Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Best of The Herd Release Date: January 21, 2025

Introduction

In the "Best of The Herd" episode, Colin Cowherd, alongside guest Joel Klatt, delves deep into the latest and most pressing topics in the world of sports. From college football dynamics to NFL team rankings and emerging talents, this episode offers a comprehensive overview for both avid followers and casual listeners.

1. Chicago Bears Coaching Search (02:11 - 05:15)

Colin kicks off the discussion by addressing the Chicago Bears' ongoing search for a new head coach. The Bears have conducted extensive interviews, including unique candidates like baristas and local chefs, ultimately considering Ben Johnson as a potential fit.

• Colin Cowherd (02:11): "We got a new national champion in college football. It's more than just Ohio State, it's the Big Ten. We'll get to that in about five minutes."

• Joel Klatt (04:30): "There are two coaches I thought needed to be considered in Chicago: Mike McCarthy, who's had no owner and a meddling owner, and Ben Johnson."

Key Points:

• Ben Johnson is viewed as a smart, risk-taking coach with offensive expertise.
• The Bears face challenges navigating Chicago's competitive and politically charged environment.
• Comparison with other coaches like Sean McVay and Matt LaFleur highlights the complexity of the hiring decision.

2. Big Ten's Ascendancy in College Football (05:15 - 13:27)

The conversation shifts to the dominance of the Big Ten conference in college football, emphasizing Ohio State's recent championship and the conference's overall strength.

• Colin Cowherd (08:45): "College football has never looked and felt more like the NFL. And we know what the NFL is about. Billionaires and the money."

• Joel Klatt (12:00): "The Big Ten officially is the big dog in college football. Hey, the SEC, it was a nice run. I mean, you still go beat up on the mountain west of the Big 12."

Key Points:

• The Big Ten's financial prowess and substantial alumni base contribute to its supremacy.
• Ohio State is expected to maintain its dominance with returning star players like Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs.
• The shift towards NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and revenue-sharing agreements is leveling the playing field across conferences.

3. NFL Teams’ Rankings and Performance (13:03 - 25:18)

Colin and Joel analyze the top NFL teams, assessing their strengths, weaknesses, and playoff performances.

• Colin Cowherd (14:45): "The Ravens are the Bills two, three years ago. They'll outgain you out."

• Joel Klatt (22:48): "Jalen Hurts has the best roster in the NFL. It's the Chiefs without the trophies, front office ownership, quarterback."

Key Points:

• The Houston Texans are ranked eighth due to their young roster and potential for growth.
• The Los Angeles Rams and Detroit Lions show promise but face challenges in consistency.
• The Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs are highlighted for their strategic excellence and potential to dominate the upcoming season.
• Emphasis on team efficiency, defense, and offensive line strength as critical factors for success.

4. Ohio State's Potential Players and Future (25:18 - 34:30)

A deep dive into Ohio State's roster, focusing on emerging talents and the team's prospects for the next season.

• Joel Klatt (29:38): "Both backs back, Love and Price. So they're going to be able to run the football."

• Colin Cowherd (32:17): "Ohio State's number one next year, Texas two, Penn State three."

Key Points:

• Introduction of standout players like Jeremiah Smith, deemed "the most NFL capable NFL-ready freshman" (41:56).
• Discussion on the importance of a strong offensive line and the impact of returning starters after overcoming injuries.
• Predictions for Ohio State to secure the top spot in college football rankings, bolstered by their robust recruiting and player development.

5. Notre Dame's Performance and Coaching Transition (27:19 - 34:30)

The duo examines Notre Dame's recent games, the impact of coach Marcus Freeman, and the program's future trajectory.

• Colin Cowherd (29:32): "You watch their second, you watch their speed. Yes, they are elite speed now."

• Joel Klatt (30:32): "Marcus Freeman has risen the level of Notre Dame from a very good program to an elite level program."

Key Points:

• Notre Dame's resilience in close games and the enhancement of their offensive line.
• The transition from Brian Kelly to Marcus Freeman has elevated the team's performance to an elite status.
• Expectations for Marcus Freeman to potentially secure a national championship if he continues his current trajectory.

6. Notable Players: Jeremiah Smith and Adrian Peterson (39:25 - 47:48)

A spirited debate on emerging talents, particularly focusing on Jeremiah Smith and the legendary Adrian Peterson.

• Colin Cowherd (41:56): "Jeremiah Smith is the most NFL capable NFL-ready freshman I've ever seen."

• Joel Klatt (46:06): "Smith could be an all-time great, a 10-time All-Pro."

Key Points:

• Jeremiah Smith is lauded for his exceptional skills, blending size, speed, and route-running prowess.
• Anecdotes comparing Smith to Adrian Peterson during his freshman year highlight Smith's potential to dominate the NFL.
• The conversation underscores the rarity of such talent in true freshmen, positioning Smith as a top draft prospect.

7. Deion Sanders & Cowboys Coaching Position (39:24 - 42:04)

Discussions around Deion Sanders' potential moves and the implications for the Cowboys.

• Colin Cowherd (39:24): "Deion Sanders, Cowboys coach, that thing disappeared. Did Colorado step up and pay him more?"

• Joel Klatt (40:05): "He’s a great fit at Colorado because Colorado has given him the keys to the castle."

Key Points:

• Speculation on whether Deion Sanders will stay with the Colorado Buffaloes or move to the Dallas Cowboys.
• Emphasis on Sanders' fit within Colorado's program structure, allowing him autonomy and fostering growth.
• Analysis of the negotiation dynamics between Sanders, Colorado, and potential NFL opportunities.

8. Conclusion and Final Remarks (48:39 - End)

Wrapping up the episode, Colin reiterates the respect for Notre Dame's perseverance and summarizes key insights from the discussion.

• Colin Cowherd (50:08): "It's great to see you as well."

• Joel Klatt (49:44): "Healthcare better and less expensive."

Key Points:

• Affirmation of the strengths and future prospects of top college and NFL teams.
• Final thoughts on the evolving landscape of college football, emphasizing increased parity and the impact of financial strategies like NIL.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd (02:11): "We got a new national champion in college football. It's more than just Ohio State, it's the Big Ten."

• Joel Klatt (04:30): "There are two coaches I thought needed to be considered in Chicago: Mike McCarthy and Ben Johnson."

• Colin Cowherd (08:45): "College football has never looked and felt more like the NFL."

• Joel Klatt (12:00): "The Big Ten officially is the big dog in college football."

• Colin Cowherd (14:45): "The Ravens are the Bills two, three years ago. They'll outgain you out."

• Joel Klatt (29:38): "Both backs back, Love and Price. So they're going to be able to run the football."

• Colin Cowherd (41:56): "Jeremiah Smith is the most NFL capable NFL-ready freshman I've ever seen."

• Joel Klatt (40:05): "He’s a great fit at Colorado because Colorado has given him the keys to the castle."

Conclusion

This episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" provides an in-depth analysis of current sports narratives, highlighting the strategic movements within football teams, the rise of the Big Ten, and the emergence of exceptional talent poised to impact the NFL. Colin and Joel's insightful commentary offers listeners a nuanced understanding of the intricate dynamics shaping the sports landscape in 2025.