Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "Best of The Herd"

Released on January 23, 2025

Introduction

In the "Best of The Herd" episode, The Herd with Colin Cowherd delivers a comprehensive recap of the most compelling sports narratives from recent discussions. Hosted by Colin Cowherd alongside guests Julian Edelman and Bobby Bones, the episode delves into critical topics such as coaching changes in the NFL, standout quarterback performances, player analyses in high-stakes games, and the evolving dynamics of football rules and player safety.

1. Dallas Cowboys’ Coaching Changes

The episode kicks off with a heated discussion about the Dallas Cowboys' potential hiring of Brian Schottenheimer as their new head coach. Colin Cowherd expresses skepticism about the decision, highlighting Schottenheimer's lack of head coaching experience and his previous role as an offensive coordinator who didn't call plays.

Colin Cowherd [10:15]: "The Cowboys now handing the keys to somebody who's not a candidate for anybody else. You might as well just give that to the Packers."

Julian Edelman shares a more measured perspective, questioning the effectiveness of promoting Schottenheimer given the Cowboys' recent performance.

Julian Edelman [12:33]: "This is a tough day. We got to get Michael Irvin on the horn. He was all excited for Dion."

The debate underscores concerns about the Cowboys' direction and their ability to secure top-tier coaching talent.

2. Rookie Quarterback Jaden Daniels’ Performance

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to evaluating rookie quarterback Jaden Daniels. Colin Cowherd lauds Daniels' exceptional performance, drawing parallels to established stars like Patrick Mahomes.

Colin Cowherd [41:35]: "I don't think it's hyperbolic. I think he's the Mahomes that from this point forward people will slot behind."

Julian Edelman adds to the praise, noting Daniels' composure and effectiveness in high-pressure situations, particularly against aggressive defensive strategies.

Julian Edelman [42:28]: "He's been doing it at a high level. You know he's gonna have a huge test this week."

The discussion highlights Daniels as a promising talent poised to make a significant impact in the league.

3. Best Players in the Washington vs. Philadelphia Game

Colin Cowherd presents his analysis of the top ten players expected to shine in the NFC Championship game between the Washington Commanders and the Philadelphia Eagles. His list emphasizes offensive and defensive prowess, though it notably excludes Jalen Hurts, a point of contention.

Colin Cowherd [30:00]: "Jalen Hurts is not one of the 10 best players in the NFC championship."

Underlying this omission is a debate about Hurts' impact versus other standout players like Saquon Barkley and Jalen Carter. Julian Edelman reacts to the exclusion, highlighting potential disagreements.

Julian Edelman [32:36]: "The Jalen Hurts Omission is just, I mean it's going to be a wedge in our friendship."

This segment sparks conversation about player valuations and their roles in pivotal games.

4. AFC Championship Predictions: Kansas City vs. Buffalo

The episode shifts focus to the AFC Championship matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills. Colin Cowherd and Julian Edelman engage in a detailed analysis of each team's best players, debating their standings and contributions.

Colin Cowherd [35:00]: "Number one player would be Patrick Mahomes. Nobody would dispute that."

Julian Edelman [37:00]: "I think Josh Allen is a better candidate. He's going to be the MVP."

The discussion covers key players like Chris Jones, Creed Humphrey, and Travis Kelce for the Chiefs, versus Josh Allen, Gregory Russo, and James Cook for the Bills. Both hosts weigh in on team maturity, player experience, and strategic advantages, ultimately leading to Colin predicting a Bills victory in a high-scoring game.

Colin Cowherd [38:02]: "No, I, I'm picking Buffalo in this. In a high scoring game. I think both teams score."

5. Quarterback Mobility and NFL Rules

A pivotal topic is the increasing mobility of quarterbacks and its implications on the game. Colin and Bobby Bones discuss how quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes manipulate rules to gain advantages, such as scrambling to earn yards while avoiding penalties.

Colin Cowherd [48:17]: "They are trying to protect the quarterbacks, but coaches are calling more quarterback runs than ever in the history of the game."

Bobby Bones concurs, suggesting that while the league may intervene, the evolution of the game necessitates adjustments to rules and strategies.

Bobby Bones [49:19]: "This isn't barbaric football anymore. You have to adjust to the rules."

The conversation reflects concerns about player safety and the integrity of competitive play amidst strategic rule exploitation.

6. Community Support and Personal Stories

The hosts take a moment to address recent community crises, such as looting and fires, and discuss the importance of solidarity and support. Bobby Bones shares personal anecdotes about witnessing and participating in community aid during emergencies.

Bobby Bones [39:48]: "People from everywhere coming to help. It’s been really cool to see people helping people."

Colin emphasizes the role of first responders and encourages listeners to donate to organizations like the Red Cross and CAL FIRE.

Colin Cowherd [55:00]: "Once again, everyone go out and help those people in LA find one of the organizations. I think that's a huge one."

7. Predictions and Future Insights

Towards the episode's conclusion, Colin Cowherd shares his track record of accurate team predictions over the past few years, asserting his keen insight into the NFL's future landscape.

Colin Cowherd [50:29]: "I have made a prediction the last three years. Three years ago Minnesota. Two years ago, Rams. This year Denver, where I take a team that Vegas doesn't think is very good. And I'm like, they're going to be good, they're going to be a playoff team."

This confident forecasting underscores his expertise and sets the stage for upcoming season expectations.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd [10:15]: "The Cowboys now handing the keys to somebody who's not a candidate for anybody else. You might as well just give that to the Packers."

• Julian Edelman [12:33]: "This is a tough day. We got to get Michael Irvin on the horn. He was all excited for Dion."

• Colin Cowherd [30:00]: "Jalen Hurts is not one of the 10 best players in the NFC championship."

• Julian Edelman [37:00]: "I think Josh Allen is a better candidate. He's going to be the MVP."

• Colin Cowherd [38:02]: "No, I, I'm picking Buffalo in this. In a high scoring game. I think both teams score."

• Colin Cowherd [48:17]: "They are trying to protect the quarterbacks, but coaches are calling more quarterback runs than ever in the history of the game."

• Bobby Bones [49:19]: "This isn't barbaric football anymore. You have to adjust to the rules."

• Colin Cowherd [50:29]: "I have made a prediction the last three years. Three years ago Minnesota. Two years ago, Rams. This year Denver, where I take a team that Vegas doesn't think is very good. And I'm like, they're going to be good, they're going to be a playoff team."

Conclusion

"Best of The Herd" encapsulates The Herd with Colin Cowherd's knack for incisive sports commentary and lively debate. From scrutinizing coaching appointments and celebrating rookie talents to dissecting playoff player performances and addressing the changing rules of football, the episode offers listeners a thorough and engaging overview of the current sports landscape. Colin Cowherd's confident predictions and the insightful contributions from guests like Julian Edelman and Bobby Bones provide a well-rounded perspective, making the episode a must-listen for avid sports enthusiasts seeking depth and analysis.