a lot of time on the player." – John Middlekauff [42:10]

6. General Sports Rants and Personal Anecdotes

Beyond structured Q&A, Middlekauff shares personal stories and rants that add a relatable and humorous touch to the episode.

• Key Points:

  • Fish Oil Supplement Rant: Middlekauff humorously details his negative experience with fish oil supplements, highlighting the unexpected side effect of smelling like fish after workouts.
  • Dog Care Challenges: He discusses the difficulties of finding reliable care for his dog, sharing a lighthearted story about his pet’s antics.

• Notable Quote:

  "I would never have taken [fish oil] because it's supposed to be healthy for you, but if you have to smell like a fucking fish, it's not workable." – John Middlekauff [40:55]

7. Listener Engagement and Final Thoughts

Throughout the episode, Middlekauff emphasizes the importance of listener interaction, encouraging the audience to submit more questions and engage via social media platforms.

• Key Points:

  • Mailbag Focus: Reinforcement that this episode is dedicated solely to answering listener questions, fostering a community-driven discussion.
  • Future Content Teasers: Hints at upcoming topics and the continuation of interactive segments in future episodes.

• Notable Quote:

  "This is your guy show, so we like to interact with the people. Well, I mean, technically, it's mine, but without you guys, it doesn't exist." – John Middlekauff [03:00]

Conclusion

Episode 3 of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" – "Massive Mailbag" delivers an engaging and thorough exploration of current sports narratives, particularly within the NFL. John Middlekauff adeptly balances analytical discussions with personal anecdotes, providing listeners with both insightful commentary and relatable content. By addressing a diverse range of topics and fostering direct audience interaction, this episode exemplifies the podcast’s commitment to being a thought-provoking and opinion-driven journey through today’s top sports stories.

Notable Moments and Takeaways

• Arch Manning’s Potential with the Colts: Explored the implications of family legacy on player expectations and team dynamics. [12:45]
• Ravens’ Playoff Performance Critique: Delved into coaching strategies and player accountability affecting postseason outcomes. [25:30]
• Patriots’ Effective Drafting: Highlighted the Patriots' balanced approach in addressing team needs while securing valuable talent. [33:20]
• Cowboys’ Trade Decisions: Critiqued Jerry Jones’ recent trades and their impact on the Cowboys’ roster and future prospects. [38:45]
• Broncos’ Season Outlook: Analyzed draft strategies and potential challenges facing the Broncos in the upcoming season. [42:10]
• Personal Anecdotes: Provided humorous and relatable stories about supplement mishaps and pet care challenges. [40:55]

Final Note

For those who haven't tuned into "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," episode 3 offers a rich tapestry of sports analysis, humor, and community engagement. Whether you're passionate about quarterback lineages, frustrated with team management decisions, or simply enjoy personal rants intertwined with professional insights, this episode delivers on all fronts, ensuring listeners are both informed and entertained.