Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd - Best of The Herd Release Date: May 26, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. Memorial Day Acknowledgment

[02:46] Colin Cowherd
Colin Cowherd opens the episode by honoring military families on Memorial Day, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices that ensure the freedoms enjoyed by many.

2. NBA Playoffs: Knicks vs. Pacers Series Breakdown

[02:36] Colin Cowherd & J. Mac

Key Points:

• Game Dynamics: Colin discusses the pivotal moments in the Knicks-Pacers series, highlighting the Knicks' comeback from a 20-point deficit in Game 2.
• Player Performances:
  • Karl-Anthony Towns: Described as a game-changer who "averages 23 a game" and consistently performs in crucial quarters.
  • Jalen Brunson: His absence in key moments impacted the Pacers' offensive rhythm.
• Strategic Insights:
  • The Pacers struggled offensively when Halliburton was benched, leading to a drop from a 15-point lead to a 4-point deficit.
  • The Knicks effectively controlled the game's tempo, utilizing free throws and defensive rotations to secure their position.

Notable Quote:

Colin Cowherd [03:40]: "When Halliburton sits, they lose their rhythm, he comes back in, tries to kick start it, and he never could."

Conclusion:
Colin predicts a series in favor of the Pacers due to their consistent offensive opportunities and better team dynamics when key players are active.

3. NFL Insights: Aaron Rodgers' Possible Move and Steelers' Quarterback Dilemma

[07:24] Colin Cowherd & Matt Hasselbeck

Key Points:

• Aaron Rodgers' Future:
  • Reports suggest Rodgers may be considering Minnesota Vikings over the Pittsburgh Steelers due to better offensive culture and team fit.
  • Colin emphasizes Rodgers' intelligence and desire to join a franchise where he can control outcomes, contrasting the Steelers' offensive struggles.
• Steelers' Challenges:
  • The Steelers have a history of offensive inefficiencies, ranking in the bottom for total offense over the past six years.
  • Potential quarterback options like Kirk Cousins are scrutinized for their fit in Pittsburgh's defensive-centric system.
• Matt Hasselbeck's Perspective:
  • Hasselbeck challenges Colin's prediction, asserting Rodgers will remain with the Steelers and questioning the feasibility of a move to Minnesota.

Notable Quotes:

Colin Cowherd [11:50]: "Aaron loves to make people think he's a mystery and the media can't figure him out."

Matt Hasselbeck [49:54]: "I really think that Pete Carroll, Chip Kelly, you know, this weird Tom Brady involvement, I think that's probably the top edition for me."

Conclusion:
While Colin leans towards Rodgers favoring the Vikings, Matt offers a counterargument, believing Rodgers will stay with the Steelers despite their offensive issues. The discussion underscores the complexities of quarterback movements in the NFL.

4. WNBA Spotlight: Caitlin Clark's Transformational Impact

[18:58] Colin Cowherd

Key Points:

• Economic Influence:
  • Caitlin Clark has significantly boosted the WNBA's economic landscape, contributing "26.5% of the economic activity in the league."
  • The Fever's valuation skyrocketed from $90 million to $340 million after Clark's arrival.
• Popularity and Marketability:
  • Merchandise sales surged by 500%, with Clark generating half of the league's merchandise.
  • Her presence is expected to elevate ticket prices by 140% and enhance the league's visibility and attendance.
• Comparative Analysis:
  • Colin compares Clark's impact to that of Steph Curry in the NBA, emphasizing her unique role in transforming the WNBA's financial and cultural status.

Notable Quote:

Colin Cowherd [18:58]: "She is transformational to the league. Hollywood has always understood this."

Conclusion:
Caitlin Clark is portrayed as a game-changer for the WNBA, driving unprecedented economic growth and elevating the league's prominence through her exceptional performance and marketability.

5. MLB Update: Shohei Ohtani's Return from Surgery

[23:03] J. Mac & Colin Cowherd

Key Points:

• Ohtani's Recovery:
  • Shohei Ohtani made his first pitching appearance post-left shoulder surgery, throwing 22 pitches during a live batting practice.
  • Expressed excitement about feeling like a pitcher again despite limited action.
• Dodgers' Strategy:
  • The Dodgers are keen on integrating Ohtani back into their pitching rotation to bolster their staff, especially with ongoing pitching injuries across the league.
  • Colin notes Ohtani's potential to be the ace of the Dodgers' pitching lineup upon his full return.

Notable Quote:

Colin Cowherd [24:32]: "If you add Ohtani, he would arguably be the ace of the staff."

Conclusion:
Ohtani's gradual return is a positive sign for the Dodgers, who aim to strengthen their pitching depth amidst a season plagued by injuries. His presence is anticipated to significantly enhance their postseason prospects.

6. NBA Western Finals: Timberwolves vs. Thunder Analysis

[23:09] J. Mac & Colin Cowherd

Key Points:

• Series Overview:
  • The Timberwolves dominated the Thunder with a 143-101 victory, though Colin expresses skepticism about the Thunder's young team's consistency.
• Player Performances:
  • Anthony Edwards: Highlighted as the series' standout player, taking on a leadership role and delivering crucial points.
  • Ja Morant: His injury in Game 3 previously allowed the Thunder to mount a comeback.
• Team Dynamics:
  • Colin discusses the Thunder's dependency on young players and their rotational depth, suggesting that their performance may vary significantly between home and away games.
  • Predicts a close battle in the upcoming game, emphasizing the importance of the fourth quarter.

Notable Quote:

J. Mac [26:57]: "Anthony Edwards put the team on his back. He outscored OKC in the first quarter in game three and that was kind of like a lights out moment."

Conclusion:
The Timberwolves' overwhelming performance showcases their dominance, but the Thunder's youthful energy and potential for growth make the series unpredictable. Anthony Edwards' emergence as a key player adds an exciting dimension to the playoff narrative.

7. Final Thoughts: Player Evaluations and Future Predictions

[31:10] Colin Cowherd

Key Points:

• Player Assessments:
  • Zach Eady: Recognized for his consistent performance, making the All-Rookie team.
  • Kirk Cousins: Potential target for the Steelers, though concerns remain about his fit in outdoor, cold-weather games.
  • Caleb Williams: Discussed in the context of his development and the Chicago Bears' system, with Matt Hasselbeck advocating for patience in his growth.
• Coaching and Team Strategy:
  • Emphasis on the importance of coaching in quarterback development and team success.
  • Colin underscores the necessity for the Steelers to focus on building around young talent rather than seeking quick fixes with veteran quarterbacks.

Notable Quotes:

Colin Cowherd [46:53]: "Where Colin was right, the Lakers need to deal Austin Reeves."

Matt Hasselbeck [55:50]: "Ben Johnson's coming in to see if he can turn Caleb to realize that potential."

Conclusion:
The episode concludes with thoughtful evaluations of emerging players and strategic insights into team-building within the NFL. The discussions highlight the balance between nurturing young talent and making strategic acquisitions to shape future success.

8. Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd [03:40]: "When Halliburton sits, they lose their rhythm, he comes back in, tries to kick start it, and he never could."

• Matt Hasselbeck [07:24]: "Who would not like. Everyone would. Great, great play caller, great head coach, great skill around you."

• Colin Cowherd [18:58]: "She is transformational to the league. Hollywood has always understood this."

• Colin Cowherd [24:32]: "If you add Ohtani, he would arguably be the ace of the staff."

• J. Mac [26:57]: "Anthony Edwards put the team on his back. He outscored OKC in the first quarter in game three and that was kind of like a lights out moment."

Conclusion

In this "Best of The Herd" episode, Colin Cowherd provides in-depth analyses across multiple sports disciplines, offering strategic insights and predictions. From the NBA playoffs and NFL quarterback dynamics to the transformative impact of standout WNBA players, the episode encapsulates the multifaceted nature of sports storytelling. Guest contributors like J. Mac and Matt Hasselbeck add valuable perspectives, enriching the discussion with their expertise.

Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of current sports landscapes, player performances, and the intricate interplay between team strategies and individual excellence. The episode serves as both an informative and engaging recap for fans seeking to stay updated on the latest sports narratives.