Best of The Herd

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "Best of The Herd" Release Date: December 18, 2024

The Herd with Colin Cowherd, produced by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the most pressing sports stories of the day. In the episode titled "Best of The Herd," Colin Cowherd delves into a variety of topics ranging from the NBA Cup’s evolving dynamics to the Chicago Bears' coaching search and the complexities of college football coaching. Below is a detailed summary capturing the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

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1. NBA Cup Analysis

Overview: Colin Cowherd initiates the episode with an in-depth analysis of the recent NBA Cup, highlighting concerns over the league's direction and gameplay consistency.

Key Points:

• Television Ratings vs. Social Media Popularity: Cowherd discusses NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's acknowledgment of declining TV ratings despite a surge in social media engagement.

  “[...] Adam Silver was talking to the media. He acknowledged that television ratings have fallen on a cliff. But one of his lines was, listen to this. Well, we're at the point where our social media audience is at the highest of any league.” ([02:00])

• Repetitive Gameplay Due to Three-Point Emphasis: The host criticizes the NBA's heavy reliance on three-point shots, arguing that it makes the game predictable and less entertaining.

  “The three-point shot is boring and repetitive. Every team plays the exact same way.” ([06:45])

• Comparative Analysis with the Michael Jordan Era: Cowherd contrasts the current three-point-heavy gameplay with the more athletic and dynamic style of the Michael Jordan-era Bulls, which garnered higher ratings.

  “The most entertaining team in league history that had the highest ratings, The Michael Jordan Bulls. Do you know what they shot? Because they were athletic and high flying. Five threes a game.” ([07:00])

Conclusion: Cowherd advocates for a restructuring of the three-point rules to enhance game diversity and competitiveness, suggesting modifications like moving the three-point arc closer to the basket or eliminating certain types of shots to invigorate the sport.

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2. Chicago Bears Coaching Search

Overview: The discussion shifts to the Chicago Bears' ongoing search for a new head coach, with Colin Cowherd expressing skepticism over suggested candidates like Joe Brady.

Key Points:

• Critique of Joe Brady's Qualifications: Cowherd argues that Joe Brady lacks the necessary experience to lead a team as complex as the Bears, likening the role to assembling the Golden Gate Bridge without an architect.

  “You can't hire a guy who's good with asphalt to build the Golden Gate Bridge. This is a grown-up job.” ([08:00])

• Comparison with Mike Vrabel: He suggests that Mike Vrabel, with his experience from the Tennessee Titans and under the coaching mentorship of Bill Belichick, is a more suitable candidate.

  “But Mike Vrabel can do it. Mike Vrabel was coached hard in the ecosystem of Belichick.” ([08:45])

• Analogy of Bridge Construction: Cowherd emphasizes the magnitude of the Bears' coaching position by comparing it to a major construction project, underscoring the need for a seasoned leader.

  “The Chicago Bears are a bridge project, but not just a bridge project. They're the Golden Gate Bridge.” ([08:30])

Conclusion: Cowherd concludes that the Bears require a head coach with extensive leadership experience and the ability to manage high-pressure situations, rather than someone with a purely coordinator background like Joe Brady.

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3. Insights from Brian Baldinger

Overview: Brian Baldinger, a former NFL offensive lineman and analyst, contributes to the discussion by offering his perspective on quarterback evaluations and team strategies.

Key Points:

• Quarterback Selection – Sam Darnold vs. Brock Purdy: Baldinger analyzes the potential trade between the two quarterbacks, ultimately favoring Sam Darnold for his athleticism and experience.

  “I don’t get the upside physically arm mobility that I get with Sam Darnold.” ([23:50])

• Evaluating First-Round Quarterbacks: He underscores the value of first-round quarterbacks in the NFL, asserting that most playoff-contending teams have first-round QBs who have demonstrated significant talent and potential.

  “All of the first-round quarterbacks in the NFL. You know, it's all the good ones.” ([25:10])

• Critique of Brock Purdy’s Story: While acknowledging Purdy's underdog narrative, Baldinger points out that storytelling should not overshadow actual performance and potential in team-building.

  “People have always confused the story with the truth.” ([25:30])

Conclusion: Baldinger emphasizes the importance of selecting quarterbacks based on measurable talent and potential to elevate team performance, rather than sentimental narratives or draft position alone.

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4. College Football Coaching – Ohio State vs. Tennessee

Overview: The episode transitions to a discussion on college football, focusing on the upcoming Ohio State vs. Tennessee game and the broader implications of coaching strategies within college programs.

Key Points:

• Impact of Coaching Changes: Cowherd and guest analyst Urban Meyer discuss the challenges faced by college football coaches transitioning from the NFL, highlighting the unique demands of college programs.

  “It's simply how much is it? I'm recruiting Colin Coward. I call you up, say, Colin, how much is it going to cost for you to come to North Carolina?” ([31:10])

• Ohio State’s Offensive Line Challenges: Concerns are raised about Ohio State’s offensive line's volatility and its potential to be a liability against strong defensive lines like Tennessee’s.

  “I don't see the same creativity that I usually see from Sark, and I'm wondering if he's just a game manager now.” ([35:00])

• Program Momentum and Recruitment: The conversation touches on the importance of maintaining momentum in college programs and the difficulties coaches face in recruiting top talent amidst high expectations.

  “Once you lose momentum, it's hard to get back.” ([34:30])

Conclusion: The discussion concludes with an agreement that maintaining a strong culture and effective coaching strategies are pivotal for college football programs to succeed, particularly in high-stakes environments like Ohio State.

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5. Final Thoughts and Upcoming Topics

Overview: As the episode nears its end, Cowherd previews upcoming segments and topics, including further analysis of coaching dynamics and potential game outcomes.

Key Points:

• Future Discussions: Cowherd indicates plans to delve deeper into the Bears' coaching search and the Ohio State vs. Tennessee game in subsequent segments.

  “Danny Parkins later this hour on the Bears coaching search. I'll get to that in five minutes.” ([03:00])

• Guest Appearances: Announcements about upcoming guest appearances from sports analysts like Brian Baldinger and Urban Meyer provide listeners with expectations for detailed breakdowns and expert opinions.

  “We bring a guy on this show who I like a lot, Brian Baldinger.” ([09:00])

Conclusion: With a comprehensive overview of the discussed topics, Cowherd ensures listeners are informed and engaged, setting the stage for continued in-depth sports analysis in future episodes.

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Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd on NBA Ratings:

  “We're at the point where our social media audience is at the highest of any league.” ([02:00])

• Colin Cowherd Critiquing Three-Point Shots:

  “The three-point shot is boring and repetitive. Every team plays the exact same way.” ([06:45])

• Cowherd on Joe Brady’s Qualifications:

  “You can't hire a guy who's good with asphalt to build the Golden Gate Bridge.” ([08:30])

• Brian Baldinger on Quarterback Selection:

  “I don’t get the upside physically arm mobility that I get with Sam Darnold.” ([23:50])

• Urban Meyer on Coaching Challenges:

  “It's a much different game that me and you knew, Colin.” ([32:00])

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Insights and Conclusions

Throughout the "Best of The Herd" episode, Colin Cowherd provides a critical lens on current sports trends, emphasizing the need for balance between analytics and entertainment in professional leagues. His analysis suggests that over-reliance on specific strategies, such as the NBA's three-point shooting, can diminish the overall excitement and unpredictability of the game.

In discussing coaching roles, particularly with the Chicago Bears, Cowherd highlights the importance of experience and leadership in high-pressure positions, advocating for leaders who possess both tactical knowledge and the ability to manage complex team dynamics.

The conversation on college football underscores the delicate balance coaches must maintain in recruiting and maintaining program momentum, especially when transitioning from professional leagues to the collegiate environment.

Overall, the episode underscores the intricate interplay between strategy, leadership, and entertainment in sports, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on the evolving landscape of athletic competition.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

Ah.

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[Urban Meyer]

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[Brian Baldinger]

Chase for Business and Iheart bring you a podcast series called the Unshakables. This one of a kind series will shine the spotlight on small business owners like you who faced a do or die moment that ultimately made their business what it is today. Learn [e-mail] business podcast Chase make More of what's Yours Chase Mobile app is available for select mobile devices. Message and data rates may apply JP Morgan Chase Bank NA Member FDIC Copyright 2024 JPMorgan Chase Income this is Doug.

[DJ Wells]

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[Unknown Speaker]

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[Rich Davis]

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[Colin Cowherd]

From big cities to small towns on.

[Rich Davis]

America's largest 5G network. Switch the T Mobile, keep your phone and they'll pay it off up to 800 bucks per line. Via prepaid card. Learn more@t mobile.com Keep and switch up to four lines via virtual prepaid card. Allow 15 days qualifying unlock device credit service port in 90 plus days with device and eligible carrier and timely redemption. Required card has no cash access and.

[Colin Cowherd]

And expires in six months.

[Rich Davis]

Thanks for listening to the Best of the Herd podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox Sports radio and noon.

[Colin Cowherd]

To 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific.

[Rich Davis]

Find your local station for the [e-mail] or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR. This is the Best of the Herd with Colin Cowher on Fox Sports Radio. Here we go. It is a Wednesday. This one is lined up to be a very good show. Live in Los Angeles, it's the Herd. Wherever you may be, however you may be listening, thanks for making us part of your day. I'll say it again, listening on radio. You should turn to FS1R set. If this doesn't give you the holiday feel, nothing will. J. Mac Urban Meyer in one hour from now. Danny Parkins later this hour on the Bears coaching search. I'll get to that in five minutes. But last night, and we both love basketball, was the NBA Cup. I'm not sure if you noticed that they they turned the seats blue last night to hide the fact about half of them were empty. So it's very interesting. We'll start with this. I like the NBA. Congrats to the Milwaukee Bucks. They beat OKC last night. Two very good teams. But Adam Silver was talking to the media. He acknowledged that television ratings have fallen on a cliff. But one of his lines was, listen to this. Well, we're at the point where our social media audience is at the highest of any league. Yeah, congrats for Crushing Twitter and IG and TikTok ain't paying the bills. Bra, Amazon, NBC, ESPN are your partners for the next decade. Twitter TikTok may not even be legal in six weeks. Who gives a rip about social media? You know what else is crushing on social media? Young people taking their clothes off. Congratulations. It's not paying the Bills either. So my takeaway is Oklahoma City. Here's what I saw last night. Shoot 32 threes and make five. The game is repetitive and boring. Roger Goodell and Rob Manfred have taken a lot of heat for cultural changes they've made with the sport. A lot of old timers and purists have pushed back rule changes and they've been right. Rob Manfred Two for two this last year. Goodell. Multiple moves, almost always right. Adam Silver needs to change the game. The three point shot is boring and repetitive. Every team plays the exact same way. I've said before I would move the three point arc into the bench, eliminate the corner, move it back a foot, make it part of the game, not the game. Last night you had 72 threes. That's not good at the YMCA and it's not good in pro basketball. The most entertaining team in league history that had the highest ratings, The Michael Jordan Bulls. Do you know what they shot? Because they were athletic and high flying. Five threes a game. This year's Bulls averaged 44. You might as well turn Michael Jordan's Jumpman logo if he played today, into MJ with a fallaway 27 footer. Boring. It needs to be part of the game, not the game. By the way, Major League Baseball defensive shift. Oh, the analytics proved you could get more guys out that way. You were right. But nobody wants to watch Bryce Harper and you know, Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts lining out to a second baseman playing right field and then heading back to the dugout. You want them on television. And I've said this about tech before. You got to be more than just smart with tech. Google glasses, the meta headsets for dorks. The consumers were like, yeah, it's smart. Who wants to walk around wearing a meta headset and be a huge dork? Packaging matters. Steve Jobs, the greatest mind ever in Silicon Valley, he always understood packaging matters. It can't just be math. If the NFL. If the Philadelphia Eagles could get five yards of tush push, they would never have to do any other play. And the NFL would outlaw it. It's okay that they do it twice a game. If they got to 10 times, the NFL would outlaw and should in packaging matters how a game looks. My entire life I watched the NBA. All of our favorite players have been like, like, like MJ and Kobe and athletic players. There's a reason the dunk contest is usually more fun to watch than the three point shooting contest. The NBA has the world's greatest athletes. And Edwards now shoots ten and a half threes a game. Yuck. I don't mind three. I want to see him drive to the basket. It can't just be about, well, analytics. Math isn't always good for sports. The defensive shift. Yeah, got more people out. I want Mookie Bets and Bryce Harper on base, not in the dugout. The three point shot now. It's just too repetitive.

[Colin Cowherd]

It's boring.

[Rich Davis]

Everybody plays the same. So These are all TV shows. I don't care that you're big on TikTok. Tech can't be just smart and sports can't just be efficient with analytics. It's got to be entertaining. Aunt Edwards. You know, it's funny. I was telling a friend last night, I said this idea that everybody has to shoot analytics, but what if you don't have good three point shooters? That's like saying, you know, all kids have to drink milk. What if you're lactose intolerant? I had a stomach ache for 13 years. I was told I had to drink milk. It's not good for everybody. Three pointers were good for the Warriors. Not bad for Milwaukee. When Chet Holmgren's not playing, OKC shouldn't be shooting them. Everybody chased the warriors for years. One team was winning titles, shooting a bunch of threes. The Warriors. So Adam Silver, do a Rob Manfred, do a Roger Goodell. Nobody cares about Tick Tock. Congrats. Dominating that. You know what the NFL cares about? Fox, Amazon, Netflix, cbs, espn. That's what they care about. Their broadcast partners. Because that's, that's driving the money in the league. Butts in seats and butts on their couch watching on tv. Okay, so here. I saw this story this morning from like a. Something linked to Bleacher Report. Joe Brady is a strong candidate for the Bears job.

[Colin Cowherd]

No, he's not.

[Rich Davis]

We know Joe Brady from two things. Being the offensive coordinator of the Buffalo Bills offense with Josh Allen, not the biggest lift in the world. And also being the passing game coordinator for Joe Burrow at LSU with Justin Jefferson and Jamar Chase. Not exactly big lifts. Ed Orgeron won a Natty with that team. Love Ed, but he won a Natty. Okay, The Chicago Bears can't be your first gig. Can't be. He's never been high school coach. Can't be your first gig. And I'll give you an example. Everybody that works on the construction of a bridge is a great tradesman. Everybody is great at something, but about one or two people can lead the project. They're called architects and engineers. The Chicago Bears are a bridge project, but not just a bridge project. They're the Golden Gate Bridge. They're the biggest bridge project of the decade. They've never had a quarterback throw for 4,000 yards. The packers are up around 5,000 annually. Like, this is the ultimate bridge project. You can't say, hey, this guy over here, Joe Brady, he's great with asphalt. I can find those guys. And they're good tradesmen and they deserve to be paid, but they can't lead the project. You've got oldest owners in the league, a loud and relentless and powerful media, a general manager who had a, he's got a spotty track record. Don't hate him, don't love him, and a president, Kevin Warren, who reportedly is, and I've been told this can be very, very political. This is not a job for a coordinator or a job for somebody that's never even been a high school coach. This, this is, this is the big BRI bridge project. You go and you go and you get the firm. You don't have in the biggest murder case in a law firm have a junior associate on the case. You got some old guy with salt and pepper hair and it's his 47th murder case. This is a big job with a loud media. There's talent on the roster, but there's, there's talent on the jets roster. There are so many obstacles here. And again, I'm not saying Joe Brady can't do it, but Mike Vrabel can do it. Mike Vrabel was coached hard in the ecosystem of Belichick. Mike Vrabel was in Tennessee. And they've had plenty of dysfunction. He had to win a division without a great quarterback or an ascending quarterback. So the idea, I keep seeing all these coordinators for this job. You can't hire a guy who's good with asphalt to build the Golden Gate Bridge. This is a grown up job. You need the top lawyer to handle this case. You need somebody that's been to a conference championship that can deal with dysfunction, that can blow stuff up, start over and build a culture. That's what Harbaugh was, that's what Dan Campbell was. You know, Dan Campbell had been interim head coach, but he'd been an interim head coach. And he had many people in the league like, like the Bill Parcells and Jimmy Johnson's. Guys like that were on the phone saying, this guy can do it. And they were right. He can. But, but I, I, if I hear another one of these coordinators, listen, Joe Brady can coach, but having Joe Burrow in college with the best receiving core collegiately in the history of the sport, and Josh Allen, that's a pretty light lift. That's not what Chicago is. That, not even close to what Chicago is. All right, Danny Parkins, we'll talk about that in about 35 minutes. J. Mac. You know, we bring a guy on this show who I like a lot, Brian Baldinger. And he, he is very good at breaking down footage. And he, again, he's not in the payroll for anybody. He played in this league. He's an offensive lineman. Very interesting suggestion by Baldy today. Looking at film on what the Niners should do at quarterback. I'm not sure if you're going to love this story. I haven't heard it, but I have heard other people tell me that they should swap Brock Purdy for a certain quarterback you love. Okay, hey, I'm America's honesty broker. I'm not taking sides. I'm just going to present what Baldy says. And it's very interesting for a guy, by the way, is a former cowboy. He didn't give a rip. Yeah, well, I mean, listen, if I'm going to buy a house and there's two houses, what's my number one location is the number one thing in real estate. But price point is next. And if Bryce brock Purdy wants 60 mil, you know, good luck in Tennessee or wherever you're playing next. To be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app.

[Doug Gottlieb]

Hey, it's Steve Covino and I'm Rich Davis and together we're Covino and Rich on Fox Sports Radio. You can catch us weekdays from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific, on Fox Sports Radio and of course, the iHeartRadio app. Why should you listen to Covino and Rich? We talk about everything, life, sports, relationships, what's going on in the world. We have a lot of fun talking about the stories behind the stories in the world of sports and pop culture. Stories that, well, other shows don't seem to have the time to discuss. And the fact that we've been friends for the last 20 years and still work together, I mean, that says something, right? So check us out. We like to get you involved, too. Take your phone calls, chop it up, as they say. I'd say the most interactive show on Fox Sports Radio, maybe the most interactive show on planet Earth. Be sure to check out Covino and Rich live on Fox Sports radio and the iHeartradio app from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific. And if you miss any of the live show, just search Covino and Rich wherever you get your podcast. And of course, on social media, that's Covino and Rich, small business owners.

[Brian Baldinger]

This one's for you. Chase for business and iheart bring you a podcast series called the Unshakables. This one of a kind series will shine the spotlight on small business owners like you who faced a do or die moment that ultimately made their business what it is today. Learn [e-mail] business podcast Chase make More of what's Yours Chase Mobile app is available for select mobile devices. Message and data rates May apply Chase JPMorgan Chase Bank NA Member FDIC Copyright.

[Colin Cowherd]

2024 JPMorgan Chase this podcast is sponsored by PayPal. We've partnered with them to make this holiday season even better. With all the shopping, gifting and holiday prep, my PayPal debit card is my go to for getting more out of my purchases. Here's how it works. I choose my monthly category Gas, Restaurants, Apparel, Groceries, Health and beauty or just for the holiday season, tech. And I earn 5% cash back on up to 1,000 bucks in the purchases in those categories. Yeah, 5% cash back this month. I'm gonna go with tech. It's my category. It's a no brainer, right? Everybody loves the latest tech gifts, so whether it's stuff for the fam or adding new gadgets to my personal collection, that cash back adds up fast. So this holiday season, let the PayPal debit card do the heavy lifting. Sign up for the card when you download the PayPal app, then pay in store and online and get cash back with a PayPal debit card.

[Steve Covino]

Don't just pay PayPal terms and limits apply. See paypal.com rewardspal the PayPal Debit MasterCard is issued by the Bancor Bank N.A. pursuant to a license by MasterCard International, Inc. And may be used everywhere. MasterCard is accepted.

[Urban Meyer]

Game On Because ESPN content is now available on Disney, you can watch your favorites on Disney the boldest stories from Hulu and the Greatest in Sports from espn. Together like never before with espn. Unwrap a full day of NBA action on Christmas Day. Tip off the festivities with the spurs and Knicks, followed by the Mavs and Timberwolves. Then a clash between the Lakers and Warriors, followed by the 76ers and Celtics. And finally the Nuggets face off against the Suns. All streaming to December 25th. Then with Hulu, watch the terrifying sci fi thriller Romulus, where a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the ultimate horror. Now streaming and on Disney. Follow the adventures of four kids across the galaxy as they meet unlikely allies and enemies in Star Skeleton Crew, starring Jude Law. Now streaming finally team up with morally flexible Deadpool and hesitant Wolverine in the blockbuster film Marvel Studios. Deadpool and Wolverine now streaming the Greatest Stories live on Disney. Available with a bundle subscription terms apply. Visit disneyplus.com for details.

[Colin Cowherd]

What makes the holidays special are the details from Genesis. And every little detail in a Genesis is another gift to you. Like during winter, you'll be thankful for the available heated steering wheel and the available snow mode to help get you through the snowiest of snow days. And the available all wheel drive is helpful all year round, but especially during the winter. I mean, Genesis has put a lot of thought into the details. And of course the best gifts are thoughtful ones like the available Nappa leather seating. Oh, speaking of gifts, you'll have plenty of room to haul around everything you've picked up for family and friends, no matter which Genesis you're driving. And with a lineup featuring SUVs, EVs, Sedans, something for everybody. Experience the Genesis Signature event. And as one big final gift, Genesis is offering you a $1,000 bonus on select Genesis vehicles. The deal ends January 2nd. See participating Genesis retailers for details. Visit genesis.com to see how Genesis can make your holidays even brighter. Details make the holidays you can count.

[Rich Davis]

On T Mobile to help keep you.

[Colin Cowherd]

Connected from big cities to small towns.

[Rich Davis]

On America's largest 5G network, switch the T Mobile keep your phone and they'll pay it off up to 800 bucks per line via prepaid card. Learn more@t mobile.com heap and switch up to four lines via virtual prepaid card. Allow 15 days qualifying unlock device credit service port in 90 plus days with device and eligible carrier and timely redemption required.

[Colin Cowherd]

Card has no cash access and expires in six months.

[Rich Davis]

Said it before don't confuse a great story for a great team, a great coach or a great player. So Brian Balding or Baldy played in the NFL for years, had played every offensive line position great at breaking down the game. You'll see him doing that on, you know, the Internet. So he said yesterday when asked, he said, listen, if you're asking me Darnold or Brock Purdy, Darnold's been in that system. I take Darnold. So would I if the price point is Sam Darnold for three years at 40 million and Brock Purdy for four years at 50 to 55 million, which he wants. So they're going for it. The Brock Purdy camp. So Darnold's bigger, more athletic, with a better arm. Now both, in my opinion, have only flourished with a great offensive coach and that may be the only time they do flourish. Purdy and Darnold neither has shown an ability to elevate average players, but both are hyper productive when they have great players around them. So I'm going to take the better arm, the better athlete at a better price and it's not difficult. Sam Darnold, by the way, still in his prime, 27 and and has double the starts, so he's a more experienced guy. But here's the thing. People love the story of Brock Purdy being drafted in the seventh round. It's a cool story, but of the 14 teams currently in the playoff, 12 have first round quarterbacks and Jalen Hurts is a second rounder. Here's all the first round quarterbacks in the NFL. You know, it's all the good ones. Josh Allen Burrow right now, Darnold, Goff, Herbert, Lamar Love, Patrick Mahomes, Baker, kyler, Murray Stafford, C.G. stroud, all first round talents. Jalen Hurts, who most people who break down film say isn't great from the pocket, but I do think is a really good quarterback. He's a second rounder. And then there's Brock, who has struggled when it's wet, who has struggled without Christian McCaffrey and Trent Williams, who can be reckless like Darnold. But I don't get the upside physically arm mobility that I get with Sam Darnold. So people I think have always confused the story with the truth. Yeah, Brock Purdy is a great story. And if you get a guy that starts in the seventh round, you don't have to pay him for four years. He's basically free. But don't make the exception the rule. The guys hoisting trophies are first round guys. Aikman Bradshaw, you know, that's the man. Well, what about Brady? Again, you're making the exception the rule. Tom Brady is the greatest player in the history of the NFL and he was a six round pick. I acknowledge that. But in the current NFL where you get far, Brady would not last until the sixth round. Today scouting is more sophisticated. Young players get more looks from more eyes. From 12 years of age on. If you're, I'm with Brian Boldinger. If you're telling me I get Sam at 27, both of these guys have shown they can be highly productive with a great offensive coach. Neither's ever proven they can elevate average talent. I don't, I don't even think it's tough. I'm going Sam Darnold. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific.

[Brian Baldinger]

Small business owners, this one's for you. Chase for business and iheart bring you a podcast series called the Unshakables. This one of a Kind series will shine the spotlight on small business owners like you who faced a do or die moment that ultimately made their business what it is today. Learn [e-mail] business podcast Chase make More of what's Yours Chase Mobile app is available for select mobile devices, message and data rates. May apply JPMorgan Chase Bank NA Member FDIC Copyright 2024 JPMorgan Chase this podcast.

[Colin Cowherd]

Is sponsored by PayPal.

[Rich Davis]

We partnered with them to make this.

[Colin Cowherd]

Holiday season even better. With all the shopping, gifting and holiday prep, my PayPal debit card is my go to for getting more out of my purchases. Here's how it works. I choose my monthly category Gas, Restaurants, Apparel, Groceries, Health and Beauty or just for the holiday season, tech. And I earn 5% cash back on up to a thousand bucks in the purchases in those categories. Yeah, 5% cash back this month I'm gonna go with tech. It's my category. It's a no brainer, right? Everybody loves the latest tech gifts, so whether it's stuff for the fam or adding new gadgets to my personal collection, that cash back adds up fast. So this holiday season, let the PayPal debit card do the heavy lifting. Sign up for the card when you download the PayPal app, then pay in store and online and get cash back with a PayPal debit card.

[Steve Covino]

Don't just pay PayPal terms and limits apply. See paypal.com rewardspal the PayPal Debit MasterCard is issued by the Bancor Bank N.A. pursuant to a license by MasterCard International, Inc. And may be used everywhere.

[Urban Meyer]

MasterCard is accepted game On Because ESPN content is now available on Disney, you can watch your favorites on Disney the boldest stories from Hulu and the Greatest in Sports from espn. Together like never before with espn. Unwrap a full day of NBA action on Christmas Day. Tip off the festivities with the spurs and Knicks, followed by the Mavs and Timberwolves. Then a clash between the Lakers and Warriors, followed by the 76ers and Celtics. And finally the Nuggets face off against the Suns. All streaming December 25th. Then with Hulu, watch the terrifying sci fi thriller Romulus, where a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the ultimate horror. Now streaming and on Disney. Follow the adventures of four kids across the galaxy as they meet unlikely allies and enemies, and Star Skeleton Crew starring Jude Law. Now streaming. Finally team up with morally flexible Deadpool and hesitant Wolverine in the blockbuster film Marvel Studios. Deadpool and Wolverine now streaming the Greatest Stories live on Disney. Available with a bundle subscription terms apply. Visit disneyplus.com for details.

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Rich Davis]

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[Rich Davis]

Eligible carrier and timely redemption required. Urban Meyer, Fox Sports College analyst is joining us live. So the Ohio State Tennessee game is fascinating. Ohio State's got better players. Here's what I worry about. And you've had teams like this. The Tennessee D line, that's their strength. The Ohio State O line is arguably a unit that's always been a bit in flux. If you went into a big game and you're like, okay, and you went into a few of these, okay, we can't do this and they can. Does that concern you that the volunteer strength could be the liability of Ohio State?

[Unknown Speaker]

No. It's very alarming. Anytime you get to December, that's really the number one place you look. And all those years of game plan and the first thing you do is you. I mean, I would, I remember for years and years and years you sit there and you just run back and forth the matchups on the offense line and defense line. And when Seth McLaughlin, the center got hurt for Ohio State, this is right after their best performance maybe in two years at Penn State. And they didn't play very well against The Wolverines, matter of fact, they played poorly. It looked discombobulated. And a lot of that's because of those three injuries they had in the offensive line. So there's some answers, but that's the first play. You check the obvious answers. Cullen, get the ball out fast. This is going to be a. This is going to be a throw first game for Ohio State. It's going to be cold, but there's, you know, it is what it is. It's going to be a throw first game, which obviously that's not conducive to, you know, a big time matchup. But this could be a throw first game for Ohio State.

[Rich Davis]

So, Urban, this happened to you very infrequently, but if you lost a game in college and had a long layoff, that's different. Generally, you win, Ohio State wins, they get a month off. Boy, it is, it is a lot of energy and a lot of smiling in the weight room. Teams kind of trying to find itself for the next month. So it's about culture and it's about coaching. Does that concern you?

[Unknown Speaker]

It does, it does. Because you've been having to eat this damn thing now for three weeks and it's awful. I mean, I was there in Columbus and that's, you know, you lose to that, that team up north, you lose to the Wolverines and Ohio is a tough place, man, that's a high expectations. But I actually talked to Coach Day. In the old days, you had to, if you lost that game, you had to eat it for 365 days, go to some bowl game you wish you didn't were in probably, and, but you don't have time now. You got an SEC program, a team that's got a very, like you said, a very good D line coming in here. So to me, Colin, this is all about those. Seniors came back for a lot of reasons. One was to beat the team up north. They didn't do it. However, they also want to go compete for a national title. To me, this is a locker room issue. If they come out and play well, that means they got a strong locker room. If they don't, that means they don't.

[Rich Davis]

The two best college football coaches in my lifetime are probably Nick Saban and Urban Meyer, both. You tried the NFL. The fit wasn't ideal. I don't believe that All NFL guys go to college and it's easy. I don't think Belichick or Bill Parcells, they don't have a lot of charisma. I don't think they're built for college football. I think you're limited on number of hours. I think you have to deal now more than ever with donors and administration and nonsense. I thought college football was always going to be tough for certain guys. I think it's going to be. I think Bill's going to get tired of it really quick. He's built a pro model. You know Bill, we know he's smart, but Nick and you could turn it on. I know both of you. I've been and been with you. You have a good sense of humor, you're light. That's a big part of this thing. You, the players are selecting you in college, in the pros, you just select them. I'm in the minority here. I think Bill, I think the tedium of college football coaching could wear him out. Are you a little concerned that he's stepping into something that's gotten really difficult? College coaching?

[Unknown Speaker]

I know coach very well. Went to many times up to the Patriots and what amazed me was how smart he was and he adapts and he can get things done. It's a much different game that me and you knew, Colin, that, for example, you know how many times the coaches are on the road the month of December in college now? None. It used to be every day you were. You were gone for three weeks in the month of December in people's homes. Now you don't do that now. It's simply they come to your campus, you find out how much they're being paid and you give them or you don't give them. The days are gone when you have to write all the emails or not emails, text messages and handwritten notes and, and talking to the players, girlfriends as aunt, you know, the, the high school social studies teacher, the assistant strength coach is going to help you get it in in the school. That's all gone. So it's a much different. You know, if there was a time for Coach Belichick to go to college, it's now. I would say 10 years ago, five years ago. It would be a real struggle because it's just something he's never done. It's probably something he's not very comfortable in. What you just said. Yeah, you're on the road in those high schools. You don't do that now. So it's simply. How much is it? I'm recruiting Colin Coward. I call you up, say, colin, how much is it going to cost for you to come to North Carolina? You and your agent tell me your number and we either go or we don't go.

[Rich Davis]

And by the way, I'm not cheap. I've got very good hands. I'm not cheap. Okay, pre gray here.

[Unknown Speaker]

I might have recruited you. Colin, not now.

[Rich Davis]

So listen, I've been wrong more than a few times. I thought Lincoln Riley at USC would work. But there is a difference between being schematically very smart and building a program.

[Colin Cowherd]

And I.

[Rich Davis]

And I've always said usc, California high school players, a lot of quarterbacks, receivers and corners. You guys, sometimes you got to leave the state to get great linemen. He doesn't appear to love recruiting. He lost a lot of good players in the transfer portal. Is it possible I just missed on it. I'm just. It's not going to work. I mean they're freaking out out here. What do you make of their situation right now?

[Unknown Speaker]

I just worry. I like Lincoln Riley. He's always been very good to me. I coached against him one of his early games. They beat us when he was a head coach at Oklahoma. I love his offensive scheme. I'm saying all the right things because I believe it should work. Here's the problem, Colin. Once you lose momentum, it's hard to get back. And USC's lost momentum. I mean they had it when they hired him and a lot of energy. They officially have lost momentum in Southern California. What does that mean? Normally it doesn't end well. I'm going to give him benefit of doubt because it's not his first rodeo. He did a really good job at Oklahoma. I think he'll get it back. I really do. But the minute you lose momentum, you got to really turn up the heat now to get that momentum back. And that's got to be. You got to get some prize recruit. You got to win some games because if you continue to lose momentum, this will end poorly.

[Rich Davis]

Yeah, so I, I guess, I mean, I think I've kind of said I picked Tennessee to win the Natty before the season. So I did. I. I think Josh Hyple. I liked them, their D line and they always have good receivers. I mean they have good backs and receivers and down years it's just Tennessee, I don't know if they can beat Ohio State. So I'd feel much better if they didn't have to go to Columbus because I think the Buckeyes are going to win. But I, I am just. I look at Texas and I made this comment and tell me I'm wrong. I know they've got a bunch of great players, but for some reason offensively, they got Sark. They have the best left tackle why aren't they scoring more? I don't see Juice. Ohio State. I see Juice. I see Juice with their backs. I see Juice on the perimeter. I watch Texas and I'm like 17 against A and M. Struggling this week, struggling against Georgia. Is it just a Georgia thing or maybe is Texas a little overvalued?

[Unknown Speaker]

That's great. I actually went back and watched them yesterday because I'm going to do some commentary on the playoffs coming up here. And I've been to Texas. You know, I picked them last year. I picked them again this year to be right there. And I think they will be right there. Here's what I think's happened. I don't see the same creativity that I usually see from Sark, and I'm wondering if he's just a game manager now. That means he has an excellent defense. I love the defense. I think, yes, obviously one of the best defenses. And when you have a great defense, you have a tendency to kind of tighten up and just play to win the game. I think that's what's happened with Ryan Day a little bit. When you, when you see your defense just smothering an opponent and I've been there and what goes through your mind is, don't lose this damn game. Don't do something stupid and play to your strengths. Pete, the fans hate it. But you know what? At the end of the day, your job is to win that game. That's what I see when I watch Texas right now. That's what I see when I see Ohio State right now. I don't see the creativity. I don't see the balls to the wall. Let the, Let it fly. And I'm not disagreeing with it. I've been there. I've won a lot of games where you're, you know, you just don't feel great about your offense. And you, and you play to the strengths and that is do not turn that ball over. Field play, field position football and find a way to win the game. That's what I see when I watch Texas right now.

[Rich Davis]

Okay, so you could make the argument Ryan Day, if you took out Jim Harbaugh, we would have none of these big discussions. But Harbaugh is one of the greatest coaches ever. You lose three straight, then you lose this year, you're upset. I got to ask the tough question. They lose to Tennessee. It's good game. It's close. Ohio State is the only SEC team North fan base is. I'm sorry, talk radio. It's different. It's. I've always said out of respect. It's an SEC team in the Big Ten. Even Michigan, you can lose, you can lose to Ohio State. Four losses to Michigan first round. If they lost, is Ryan Day in trouble, do you believe?

[Unknown Speaker]

Not this year. I think they will not make the change. They will not do that now.

[Rich Davis]

Okay.

[Unknown Speaker]

There's no chance they'll do that now because, Colin, if you, if you made that change, you lose your roster, you know, you lose. They can't do that. They can't do that now. I don't believe they do that now. It would just be that much more pressure like for coach Day and his staff next year. And they have a tough, you know, they open up with Texas right out of the jump. So no, I don't believe they do it this year.

[Rich Davis]

Yeah, I wouldn't, I wouldn't do it. But I'm, you know, I see that message board crowd they get, you know, athletic directors read all that nonsense. So it's, I wouldn't do it. But you know, I'm a level headed guy.

[Unknown Speaker]

You, you think that, you think ads. Watch the message board.

[Rich Davis]

Oh, come on, Irvin. Those guys really. Oh, I think owners listen to talk radio. How ridiculous is that?

[Unknown Speaker]

I'm not saying they listen to Colin radio. Colin Coward.

[Rich Davis]

Well, now that again, those takes are pretty solid. Yeah, we know that. All right, Ermin Meyer, great seeing you again.

[Unknown Speaker]

Yeah, great seeing you always.

[Rich Davis]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[DJ Wells]

Network this is Doug Gottlieb from All Ball with Doug Gottlieb. Listen, I'm gonna get serious for a minute. The hate in our country is getting out of control. In fact, it's sadly at an all time high. But it's gonna take all of us to stop it. I mean, we're all on the same team in this country. So let's take a break from our hate so our team can regroup. We need to take a timeout against hate. Visit stand uptoallhate.org to help and join me in calling for timeout against hate by following at what's up with Hate or posting the blue square emoji.