Podcast Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: Best of The Herd
Release Date: July 25, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd (iHeartPodcasts and The Volume)
Description: A thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven journey through the top sports stories of the day.
Introduction to Key Topics
The episode dives deep into the current state of NFL quarterbacks, focusing on Caleb Williams' recent performance challenges during training camp. Hosts J. Mac and Colin Cowherd, along with guest Dave Wanstadt, dissect the implications of Caleb's struggles and what it means for his future with the team.
Caleb Williams' Struggles in Training Camp
Timestamp: [03:04] – [07:13]
J. Mac opens the discussion by highlighting Caleb Williams' inconsistent performance over three consecutive days in training camp. Williams has shown issues with deep balls, red zone attempts, and overall game management.
J. Mac: "Three days in a row, it's gotten a little bumpy for Caleb Williams."
Dave Wanstadt weighs in, drawing parallels to other quarterbacks like Drew Brees and Bo Nix, emphasizing that while early struggles don't always predict future success, they are concerning for a quarterback with generational expectations.
Notable Quote:
Dave Wanstadt: "Disastrous first dates rarely become great."
Comparing Modern Quarterbacks to Streaming Shows
Timestamp: [07:13] – [14:38]
J. Mac presents an analogy comparing current quarterbacks to streaming shows, stressing the limited time franchises have to evaluate talent. Unlike the past, where quarterbacks like Eli Manning were given multiple seasons to develop, today's teams demand rapid improvement.
Notable Quote:
J. Mac: "If you're not getting me by the second episode early, I'm out."
Ben Johnson’s Coaching Challenges
Timestamp: [14:38] – [21:27]
The conversation shifts to Ben Johnson, the new head coach, questioning his ability to transition from an offensive coordinator to a head coach amidst Caleb Williams' struggles. They discuss Johnson's reputation and whether his innovative offensive strategies might be too unconventional for the current team dynamics.
Notable Quote:
J. Mac: "Ben Johnson is not getting plays in the footwork... he's throwing from a different spot."
LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan: A Legacy Comparison
Timestamp: [04:28] – [18:44]
In an extended segment, Colin Cowherd and J. Mac delve into the contrasting legacies of LeBron James and Michael Jordan. They argue that while Jordan's journey was filled with struggles and triumphs that endeared him to fans, LeBron's transactional approach to team changes makes it harder for fans to connect with him on the same emotional level.
Notable Quotes:
Colin Cowherd: "LeBron has been transactional. That's the downside to being the best basketball opportunist ever."
J. Mac: "We fell in love with Michael as part of our sports love story. LeBron has simply been transactional."
Andrew Barry’s Stance on Quarterback Accountability
Timestamp: [23:05] – [39:23]
Andrew Barry, the sharp general manager of the Cleveland Browns, is commended for holding quarterbacks to higher standards. When addressing Chadoua Sanders’ speeding tickets, Barry emphasized the importance of personal responsibility, especially for a quarterback who represents the team.
Notable Quote:
Andrew Barry: "Quarterbacks are supposed to put out fires, not start them."
J. Mac and Colin express appreciation for Barry's no-nonsense approach, contrasting it with media tendencies to pander rather than call out issues directly.
Joe Burrow’s Future with the Bengals
Timestamp: [40:37] – [43:53]
The hosts discuss Joe Burrow's potential trajectory, drawing comparisons to Matt Stafford. Concerns are raised about the Bengals' ability to support Burrow with adequate defense and strategic planning, fearing that distractions like player holdouts could derail his career, despite his talent.
Notable Quote:
Colin Cowherd: "It's a distraction. The football team is distracted."
Nick Saban and Bill Belichick: Coaching Longevity
Timestamp: [43:53] – [48:46]
The episode touches on legendary coaches like Nick Saban and Bill Belichick, discussing their potential retirement plans and adaptability. Colin speculates that Saban is unlikely to return to college coaching, given the financial and logistical challenges, while Belichick continues to thrive by embracing new experiences outside of coaching.
Notable Quote:
Colin Cowherd: "I don't see Nick getting back into it."
Closing Remarks
As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the nuanced discussions about leadership, accountability, and the evolving landscape of professional sports. They emphasize the importance of strong ownership and strategic decision-making in shaping the future of teams and their star players.
Notable Quotes Summary
- Dave Wanstadt: "Disastrous first dates rarely become great." ([04:28])
- J. Mac: "If you're not getting me by the second episode early, I'm out." ([07:13])
- Andrew Barry: "Quarterbacks are supposed to put out fires, not start them." ([23:25])
- Colin Cowherd: "LeBron has been transactional. That's the downside to being the best basketball opportunist ever." ([04:28])
Conclusion
The "Best of The Herd" episode offers a comprehensive analysis of current challenges in the NFL, highlighting quarterback performance, coaching dynamics, and the intricacies of team management. Through insightful discussions and expert opinions, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing today's top sports stories.