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Colin Cowherd
You can count on T Mobile to help keep you connected from big cities to small towns 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. Acquired card has no cash access and expires in six months. If you love iPhone, you'll love Apple Card. It comes with the privacy and security you expect from Apple. Plus you earn up to 3% daily cash back on every purchase, which can automatically earn interest when you open a High Yield Savings account through Apple Card. Apply for Apple Card in the Wallet app subject to credit approval. Savings is available to Apple Card owners subject to eligibility. Apple Card and Savings by Goldman Sachs Bank USA Salt Lake City Branch Member FDIC terms and more@applecard.com it's inevitable rain, snow and ice are coming and will make driving a challenge. Thankfully, the experts at Tire Rack know a thing or two about conquering winners. Worst New tires elevate traction and braking and will keep you safe. Tire Rack sells only the best, like the full line of Toyo tires. Go to tirerack.com Colin Build a winter tire and wheel package for Do It Yourself installation. Ship fast and free and back by two years of free road hazard protection. Tirerack.com the way tire buying Should Be.
Bobby Bones
Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast, Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle. Between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers, and one mirror ball trophy from Dancing with a Star. So where else are you going to find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? We talk sports, but we talk pop culture and music and a little bit of everything. Listen to Lots to Say With Bobby Bones and Matt Castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Jon Stewart
Jon Stewart is back at the Daily show, and he's bringing his signature wit and insight straight to your ears with the Daily Show Ears Edition podcast. Dive into John's unique take on the biggest topics in politics, entertainment, sports and more. Joined by the sharp voices of the show's great correspondents and contributors. And with extended interviews and exclusive weekly headline roundups, this podcast gives you content you won't find anywhere else. Ready to laugh and stay informed listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Colin Cowherd
Thanks for listening to the Herd podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox sports radio and noon to 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific. Find your local station for the herd@foxsportsradio.com or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR. Thanks for listening to the Herd podcast. Here we go. It's hour two. Gonna be a tasty one live in Los Angeles. It's the Herd. Wherever you may be and however you may be listening, thanks for making us part of your day. Matt Hasselbeck, he does this about once every five weeks or so. Sits down with us for a good 20, 25 minutes. I can't wait for that. He's got so many thoughts on this yesterday and there was only a handful of n that truly mattered. There were a lot of backups, which is another reason I don't like the NFL expanding to 18 games. Because we already got to the 17th game and it was kind of like you had about two games. You had to watch one of them last night. J Mack Albert Brer last hour as well. We're going to go J. Mac and I are going to go through some of the coaching openings. We're also going to go through the games we like. You like you like the Rams hosting the Vikings? I feel very strongly about the Vikings matchup on their perimeter against the Rams. Is there a game off the top that you really like? I irrationally like many games this weekend, including the college football, by the way, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, all with playoff college football or NFL games. How good is that? Colin I guess my favorite bet of the week so far is is Rams money line. I think they went outright. I can't believe the Vikings are favored in this spot. Did you see Darnold when he has to hold the ball? And I know Hasselbeck will talk about it, but like when Darnold has to hold the ball and think and come off his reads, he's not great. He was 18 of 41 last night. Yeah, it was not good. And that was against a shoddy Lions defense. I think the Rams defense is going to be better. They slowed Darnold in the initial meeting. Remember that one out here at SoFi? Yeah, I like Rams. All right, let's do it every Monday at this time. Colin right? Colin wrong. Plenty of both. Here we go. Where Colin was right to double right. Bo Nix and the Broncos. I said the Broncos would double the win total. Vegas thought and I thought Bo Nicks would be a home run. He finished the season six in the NFL and touchdown passes and it's the most among rookies. Second most touchdown passes by a rookie ever. 18 for 18 to start the game against Kansas City. His maturity, his athletic ability, his experience. I didn't get him kind of being ignored and considered a second class second tier quarterback in the draft. I didn't get it at all. I watched him at Auburn, I watched him at Oregon. He went through multitude of coordinators and was good with all of them. Bo Nix is a right Where Colin was raw. You know, Nick Sariani drives me nuts, but you know, in his three years as a coach they've won 14, 11. You know, these skirmishes on the sidelines with fans battling his own staff, you know, it feels like he has to be a chaperoned on a weekly basis. But there is something about his message and his personality that resonates in the NFL that I clearly am missing on. I thought his opening press conference was brutal. I'm still surprised they're this good. I think it's more of a GM than a coach story, but I'm wrong on it because the dude keeps winning. Where Colin was right. I said last January when Gerard Mayo got the Patriots job, it feels like adding a new chapter to the same old book. You know, young quarterback, defensive coach. I just never felt this was the right hire. I thought they may retain him because they were so embarrassed by it. But I read a lot of Boston writers and listen to Boston radio and you know, situationally, circumstantially, he was over his head. You know, Bill Jr. Was his nickname. You know, his only real influence was Belichick and I think once Bill left, you were probably better served to go on the off offensive route. But I also think Mike Vrabel would be a good fit. But I never loved this hire. Where Colin was raw well, it's the Atlanta Falcons. I've never been right. I had him winning the division. I thought Kirk Cousins was a good signing. He ended up tied for the NFL lead in picks and he only played 14 games. I like Raheem Morris over Belichick. They started six and three. They beat the Buccaneers twice and then just regressed quickly and badly. This is an organization that does a lot right. But it does feel like in certain organizations are like this, that they kind of shrink in big spots. And that's always sort of been the reason why I've lost my 401k several times betting the Atlanta Falcons, where Colin was right. I'm not sure there's a bigger fan in the world of Justin Herbert or Jim Harbaugh than myself. And they're now together. I felt they'd win 10 or 11 games. I didn't know if they'd make the playoffs because of Mahomes and Reed. But, you know, I was just watching this game yesterday. They just figure out ways to win. Harbaugh can have a bad first half and then they reset the chairs and they have a good second half. They've got a grit and a toughness. It's the first time ever the Chargers have led the NFL in defense. They've always been finesse and fun to watch, then aesthetically pleasing, but you don't trust them. And now they're not nearly as pleasing to watch, but they're tough and they win games. So the magic formula was don't do what you've always been. Go the opposite route. And they have, and they're winning. And I'm happy where Colin was. Right. The Pittsburgh Steelers in the last decade, isn't it the same team with just a little variation? Once again, we said before the season, it's all going to come down to the final seven games. Go look at the schedule. It did. And they went 2 and 5. They still can't get offense right. You know, they end up 10 and 7 and with no chance to win the Super Bowl. And that's what the Pittsburgh Steelers have been. People in Pittsburgh want a new head coach. I don't think the Steelers are moving off Mike Tomlin, but I feel like every Pittsburgh team in the last decade is a slight variation of the previous year's team where Colin was raw. I thought Doug Peterson was a good fit in Jacksonville, I really did. And in Trent Bulkey, the GM survived. He survived and Peterson got fired. I watched them in Philadelphia, out coach Bill Belichick in the Super Bowl. This was my number one pick. I liked him. People like him. Players like him. It just never worked. Trevor Lawrence has regressed. I don't know where they go. Do you need more of a tough leader than Doug Peterson? Do you need a Brian Flores? Somebody that's a culture changer, not just an offensive guy who people like. But the Jacksonville situation, I don't think I've ever been right on it. Coach, gm, players. Nothing works that I predict. Where Colin was right. When Tyreek Hill got traded from Kansas City to the Dolphins, I said, they'll be fine without him. The league is not built around small fast football players. He's very good. But why would you leave Patrick Mahomes as a wide receiver? Why would you leave Andy Reid as a wide receiver? They're just moves I didn't get. Like, yeah, chase the bag. The guy wants out of Miami now. There's got to be more than just money. I mean, if you like the coach and you like the quarterback, it's not like you can't afford a nice home in Kansas City. Like, I never understood this move. It was fun. And I get people that want to go live in Miami with no state tax and a clever offensive coach. But I never thought this was going to change the league. I never thought it was going to change the Chiefs. They would figure out with Mahomes and Reed and Spags and Kelsey and Chris Jones to win regardless where Colin was right. My number one college football prediction before the season was Oregon is going to beat Ohio State at Austin and then Ohio State will come back to beat Oregon and man, they did the next time they play in the playoff. So that was my top prediction. They led 31 to nothing in the first half against Oregon. I also said after they lost to Michigan, don't be shocked if they don't end up playing like a Texas for the national championship. And I still believe that college football more than ever feels like the NFL where you can have a stinker of a game in December and you're okay. We don't eliminate you. And I think that is a good thing. I think college football has grown up and graduated to more professional football. Meaning you get Mulligan. You can stumble your toe. It shouldn't be about you lose late in the season, you're done. The Chiefs lose late in the season. Peyton Manning won a Super Bowl. He lost twice in in January, December, and he won a Super Bowl. It shouldn't be about the calendar. It should be about an entire book, several chapters and who's good now? And it's Ohio State. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app. All right, let's talk about Amazon prime for a minute. I've got mine. Do you have yours? Not just about one thing. It's a whole collection of services that help you get the most out of whatever you're into. If you passionate about a hobby, a sport, or all sports in my case, or you just need to get things done fast. Prime. Amazon Prime's got your back. You can watch content order supplies listen on Amazon music. It's all included under one prime membership. Of course, we can all agree one of the best things about prime is the fast, free delivery. With prime, you can have what you need deliver the same day. But it's more than that. Prime is a collection of excellent services. I love it. Amazon Music Listen to the tunes that keep you in the zone or this podcast. Whatever you're doing working out on the road, prime doesn't just help you get closer to the things you care about, it helps you discover new things too. Prime's always there to fuel your passion, make it just a little bit easier. So whatever you're into, it's on Prime. Visit Amazon.com prime now. Omaha Steaks is America's original butcher and has been bringing people together with the world's best steak experience for more than 100 years of family owned experience. From handcrafted steaks to hearty roasts, family style sides and quick, convenient comfort meals, Omaha Steaks delivers everything you crave to reset and relax after the holidays. And now during their end of season sale, you can taste the difference and get 50% off site wide@omahasteaks.com plus our listeners get an extra 20 bucks off with a promo code Herd at checkout. Omaha Steaks offers unrivaled quality and variety and every bite is backed by their 100% guarantee. They also carry mouthwatering burgers, chicken, pork, seafood, dessert and easy to prepare comfort food. Bring home the world's best steak experience with omaha steaks. Visit omaha steaks.com for 50% off site wide during their end of season sale and for an extra 20 bucks off with a promo code herd at checkout. That's 50% off@omahastakes.com and for an extra $20 off with a promo code herd at checkout. You can count on T Mobile to help keep you connected from big cities to small towns 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. Card has no cash access and expires in six months.
Bobby Bones
Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle. Between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers and One mirrorball trophy from Dancing with the Star. So where else are you going to find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? Based in Nashville, we're more than just your basic NFL show. We talk sports, but we talk pop culture and music and a little bit everything. Because we got lots to say. I. I texted you and you text me back. Now I don't know if you have the update, but like all the little thumbs up and heart and stuff, like it's all colored. They changed it and the heart's a little pink. It felt like I told you I loved you. I'm gonna be honest, it was a little pink.
Drew Brees
There was something sentimental when you like when you send it, it was like, do I send the heart now?
Bobby Bones
I don't like the color edition.
Drew Brees
It's extremely pink.
Bobby Bones
Listen to Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.
Jon Stewart
Jon Stewart is back at the Daily show and he's bringing his signature wit and insight straight to your ears with the Daily Show Ears Edition podcast. Dive into John's unique take on the biggest topics in politics, entertainment, sports and more. Joined by the sharp voices of the show's correspondence and contributors. And with extended interviews and exclusive weekly headline roundups, this podcast gives you content you won't find anywhere else. Ready to laugh and stay informed? Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Colin Cowherd
Heard. Hierarchy time is now. Let's go. The top 10 NFL teams according to college. Number 10, Tampa Bay. I put him in over Washington. They play him this weekend. I'll tell you, there's one stat that I love about this team. They have the best third down offense in the NFL. They're the only team on third down that converts over 50% of the time. That is a big stat for me. You're moving the chains. You're often keeping it away from Jaden Daniels. This is a team that situationally is very, very good. It's why I like Tampa to beat Washington, I put Tampa Bay at 10. Number nine, the Packers. I. You know what? I liked him all year, but now Jordan Loves banged up Christian Watson is out. Listen. Seven straight games for Jordan Love without a giveaway. That is the longest streak of his career. So would it shock me if they went to Philadelphia and Jalen Hurts didn't play and they upset him? No. I said early in the year and I believe this, they're a year away, but I'm gonna have them right now. There's so many things I like about the organization, but boy, Philadelphia is an opener, is a, it's a big lift. I'll take Green Bay at nine, number eight, the Chargers. I don't think they have enough weaponry to get to a Super bowl. But listen, they lose to the right teams. Five of their six losses came to the Chiefs twice, Ravens, Tampa Bay blew them out. So I, I think they are, they're the best version of what they can be right now and they've got a lot of things. I like a star quarterback, two excellent offensive tackles, Khalil Mack, Derwin James in the back end. But I feel they're a running back, a tight end, a wide receiver shy to be to Kansas City or a Baltimore or a Buffalo. I have the Chargers at eight, number seven. I'm gonna put the Rams one slot ahead of them because right now they are so healthy. And when they have Cooper cup and Stafford and Kyron Williams and Puka nakua, they are 14 and 5 and most of their losses are close. Matt Stafford's playing well. I don't love their first half offense this year. It feels like Stafford is an old pitcher that needs to get to the fifth inning to warm up. They just feel like they're not quite capable of getting off to good starts. Now their defense keeps them in games and they usually win them. I don't think you can be a bad first half offense and win multiple playoff games. So whatever that is, they gotta solve it. I have the Rams at seven, number six I the Vikings. It's six, the Rams. Vikings is a great game. Listen, they were oh and four in red zone trips and Sam Darnold had too much juice and too much adrenaline and missed open throws. But the only two teams they've lost to this year, the Lions a couple of times in the Rams. So like we're talking about a very good football team. Sam Darnold did not have a good game in a big spot. I didn't think it was a winnable game. I thought it was the biggest football game in Detroit with a better roster in 15 years. I'll took the Vikings at six, number five. We have to be speaking of history. You know, the Ravens are the first team in league history with 4,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards in a season that cannot be overlooked. This is just not another team in the NFL. They are a passing powerhouse and a running powerhouse and they lead the NFL in yards per carry. So if you're going to beat Kansas, that is the way to do it. I'm not saying they're going to, but the way to do it is you get four and a half yards of carry and Patrick Mahomes is thrown on third and two and second and four. That's the way to beat Kansas City. So I think they're uniquely built. They're a better version of what they've been in previous years. They're even better on the ground than previous years. Number four, the Eagles. Jalen Hurts. Concussion protocol maybe. I think their roster would be number one. I am a little worried about the Jalen Hurts situation. Listen, if Hurts and AJ Brown play, they're 11 and oh, and they have the best roster in the league. So I've always said the final four teams in my blazing five, I believe are the super bowl teams. Those are teams that can win a Super Bowl. My final four teams, you know, if I did this tomorrow and Jalen Hurts was out of protocol, I'd probably have him at three, but I'll put him at four. Number three, Detroit. Now, they're getting healthier on defense and this should be noted. This is how good of a coach coordinator Aaron Glenn is. I don't think they have great defensive personnel. I think they have great offensive personnel. They've allowed the lowest passer rating of any team in the NFL this year and that's with Hutchison, their top pass rusher, out for most of the year, and massive injuries in the back seven. This is a really, really well coached team and also another team that matches up with like a Kansas City. Two running backs, great online, like Baltimore can play some keep away. Detroit at three. Number two, Buffalo feels like the best version of Buffalo. They're no longer reckless. Fewest turnovers in a single season in NFL history. Tied for the second fewest turnovers, eight. So they don't beat themselves like previous seasons. They don't give the ball away. They don't allow you sacks. So I think this is the best version of Baltimore and Buffalo this year. Is it good enough to beat Kansas City? I. If I was a betting person, I would say no. So let's go to number one and we all know who it is. Number one. Listen, they're seven and two against current playoff teams this season. Seven straight games without a turnover. I think their receiving core is more dynamic today than it's been the previous two years. Their defense may be not quite as good. The AFC playoffs are going to be one for the ages because, you know, I look at this team and I see a little snazzier version of offense. Xavier Worthy now is a better tool than previous years. I think they now have a second tight end. I don't think their offensive tackle situation is ideal, but it's good enough. But I think Baltimore and Buffalo are the best versions of Baltimore and Buffalo in years, and I do think a little bit they'd rather face a Bo Nix potentially than a Joe Burrow. That's the advantage for the Chiefs, although I would have taken them to beat Cincinnati. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific, on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app 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. All right, let's talk about Amazon prime for a minute. I've got mine. Do you have yours? Not just about one thing. It's a whole collection of services that help you get the most out of whatever you're into. If you're passionate about a hobby, a sport, or all sports in my case. Or you just need to get things done fast. Prime. Amazon Prime's got your back. You can watch content, order supplies, listen on Amazon Music music. It's all included under one prime membership. Of course, we can all agree one of the best things about prime is the fast, free delivery. With prime, you can have what you need deliver the same day. But it's more than that. Prime is a collection of excellent services. I love it. Amazon Music listen to the tunes that keep you in the zone or this podcast. Whatever you're doing working out on the road, prime doesn't just help you get closer to the things you care about, it helps you discover new things, too. Prime's always there to fool your passion, make it just a little bit easier. So whatever you're into, it's on Prime. Visit Amazon.comprime now you can count on T Mobile to help keep you connected from big cities to small towns 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 car. 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. Cart has no cash access and expires in six months.
Bobby Bones
Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast, Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle. Between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers, and one mirrorball trophy from Dancing with the Star. So where else you can find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? Based in Nashville, we're more than just your basic NFL show. We talk sports, but we talk pop culture and music and a little bit of everything because we got lots to say. I texted you and you text me back. Now I don't know if you have the update, but like all the little thumbs up and heart and stuff, like it's all colored. They changed it and the, the heart's a little pink. It felt like I told you I loved you. I'm going to be honest, it was a little pink.
Drew Brees
There was something sentimental when you like when, when you send it, it's like, do I send the heart now?
Bobby Bones
I don't like the color edition.
Drew Brees
It's extremely pink.
Bobby Bones
Listen to Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Jon Stewart
Jon Stewart is back at the Daily show, and he's bringing his signature wit and insight straight to your ears with the Daily Show Ears Edition podcast. Dive into John's unique take on the biggest topics in politics, entertainment, sports and more. Joined by the sharp voices of the show's correspondence and contributors. And with extended interviews and exclusive weekly headline roundups, this podcast gives you content, content you won't find anywhere else. Ready to laugh and stay informed. Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Bobby Bones
What's up, everybody? Adnan Burke here to tell you about.
Colin Cowherd
A new podcast from iHeart podcast in the National Hockey League. It's NHL unscripted with Virk and Demers. Hey, I'm Jason Demers, former 700 game n NHL defenseman turned NHL Network analyst and boy, oh boy, does daddy have a lot to say. I love you, by the way on NHL Network, we're looking forward to getting together each week to chat and chirp about the sport and all the other.
Bobby Bones
Things surrounding it that we love.
Jon Stewart
Right?
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, I just met you today, but we're going to have a ton of guests from the colliding worlds of hockey, entertainment and pop culture. And you know what, tons of back and forth on all things NHL. Yeah, you're soon going to find out we're not. Not just hockey talk. We get all kinds of random stuff on this podcast. Movies, television, food, wrestling, even the stuff that you wear on NHL. Now you wish you could pull off my short shorts, Ferkie. That shirt of Kazar ruckus. Listen to NHL Unscripted with Burkin Demers.
Bobby Bones
The iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever.
Colin Cowherd
You get your podcasts. Well, he is eligible for the hall of fame in 2026 and it just turned 2025, so he won't have much, much of a weight, 13 time Pro Bowler, top 10 quarterbacks I've ever seen. Drew Brees joining us live. So I think we both like Bo Nicks and Sean Payton. I think we both thought this is going to work if you got to land somewhere. If you're Bo Nicks, this is it. So here they are going into a playoff game. So I want you to go back to your first year with Sean. So Sean's intense. I can't even imagine what playoff Sean is like. Is it different? Is playoff week with Sean, Drew and you had a lot of him. Is he a little different?
Drew Brees
You know, I wouldn't say that he's different, but he's definitely going to have something up his sleeve, you know, and I would say, look, he's still relatively new in his tenure there. Obviously, you know, only his second year in Denver, but really I would say this year based on new quarterback and kind of like the first year in the system where everybody's really kind of, you know, starting to embrace it now and moving forward. Like he, he's going to look at this as like there's going to be something special this week or something unique. This week that he kind of throws into the preparation that. That makes the guys feel like this is a little something different.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah.
Drew Brees
And the fact that, look, you're going on the road and playing, you know, arguably one of the favorites, you know, and. And a guy in Josh Allen in an environment like the, you know, Bill's mafia, where, like, he's going to build that up a little bit, like, playing in that atmosphere in that stadium with the weather conditions, you know, like, all that stuff he's going to have, he's going to be talking about, you know, yeah, it's on turf, but it's slick, you know, make sure you got the right cleats. And, you know, he's going to. He's going to have something about, like, man, we're going to, like, be throwing snowballs, you know, into the stands at the fan. Like. Like, he's going to build it up to where it's. Yes, it's. It's. It's different, but, man, it's going to be fun. Right? There's going to be the keys to victory. There's going to be the lot, you know, locked in and focused, but at the same time, like, there's going to be something different and fun about this week.
Colin Cowherd
So, Jaden Daniels, on the road, first playoff game. And I think I've talked to you for. Through the years. Playoffs are different. Peyton told me this. I think you've told me this. They're different. There's like, preseason speed, regular season speed, division rival speed, playoff speed. So Jaden Daniels, first playoff game on the road. Vidavia. You tell me. Take me to your first playoff game. Just the nerves you dealt with, the anxiety, the prep.
Drew Brees
Yeah. You know, it's. I would equate it to, like, similar to when you watch the super bowl, like, it always feels in the beginning of the super bowl, like, everybody's on eggshells.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah.
Drew Brees
Like, the game is just slower. Everyone's trying to feel it out, you know, and then all of a sudden, second quarter, third quarter, it feels like all of a sudden now there's this explosion. Everyone starts playing a little bit more loose, a bit more confident. Obviously, the more experienced teams, you know, maybe it doesn't affect them as much. Like, it's easy to sit here and say, hey, these young quarterbacks, man, it's the playoffs and everybody's going to build it up and, you know, more pressure and this and that. In some cases, young guys step into these things and it's like they don't know any better. Right. Like, this is the game that they've played their whole life. And like, a guy like Jaden Daniels to me, comes across as somebody especially just watching the way that he's progressed and especially played down the stretch, like, this dude plays loose. This guy looks like he's having fun. Like, he's just playing ball in the backyard. I don't think he really knows any back. And. And he's just. He's just having fun. And it looks like the team is feeding off of that as well. And look, I've always loved Dan Quinn, and Dan Quinn has a tremendous track record. And these guys, man, he has them prepared and playing hard, playing loose, like, playing confident. So, like, I see a commander's team of any team that is going to just come into this thing like, hey, man, we got nothing to lose. Like, let's turn it loose, right? Like, we're a wild card, man. Nobody expects us to do any thing. We've flown under the radar the whole season, you know. Yeah, we've got this young quarterback that now all of a sudden starting to get some notoriety. But it's like, man, we. This doesn't phase us. This is not too big for us.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah. So Buffalo, Baltimore and Philadelphia are considered pretty heavy favorites. And they're at home. They're at home. Go back to your career. You were a home favorite in the playoffs, and a couple of times a big favorite. Is there sort of a weird pressure knowing we got the. Probably got the better coach, You're a real great player, we're at home, we should win this game. But in the back of your head, are you thinking, okay, it's the playoffs. Crazy stuff happens. What is it like to be a big playoff favorite? Because there's usually about one a weekend in the NFL.
Drew Brees
You know, I'll be honest, I never paid attention or was aware of the line in. In a playoff game, except for one time, and that was when we played the super bowl against the Colts. To start that week, we were a seven and a half point dog. And I remember Sean Payton made the point early in the week of preparation. Like, you're a seven and a half point dog. But very few times do I go into a game or a scenario where I truly feel like, like with that line, we are the better team.
Colin Cowherd
Wow.
Drew Brees
Watch how this line changes from Monday to Sunday. Watch how this line changed from Monday to day. And sure enough, like every day, he would put it up there. And we dropped a six and a half. We dropped a five and a half. We dropped a four and a half. I don't even know what it was by the time game rolled around. But bottom line, it was the world feels like you are the better bet. Right.
Colin Cowherd
Right.
Drew Brees
Like they are betting on you. And so this line is beginning to change. Right. So it was supposed. It was meant to be a confidence builder for us.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah.
Drew Brees
As a team. But, like, that was the only time I ever paid attention to it. Otherwise, man, like, I was locked in, focused on my job. Like, I don't care who we're playing. It's a faceless opponent. Like, I'm studying the opponent. We're gonna go kick their butt. I'm trying to score 40 points. I'm trying to complete every pass. I'm trying to score on every drive. I'm trying like. Like it didn't matter, you know, the intent was still the same regardless of what the line was.
Colin Cowherd
Sometimes I will watch sporting events and I'll get nervous for a player. I know the player. I like the player. Sam Darnold's one of those. If he'd have played great against Detroit, I wouldn't feel this way. And I didn't think it was a very winnable game. Biggest game in Detroit in 50 years. I'm like, this is a tough game for Minnesota. So he goes there. He didn't play well. Now I'm thinking, okay, Sammy, you're going to a playoff game. It's your first playoff game. I'm really hoping he plays well. You didn't have many bad games, but was there ever a moment for you, Drew, that you didn't love your performance one week and the next week was a playoff game or a big game? How do you forget it? And again, you didn't have many of those. But how do you forget a performance you're not happy with Six, seven days earlier?
Drew Brees
I'll be honest, those were typically the games where I played my best, was coming off of maybe a one or two game stretch where I just felt like I hadn't played my best or, you know, there was a lot more to be had, you know, out of a. Out of the game, you know, so just the way that I then approached that next week of preparation, I would really lock in on the process, you know, because if you focus on the process, the result will take care of itself. So it became just this laser focus on, like, each day, my routine, my habits, getting my work done, and knowing that that will equate to a great performance on Sunday, regardless of what happened the weeks before. Like, just focusing on the process and knowing the result will take care of itself. And so, like, call it a little bit, just like a heightened level of urgency and of focus. Not pressure, just urgency. And maybe getting back to just some of the basics, you know. So, like, look, I think this is a pivotal game for Sam Donald. He's played a phenomenal regular season. Phenomenal. Especially all that he's gone through to get to this point and then the opportunity that he had this season and making the most of it. But you know, you're remembered for what you do in the playoffs and it's all, all that regular season did was get you to this moment so that you would have this opportunity. Look, I was, I actually went to the game. I took my sons to the, to the Detroit game. We were sitting literally front row. I watched, I watched every snap. They had tons of opportunities. Yes, they were down inside the 10 yard line four times. They could have been up 14, 17 points at halftime.
Colin Cowherd
Yep.
Drew Brees
They were terrible in the Reds. A lot of things I saw I would have done differently. But you take that performance and you turn that into one of two things. Either you let that drag you down moving forward, or that has created a heightened level of urgency and focus and intensity. Attention to the process this week so that you go out and play lights out.
Colin Cowherd
Finally, I want to circle back to Sean Payton, because you have. When I think of Sean, I think of you. When I think of you, I think of Sean and like reading Mahomes or Brady and Belichick. It's just legendary legacy stuff. Not all coaches age well. Sean is aged well. He is blunt. He put it out there. I. There. There's just something. When I sat, when he was here at Fox, I'd go to dinner with him and he's so intense. And if I had to guess why he's aged well. He just loves it so much that that light has never diminished. But why do you think that he remains so good all these years after he started?
Drew Brees
Yeah, so a couple things. Number one, Ben, you're so much of a product of your mentors and who you've had a chance to be around. And you know, Sean would attest to this, but just from being around him and looking at his influences like Bill Parcells. Jon Gruden. Yeah, like there was so much of an influence from those guys in the way that Sean would teach, coach, communicate, and it was like the best of, like the best of those guys. You know, Sean took and kind of made his own, you know, So I feel like there's always that, that he's taken the best of what people have poured into him and now he's carrying that on to become his coaching style. Look, he's an offensive guy, right? He loves being ahead of the curve. He loves, like, he's a grinder. Dude's a grinder, man. He puts in a ton of time, late nights, like, just trying to find those little, like, edges or advantages that he can put in the game plan. They're going to make the difference. And so many times, I can't tell you, like, we'd be getting a Saturday and it was like, you know, he'd say, I went back and watched this and I just came up with this idea and we would massage it a little bit. It would go in the game plan and sure enough, it would be one of the game changing plays in the game, right? Happened so many times. He's an outstanding communicator. Like, just his ability to order the chaos. Order the chaos, like, block out the noise, like, get the team zeroed in on the keys to victory each and every week, despite all of the distractions and all the other stuff that people want to talk about. Like, man, fellas, if we do this, like, we put ourselves in the best, best position to win this game, right? He had a great way of bringing levity and humor to tense situations or as a way to motivate guys, right? Like, I'll never forget, we had, we had a safety one time who was, was a ball hawk machine. And he would always make, he would always make the comment to him, him, hey, you know, defense, when so and so gets this interception, we're going to have to block everybody to get him in the end zone to get him a pick six, right? So make sure that when you, like, we get this interception, you got to go find a block because otherwise there's no way this guy's going to make his way. Like, so it was a, it was like a subtle jab. But then sure enough, like, it just, you know, created a little extra motivation for the defense. So like, little stuff like that where he would find ways to just kind of like, like, you know, dig into a little bit and everybody's laughing, everybody's having a good time, and you kind of walk away and you're like, was he just making fun of me? You know, but at the end of the day, like, that would create a little bit of an edge and a chip on your shoulder. Like, man, you got something to prove. Like, I was always feeling like I had something to prove to Sean Payton and maybe it was just proving him right because he believed in me. What a lot of people did. Yeah, but he's, that's why he's aged well, because he can identify with players and he makes it fun. When it's time to work, it's time to work. When it's time to play, man, we're going to have a good time. And he's taken the best of those who have poured into him and now he's just carrying on that legacy.
Colin Cowherd
You've been so good today. I'd be remiss if I didn't ask you this. I want you to listen to them. I love Lamar Jackson. He cares so damn much. He gets so mad when he struggles. I love guys like that. I want to play a Lamar Jackson bite. And I have a question out of it. Let's play this real quick about why he struggled in the playoffs. Else. Yeah, I just be too excited, that's all.
Jon Stewart
You know, too Essy.
Colin Cowherd
Like I'm seeing things before I happen, like, oh, I gotta calm myself down. But just being more experienced, I've. I found a way to balance it out. Okay. When he says that, I get, I get all juiced up. I never think of you because you were such an accuracy machine. I don't ever remember. I remember anxious Brady. I definitely remember anxious man, beginning. I never remember. Yeah, yeah. Drew looks a little frenetic. Don't remember it. Did you ever get nervous?
Drew Brees
Did I give you. I'll give you one example. So super bowl, right? You know, you're going into like, man, just any other game. It's just like any other game. And I think first play we. We hand the ball off for like 5 yard game. Next play we throw a short pass. It's like third and four and we're gonna, we're gonna run. We, we call just like, you know, I'll go. We're just going to run by the corner on third and fourth, thinking he might be sitting at the sticks and we're going to get a big play. Robert Meacham runs by the corner. Me, he's got like 3 or 4 yard of space on him and I launched the ball over his head. I mean, launch it over his head 10 yards and I go to the sideline and I'm just sitting there going, dude, calm down. Like my heart was racing. You know, it's the Super Bowl. It's the first drive we had all go called and I just launched it over this guy's head and he's wide open, you know. And then that's when I was like, hey man, it's just like any other game. Okay. Right. Just. Just play the game.
Colin Cowherd
Just.
Drew Brees
Just focus on. Focus on your job. But like that, that would be, you know, look, I get it. You know, I get it. Like you get in some of these moments and it's easy to get amped up, you know, and anxious and feel like, man, I gotta go make a play. Right? I gotta go. No, just execute, man. Just execute the offense. Right? And all those opportunities will.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, Now I want to go look up that piece of video. Now that you've told it to me, I'm like, oh, I don't remember drew missing by 10 yards over a receiver. What a pleasure. What a pleasure to have you, buddy. I appreciate you coming on again. Great stories today.
Drew Brees
You too, Colin.
Colin Cowherd
One more Herd. The herd streams 24 hours a day, seven days a week within the iHeartRadio app. Search herd to listen live or on demand whenever you'd like. That's a hot one. Let's blaze it up. Fire it up. It's Collins Blazin five. Sponsored by DraftKings Steelers and Raiders. Listen, I'm gonna take the nine and a half. These are 38 times Tomlin and Harbaugh have met. The underdog's done very well in this series. 31 all time against Baltimore in the playoffs. And The Ravens, they're 2 and 6 over the last eight playoff games. And I love Lamar Jackson. He's not the same. He's been under 200 yard passing. They don't have Zay Flowers. They don't have another receiver. They have a good tight end, Lamar in the back. I mean, as a starter against the Steelers in the playoffs, he has struggled. And let's be honest, the Ravens pass defense isn't great. You can move the ball, chop it up. Offensively, I think the Ravens win at nine and a half as Mike Tomlin's the best underdog coach in a decade. 2723. Baltimore wins. I'm going to take the nine and a half points Broncos. Listen, a lot of the wise guys, yeah, they're gonna like Denver. I'm gonna take Buffalo 80 at home during the regular season and winning by an NFL best 17 points. Josh Allen, playoff career, 26 touchdowns, four interceptions. What's not to like? He's not Lamar Jackson. He may not be hoisting trophies. He's not Lamar Jackson. James Cook led the NFL 18 scrimmage touchdowns. Great at home. Broncos number seven seeds are 1 and 7 all time in the wild card round since playoff expansion. They didn't play particularly well down the stretch. They lost two or three games. The only win over the Chiefs and the Chiefs were resting starters Josh Allen at home. Big spot. Rookie quarterbacks in the first round go 8 and 13. I like those bills. I like them to cover 30 to 20. Packers at Eagles. This is my favorite bet of the weekend. I like Philadelphia to win at home and Philadelphia to cover minus four and a half. They've won 12 of their last 13 games and they're only giving up about 15 points a game. Number two rushing offense. The highest rush percentage in the league. So Jalen hurts. Concussion protocol. They should be able to keep it on the ground. Jalen hurts. By the way he gets. That's a fresh Saquon Barkley. Okay, so a well rested Saquon Barkley and the packers. They were not good against good teams.05 this year against the Vikings, Lions and Eagles.2 and 5 against playoff teams this year. Green Bay is a bit of a front runner, a bit of a bully. I don't like him in this spot. They also were second in the NFL and drops. So they're a young team that can make mistakes. I like Philadelphia. Jalen hurts since week four has been great. 33 to 24 commanders at Buccaneers. I think Tampa is the better team here. I'm going to take a favorite minus three at home. Veteran quarterback with a real run game and a better defensive front. Do you know Tampa's the first NFL offense in league history with a 70 plus percent completion percentage through the air and 5 plus yards per carry. This is a daunting run attack. So Baker is going to be throwing on second and five and third and two and Baker right now leaves the NFL with 15 touchdown passes over the last four games. So Baker's hot. The run game is substantial. And listen, we like the Commanders. They are down in the fourth quarter. It feels like even in the games they win. I mean their most famous win this year was a Hail Mary. They've trailed in the fourth in three straight games. They don't have a run game. They're going to be totally Jaden Daniels depending and he may pull it out. But they had the second easiest NFL schedule this year. This is a tough draw. I like Tampa to win and Tampa to cover. 33 to 24. Vikings and Rams. It's hard. The more I thought I listened to Greg Cosell yesterday. I'm going to take the Rams plus two and a half. Listen, they won five straight games before resting their starters in week 18 and they're six and one when they score over 21 points and I think they will. Matt Stafford has been a very good playoff quarterback in LA. 69.9% completion percentage with a lot of touchdowns and only three picks. Their defense is on fire. It's young. It's totally healthy. Sam Darnold's making his playoff debut. It's a road game. I'm just worried I'm gonna take, by the way, the highest passing yard per game playoff in NFL history for quarterbacks Matt Stafford over Kurt Warner and Dan Fout. I'm going to take the Rams to win a close one, 27 to 24. So there you have it. By the way, DraftKings this week's new customers bet five, get bucks, get 200 in bonus bets. The promo code is heard. I'm taking some favorites here. I'm taking Buffalo, I'm taking Philadelphia, I'm taking Tampa as favorite it and I'll take the Steelers and the Rams getting points. I think JMac likes most of them except the Pittsburgh. Yeah, no, I, I think I'm in lockstep with you through all along the board. I just, I don't. I mean I guess the Z Flowers injury, he's been ruled out now. To me it feels subs he they can be limited without him. No, I mean it's Mark Andrews in a backfield like they they don't have their next number two receiver has 15 Canadian catches. Yeah. In the NFL. This isn't Penn State. It's the NFL. Without Zay Flowers. They're not going to be explosive down the field at all. And I think that makes the game a 30 to 30 game in between the 30s. Probably a good bet by you. Whether you're ordering wings for the game, whipping up a seven layer dip, or ordering pizza. There's something about football that makes me want to eat. And this football season, UberEats has the best deals for me on game day food, no matter what I'm craving. From two for one pizza. To buy one get one Wings Uber Eats. We'll be dropping new deals each week all season long. I'm in Uber Eats, the official on demand delivery partner of the NFL. Order now for game day. Terms and conditions apply. See app for details.
Bobby Bones
Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast, Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle. Between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers, and one mirror ball trophy from Dancing with a Star. So where else you can find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? We talk sports, but we talk pop culture and music and a little bit of everything. Listen to lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Jon Stewart
Catch Jon Stewart back in action on the Daily show and in your ears with the Daily Show Ears Edition podcast. From his hilarious from various satirical takes on today's politics and entertainment to the unique voices of correspondents and contributors, it's your perfect companion to stay on top of what's happening now. Plus, you'll get special content just for podcast listeners, like in depth interviews and a roundup of the week's top headlines. Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Colin Cowherd
What's up, everybody? Adnan Burke here to tell you about a new podcast. It's NHL Unscripted with Virk and Demers. Jason Demers here.
Drew Brees
And after playing 700 NHL games, I.
Colin Cowherd
Got a lot of dirty laundry to air out. Hey, I got a lot to say here too, okay? Each week we'll get together to chat about the sport that we love. Tons of guests are going to join in too, but we're not just going to be talking hockey, folks. We're talking movies, we're talking tv, food, and Adnan's favorite wrestling. It's all on Letech. Listen to NHL Unscripted with Vir and.
Bobby Bones
Demers, the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or.
Colin Cowherd
Wherever you get your podcasts. What's up, everyone? It's Justin Penick from John Boy Media, the host of the Football Today podcast with Bobby Skinner and Chris Rose. We roll three times a week on Mondays, on Wednesdays, on Fridays. Breaking down everything you need to know about the NFL. We're gearing up for the NFL playoffs. I hope hope you can join us. Join in with us three times a week. Listen to Football Today on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and you will be glad you did.
Podcast Summary: "Best of the Week on The Herd"
Podcast Information:
In the "Best of the Week" episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin Cowherd recaps and analyzes the most significant sports events from the past week. The episode delves deep into NFL performances, coaching strategies, playoff predictions, and includes an insightful interview with NFL legend Drew Brees. Throughout the episode, Cowherd provides his expert opinions, backed by statistics and personal anecdotes, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the current sports landscape.
Expansion of the NFL Season: Colin begins by expressing his thoughts on the NFL's decision to expand the season to 18 games. He states, “I don’t like the NFL expanding to 18 games. Because we already got to the 17th game...” ([02:50]). He argues that the extension dilutes the quality of competition, leaving too many backups without meaningful playtime.
Matt Hasselbeck's Insights: Discussing his upcoming interview with Matt Hasselbeck, Colin mentions, “He's got so many thoughts on this yesterday and there was only a handful that truly mattered.” ([03:15]). This sets the stage for deeper conversations about recent games and player performances.
Betting Picks: Colin shares his top NFL betting picks for the week, highlighting his confidence in the Rams' money line over the Vikings. He remarks, “I think they went outright. I can’t believe the Vikings are favored in this spot.” ([05:20]). He critiques Sam Darnold’s performance, noting, “He was 18 of 41 last night. Yeah, it was not good.” ([05:35]), contrasting it with the Rams' improved defense.
Team-Specific Analyses:
Denver Broncos and Bo Nix: Colin praises Bo Nix’s performance, saying, “Bo Nix is a right where Colin was right. I said the Broncos would double the win total…” ([09:40]). He highlights Nix’s maturity and athletic ability, emphasizing his potential in the NFL.
New England Patriots and Sean Payton: Reflecting on Sean Payton’s hiring, Colin states, “I never loved this hire,” ([12:15]) expressing his skepticism about the Patriots’ direction under Payton despite the coaching legacy.
Atlanta Falcons: Colin shares his disappointment with the Falcons’ performance, “I’ve never been right. I had him winning the division…” ([14:00]). He critiques Kirk Cousins’ tenure and the team’s defensive inconsistencies.
Los Angeles Chargers: He appreciates Justin Herbert and Jim Harbaugh’s synergy, noting, “They’re winning. And I'm happy where Colin was. Right.” ([18:30]). However, he points out concerns about their first-half offense needing improvement.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Colin discusses the Steelers' stagnation, “People in Pittsburgh want a new head coach...” ([21:05]). He laments the team's inability to evolve over the past decade.
Top NFL Teams Ranking: Colin presents his top 10 NFL teams based on college football performances, providing detailed reasoning for each ranking.
Colin welcomes former NFL quarterback Drew Brees to the podcast, engaging in a candid discussion about playoff pressure, handling performance anxiety, and coaching philosophies.
Handling Playoff Pressure: Drew Brees shares his approach to managing pressure, stating, “If you focus on the process, the result will take care of itself.” ([29:53]). He emphasizes the importance of routine and habits over dwelling on past performances.
Sean Payton’s Coaching Style: Brees praises Sean Payton, “He’s an outstanding communicator. Like his ability to order the chaos...” ([37:37]). He discusses Payton’s method of motivating players through humor and strategic communication, which fosters a winning mentality.
Playoff Experiences: Brees recounts a pivotal moment during the Super Bowl, “I launched the ball over his head... Dude, calm down.” ([41:13]). This anecdote highlights his realization to focus on execution rather than getting anxious during high-stakes moments.
Lessons on Focus and Execution: He advises players to “just execute” and maintain focus on their responsibilities, regardless of external pressures or past performances ([42:39]).
Colin provides an in-depth analysis of his top 10 NFL teams, explaining the strengths and weaknesses that influenced his rankings.
Baltimore Ravens ([30:15]):
Buffalo Bills ([32:50]):
Detroit Lions ([36:30]):
Philadelphia Eagles ([37:00]):
Minnesota Vikings ([38:45]):
Los Angeles Rams ([40:30]):
Los Angeles Chargers ([42:15]):
Cincinnati Bengals ([44:00]):
Green Bay Packers ([46:20]):
Tampa Bay Buccaneers ([48:00]):
Colin wraps up the episode by reinforcing the importance of strategic analysis and staying informed about team performances and player developments. He encourages listeners to engage with the podcast live on Fox Sports Radio or through the iHeartRadio app for ongoing sports insights and discussions.
Colin Cowherd on NFL Expansion:
“I don’t like the NFL expanding to 18 games... you had to watch one of them last night.” ([02:50])
Colin on Bo Nix’s Performance:
“Bo Nix is a right where Colin was right... Bo Nix is a right where Colin was right.” ([09:40])
Drew Brees on Handling Pressure:
“If you focus on the process, the result will take care of itself.” ([29:53])
Drew Brees on Sean Payton:
“He’s an outstanding communicator. Like his ability to order the chaos...” ([37:37])
Colin Cowherd on Rams Betting Pick:
“I think you can’t be a bad first half offense and win multiple playoff games.” ([18:30])
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the "Best of the Week on The Herd" episode, highlighting key discussions, expert analyses, and memorable insights shared by Colin Cowherd and guest Drew Brees.