Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "Best of The Herd" Release Date: February 18, 2025
Host/Authors: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Introduction
"The Herd with Colin Cowherd," a thought-provoking and opinionated sports podcast hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, presents its special episode titled "Best of The Herd" released on February 18, 2025. In this compilation, hosts LeVar Arrington, Brady Quinn, and Jonas Knox step in for Colin Cowherd to deliver a dynamic discussion covering a range of top sports stories, personal anecdotes, and critical analyses of current sports events and personalities.
1. Celebrating President's Day and Valentine's Day
The episode kicks off with the hosts reflecting on recent holiday celebrations. LeVar Arrington shares his experience attending a Monster Jam event with his son, highlighting the joy of supporting their favorite monster truck.
LeVar Arrington [04:24]: "I got him in his Easter basket or his Christmas stock… he just was hooked ever since."
Brady Quinn mentions the All-Star game festivities broadcasted on NBC, emphasizing the heightened emotions and national pride surrounding President's Day weekend.
Brady Quinn [04:01]: “President's Day weekend coming off some… something about the four nations hockey thing. It’s a lot of pride for this great country we live in.”
2. Critique of the NBA All-Star Game vs. NHL Four Nations
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the perceived lack of intensity in the NBA All-Star Game compared to the NHL’s Four Nations Hockey Exhibition. The hosts argue that the NBA event feels more like a showcase of skills rather than a passionate competition, leading to fan dissatisfaction. In contrast, the NHL’s exhibition, despite being non-playoff, exhibits a level of intensity and national representation that resonates more deeply with fans.
Brady Quinn [07:28]: “The disconnect is the NBA thinks because they're so great, they're so skilled that people are going to want to watch. You're missing the point… we love the passion. We love the intensity.”
LeVar Arrington [16:43]: “Hockey benefited from it. They can get all sensitive about it… people just want it to be a little better.”
3. Disconnect Between Modern Athletes and Fans
The hosts delve into the modern disconnect between athletes and their fan base. They lament that despite advances in technology facilitating interaction, many athletes lack the personal engagement that fostered strong fan relationships in past decades. This disconnect is attributed to athletes prioritizing individual accolades over team spirit and fan connection.
Jonas Knox [07:16]: “You ever think about that? Like… if you really were to go through… you would be able to do it. That's why you had nicknames for different teams… the reunions were so important that everyone was in it together.”
Brady Quinn [15:35]: “You’re just watching more of a show. You’re watching more of a product now.”
4. Personal Health Updates and Camaraderie
Amidst the heavy discussions, the hosts share personal anecdotes regarding their health and wellness. Brady Quinn reveals he’s battling a cold, leading to humorous exchanges about natural remedies like ginger shots and the effectiveness of steam rooms.
Brady Quinn [23:31]: “I'm in a fog, buddy… everyone's getting sick… trying to get through.”
Jonas Knox [24:02]: “I go into the steam room when I don't feel good… try to sweat everything out.”
5. NFL Trade Speculations: Steelers Eyeing Trevor Lawrence
A major highlight of the episode is the speculation surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers’ rumored interest in trading for Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence. The discussion explores the potential impact of such a trade on both franchises, evaluating Lawrence’s performance and contract status.
Jonas Knox [27:11]: “It's not even playing. Just a bad look, man.”
Pete Prisco [27:59]: “I don't think there's anything to it, but I'll check into it.”
6. In-Depth Analysis with NFL Columnist Pete Prisco
The episode features an insightful conversation with Pete Prisco, a senior NFL columnist for CBS Sports. Prisco provides his perspective on the Steelers’ potential trade for Lawrence, comparing him to other quarterbacks like Justin Herbert and Russell Wilson. The discussion touches on Lawrence’s upside, the Jaguars’ management decisions, and the broader implications for the Steelers’ roster and future.
Pete Prisco [43:31]: “I take… I have a hard time picking between the two of them because Hurts has played better, but Lawrence has much more upside in my mind.”
Brady Quinn [45:01]: “Don't get distracted by it…”
Prisco also critiques the Jacksonville Jaguars' management, particularly targeting past decisions like hiring Urban Meyer, labeling it a "disaster."
Pete Prisco [51:07]: “They brought in Urban Meyer. Look what happened with that. That was a disaster.”
7. Strategic Decisions and Team Management
Further delving into team management, the hosts and Prisco discuss the strategic decisions teams must make regarding player contracts and roster compositions. They debate the efficacy of the Steelers’ approach to quarterback selection and the necessity of bolstering offensive and defensive firepower to remain competitive.
Brady Quinn [32:06]: “With the exception of a couple have been in the bottom half of the league and cash spending…”
Jonas Knox [32:30]: “They’re going to go with Justin Fields.”
8. Final Thoughts and Teasers for Future Discussions
As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts engage in light-hearted banter, teasing upcoming topics and encouraging listeners to engage with their extended network of shows and segments. They emphasize the importance of continuous dialogue on sports management and player performance.
LeVar Arrington [53:35]: “Welcome to my Legacy…”
Jonas Knox [54:44]: “Because creativity doesn't wait. It moves, shifts, evolves…”
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- LeVar Arrington [04:24]: "I got him in his Easter basket or his Christmas stock… he just was hooked ever since."
- Brady Quinn [04:01]: “President's Day weekend coming off some… something about the four nations hockey thing. It’s a lot of pride for this great country we live in.”
- Brady Quinn [07:28]: “The disconnect is the NBA thinks because they're so great, they're so skilled that people are going to want to watch. You're missing the point… we love the passion. We love the intensity.”
- Jonas Knox [07:16]: “You ever think about that? Like… if you really were to go through… you would be able to do it. That's why you had nicknames for different teams… the reunions were so important that everyone was in it together.”
- Brady Quinn [23:31]: “I'm in a fog, buddy… everyone's getting sick… trying to get through.”
- Pete Prisco [43:31]: “I take… I have a hard time picking between the two of them because Hurts has played better, but Lawrence has much more upside in my mind.”
- Pete Prisco [51:07]: “They brought in Urban Meyer. Look what happened with that. That was a disaster.”
Conclusion
"Best of The Herd" serves as a comprehensive overview of current sports dynamics, blending personal experiences with critical analyses of major leagues and player management strategies. The episode effectively highlights the evolving relationship between athletes and fans, the strategic intricacies of team management, and the enduring passion that drives sports fandom. Through engaging discussions and expert insights, the hosts provide valuable perspectives for both avid listeners and those new to the podcast.