Best of The Herd

Summary

The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Best of The Herd Episode Summary

Release Date: December 26, 2024 | Host: Colin Cowherd | Produced by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

---

Introduction

In this best-of episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, listeners are treated to an in-depth analysis of the latest developments in the NFL and NBA, insightful discussions on coaching strategies, quarterback evaluations, and the evolving dynamics of standout teams. Hosted by Colin Cowherd, alongside co-hosts J. Mac, Doug Gottlieb, and LeVar Arrington, the episode delves into the nuances of recent games, player performances, and the strategic moves shaping the current sports landscape.

---

NFL Highlights: Kansas City Chiefs Dominate Pittsburgh Steelers

The episode opens with a comprehensive breakdown of the Kansas City Chiefs' decisive 29-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Colin Cowherd praises the Chiefs for their strategic adjustments and enhanced team maturity.

"This Kansas City team is a better offensive version and a more mature version of last year. Get ready, NFC. This is probably who you're going to face." (03:16)

Cowherd highlights key players like Travis Kelce, Hollywood Brown, and the improved pass rush under Steve Spagnoli's leadership. He emphasizes the Chiefs' ability to secure close game wins and their consistent performance, drawing parallels to the New England Patriots' dynasty.

"They’ve figured out the best formula to get good at Christmas and beyond." (03:23)

NBA Spotlight: LeBron vs. Steph on Christmas

Transitioning to the NBA, the discussion centers on the marquee Christmas matchup between LeBron James’ Lakers and Stephen Curry’s Warriors. J. Mac and Colin express admiration for both superstars while critiquing their teams' depth and strategic compositions.

"It would be nice if the NBA had a really tasty undercard. I feel like the NBA is clinging to LeBron and Steph like Hollywood's clinging to Tom Cruise and the Mission Impossible series." (05:10)

The conversation delves into potential trade moves, particularly the intriguing possibility of Jimmy Butler joining the Warriors. The hosts debate the benefits of adding Butler as a playmaker alongside Curry and Draymond Green, assessing how this could enhance the Warriors' championship prospects.

"Jimmy Butler as a primary, as a number one, leaves you feeling a little disappointed, but as a two to Steph, that works." (06:15)

Quarterback Evaluations: Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to evaluating quarterbacks Sam Darnold of the New York Jets and Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers. Doug Gottlieb provides an analysis of Darnold’s improved pocket movement and decision-making capabilities.

"There are two areas of pocket play that are absolutely critical to being a higher level pocket quarterback that he's improved significantly at." (42:52)

Conversely, Colin critiques Purdy for being an "IF quarterback," underscoring his dependency on optimal conditions and support systems to perform effectively.

"But almost all quarterbacks in the league are IF quarterbacks. It depends what they have around them. And right now Purdy does not have much around him." (53:58)

Coaching Strategies: Pete Carroll and the Chicago Bears

The hosts debate the potential hiring of Pete Carroll as the head coach for the Chicago Bears. Colin defends Carroll’s extensive experience and organizational abilities, arguing against age concerns.

"The idea that Pete's too old. No, he's not. I'm going to tell you something. This job is not for some whiz kid." (33:03)

They compare Carroll’s coaching philosophy to successful leaders in other fields, reinforcing his capability to build a competitive culture despite the Bears' current challenges.

Ravens' Renaissance: Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry

Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens are spotlighted for their stellar performances. Colin expresses optimism about Jackson's trajectory towards a Super Bowl appearance, highlighting Henry's consistent rushing yards and the strategic utilization of his talents.

"Lamar's going to win the trophies in the MVP. He's more exhilarating, it's more dynamic." (20:06)

Gottlieb adds that Lamar's ability to control the game while Derrick Henry dominates the run game makes the Ravens a formidable force in the NFL.

"This combination is really hard to beat." (46:37)

Defensive Tactics: Los Angeles Rams Defense

The Los Angeles Rams' young and evolving defense garners attention as the hosts discuss their strategic use of a dime package and standout players like Jared Verse. Doug lauds the Rams for their adaptability and defensive prowess.

"This is a continually evolving defense that plays a ton of dime. That's sort of their foundation." (51:33)

Player Spotlights: Jaden Daniels and Garrett Wilson

Jaden Daniels' impressive performance is analyzed, drawing parallels to Andrew Luck's philosophy of prioritizing wins over personal mistakes. Additionally, Garrett Wilson's declining performance despite high target counts is scrutinized, raising questions about his role and future with the Jets.

"And Garrett Wilson's numbers are way down. But I think if you have more targets than Justin Jefferson, zip it." (32:15)

Strategic Insights: Motion in the Run Game

A nuanced discussion on the importance of motion in the run game unfolds, with Colin and Doug exploring how teams like the Packers utilize motion to disrupt defensive alignments and enhance their offensive strategies.

"Motion is so critical. We think of motion being a big deal in the pass game. It's really a bigger deal in the run game." (53:16)

Closing Remarks: Upcoming Games and Final Thoughts

As the episode concludes, the hosts preview upcoming NFL matchups, discuss injury impacts, and reflect on the overall season's trends. Colin reiterates the significance of strategic planning and team dynamics in determining playoff success.

"You watch the Bears the last few weeks since they can have the flu and they keep falling into big holes early in games like this." (61:19)

---

Notable Quotes

• Colin Cowherd on Chiefs' Maturity: "This Kansas City team is a better offensive version and a more mature version of last year." (03:16)

• J. Mac on NBA Matchups: "It would be nice if the NBA had a really tasty undercard." (05:10)

• Doug Gottlieb on Sam Darnold: "There are two areas of pocket play that are absolutely critical to being a higher level pocket quarterback that he's improved significantly at." (42:52)

• Colin Cowherd on Brock Purdy: "Almost all quarterbacks in the league are IF quarterbacks. It depends what they have around them." (53:58)

• Colin Cowherd on Pete Carroll: "This job is not for some whiz kid." (33:03)

• Doug Gottlieb on Ravens' Defense: "This combination is really hard to beat." (46:37)

• Colin Cowherd on Garrett Wilson: "But I think if you have more targets than Justin Jefferson, zip it." (32:15)

• Doug Gottlieb on Motion in Run Game: "Motion is so critical." (53:16)

• Colin Cowherd on Bears' Struggles: "You watch the Bears the last few weeks since they can have the flu and they keep falling into big holes early in games like this." (61:19)

---

Conclusion

The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Best of The Herd delivers a robust and engaging exploration of current sports narratives, blending statistical analysis with strategic insights. Whether dissecting the Kansas City Chiefs' dominance, debating the future of NBA superstars, or evaluating quarterback prospects, the episode offers valuable perspectives for both avid sports enthusiasts and casual listeners seeking a deeper understanding of the games they love.

---

For more insightful discussions and the latest in sports, tune in to The Herd with Colin Cowherd on Fox Sports Radio or stream it live via the iHeartRadio app.

---

Timestamps

• [03:05] – Introduction to NFL and NBA Highlights
• [03:16] – Kansas City Chiefs Analysis
• [05:10] – NBA Christmas Matchup
• [06:15] – Jimmy Butler Trade Discussion
• [20:06] – Ravens' Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry
• [32:15] – Garrett Wilson Performance
• [33:03] – Pete Carroll Coaching Debate
• [42:52] – Sam Darnold’s Pocket Play Improvement
• [46:37] – Derrick Henry’s Rush Game
• [51:33] – Los Angeles Rams Defense
• [53:16] – Importance of Motion in Run Game
• [53:58] – Brock Purdy’s Quarterback Evaluation
• [61:19] – Bears’ Recent Struggles

---

Note: Advertisements, promotional segments, and non-content sections have been excluded to focus solely on the episode’s substantive discussions.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

With Amex Gold, you can experience the Gold Standard. You get access to exceptional dining plus 4 times Membership Rewards points on eligible dining purchases. That's the powerful backing of American Express. Terms apply.

[LeVar Arrington]

Cap applies.

[Colin Cowherd]

Learn [e-mail] withamx as we gather together during this holiday season, let me share a gift that keeps on giving. Chase Freedom With Chase Freedom Unlimited, you'll not only experience the joy of 1.5% unlimited cash back, but also the freedom to create cherished memories with your loved ones. Discover the magic and learn [e-mail] and let this season be filled with love, laughter and the delight of extra cash in your pocket. Cards issued by JP Morgan Chase Bank NA Member FDIC.

[Doug Gottlieb]

This is Doug Gotti.

[Colin Cowherd]

From All Ball with Doug Gottlieb.

[Unknown Speaker]

Listen, I'm gonna get serious for a minute. The hate in our country is getting out of control. In fact, it's sadly at an all time high. But it's gonna take all of us to stop it. I mean, we're all on the same team in this country.

[Colin Cowherd]

So let's take a break from our.

[Unknown Speaker]

Hate so our team can regroup. We need to take a timeout against hate. Visit standuptoallhate.org to help and join me in calling for timeout against hate by following OTs upwithhate or posting the Blue Square Emoji.

[Colin Cowherd]

Holiday magic is in the air and DSW has got all the shoes to make your season extra merry. Believe you've got parties to attend and lists to check twice. So DSW is taking care of the details like gifts to make their eyes all aglow. Styles that bring joy to your world. Brands everyone wants like Ugg, Nike, Birkenstock and more and deals to make your budget bright. Find the perfect shoes for you and yours at a DSW store near you or dsw.com it's inevitable. Rain, snow and ice are coming and they're going to make driving a challenge. You know it. Thankfully, the experts at Tire Rack know a thing or two about conquering winter's worst. New tires elevate traction and braking and will keep you safe. Tire Rack sells only the best, like the full line of Vredestein tires. Go to tirerack.com collins c o l I N that's me. Build a tire and wheel package for DIY installation that's do it yourself. Shipped fast and free and backed by two years of free road hazard protection. Tirerack.com the way tire buying should be. Thanks for listening to the Herd podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox Sports Radio at noon to 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific. Find your local station for the [e-mail] or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR. Thanks for listening to the Herd podcast. Here we go. It is the day after Christmas. We are live in Los Angeles. It's the Herd. Wherever you may be and however you may be listening, thanks for making us part of your day. J. Mac, we got a treat. The NFL games were blowouts. The NBA games were great. What a treat. Yesterday, sitting around eating food. Maybe. Maybe snuck in one small cocktail. Saw friends, family.

[J. Mac]

Yeah, I barely made the show today. Rough night last night.

[Colin Cowherd]

Great day. Tremendous day.

[J. Mac]

Hope you had a great Christmas.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, I know your house. I hope you had a great day with you and your fam. I know your house didn't have cigars.

[J. Mac]

No cigars, no. But we had everything else.

[Colin Cowherd]

Good for you. So Kansas City 29 and Pittsburgh 10. Two different directions, two different stories. Let's start with Kansas City. The last two years in the NFL, Baltimore and the Buffalo Bills have blown us away. Spectacular quarterback play. And then the playoffs arrive and Kansas City figures some stuff out and Travis Kelce explodes and Spags has the defense right. And the offensive line, which isn't great in the regular season, now is protecting Mahomes. And you look up and Kansas City wins all the close games and beats in the Super Bowl. An NFC roster that's arguably better. That's what they do. And I watch Kansas City dismantle the Steelers. Travis Kelsey had eight catches. They found another weapon. They do this every year. Now it's Xavier worthy. Hollywood Brown is back. Every year they find another weapon late. The pass rush without Chris Jones, without him was substantial, by the way. Last four games, points and yards have increased every game. And six straight games without a turnover. This is what they do. They just figure out ways, little edges, advantage there, get rid of the, you know, the debits. Let's turn them into credits. And this Kansas City team to me is a better offensive version and a more mature version of last year. Get ready, nfc. This is probably who you're going to face. And I've been hearing this. Well, this team is just. I mean, the refs. This thing is. Oh, talk about lucky. They played three games in 11 days, two on the road and outscored their opponents to go undefeated 72, 36. Yeah, it's nothing about it. They. Here's what they do. The Stuff that matters to a lot of people. Blowout wins, MVPs, it doesn't matter to them. They got 23 days now until the playoffs. They got a buy, got a regular season game. They can stay rested. And 21 and 1 in their last 22 games. And again, they care about what's important. Finding over the course of a season, another weapon, another tackle, a little edge, improving young players. They care about the crap that makes you a Super bowl champ. You got other teams in this league worrying about, hey, Twitter, who's. Who's the MVP that is below Kansas City at this point. You know, the Yankees don't care about MVPs. The Yankees are trying to get trophies. The Mets go crazy for MVPs. Like right now, everybody in Pittsburgh, hey, no losing season. That's the ceiling. Or is that the floor? I'm confused. This is what Kansas City does. The protection was better without Chris Jones. All the young pass rushers, Spags got them working. Now they've got worthy. Here's Hollywood Brown, everybody. Every. All I hear is this. This happened to Gronk. Oh, where, Where's Gronk? Every time the playoffs started. January, February, Gronk. Here's Travis Kelsey. Christmas on not as much Noah Gray. Here comes. Here comes Travis Kelsey. So last nine games for Patrick Mahomes, as this team is a bit more mature, deeper at wide receiver, getting healthy at the right time. Pass rush with or without Chris Jones. Last nine games for Mahomes. 19 touchdowns, two picks. And here's what's amazing. Flying under the radar, Baltimore MVP talk. Buffalo. Man, this is the year Kansas City does two things well, gets better by December and January. And here they are, the dynasty in the league. It's a lot like New England, Belichick and Brady. And they're flying under the radar. Everybody's talking about, this is the year and we're going to win this award. And Kansas City's just winning. And now they're winning by more in the last four games. More points, more yards. This is a better version of last year's team. Now Hollywood Brown, now worthy, now Kelsey, now Watson. They'll probably grab a running back in the draft knowing Kansas City, that Boise State kid will fall to them at like 32. But I found New England's dynasty fascinating. Their efficiency. I never felt New England outside of the Randy Moss years was the best team. They just when you. I didn't get the best roster. I don't know if Kansas City has the best roster, but they've figured out the best formula to get good at Christmas and beyond. Here's Mahomes after. It showed the toughness of the team and I think we got better, as though, obviously the games are on. And so the guys, they're mentally tough and they're physically tough. And we played some really good football teams, some hard, hard fought battles, and the guys came away with three wins. So getting that number one seed's important. It's like winning the playoff game. And so I was happy to get that done. All right. Actually, it was a great NBA day. Three games, all close. NFL games were blowouts. We'll get to Baltimore, Houston, Steelers later. But Listen, the one NBA thing that always works is LeBron versus Steph on Christmas. Didn't matter if he's a Cav and he's a Warrior. He's a Laker. He's a Warrior. Great fun, great finish. Both teams could use Jimmy Butler. Get to that in a second. But whether they play together in the Olympics or they meet four times in the finals or they play on Christmas, it's always a good watch. LeBron's going to be 40 on Monday. Steph is 36. They're great headliners. It would be nice if the NBA had a really tasty undercard. I feel like the NBA is clinging to LeBron and Steph like Hollywood's clinging to Tom Cruise and the Mission Impossible series. And that's okay because it's great and, you know, I love me some LeBron, Steph and Mission Impossible. I do wish these two were at a championship level. This is where it gets interesting. The Lakers don't have the bench. They're not athletic enough, and they don't have enough shooters. Meanwhile, Golden State's got all the shooters they need. They could probably move one, but they don't have the size. But the Lakers do have the size. So if you consolidated these two teams, you'd have a hell of a team. The Lakers play Denver pretty well. Now. They don't beat them a lot, but they play them well because they have size and Denver's big. The warriors have shooters, so they can match up with a Boston or an OKC or a Dallas and shoot their way to wins. So the Jimmy Butler trade talk is really interesting. So Jimmy Butler said over the last couple days, I want out. And Golden State especially is very tasty. So anything the warriors do has to be on Steph and Draymond Green's timeline. Okay? They, they, they just, they want to squeeze one more championship out of this. And Jimmy Butler as a primary, as a number one, leaves you feeling a little disappointed, but as a two to Steph, that works. Also, he's on Steph and Dre's timeline. Also. What's he known as? A great playoff performer. He's a playmaker. He is tough. He is physical. He'd get along with Draymond and Steph. He's a leader. He is often yelled at, younger teammates not ready to play. So Butler, Steph and Draymond Green is a real thing. Now, you'd have to give up Kaminga, who, by the way, you keep waiting and waiting and waiting and it never lands. And then you'd have to give up Wiggins, who is having a pretty good year, but he's hot and cold. He had a good series against the Celtics in the final, but don't you feel like that was the peak? I think if I'm Golden State as I'm watching Steph. Cause I think Steph's absolutely still good enough to get to an NBA final. Would they have the depth to beat like. Like Boston? Would they have the firepower to beat maybe a Knicks or a Philadelphia? I don't know. But I do feel Denver's not the same team. OKC is still young. Chet Holmgren, is he available? I don't think Minnesota is quite as good. I think the warriors with Jimmy Butler. Steph. Jimmy Butler is a second offensive option. Draymond Green got buddy healed out there to hit some threes. You got pods to hit threes. That team could get hot. Cross your fingers on health. And when you watch Steph sizzle yesterday, my take is, I'm hoping the Warrior brass watches this and realizes the truth. That guy's good enough to get to the Finals. You just got to find a second scoring option and stop with the Wiggins. Wiggins is a classic example. You're a championship team if he's your fourth best player. You're a really good team if he's your third best player. But if he's your number one player, you don't make the playoffs. And if he's your number two scoring option, you're going nowhere. And their warriors right now are going nowhere. But they could be going somewhere. Absolutely. With Jimmy Butler. So depth is nice and they got a lot of depth, but that's. That's. That's neat. Depth is wonderful. The Celtics have depth, but their top seven players are excellent. That's what matters. LeBron, meanwhile, Nice wind. Turning 40 Monday says this meant more than just a win.

[LeVar Arrington]

I love the NFL. I love the NFL, but Christmas is.

[Colin Cowherd]

Our day, and it was a good day for the league. Now, did they shoot too many threes?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Yes.

[Colin Cowherd]

I mean, it's half the shots in the league now. And Adam Silver has, you know, he has addressed that. But the Jimmy Butler stuff is percolating. Stuff gets out because somebody wants it out. So Miami wants it out, Jimmy Butler wants it out. And I think the warriors work. There's a lot of teams in this league. People are talking Dallas. Dallas has their two scores. Luka and Kyrie don't play defense. I think that would drive Jimmy Butler mad. Steph's not a great defender, but he's willing. And Draymond's an excellent defender. It would give them the toughness and the playmaking they would need. So I'd keep your eye on that now and then. Maybe this is just me rooting for it to happen because I love Steph and I love watching the warriors play. But if you give me Steph and Butler and Draymond and Pods and Heald and Jackson, that team can make the finals. This team can't. Couldn't even beat the Lakers. J. Mac, it was a fun day. Greg Cosell is going to be joining us in 45 minutes. If you bet NFL you play fantasy football, you want to get smarter with NFL. Greg Cosell, NFL Films 45 years, absolute Monday. I thought the NBA had a really good day yesterday. Knicks were fun to watch. Wemby going off and the Lakers warriors was excellent.

[J. Mac]

Yeah, that Austin Reeves finish was just incredible. I did not expect him to. Yeah, my guy, Austin Reeves, I know you were like, oh, J. Mac, he nailed that Austin Reeves big time clutch Curry in the shot making. Also, you didn't mention Beyonce's halftime performance. That was pretty spectacular Texans game. That's better than anything the Texans offense did all day.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, that. The Texans now have become sort of an enigma. Like, I thought Bobby Slow was a genius and CJ Stroud was the next superstar. Talk about trending down.

[J. Mac]

Listen, I know we crowned CJ Stroud after one year.

[Colin Cowherd]

I.

[J. Mac]

He does not look like even a top 15 quarterback.

[Colin Cowherd]

So I. I had this conversation yesterday at one of the parties I was at with a bunch of football fans.

[J. Mac]

One of the what?

[Colin Cowherd]

I was at 2.

[J. Mac]

On Christmas.

[Colin Cowherd]

I was at 2. She. I was party hopping. All right, so I said this to both parties, is Bryce Young now look better than C.J. stroud. And the answer over the last five or six weeks is absolutely. Bryce looks like the number one pick. Stroud looks like the number two. So that offense is when you're, when you need a tackle in the end zone to get points on the board.

[J. Mac]

And it can't be because they lost Tank Dell last week. Okay, Tank Dell, by the way, was great against the Chiefs till the injury, but something's wrong.

[Colin Cowherd]

They can't move the football, can't move it. It was unwatchable and they got players. Be sure to catch Live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app. Hey, it's Steve Covino and I'm Rich Davis and together we're Covino and Rich.

[LeVar Arrington]

On Fox Sports Radio.

[Colin Cowherd]

You can catch us weekdays from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific on Fox Sports Radio. And of course, the iHeartRadio app.

[LeVar Arrington]

Why should you listen to Covino and Rich?

[Colin Cowherd]

We talk about everything. Life, sports, relationships, what's going on in the world.

[LeVar Arrington]

We have a lot of fun talking.

[Colin Cowherd]

About the stories behind the stories in.

[LeVar Arrington]

The world of sports and pop culture. Stories that, well, other shows don't seem.

[Colin Cowherd]

To have the time to discuss.

[LeVar Arrington]

And the fact that we've been friends.

[Colin Cowherd]

For the last 20 years and still work together, I mean, that says something, right? So check us out.

[LeVar Arrington]

We like to get you involved too. Take your phone calls, chop it up, as they say.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'd say the most interactive show on Fox Sports Sports Radio, maybe the most interactive show on planet Earth.

[LeVar Arrington]

Be sure to check out Covino and Rich live on Fox Sports radio and the iHeartradio app from 5 to 7pm.

[Colin Cowherd]

Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific. And if you miss any of the live show, just search Covino and Rich wherever you get your podcast. And of course on social media, that's Covino and Rich. If you're looking to set the standard in athletic clothing and activewear apparel for performance, look no further than Vuori. Vuori integrates the best of fitness, the best of surf, sport and art. Two of my personal favorites, the men's core short. It's the most comfortable lined athletic shirt you'll find and the men's Sunday performance jogger. Perfect for lounging or any work activity. Vuori has the women covered as well with their women's performance jogger. It's the softest jogger you'll ever own. Also check out the women's daily legging, featuring a high waist drawstring tie, an upgraded no slip fit. Incredibly versatile. Plenty of new colors just came in, but hurry, get them while you can't. Viori is designed to look great in everyday life outside the gym. It's not a brand, it's a way of life. Viori is an investment in your happiness. For our listeners, they're offering 20% off your first purchase. Get yourself some of the most comfortable and versatile clothing on the [e-mail] Colin that's V U O R I.com Colin not only will you receive 20% off your first purchase, but you're also going to get free shipping on any US orders over 75 bucks and free returns go to Vuori.com column Discover the versatility of Vuori Clothing.

[Unknown Speaker]

V U O R I Congratulations to CBS Sports and Sony Electronics for their first place wins for innovation in industry at this year's unconventional awards by T Mobile for Business. In a collaboration that was clearly built on breaking new ground, CBS and Sony created a first of its kind broadcast for the PGA Championship. Using a custom built T Mobile Private 5G network to power the live production, they deployed a 5G wireless camera system throughout the event. The network speed combined with Sony's innovative ultra low latency video codec allowed for seamless, high quality footage without disruption. With that innovative approach, CBS gave broadcasters the tools they need to do what they do best. Take their coverage to entirely new places. These innovations will shape the way live sports are covered moving forward. And for that, T Mobile congratulates Sony and CBS for their unconventional thinking.

[LeVar Arrington]

Hey, this is Levar Arrington here from up on Game and listen, I want to talk to you about something very serious for a minute, all right? Something personal to me and right now something that should be personal to you as well. In our country, the hate is at an all time high and it's like we're going backward. The hate is winning. We can't allow that, all right? It's out of control. So many different people, so many different groups are facing too much hate and it's enough. It's time for it to stop. We need to stop, regroup, change the momentum as a team because that's what we are. Everyone in this country is on the same team. So let's act like it. And when a team can't get it together, what do you do? You call a timeout. And that's what we need to do. Call a timeout against hate. Let's think about what we say and do. And when we see hate, when we see someone doing or saying those things we know are wrong and hateful, we need to call it out. I'mma call it out. You need to do the same thing. Visit, stand up to all hate.org to help and join me in calling for a timeout against hate by following at what's up with Hate or posting the blue square emoji.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm Colin Coward from The Herd Intuit QuickBooks wants you to achieve your dreams of starting your own business and working for yourself. And if you're a small business owner launching a company, then you'll want to check out Mind the Business small business Success stories from iHeart's Ruby Studio and Inuit QuickBooks Season 1 and 2 are out now and Season 3 is launching Thursday, January 9, with new episodes coming out every other Thursday after that. So make sure you catch up and listen as hosts Austin Henkwitz and Jenice Torres talk to small business owners about how they've grown and maintained their businesses and tackled the hurdles and challenges that come with being your own boss. From tracking money in and out to cutting through day to day management with an all encompassing platform like Intuit QuickBooks, you don't want to miss these inspiring stories of small business journeys. Listen to Mind the Business small business success Stories on the iHeart app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Dr. Josie]

Hey guys, it's Dr. Josie from in the vet's office. Loving a pet often means wondering if you're providing the care they need. Is there a health issue lurking around the corner? Does the pet need something or feel something but can't say it? Pettivity health kits and smart products use data and best in class technology to learn your pet's behaviors and alert you to key changes that you can act on. Petivity is reimagining pet care with a family of products designed to help give your a voice and empower you to provide the best care possible. Visit P e t I V-I-T-Y.com to learn more.

[Colin Cowherd]

So the Ravens crushed the Houston Texans 31. 2 and no NFL team over the last couple of years more routinely and consistently humiliates other teams in the regular season like the Ravens. Last Couple of years 15 double digit wins, last 11 days 3 wins all by 17 plus points. But this has been a great movie with a sour ending for six years in a row. I would love to see Lamar Jackson get to a Super Bowl. I think he's exhilarating. I think he's a great kid. I think he's passionate. It's a really, really good organization. You know what? I'm hoping the Ravens do and I think it's happening in front of our eyes. I want you to think about this. What what NBA team dominated the regular season and left us wondering if their star player was as Good as everybody claimed he was. The Celtics like the Celtics, the Ravens, the talents there. It's a well run organization, but you were always a little, little disappointed that the number one wasn't quite up to it. And they were too. Jayson Tatum reliant. So suddenly their number two, Jaylen Brown last year sometimes was there one. And that's what's slowly happening to the Ravens. LaMar only completed 10 passes yesterday, yet Derrick Henry had 27 carries. LaMar's going to win the trophies in the MVP. He's more exhilarating, it's more dynamic. But quietly, Lamar Jackson is only 15th in the league in passing attempts and probably ends up lower than that. It's not that Baltimore doesn't love Lamar, but after something doesn't work like last year, six run attempts in the playoffs, Lamar got tight. So was the play calling. So that Celtics team like Baltimore, well run Smart had a very good number one. Not as good as J. Mack kept imploring on this show, but I kept saying I like Jayson Tatum and I like Lamar Jackson. But when the team stopped trying to funnel everything through Jason Tatum and said, let's bring in a Porzingis, let's get Jaylen Brown more touches, let's move Marcus Smart who takes too many shots late and upgrade with Drew Holiday. Tatum was still great, but they weren't Jason Tatum Reliant. They were just a great team. This is what the Ravens are doing. Oh, they had Mark Andrews and Lamar Jackson, but last year they get him Zay Flowers. Now they get him Derrick Henry. Now they bring in a passing game coordinator that's a little more friendly perhaps to the past than the run. But it feels like to me that's what Boston did. It's not that they didn't like Tatum, but they kept losing when they became Tatum Reliant in big spots and he would lose to, you know, a Steph in the finals in a big game three at home. And so this team, Derrick Henry now 27, carries Lamar Jackson 10 of 15. Exhilarating nonetheless. And Lamar was happy after the W.

[Doug Gottlieb]

I believe how season has gone regular season.

[Colin Cowherd]

It just explains how the NFL is.

[Doug Gottlieb]

You know, it really, really don't matter.

[LeVar Arrington]

How you start off. It's about how you finish. And I believe you're finishing pretty well right now.

[Colin Cowherd]

It's not easy.

[LeVar Arrington]

NFL is not easy. I don't care what nobody say NFL look easy.

[Colin Cowherd]

But yes, this is what Baltimore does. This is what the Celtics did. They dominate the regular season. And we're all absolutely sure this team, this is the year and they end up against the warriors and the old veterans who know how to turn it on at the right time win and I and I once they moved off the Tatum and became less obsessed with getting him all the late game touches and just let him play and I think Yesterday I'm watching Lamar 10 of 15 just letting him play. It ran through Derrick Henry. It's A better Ravens team 312 Christmas on the road Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific. If you're looking to set the standard in athletic clothing and active wear apparel for performance, look no further than Vuori. Vuori integrates the best of fitness, the best of surf, sport and art. Two of my personal favorites. The Men's Core Short, it's the most comfortable, lined athletic short you'll find. And the Men's Sunday Performance Jogger, perfect for lounging or any work activity. Vuori has the women covered as well with their women's Performance jogger. It's the softest jogger you'll ever own. Also check out the Women's Daily Legging featuring a high waist drawstring tie, an upgraded no slip fit. Incredibly versatile. Plenty of new colors just came in, but hurry, get them while you can. Viori is designed to look great in everyday life outside the gym. It's not a brand, it's a way of life. Viori is an investment in your happiness for our listeners. They're offering 20% off your first purchase. Get yourself some of the most comfortable and versatile clothing on the [e-mail] column. That's v u o r I.com column. Not only will you receive 20% off your first purchase, but you're also going to get free shipping on any US orders. Over 75 bucks and free returns go to viori.com Colin Discover the versatility of VUORICLOTHING V U O R I Congratulations.

[Unknown Speaker]

To CBS Sports and Sony Electronics for their first place wins for innovation in industry at this year's unconventional Awards by T Mobile for Business. In a collaboration that was clearly built on breaking new ground, CBS and Sony created a first of its kind broadcast for the PGA Championship using a custom built T Mobile Private 5G network to power the live production, they deployed a 5G wireless camera system throughout the event. The network's speed combined with Sony's innovative ultra low latency video codec allowed for seamless, high quality footage without disruption. With that innovative approach, CBS gave broadcasters the tools they need to do what they do. Take their coverage to entirely new places These innovations will shape the way live sports are covered moving forward. And for that, T Mobile congratulates Sony and CBS for their unconventional thinking.

[LeVar Arrington]

Hey, this is levar Arrington here from up on Game. And listen, I want to talk to you about something very serious for a minute, all right? Something personal to me and right now something that should be personal to you as well. In our country, the hate is at an all time high and it's like we're going backward. The hate is winning. We can't allow that, all right? It's out of control. So many different people, so many different groups are facing too much hate and it's enough. It's time for it to stop. We need to stop, regroup, change the momentum as a team, because that's what we are. Everyone in this country is on the same team, so let's act like it. And when a team can't get it together, what do you do? You call a timeout. And that's what we need to do. Call a timeout against hate. Let's think about what we say and do. And when we see hate, when we see someone doing or saying those things we know are wrong and hateful, we need to call it out. Imma call it out. You need to do the same thing. Visit Stand up to all hate.org to help and join me and calling for a timeout against hate by following at what's up with Hate? Or posting the blue square emoji.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm Colin Coward from The Herd Intuit QuickBooks wants you to achieve your dreams of starting your own business and working for yourself. And if you're a small business owner launching a company, then you'll want to check out Mind the Business Small Business Success stories from iHeart's Ruby Studio and Inuit QuickBooks Season 1 and 2 are out now and Season 3 is launching Thursday, January 9th with new episodes coming out every other Thursday after that. So make sure you catch up and listen as hosts Austin Henkwitz and Jenice Torres talk to small business owners about how they've grown and maintained their businesses and tackled the hurdles and challenges that come with being your own boss. From tracking money in and out to cutting through day to day management with an all encompassing platform like Intuit QuickBooks, you don't want to miss these inspiring stories of small business journeys. Listen to Mind the Business Small Business Success stories on the Iheart app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Dr. Josie]

Hey guys, it's Dr. Josie from in the Vet's Office. Loving a pet often means wondering if you're providing the care they need, is there a health issue lurking around the corner? Does a pet need something or feel something but can't say it? Pettivity Health kits and smart products use data and best in class technology to learn your pet's behaviors and alert you to key changes you can act on. Petivity is reimagining pet care with a family of products designed to help give your pet a voice and empower you to provide the best care possible. Visit P E T I v I t y.com to learn more.

[J. Mac]

Sure you play this week's Fox Super 6. Sponsored by DraftKings. Go to the Fox Sports app and enter for a free chance to win cash prizes.

[Colin Cowherd]

I think it's a pretty good week of lines. I think we saw something yesterday in the NFL where the good teams are separating. Now, I like the Rams as a favorite. I like the Bills as a favorite this weekend. Those favorites look like they kind of separate and getting things right.

[J. Mac]

It's a weird year in the NFL. I was talking with somebody smart yesterday and it feels like maybe the kickoffs change things more, possibly because you're getting better. Starting field position. The offenses are. The good teams are moving the football with ease and they're taking the field goals. They're scoring. And it just feels like the bad teams just. If you can't move the football this.

[Colin Cowherd]

Year, well, think about this. We have 10 teams now. Last year it was only five. We have 10 teams with five wins or less. That's, that's the NBA. That's a massive bottom of the league. That's not, that's not formidable. Yeah.

[J. Mac]

What do you do with the Steelers, by the way? They crush everybody and then they play three good teams in the last like four weeks and they get smashed and they get destroyed.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, they're, they're, they're right in the middle. So they're not going to get a great draft pick.

[J. Mac]

Are you paying Russell Wilson?

[Colin Cowherd]

Are you sure?

[J. Mac]

I know, I know. He talked about a good season. Colin, he's plac.

[Colin Cowherd]

Faced a few good teams. That's why I'll, I'll just say this before we go into my next topic. Let me just say this. You guys, and I've been critical of Aaron Rodgers. You guys, Aaron's last eight games. Russell Wilson's last eight games. Kurt Cousins last eight games. It's not close. Who's the best quarterback? It's Aaron Rodgers by a mile.

[J. Mac]

Give you that.

[Colin Cowherd]

By a mile. And Aaron, if you look at Aaron's success, it is directly Connected to Devonte Adams. I have a four part plan for the jets next season. And by the way, I didn't like Zach Wilson. I love Darnold. I like Sal. I told you Fire and solid was a disaster. I've been right a lot with the Jets. This team, there's four moves to make and they're all there. They're right in front of you. They're easy ones to make.

[J. Mac]

Just wet my beak. Are we moving off of Garrett Wilson? Because there's a lot of Garrett Wilson wants out stuff.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm just. You're going to love the top of this next.

[J. Mac]

Well, he sees what you're seeing. That Devonte Adams is Aaron's guy and Devonte's numbers are up and Wilson's numbers are way down.

[Colin Cowherd]

By the way. Can we stop with this? Garrett Wilson isn't getting looks. Look at his target. He has more targets this year than Justin Jefferson. Can you give me a break on that?

[J. Mac]

Well, half the season he didn't have Adams. Well, not half, but a little, you.

[Colin Cowherd]

Know, like if you have more targets than Justin Jefferson, zip it. And I don't want to hear about you not getting looks.

[Doug Gottlieb]

Okay?

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay. Give me a break. So I have a four. This may be, I mean, the city of New York. Tell your friends, top of the hour. I'm bringing the heat and I've been Mr. Negative Jet Guy, but I've been right. Negative Jet Guy. There's a four way plan to do it and all of them are right in front of you and doable in three weeks. Okay, so this is an interesting one as I've aged gracefully, I might add. Maybe I'm just defending more mature men. But let me. As this story came out about Pete Carroll to the Bears and Everybody's like, he's 73. Trump 78 is going to be our president. Bob Iger runs Disney at 73. Sharp as attack. Martin Scorsese's 82, sharp as attack. Spielberg 78. Warren Buffett's 94. One of America's great financial gurus, LeBron last night getting double teamed on the last possession. He's going to be 40 Monday. If you can play at 40, you can coach at 73. Nick Saban was coaching to the end, in his 70s and was fantastic. Pete Carroll is not a bad choice. Is he the best choice? He's up there.

[Doug Gottlieb]

Okay.

[Colin Cowherd]

This is not an easy job. There's a lot of bureaucracy with the Bears. He is highly organized. I know that from players who have played with him and coaches that have coached with him. He is an elite, organized coach. He can build a culture. We've seen that at usc. We have seen that with the Seahawks. And with the Seahawks, he took a young quarterback like a Caleb Williams named Russell Wilson, and he built a run game and a defense around him. So they weren't completely reliant on Russ. In fact, when Russ wanted to cook is when it went sideways. My concern with Pete is not age. It really isn't. I think he has tremendous energy. He can be, in my opinion, too loyal to mediocre coordinators and assistant coaches. He was way too loyal to Ken Norton for years. And the Seahawks O lines the last three years in Seattle stunk. 25th, 27th, 28th, and he stayed with the offensive coordinator, Shane Waldron. So Pete also, he likes a little say in personnel, but so does Mike Vrabel, my first choice. A lot of these coaches, they want to say in personnel, like Jim Harbaugh. Right now, he wants to say in personnel. McVay in Los Angeles with the Rams. Sean likes the sand personnel. So I'm not going to immediately consider it a negative. Some of these guys, guys, younger guys like McVeigh or guys that have coached college and done recruiting, like Pete, Carolyn Harbaugh, and by the way, Vrabel, Ohio State, like these guys know personnel and they want to stay with GMs. So. But the idea that Pete's too old. No, he's not. I'm going to tell you something. This job is not for some whiz kid. And I'll give you an example. A year ago today, you were all telling me, Bobby Slowik in Houston, he's like Zuckerberg with a, with a play sheet. They can't score points. Can't score. Cliff Kingsbury, love him. Didn't work as a head coach. You guys are all Mike McDaniel. Oh, boy. The media love Mike McDaniel because he, you know, he's kind of nerdy. Like sports riders. They all loved him. I'm watching Miami, not a lot of there, there a lot of motion and I can't beat good teams. I like him. Media loved him. I mean, honestly, media loved him. I mean, I was just told this guy was, it was, I mean, it was a combination of Einstein and Kyle Shanahan. It was like, oh my God, he's gonna equals MC squared on two. It was, oh my God, this guy. Miami's just a team that has too much motion. So, you know, I, I, and I'm not anti defensive coach. I'm not, I think a defensive coach if, if he's not rigid. I mean, Pete would like to win the old fashioned way. Run game and defense. You can win a lot of games this way. But the idea that, oh, he's 73. Watch Pete Carroll on the sidelines. He is wearing out that spearmint gum. He is wearing that thing out. He's going 100 miles an hour. And I got movie directors and presidents and NBA players and Brady was playing to 45. You can coach at 73. Now, this all may be because as my hair's turned gray, maybe I'm supporting the more mature wisdom. Approved. Sat J. Max rolling his eyes at my suggestion. But this is not this idea that, hey, this guy over here is a whiz kid. Never forget Silicon Valley. You guys all think it's all these 20 year olds. No, it's not. Go see the age of Larry Ellison at Oracle and Zuckerberg and the Google Guys. It's 40s, 50s. So we think of tech as youngsters and hipsters. No, it's not. Not the ones that are crushing. No, it's not. So I'll just say this. Spielberg comes out with a movie, I'm in. Scorsese comes out with a movie I'm in. Old J. Mac over here wants the hipster doing something on Tick Tock, not Uncle Colin give me a little gray hair with my coaching hire.

[J. Mac]

So first of all, do I know you are close to the USC program? You think Pete Carroll would jump at the Bears this year or he would wait to see what happens with Lincoln Riley.

[Colin Cowherd]

Lincoln Riley has nine years and 90 million next year. They're not buying Lincoln out.

[J. Mac]

Not even if he flops next year.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, the schedule is almost unflappable. They don't play Ohio State again at the schedule. I mean, I'll say this for usc. They got the easiest Big Ten schedule known to man. If I, if I gave you a Big Ten schedule, Ohio State. No, don't play them. Okay. That's a workable schedule. So they get, they get the tough games at home next year. I. I don't know. They don't know. Lsu, they play a bunch of directional schools. So there's no LSU to start. It's three layup out of conference games.

[Doug Gottlieb]

So.

[J. Mac]

So you're buying this Pete Carroll thing. So there was a s. Trouble between reporters in the NFL on this yesterday, I'm sure. Well, Schefter versus Florio.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. I don't know.

[J. Mac]

They were going at it over this. And you like to bring up division like Tom Brady went to the Bucs because that's an easy division to win. So 70 something year old Pete Carroll is going to coach against LaFleur and O'Connell, two of the sharpest young minds in this game.

[Colin Cowherd]

What if he has the most talented quarterback and this is not a bad roster. Hold on.

[J. Mac]

Caleb Williams or Jordan Love?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Who's.

[Colin Cowherd]

I think Caleb has more natural talent. I think Jordan loves much better. But I think Caleb is a. Is what. What's happened with Caleb and this happens a little bit to Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen is, hey, this guy is Superman. Every play. It's Kansas City that has been able to create a team around Mahomes where they're not reliant on Mahomes except for big spots in the fourth quarter. They got spags, they got the defense. I mean basically their defense is young, hungry, athletic, fast and healthy. So I think Caleb Williams throwing 24 a game is the answer. That's what Pete did with Russ. I'm not saying he's the guy I'd hide, but I'm telling you I would sit him down. I want to see his vision, I want to see his plan. I want to hear him. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app. Let's bring in Greg Koso. NFL Films, 45 years old, was on Thursday. So you know, you watch Kansas City and this is what they do. They end up in January, December and January. They solve an offensive line issue. Now they've got Xavier Worthy and here's Hollywood Brown. They do a very good job. What's important to me in the media is big stories. What's important to them are the details and solving little riddles throughout the course of the season. And let's talk about Mahomes and his efficiency over the last couple of months. What's the film say?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Yeah, and I think Colin, quite frankly, there's been a little misconception about the Chiefs. This is a Mahomes driven offense. He has the most drop backs of any quarterback in the NFL going back nine weeks. But in his last six games he has not thrown an interception. And again, most drop backs in the league. So it's a pass first offense. There was a lot of talk early in the season about the running game that's kind of disappeared. It's all driven by Mahomes. They lead the NFL in third down conversions. He's phenomenal on third down. They control the ball. They're second in time of possession and that becomes really important, because when you control the pace and tempo of the game, your defense plays fewer snaps. And that is absolutely critical. I remember a coach telling me years ago that in an ideal world, you don't want your defense playing any more than 60 to 64 snaps a game. And we know how good Steve Spagnolo is anyway, so now you have a complete team. But make no mistake, this is driven by Patrick Mahomes. He's playing really well. What we're not seeing, and I think where people think, oh, Mahomes isn't what he used to be, is we just don't see a lot of 60 yard touchdown passes, but he's controlling the game with incredible efficiency.

[Colin Cowherd]

So you and I both like Sam Darnold. Rough start. We always saw the playmaking, we always saw the playmaking, we always saw the big arm. But he could be reckless. Is there something the film says, though, and this is why I love bringing you on, is there something the film says about Darnold that he doesn't necessarily get a ton of credit for?

[Doug Gottlieb]

I think there's two things. And you know, Colin, because I send you my, my evaluations of college quarterbacks, you know, I'm a traits guy.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yes.

[Doug Gottlieb]

So there's two traits that I think have really stood out with Darnold that we didn't see much of early in his career. It might be his natural development, it might be the coaching. We don't know that. But there's two traits. One is pocket movement. He's much more efficient and much more effective when he moves within the pocket. I'm not talking about running out of the pocket. I'm talking about moving within the pocket, as we see on this touchdown last week that won the game to Jefferson. The other thing is sort of a corollary point to that. That's his ability to stay in the pocket and make late in the down throws when the pocket is squeezed and there's bodies around him. That was something he did not do well early in his career. He made a lot of bad reads and bad throws. When he tried to do that, he's gotten so much better at that. So there are two areas of pocket play that are absolutely critical to being a higher level pocket quarterback that he's improved significantly at.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, he's willing to take a hit, play a little linebacker in high school. He's a tough kid, and he'll sit in there to the very end and get smoked. And I think you nailed it. So I think what's fascinating with Philadelphia, everybody acknowledges it's A Barkley offense and Jalen throws less. But if you look at Green Bay, I'm actually seeing the same thing where it's a Josh Jacobs, LaFleur offense and Jordan Love who they like, who has excellent weapons, is throwing less. And I find it fascinating because when LaFleur was in Tennessee, he had Derrick Henry and his reputation. I remember, I remember making calls. People said, I don't know about creating a culture, but he likes to pound the ball. And it feels like we're finally seeing his offense.

[Doug Gottlieb]

Well, it's the year of the running back. We're going to have probably five or six backs with over 300 carries. We, we had none last year. And Josh Jacobs will be one of those backs barring an injury. And they start with the run game. And they're very multiple with their run game. That's the thing. You're seeing a lot more multiplicity with teams that run the ball. And the packers are a great example. All the use of different backfield actions. They play with two running backs, what we call the pony package. A lot of teams are doing this. The packers are one of the teams doing it quite a bit. And they're so multiple with their run game concepts. The way they use Jaden Reed in the backfield with different motions. So it all starts with the run game. But it's not old school run game, Colin, where you just line up and give it to the back and say, let's bang it up in there. They're very, very multiple. A lot of different formation looks, a lot of different personnel, lot of different motions.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, it's funny about Derrick Henry. First couple years wasn't a superstar in the league, then he develops into one and then he goes to Baltimore and it's easy to say, well, you know, it's the Ravens, of course he can run it, but they replaced three starters on the O line. It seems to me that it's. It's not just that Derrick Henry's talented. It seems to me that the way they use him, it's. He's getting yards before contact a lot this year. That's what it looks like to me. He's always been good plus post contact. But what are they doing specifically to Derrick Henry who's given. It's given him kind of a rebirth in the league?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Well, there's no question that the Lamar factor plays into that because you have to account for Lamar in the run game. So there's no question that the way defenses have to align has to have an accounting for Lamar Jackson and that Impacts run support. So it's not just as he was in Tennessee, where they would just line up and give him the ball. But I think Henry as a whole. You know, it's funny, I remember talking to a coach who was at Alabama at the time and he's now in the NFL. And I wasn't sure after two years if this was if Derrick Henry could be what he's become.

[Colin Cowherd]

Same.

[Doug Gottlieb]

And I'll be the first to admit I was wrong because obviously Derrick Henry's on his way to being a Hall of Fame back. But the thing about Henry, because in a sense he's not a power runner in that he runs over people. Colin. But he's a power runner in this sense. When it's blocked for three, you look up and he just got seven and you go, how do you get seven? It didn't look like he got seven, but he just got seven. And then you add that to the fact that he can take it to the house for his size on any given play. And that combination is really hard to beat. But there's no question that the Lamar Jackson factor figures into how defenses have to align and therefore that really dictates run support issues for defenses.

[Colin Cowherd]

So I want to talk about a kid because I picked Atlanta to win their division and they've beaten the Bucs twice and you know, we were going back and forth on this show. Why won't they play him as Kirk Cousins was regressing and my take was they wrote a big check to Kirk Cousins and Arthur Blank. Probably wanted to get every start out of Kirk Cousins before they sent him to the bench because once you played Pennocks, you're not going to go back to Cousins. What did the debut, the debut, what about it did you like?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Well, you've always talked about this with quarterbacks, Colin, about coaching and I thought this was a great example. The kid's making his first start. You and I both love his talent. We know we can throw the ball. We know he can sit on his back foot and drive it with velocity. We know what his traits are. But what they did exceptionally well, you're almost seeing it on this play right here that we're looking at is they're an outside zone foundation run team with Bijon Robinson, another back, by the way, who might get 300 carries. So what they did is they countered off that beautifully with the play action and the play action boot pass game. So they used their outside zone run foundation to really help Penniks get comfortable in the game and define the reads and the throws and the thing that he does really well and there's not a lot of quarterbacks who do this, he throws outside the numbers really well and there's a lot of juice on those throws and obviously he can throw between the numbers. I mean, those are easier throws, relatively speaking. But to drive the ball outside the numbers, he can do that and he can just sit on his back foot and do that. He does not necessarily need to stride into those throws.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, no, he's got an arm. So this past week, on Monday, Matt Hasselbeck said something interesting. He said, you know, Caleb's not an anticipatory thrower. And he goes, I think you have to be in this league and some guys can develop into it. But you have been higher on Caleb even during his losing streak. There's a lot to like. Let's address that anticipatory thing because I thought Hasselbeck was willing to say it and I think it's true. I now watch him when he plays and some guys you gotta be open or I won't let it rip. What do you make of that criticism?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Right. I think it's fair. And don't forget he's got a big arm. He throws a really tight spiral. The ball comes out. So at times he can compensate for that. But what the film shows is when he sees it and the primary is clean. Man, does he look good. He made two throws at the end of the first half last week. A dig ball to Moore for about 25 yards and then he threw the touchdown to Keenan Allen. And those throws were defined, they were clean, they were the primary reads on those throws. When he sees it that way, he looks really good. But I think one reason he doesn't throw a lot of interceptions, Colin hasn't thrown one in a long time, is if he doesn't see it, he's not going to throw it because he just doesn't feel it that way. Now, I don't know how Matt Hasselbeck feels. I think that coaches would say you can improve that to some degree, but you're not going to take a guy who's not an innate anticipation thrower and make him Joe Burrow. That's not going to happen. So, you know, you sort of have to work around that. But he's got really high level throwing traits and obviously we know he's got some movement ability. The other thing he needs to work on is he needs to work on moving within the pocket. And that's a totally different trait than running out of the pocket, which he can Be pretty good at. He's got a feel when he moves out of the pocket. Pretty good spatial awareness because the sacks have to come down. There's too many sacks.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay. A team that's getting red hot is the Rams. It's interesting. Stafford's older and they have struggled in the first half. And I've said, you know, I was telling a friend a couple nights ago, I'm like, is it a Stafford's not warmed up thing? Does he need to get to the fifth inning? But they usually. He's not getting sacked. They're not turning it over. Finally now, with Tyler Higby back, everybody's ready to go on offense. But yet it's the defense with a lot of first, second and third round draft picks that have all hit. All hit. So to talk about, because I don't know if this defense, it's really, really young, but when I watch it, I mean, this week they play Arizona and both Arizona's offensive tackles are out. So it could be a feast. What do you make of the Rams defense?

[Doug Gottlieb]

I really like what they've done. They've won eight of their last 10. Okay. In those last 10 games, no team in the NFL has played more with six defensive backs, what we call dime, than the Rams. That has really been their foundation. They play a ton at a dime. They play with Jalen McCullough, who's a rookie safety. They play with Kitchens, the rookie from the University of Miami. They even play what we call big nickel with three safeties a lot. I mean, this is a safety driven defense with a front four that's young and improving. And I have to tell you, when you watch Jared Verse play, and we're seeing him here, his speed to power for a young player may be as good as any in the league. So this is a continually evolving defense that plays a ton of dime. That's sort of their foundation. They're getting better and better, and offensively, they're really another team that's really built on the run. You and I both love Staffords, but Kyron Williams, another back with over 300 carries, that's where they start their offense, with the zone run game.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, it's funny, we always think these McVeigh, LaFleur Shanahan guys, offensive wizards or pass guys, they all love to run. The truth is, all of them, I mean, Kyron Williams, a small guy, is carrying it 24 times a game.

[Doug Gottlieb]

Yeah. And you know what? Motion is so critical. We think of motion. In the past game, you know, you were talking about the past game. And you're right, we think of motion being a big deal in the. In the pass game. It's really a bigger deal in the run game. You can almost go back to Joe Gibbs with the Washington Redskins and the use of motion to really mess up teams, run support problems and how they handle the run. So it's. Motion is a critical factor in the run game.

[Colin Cowherd]

So, Greg, I don't know if I've ever told you this before. I have something, I have a belief in quarterbacks is I'll pay a quarterback 50 large if he's not an if guy. But if Brock Purdy's your classic if guy, if the weather's good, it's not raining, if he gets protection, if he has an above average O line, if he has an offensive Coach, if Christian McCaffrey is healthy, it's very much a qualifying scenario if he gets that. And to me, I'm not paying guys 40, 50 million if. If they're the if quarterback. I like Purdy, but when I watch the Niners, I see offensive line issues and then I see a very average player. What does the film say on Purdy?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Well, I guess I'd almost ask you a question. How many quarterbacks are not IF guys? How many quarterbacks can be really great and carry a team without a lot of things working for them? There's probably very few, Colin. True, if you really think about it. So 90% of the quarterbacks in the league would be IF guys, based on your definition. So you have to separate the money. You have to separate the money from the conversation because, look, everybody knows what Brock Purdy is. Brock Purdy is not a big guy. He doesn't have a great arm. So what has to happen for Brock Purdy to be a really good player? He has to have a good O line, which, by the way, has not been good this year. No, the depth of the pocket, which is controlled by the interior of the O line, has not been very good. So he's been squeezed a lot. And because he doesn't have a big arm, he needs space to throw the ball. They've almost had no run game this year. Maybe early in the year they did when Mason was pretty good early, but they've almost had no run game and they've got no speed right now at receiver. I think Piersol is going to be a good player, but he's a rookie who basically had no practice because of the unfortunate tragic situation. So really, this is an offense that's lacking in so many areas. But you could say that About a lot of quarterbacks. I mean, we can talk about the Mahomes, the Allens, the Burrows, the Jacksons. Maybe there's one or two more I'm missing. But most, almost all quarterbacks in the league are if quarterbacks. It depends what they have around them. And right now Purdy does not have much around him. So his game is going to look like it lacks consistency at times on a week to week basis.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, interesting. The Cowboys, obviously Dak Prescott's the starter, but we, we brought stats out last week with Cooper Rush and if you, if it was a blind test, it's the same guy. Is there anything, I mean, where is Cooper Rush? Clearly not Dak. And where is he very similar to Dak?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Well, I think their coaching staff's doing a great job because what you see a lot with them is you see a ton of different personnel packages, a ton of different formation looks, a lot of shifts in motions. They're giving a defense a lot to have to deal with. That was really evident in the game against Tampa on Sunday night last week where you just saw that Tampa, they really struggled a bit to figure all this out. And therefore he was phenomenal against their blitz because Todd Bowles will blitz. Rush was phenomenal on third down. He was phenomenal against their pressures and the Bucs pressured a lot. Now he's a guy that you need to get pressure on and the pressure must be effective, which it was not by the Bucs because he tends to fall away from throws. But one thing about him, he's been very decisive the more he plays and I'm sure that's being drilled into him that, hey, just get rid of the football. Do not hold it. They're not going to tell him this, but the bottom line is he's not good enough to sit in the pocket and drive the football. So the ball needs to come out. And he's been doing well. And prior to last week where they didn't run well, but in the previous four weeks prior to the Bucs game, Dowdle was the second leading rusher in the league behind Saquon Barkley.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, interesting. All right, we're going to, we're going to end it here over the next two minutes on Jaden Daniels. I thought it was impressive that he struggled early, was trying to give that puppy away, and then in the end he was great in the fourth quarter and I like his ability. Andrew Luck had this an ability, a short memory. It's about the win. Don't get caught up into your emotions. You're going to make mistakes. It's the NFL guys can sometimes make great plays. I love it's an Andrew Luck quality. Herbert's got this too as well. Just it just get the ball that drives done move to the next drive. Have you noticed that?

[Doug Gottlieb]

Yeah. And I like Daniels. I liked him coming out a lot because I thought he was far better in the pocket than a lot of people gave him credit for. And he's made some outstanding pocket throws this year. I mean he made one against the Eagles, a touchdown in McLaurin for 32 yards where he had a free hitter right in his face and he threw the ball to the pylon. It was a spot throw. He threw the ball to the pylon at the edge of the end zone and McLaurin was 20 at the 25 yard line. It was an unbelievable throw. But you know, obviously he led the game winning drive. And I love the final touchdown drive to Crowder, which is our play of the week, Colin, so we can take a look at it because this is an example of great execution but also great coaching because they knew exactly what they were going to get from the Eagles on this red zone play. It was a. And teams tend to know that in the red zone. So you're going to see that there's an empty set here. Daniels is in an empty set. There's nobody on either side of him. So that's an empty set. Now what he's looking at, and this is what they anticipated, he's looking at a two shell coverage structure. There's two safeties. But the other really important player here is going to be Zach Born, the linebacker. Because very often when teams play this two shell in the red zone, they have the linebacker who kind of works the middle of the field as a middle hole player. Now these are the three receivers here because don't forget it's empty that are key to this whole play. Okay, so what they want to do, we're going to see the route concept which is all designed to high low Zach Bond. That's the whole premise of this route concept. So you're going to have Crowder who runs a route behind him and Ertz in front of him. And then you have Robinson. This is critical. You must control the backside safety. That's absolutely essential on this play. So Robinson the back. Of course, it's an empty set. He's going to do that with his route. So now what you're going to get as we see this go in motion is Crowder. He's going to run the Bender as we saw, he's going to bend inside away from the play side safety and the play side safety can't chase him because at this point he doesn't know what Ertz is going to do. But Ertz is going to run the bender inside. And as I said, Bond is the player here that they're really high lowing and you're going to see and Daniel sees this because he knows what the concept is. You're going to see Bond's body position. Quarterbacks are taught this look at body position right now Bond cannot flip his hips to be in position to react to the bender by Crowder. So this is a spot throw. Daniels is going to throw this to a spot now basically the N in commanders and he's going to hit him right there. And this was just beautifully designed, beautifully executed. They knew exactly what they were going to get in the red zone. This. Hey Colin, this is the stuff I love. You know that this is football. This is X's and O's and it's execution about as beautifully as you can do it.

[Colin Cowherd]

Greg Cosells, merry Christmas to you the staff 45 years NFL Films. It's always a pleasure to have you. We get smarter every time and thank you Greg.

[Doug Gottlieb]

Thanks Colin. Great holiday and I'll see you next week.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yep, absolutely. I always love that segment. Just feel like I just get just it's the meat in the sandwich on this show on Thursday you just three really good Saturday games tonight. Seahawks and Bears. Gotta be honest, I'm on a two game DraftKings streak. I like Seattle tonight in that game. I think Seattle's the side. J Mac largely agree.

[J. Mac]

I saw there's some Bears injuries. Looks like their left tackles done.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yep.

[J. Mac]

Seattle still technically alive. Absolutely.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. No so. And by the way with the NFC north gonna get three playoff teams here, it's not a lot of. Not a lot of wild card positions available.

[J. Mac]

I just you watch the Bears the last few weeks since they can Deborah flu and they keep falling into big holes early in games like this. This guy who took over for him as a head coach with Brown is it?

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. But he didn't even start the year as a coordinator. Yeah. So it's not fair.

[J. Mac]

Out of his depth here and they seem ill prepared for some of these games.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yep.

[Unknown Speaker]

This is Malcolm Gladwell from revisionist history. Picture this, you're halfway through a DIY car fix, tools scattered everywhere and boom. You realize you're missing a part. It's okay because you know whatever it is, it's on eBay they've got everything. Brakes, headlights, cold air intakes. Whatever you need. And it's guaranteed to fit. Which means no more crossing your fingers and hoping you ordered the right thing. All the parts you need at prices you'll love. Guaranteed to fit every time. Ebay Things people love when you're with.

[Colin Cowherd]

Amex Business Platinum, you get five times.

[LeVar Arrington]

Membership rewards points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com so going the.

[Colin Cowherd]

Extra mile for your business is even more rewarding. That's the powerful backing of American Express. Terms apply. Learn more at American Express American Express.com.

[LeVar Arrington]

AmExBusiness Hate has been winning for too long. It's at an all time high and too many people are facing too much hate all over this country.

[Colin Cowherd]

To turn the tide, we have to.

[LeVar Arrington]

Stand together as a united team. We can change the momentum. It's time to take a timeout Against Hate. Visit standuptoallhate.org to help. Join us in calling for a hashtag timeout against hate by following OTs upwithhate.

[Colin Cowherd]

Or posting the blue square emoji.

[Dr. Josie]

Hey guys, it's Dr. Josie from inthevets office. Loving a pet often means wondering if you're providing the care they need. Is there a health issue lurking around the corner? Does the pet need something or feel something but can't say it? Petivity Health kits and smart products use data and best in class technology to learn your pet's behaviors and alert you to key changes that you can act on. Petivity is reimagining pet care with a family of products designed to help give your pet a voice and empower you to provide the best care possible. Visit P-E-T-I-V-I-T-Y.com to learn more.

[Colin Cowherd]

Whether you're ordering wings for the game, whipping up a seven layer dip, or.

[Doug Gottlieb]

Ordering pizza, there's something about football that.

[Colin Cowherd]

Makes you want to eat. And this football season, Uber Eats has.

[Doug Gottlieb]

The best deals on game day food no matter what you're craving, from two.

[LeVar Arrington]

For one Pizza to buy one get one Wings.

[Colin Cowherd]

Uber Eats will be dropping new deals.

[Doug Gottlieb]

Each week all season long.

[Colin Cowherd]

UberEats official on demand delivery partner of the NFL.

[LeVar Arrington]

Order now.

[Colin Cowherd]

Terms and conditions apply. See app for details.