Podcast Summary: "Best of the Week on The Herd"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
• Description: A thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven journey through the top sports stories of the day.
• Episode: Best of the Week on The Herd
• Release Date: January 11, 2025

Introduction

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.

NFL Game Analysis and Predictions

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.

1. Baltimore Ravens: “They are a passing powerhouse and a running powerhouse…” ([30:15]).
2. Buffalo Bills: “Fewest turnovers in a single season in NFL history...” ([32:50]).
3. Detroit Lions: Appreciates their defensive improvements and coaching.
4. Philadelphia Eagles: Concerns about Jalen Hurts' concussion protocol but acknowledges their strong roster.
5. Minnesota Vikings: Highlights their red zone efficiency and Sam Darnold’s potential.
6. Los Angeles Rams: Praises their health and Matt Stafford’s leadership.
7. Los Angeles Chargers: Emphasizes their defensive strength despite offensive concerns.
8. Cincinnati Bengals: Notes their strategic gameplay and quarterback performance.
9. Green Bay Packers: Despite roster issues, Colin ranks them due to Jordan Love’s steady play.
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Appreciates their third-down efficiency and situational strengths ([48:00]).

Interview with Drew Brees

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]).

Detailed Top 10 NFL Teams Ranking

Colin provides an in-depth analysis of his top 10 NFL teams, explaining the strengths and weaknesses that influenced his rankings.

1. Baltimore Ravens ([30:15]):

   • Dual powerhouse in passing and rushing.
   • Best third-down offense in the NFL.
   • Strategic advantage against teams like Kansas City.

2. Buffalo Bills ([32:50]):

   • Record-low turnovers.
   • Strong defensive front.
   • Consistent performance under Josh Allen.

3. Detroit Lions ([36:30]):

   • Improved defensive coaching by Aaron Glenn.
   • Low passer rating allowed.
   • Effective offensive strategies despite injuries.

4. Philadelphia Eagles ([37:00]):

   • Robust rushing offense.
   • Strong quarterback play from Jalen Hurts.
   • Solid defense with key players like Saquon Barkley.

5. Minnesota Vikings ([38:45]):

   • High red zone efficiency.
   • Sam Darnold’s potential in playoff games.
   • Consistent performance against strong teams.

6. Los Angeles Rams ([40:30]):

   • Health and depth in the roster.
   • Matt Stafford’s effective quarterbacking.
   • Strong defensive unit with key players.

7. Los Angeles Chargers ([42:15]):

   • Leading defense in the NFL.
   • Star quarterback Justin Herbert.
   • Minor offensive inconsistencies needing resolution.

8. Cincinnati Bengals ([44:00]):

   • Strategic gameplay under new coaching.
   • Consistent quarterback performance.
   • Potential to disrupt playoff dynamics.

9. Green Bay Packers ([46:20]):

   • Jordan Love’s steady performance.
   • Strong offensive tackles and defensive backs.
   • Recent injuries yet maintaining competitive edge.

10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers ([48:00]):

    • Historic third-down conversion rate.
    • Balanced offense with effective running game.
    • Strong defensive strategies in critical situations.

Conclusion

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.

Notable Quotes

• 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.