Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "Best of The Herd" (January 24, 2025)

The Herd with Colin Cowherd delivers an engaging and comprehensive analysis of the latest happenings in the NFL, blending expert opinions with in-depth discussions. In the "Best of The Herd" episode released on January 24, 2025, Colin Cowherd navigates through significant coaching changes, team dynamics, and playoff predictions, enriched with insightful commentary and notable quotes from special guests like Carson Palmer.

1. Introduction and Breaking News [00:00 – 01:51]

Colin Cowherd kicks off the episode with the latest NFL developments, focusing on Pete Carroll's recent appointment as the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. This segment sets the stage for deeper discussions on coaching trends and team strategies within the league.

2. Coaching Changes in the NFL [01:51 – 10:56]

Pete Carroll Joins the Raiders

Cowherd announces Pete Carroll's move from the Seahawks to the Las Vegas Raiders, highlighting the implications for both teams.

"Pete Carroll is the new coach of the Seattle Seahawks." [01:51]

Ageism in NFL Coaching

Discussing the trend of older coaches dominating the league, Colin humorously refers to the division as the "AARP Division."

"Harbaugh, Peyton, Annie Reed, and Pete Carroll. Yeah, they're calling it the AARP division because every coach is old as hell." [02:30]

Cowboys' Coaching Dilemma

The conversation shifts to the Dallas Cowboys' ongoing search for a new head coach, critiquing the involvement of Jerry Jones and his sons in the decision-making process.

"Apparently Jerry Jones, the Brian Schottenheimer move, according to a report this morning... Jerry's not down with it. He's more down with Deion Sanders." [05:00]

3. Impact of Coaching on Teams [10:56 – 25:55]

Staff Acquisitions and Team Stability

Cowherd emphasizes the importance of timely hiring to secure elite assistants, warning that delays can lead to subpar coaching hires.

"Every day you wait to hire a coach, you're losing out on the best assistants. So just think about that." [03:15]

Building a Strong Front Office

Analyzing the Raiders' situation, Colin asserts that Pete Carroll brings much-needed stability and culture to a team lacking structure.

"They need stability, they need culture, and Pete provides that." [04:00]

4. Penalties and Coaching Quality [25:55 – 43:35]

Chiefs' Penalty Stats

Cowherd addresses allegations of favorable officiating towards the Kansas City Chiefs, comparing their penalty yards to other top teams.

"The Chiefs have had only 319 penalty yards. Opponents 541 in playoff penalties in the last four years." [20:05]

Elite Coaches and Discipline

Highlighting the correlation between coaching excellence and low penalty rates, Colin points out that top coaches like Andy Reid, Bill Belichick, and Sean McVay have teams with the fewest penalties.

"These are great coaches who avoid penalties just like good quarterbacks avoid interceptions." [21:30]

5. Player Insights: Carson Palmer [33:32 – 41:53]

Carson Palmer on Coaching with Pete Carroll

Former NFL quarterback Carson Palmer shares his experiences working under Pete Carroll, praising his energy, vision, and leadership.

"He instantly gives you that stability that that pro, that that organization needs." [34:06]

Lessons from Pete Carroll

Palmer discusses the multifaceted coaching philosophy of Carroll, emphasizing leadership, respect, and a focus on fundamental play.

"He talks about respect for your team, respect for the officials, respect for your opponent." [34:50]

Impact on Palmer's Coaching Style

Reflecting on his transition to coaching, Palmer credits Carroll with instilling valuable leadership and strategic principles.

"There's not one thing that when I think back about my experience playing with him... He's the greatest coach that I ever had the chance to play for." [35:20]

6. Playoff Predictions [43:35 – 43:29]

Commanders vs. Eagles

Cowherd analyzes the upcoming playoff game, favoring the Philadelphia Eagles due to their robust rushing game and defensive strengths.

"I like Philadelphia to win 34 to 24. I think it could get a little ugly. I'll take the over as well." [28:15]

Bills vs. Chiefs

Predicting a thrilling matchup, Colin sides with the Buffalo Bills over the Kansas City Chiefs, citing Josh Allen's performance and the Bills' defensive prowess.

"I'm going to take the Bills to win a close game outright. You know, it's going to be close. Drama filled. 28, 27." [29:45]

7. Conclusion and Final Thoughts [43:35 – End]

Colin wraps up the episode by reinforcing the importance of strategic coaching hires and their impact on team performance. He encourages listeners to stay engaged with live editions of The Herd for ongoing NFL insights.

Notable Quotes

• Colin Cowherd on Pete Carroll's Hiring:
  "I like the choice. I think he's an excellent fit with the Raiders." [04:30]

• Cowherd on Coaching Urgency:
  "This needs urgency. The Cowboys have only interviewed three people in person." [07:45]

• Carson Palmer on Pete Carroll's Influence:
  "He's the greatest coach that I ever had the chance to play for." [35:20]

• Cowherd on Chiefs' Penalty Avoidance:
  "Great coaches also separate themselves in many forms, schemes, game plans, situational excellence." [22:00]

Key Takeaways

• Coaching Stability: Timely and strategic hiring of head coaches and assistants is crucial for team success.

• Ageism in Coaching: A trend of older coaches dominates the NFL, potentially impacting the infusion of new strategies and energy.

• Impact of Coaching on Team Performance: Effective coaching correlates with disciplined play and fewer penalties, as seen with teams led by Reid, Belichick, and McVay.

• Playoff Predictions: The Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills are favored in their respective upcoming playoff games due to their strong offensive and defensive capabilities.

• Player to Coach Transition: Carson Palmer exemplifies a successful transition from player to coach, drawing heavily on his experiences under Pete Carroll.

This summary encapsulates the essence of the "Best of The Herd" episode, providing a coherent and comprehensive overview of the discussions without the interruptions of advertisements and non-content segments. Whether you're an avid listener or new to the show, this summary offers valuable insights into the current NFL landscape as analyzed by Colin Cowherd.