Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Best of The Herd
Release Date: December 31, 2024
Host: Colin Cowherd
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. Introduction and Season Wrap-Up
Timestamp: [00:00 - 03:56]

In the season finale of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Colin begins with a heartfelt message addressing the increasing hate in the country, urging listeners to unite against it. He emphasizes the importance of taking a collective stand:

"We're all on the same team in this country. So let's take a break from our hate so our team can regroup." ([00:00])

After the initial announcement segments, Colin transitions into discussing the NFL landscape head-on, setting the stage for deeper analyses in the episode.

2. Quarterback Contracts and Performance Analysis
Timestamp: [03:56 - 09:20]

Colin delves into the contentious topic of quarterback contracts, particularly focusing on Brock Purdy of the Detroit Lions. He critiques the notion of overpaying Purdy prematurely, comparing his performance unfavorably to established quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Josh Allen. Colin highlights Purdy's struggles in the second half of games:

"Brock Purdy has eight touchdowns and 10 picks and 12 total giveaways. He's bad and trailing in the second half." ([09:20])

Jason McIntyre supports Colin's skepticism, pointing out Purdy's injury concerns and questioning his long-term viability as a franchise quarterback without a substantial contract.

3. The Impact of Overpaying Quarterbacks on Team Rosters
Timestamp: [13:56 - 21:27]

The discussion shifts to the broader implications of offering lucrative contracts to quarterbacks. Colin categorizes quarterbacks into tiers based on their market value and performance:

1. Top Tier: Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, etc.
2. Negotiable Tier: Jalen Hurts, Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield.
3. Bottom Tier: Purdy and similar quarterbacks.

Colin argues that overpaying quarterbacks in the second tier can cripple a team's financial flexibility, limiting their ability to build a competitive roster around the star QB. Jason concurs, emphasizing the potential pitfalls of long-term commitments to underperforming quarterbacks.

"The only thing that guarantees you can't win Super Bowls. Only one thing paying a B quarterback A plus money." ([21:27])

4. Detroit Lions' Season Performance and Coaching Decisions
Timestamp: [21:27 - 34:16]

Colin scrutinizes the Detroit Lions' season, particularly focusing on defensive shortcomings and coaching decisions by Dan Campbell. He criticizes Campbell for opting to play injured key players during high-stakes games, which Colin and Jason believe jeopardizes the team's playoff aspirations.

Jason adds that despite the Lions' strong offensive performance, the deteriorating defense due to injuries makes their playoff journey bleak.

"Dan playing the players last night was a big mistake." ([30:09])

5. Team Rankings and Predictions
Timestamp: [34:16 - 43:19]

Colin presents his "Herd Hierarchy" ranking the top NFL teams heading into the playoffs. The rankings consider recent performances, quarterback efficacy, and defensive strengths. Highlights include:

• Number 1: Kansas City Chiefs – Maintains the top spot due to consistent performance.
• Number 2: Buffalo Bills – Praised for their low turnover rate and strong roster.
• Number 3: Philadelphia Eagles – Recognized for their defensive prowess and balanced offense.

Nick Wright joins the conversation, agreeing with many of Colin's assessments but also adding his perspectives, particularly on the potential early exit of the Lions from the playoffs.

"Detroit's had an awesome season that unfortunately is going to end quickly because of all the defensive injuries." ([28:15])

6. College Football Insights
Timestamp: [43:19 - 62:49]

Transitioning to college football, Colin and Nick analyze key matchups and team performances. They discuss Ohio State's offensive line issues, Oregon's defensive vulnerabilities, and Penn State's resurgence under Coach James Franklin.

Key Points:

• Ohio State vs. Oregon: Concerns about Ohio State's offensive line against Oregon's speedy receivers.
• Penn State's Development: Recognition of Penn State's strong program and potential impact in the playoffs.
• Sam Darnold's MVP Candidacy: Jason suggests that Darnold's performance merits consideration for MVP, challenging the early dismissal of his accolades.

"Sam Darnold should be league MVP if you consider his numbers and impact." ([39:46])

7. The Future of College Football Governance
Timestamp: [62:49 - 77:20]

The conversation shifts to the structure and governance of college football. Colin proposes the idea of appointing a strong commissioner, such as Nick Saban or Bill Belichick, to unify the fragmented college football landscape. Nick Wright counters, expressing skepticism about the feasibility of such a role due to entrenched power dynamics among major conferences.

"Any type of equilibrium in a commissioner role is not going to happen, Colin." ([71:21])

8. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts
Timestamp: [77:20 - End]

As the episode concludes, Colin reflects on the importance of strong leadership and the challenges teams face in maintaining competitive rosters. He also touches upon the evolving nature of recruiting and player management in college football.

"You have to have closers and O lines. You can't win when you're trailing and leaders can't close the door." ([56:05])

Colin emphasizes the need for strategic planning and adaptability both in the NFL and college football to navigate the complexities of player performance and team dynamics.

Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd:

  "We're all on the same team in this country. So let's take a break from our hate so our team can regroup." ([00:00])

• Jason McIntyre:

  "Detroit's had an awesome season that unfortunately is going to end quickly because of all the defensive injuries." ([28:15])

• Nick Wright:

  "Sam Darnold should be league MVP if you consider his numbers and impact." ([39:46])

Conclusion

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, listeners are treated to an in-depth analysis of both professional and college football landscapes. Colin, alongside co-hosts Jason McIntyre and Nick Wright, offers critical insights into quarterback valuations, team strategies, and the structural challenges facing college football governance. The episode underscores the delicate balance teams must maintain between star performances and overall roster competence, all while navigating the ever-evolving dynamics of the sport.