The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Best of The Herd – January 10, 2025

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Overview

In the "Best of The Herd" episode released on January 10, 2025, Colin Cowherd delves deep into the riveting world of college football, focusing primarily on the intense matchup between Notre Dame and Penn State. Joined by special guest Urban Meyer, a renowned figure in college football coaching, the discussion unpacks game strategies, coaching decisions, player performances, and the broader implications for the sport's future.

1. Notre Dame vs. Penn State: A Game of Decisions

Colin Cowherd initiates the conversation by reflecting on the recent Notre Dame victory over Penn State, highlighting the myriad factors that contributed to the outcome.

• Key Points:
  • Penalties and Officiating: Notre Dame was significantly impacted by two crucial pass interference calls that negated interceptions, which Colin describes as “one of the worst calls I've ever seen in a huge game” ([06:30]).
  • Injuries: Notre Dame faced setbacks with key players injured, including their quarterback, whose concussion was a concern, and running backs with limited participation.
  • Coaching Under Pressure: James Franklin, Notre Dame's coach, faced criticism for his game management, especially in high-stakes scenarios.

Notable Quote:

"Their quarterback got hurt in the first half. People thought he was concussed. Their running backs planted about 50, 60%." – Colin Cowherd ([07:15])

2. Marcus Freeman: Notre Dame's Defensive Maestro

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame's defensive coordinator, drawing parallels between his coaching style and that of Sean McVay, a famed NFL coach.

• Key Points:
  • Leadership and Energy: Freeman is lauded for his intense presence and ability to motivate players, making him a "rock star" in the coaching realm.
  • Impact on Team Resilience: Under Freeman's guidance, despite being undermanned and facing penalties, Notre Dame showcased remarkable resilience and strategic playmaking in critical moments.

Notable Quote:

"Marcus Freeman, to me, feels like you're watching the college version of Sean McVay." – Colin Cowherd ([09:00])

3. James Franklin: The Struggle to Adapt

James Franklin's coaching decisions, especially during pivotal moments in the game, were scrutinized for their impact on Notre Dame's performance.

• Key Points:
  • Decision-Making Under Pressure: Franklin's choice to throw the ball with limited time remaining was questioned, with Colin suggesting it was a lack of trust in the quarterback.
  • Game Strategy: Despite the challenges, Notre Dame executed a "specific, buttoned up, smart team" strategy in the final drive, contrasting Penn State's seemingly improvised plays.

Notable Quote:

"If Notre Dame would have lost, you'd literally, as a Notre Dame fan, be like, man, we couldn't get a break." – Colin Cowherd ([10:45])

4. Urban Meyer’s Insights on Coaching and Team Dynamics

Urban Meyer brings a seasoned perspective to the discussion, offering his analysis of both coaches and the broader dynamics of college football.

• Key Points:
  • Coaching Philosophy: Meyer emphasizes the importance of preparation and adaptability, stating, "the most prepared team will win this game" ([38:50]).
  • Player Development: He underscores the significance of intangible qualities like leadership and resilience over mere physical prowess.
  • Future of College Football: Meyer touches upon the evolving landscape of the sport, including the impact of the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals on team compositions and player loyalty.

Notable Quote:

"When talent becomes equated, it's not the pregame talk. It's simply the most prepared team will win this game." – Urban Meyer ([39:10])

5. Player Performances and Key Moments

The hosts analyze standout performances and critical moments that defined the game, shedding light on individual contributions and tactical executions.

• Key Points:
  • Notre Dame's Third Down Efficiency: Despite being behind, Notre Dame excelled on third downs, showcasing their strategic planning and execution.
  • Penn State’s Aggressive Playcalling: Penn State's late-game aggressiveness without achieving significant progress was highlighted as a tactical misstep.
  • Impact of Specific Players: Riley Leonard's performance was lauded for his resilience and leadership, while Penn State's quarterback Drew Aller faced criticism for his performance under pressure.

Notable Quote:

"We thought the quarterback was concussed. They fell behind, yet they were amazing on third down." – Colin Cowherd ([07:50])

6. Implications for Future Matchups and Coaching Careers

The episode concludes with discussions on how the outcomes and performances might influence future games and coaching trajectories within college football.

• Key Points:
  • Coaching Careers: Freeman’s success at Notre Dame positions him as a hot commodity for future coaching opportunities, potentially at the NFL level.
  • Team Strategies Moving Forward: Both teams are expected to reassess their strategies, with Notre Dame leveraging their defensive strengths and Penn State needing to address decision-making inconsistencies.

Notable Quote:

"If I'm the Chicago Bears or some of these other teams in the NFL, I'm just waiting until Notre Dame's done the championship." – Colin Cowherd ([10:50])

Conclusion

The "Best of The Herd" episode offers an in-depth analysis of one of college football's most intense rivalries, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between coaching decisions, player performances, and team resilience. Colin Cowherd and Urban Meyer provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the game's complexities, making it a must-listen for sports enthusiasts seeking comprehensive insights into college football's evolving landscape.

Notable Quotes Summary

• "Their quarterback got hurt in the first half. People thought he was concussed. Their running backs planted about 50, 60%." – Colin Cowherd ([07:15])

• "Marcus Freeman, to me, feels like you're watching the college version of Sean McVay." – Colin Cowherd ([09:00])

• "If Notre Dame would have lost, you'd literally, as a Notre Dame fan, be like, man, we couldn't get a break." – Colin Cowherd ([10:45])

• "When talent becomes equated, it's not the pregame talk. It's simply the most prepared team will win this game." – Urban Meyer ([39:10])

• "We thought the quarterback was concussed. They fell behind, yet they were amazing on third down." – Colin Cowherd ([07:50])

• "If I'm the Chicago Bears or some of these other teams in the NFL, I'm just waiting until Notre Dame's done the championship." – Colin Cowherd ([10:50])

Listen to More Episodes

For those who enjoyed this summary, be sure to listen to the full episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.