Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd - Best of The Herd (April 18, 2025)

The "Best of The Herd" episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," produced by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, delivers an engaging and in-depth exploration of the top sports stories of the day. Hosted by Colin Cowherd alongside guest analysts Greg Cosell and Dan Morgan, the episode delves into critical NFL and NBA topics, offering expert opinions, insightful discussions, and bold predictions.

1. NFL Analysis: The Decline of the New York Jets

Overview: Greg Cosell kicks off the episode with a critical examination of the New York Jets, focusing on their management practices and the fallout with star quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Key Points:

• Jets as a Second-Class Operation:

  • "You can't treat employees that way. That's not how you treat people." (07:45)
  • Cosell highlights the Jets' poor treatment of Aaron Rodgers, who allegedly spent significant personal funds on travel while receiving minimal attention from the organization.

• Player Dissatisfaction:

  • "Jets ranked 29th owner got an F by the Jets players. An F." (07:20)
  • Referencing NFLPA player polls, it's evident that player morale is low, further indicating organizational issues.

• Organizational Instability:

  • Frequent firings within the Jets' management, including Joe Douglas and Robert Sala, signal a lack of consistent leadership.
  • "When Woody Johnson fired Robert Sala, he said this is one of the most talented teams... Six weeks later, he fired the GM." (07:50)

• Aaron Rodgers’ Indifference:

  • Rodgers expresses a focus on personal life over football, raising concerns about his commitment to the team.
  • "I got a lot of things that are taking my attention away from football." (08:00)

Conclusion: Cosell asserts that the Jets' mismanagement and poor treatment of key players like Rodgers have led to organizational dysfunction, positioning the team as one of the worst-run franchises in the NFL.

2. NBA Playoffs Predictions and Player Evaluations

Overview: The discussion transitions to the NBA playoffs, with Cosell providing predictions and analyzing the top players who could impact the series outcomes.

Key Points:

• Warriors vs. Rockets Series:

  • "I think Houston's gonna upset Golden State. Golden State's got a Jonathan Kuminga issue." (42:29)
  • Cosell predicts the Rockets will overcome the Warriors, citing Golden State's internal struggles.

• Top 10 Playoff Players:

  1. Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets):

     • "Nikola Jokic... he's just after Kareem. He's the best center I've ever seen." (48:09)
     • Jokic's exceptional performance metrics make him the top playoff player.

  2. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks):

     • "Giannis is two SGA, number three, very good defender with an insane wingspan..." (48:30)
     • Recognized for his defensive prowess and scoring ability.

  3. Luka Doncic (Dallas Mavericks):

     • "He can just take over games and there will be stretches in this playoff where he looks like the best player in the world." (48:40)
     • Praised for his ability to dominate games offensively.

  4. Steph Curry (Golden State Warriors):

     • "Best player in the game without the ball. Great free throw shooter, great three-point shooter..." (48:15)
     • Highlighted for his shooting accuracy and playmaking skills.

  5. Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics):

     • "Jayson Tatum... leads the Celtics and the stuff that matters, points, rebounds, assists." (48:30)
     • Valued for his all-around performance.

  6. Kawhi Leonard (Los Angeles Clippers):

     • "Kawhi Leonard... playing great late in the season." (49:00)
     • Noted for his defensive capabilities and clutch performances.

  7. Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers):

     • "Donovan Mitchell, former Utah Jazz... very efficient." (50:10)
     • Commended for his offensive efficiency and leadership.
  • "Number nine, Kawhi Leonard again... he's playing great late in the season." (49:00)

Conclusion: Cosell outlines his top ten playoff players, emphasizing their individual skills and potential to influence series outcomes. He particularly highlights the Houston Rockets' ability to challenge established teams like the Warriors.

3. NFL Draft Prospects: Quarterbacks and Offensive Tackles

Overview: The conversation shifts to evaluating potential NFL draft prospects, focusing on quarterbacks and offensive tackles, with insights from both Cosell and Morgan.

Key Points:

• Quarterback Evaluations:

  • Shador Sanders vs. Jackson Dart:

    • "Shador Sanders... he was kind of uniquely accurate." (19:26)
    • "Jackson Dart... got a lot of pushback, but I'm not certain about what he is in the league." (21:27)
    • Debate over accuracy, decision-making, and composure under pressure.

  • Cam Ward:

    • "I saw Ward as a true legit high-end prospect who's worthy of a top pick in a draft." (18:00)
    • Praised for his physical attributes and mentality.

  • Jalen Milroe:

    • "I just don't see that guy doing that." (35:26)
    • Concerns about his performance in high-pressure situations.

• Offensive Tackle Assessment:

  • Importance of pass protection skills, especially in third-down situations.
    • "The litmus test for offensive tackles in the NFL is can they pass protect one on one on third down?" (34:46)

Conclusion: The analysis provides a nuanced perspective on emerging quarterback talents, highlighting strengths and areas of concern, while emphasizing the critical role of offensive tackles in NFL success.

4. Additional Sports Discussions

Travis Hunter's Versatility:

• Evaluated as a dual-position athlete with concerns about endurance and preparation for multifaceted roles.
  • "I'm not sure you can be a part-time outside corner in the NFL and start." (27:50)

Running Backs Analysis:

• Ashton Ginty:
  • "The contact balance, the ability to absorb hits, continue to move without losing any momentum or speed." (25:53)
  • Highlighted for his resilience and unique playing style despite not being a traditional power runner.

Quotes:

• "All in or all out. It's like being a surgeon at a hospital." (08:15)
• "Shador Sanders is more accurate, but Jackson Dart's decision-making worries me." (21:30)

5. Final Thoughts and Predictions

Cosell's Bold Predictions:

• Emphasizes the Rockets' potential to challenge the Warriors due to Golden State's internal issues.
  • "I think Houston's gonna upset Golden State." (42:29)

Player Performance Metrics:

• "Nikola Jokic was plus 594 when he was on the floor this year and minus 275 when he wasn't." (48:10)
• Highlights the significant impact of star players on their teams' performances.

Conclusion

The "Best of The Herd" episode offers a thorough and engaging analysis of current sports narratives, blending expert opinions with detailed evaluations. From the turmoil within the New York Jets to the playoff aspirations of NBA star players, Greg Cosell and Dan Morgan provide listeners with valuable insights and compelling predictions. Notable quotes and timestamped discussions enhance the depth of the conversation, making the episode a must-listen for sports enthusiasts seeking comprehensive coverage of the latest developments.

Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the sports world, this episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities and dynamics shaping today's top sports stories.