Podcast Summary: Best of the Week on The Herd Release Date: June 28, 2025
Host: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Introduction

In the "Best of the Week" episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin Cowherd, alongside guest John Middlekauff and co-host J. Mack, dives deep into the most pressing sports topics of the week. From NFL predictions to the evolving landscape of college basketball's influence on the NBA, the discussion is rich with insights, predictions, and lively debates. This summary captures the essence of their conversation, highlighting key points, notable quotes, and the overall narrative flow.

1. NFL Predictions and Team Analyses

A. AFC West and Key Team Projections

John Middlekauff opens the discussion with his predictions for the AFC West, expressing confidence in the Los Angeles Chargers' prospects:

• Chargers Winning the AFC West:

  "I like the Chargers to win the division." ([21:39])

Middlekauff elaborates on the Chargers' strengths, citing improved running back situations and offensive tackle upgrades. He also highlights the transformation of their defense under new leadership:

"Their defense finished almost near the top of the league, going from last to near first in one year." ([04:26])

B. Indianapolis Colts and Daniel Jones

Middlekauff presents an optimistic view of the Colts, believing that Daniel Jones can lead them to the playoffs:

• Colts' Playoff Potential:

  "I think Daniel Jones may be it. We're not talking 13 wins, but playoffs in that division may be nine for sure." ([22:12])

He discusses the Colts' robust offensive line, star backfield, and the seamless transition from previous quarterbacks like Andrew Luck and Philip Rivers.

C. Miami Dolphins and Offensive Struggles

The Dolphins are another focal point, with Middlekauff criticizing their offensive line and lack of capable backups:

• Dolphins' Issues:

  "An inexplicably bad offensive line and no backup to Tua." ([20:15])

He predicts a significant downturn for the Dolphins, attributing it to managerial and structural weaknesses.

D. Pittsburgh Steelers and Coaching Concerns

The Steelers' future is painted in a challenging light, with Middlekauff forecasting their first losing season in 18 years:

• Steelers' Future:

  "I think they're not going to be a six-win team, but I think eight is probably the number." ([06:56])

He points to their overemphasis on defense at the expense of offense and impending contract issues with key players like T.J. Watt.

E. New England Patriots and Potential Upgrades

The Patriots are discussed as a team on the rise, potentially making the playoffs with strategic coaching additions:

• Patriots' Playoff Chances:

  "I think they make the playoffs." ([30:28])

Middlekauff underscores the importance of coaching upgrades and a favorable schedule in enhancing the Patriots' performance.

2. College Basketball's Impact on the NBA Draft

Middlekauff delves into how the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations are reshaping the NBA draft landscape, favoring American college players over international prospects:

• NIL Influence:

  "The NIL has made college basketball much better. American colleges are able to go buy the best European players at 18." ([16:51])

He argues that NIL allows colleges to attract top international talent, potentially overshadowing established international leagues like the Spanish league.

Middlekauff also critiques the NBA's G League, suggesting it undermines the development pipeline by not producing well-defined players:

• G League Critique:

  "The G League was like trying to hurt college basketball and marginalize it." ([16:23])

This section highlights the shifting dynamics in player development and talent acquisition within professional basketball.

3. Untradable Players in Sports

A significant segment of the discussion revolves around the concept of "untradable" athletes—players whose value and marketability make them indispensable to their teams. Middlekauff lists seven such players, emphasizing their impact and irreplaceability:

A. Caitlin Clark (WNBA)

"Caitlin Clark isn't part of the moment. She is the moment." ([08:37])

Her influence on merchandise sales and her role in elevating the WNBA's profile underscore her untradable status.

B. Patrick Mahomes (NFL)

"Patrick Mahomes is the only guy in the last 20 years. You're gonna surpass Brady here." ([35:22])

Mahomes' exceptional talent and marketability make him a cornerstone for the Kansas City Chiefs.

C. Shohei Ohtani (MLB)

"Shohei Ohtani... he drives road attendance... he is the best, most talented baseball player in the history of the sport." ([35:22])

Ohtani's dual-threat as a pitcher and hitter cements his status as untradable.

D. The Joker (NBA)

"The world's best basketball player. The Joker." ([35:22])

Likely referring to Nikola Jokić, Middlekauff emphasizes his unique skill set and value to the Denver Nuggets.

E. Josh Allen (NFL)

"Josh Allen... he's more talented than Mahomes." ([35:22])

Allen's physical prowess and on-field performance make him a highly sought-after quarterback.

F. Aaron Judge (MLB)

"Aaron Judge is so great... he's the only guy outside of Ohtani that a casual baseball fan would probably pay to see." ([35:22])

Judge's home run prowess and marketability keep him indispensable to the New York Yankees.

G. Jaden Daniels (NFL)

"Jaden Daniels. I think he is our next superstar in the NFL." ([35:22])

As a promising young quarterback, Daniels is viewed as a future franchise player for his team.

4. Dodgers vs Padres: A Renewed Rivalry

Middlekauff and his guests discuss the intensified rivalry between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres, highlighting recent dramatic encounters:

• Rivalry Intensity:

  "This is everything a rivalry should be. We said it last year, this is not the Yankees and Red Sox. It's must-watch television." ([07:46])

They note the geographic proximity, player movements (e.g., Manny Machado joining the Padres), and the competitive spirit fueling this modern baseball rivalry.

5. NBA Player Trade Discussions

The conversation touches on potential high-profile trades, notably involving Nikola Jokić and Ja Morant:

• Jokić Trade Scenario:

  "If the Denver Nuggets called and said, we'll trade you Jokić for SGA, you would be a moron." ([40:24])

The panel dismisses the possibility of trading superstars like Jokić, emphasizing their essential roles and the detrimental impact such trades would have on team dynamics.

6. Playoff Predictions and Team Performance

Middlekauff shares his thoughts on various teams' playoff chances, often challenging conventional wisdom:

• Bengals and Joe Burrow:

  "What does he get in Indy? An offensive coach who created the start of Jalen Hurts' career. Yes, a great running game." ([17:18])

He contemplates the Bengals' potential despite recent struggles, highlighting Joe Burrow's leadership.

• Dolphins' Offensive Collapse:

  "If you have two um quarterbacks, the two things you have to have are a good old line and a capable backup." ([20:15])

Middlekauff criticizes the Dolphins' lack of offensive depth, predicting a challenging season ahead.

7. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Middlekauff reiterates his key predictions and emphasizes the unpredictability inherent in sports:

"Here are the surprise moves... Chargers winning the AFC West, Steelers having a losing record, Dolphins rebooting their strategy, and Colts making the playoffs." ([26:51])

He underscores the dynamic nature of team performances and the critical role of management decisions in shaping the outcomes of upcoming seasons.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd on Chargers:

  "They let it half SGA, got to the free throw line..." ([05:39])

• John Middlekauff on College Basketball:

  "I think college basketball is being empowered and Rick Patino... this is what makes college football and the NFL so great." ([16:51])

• Middlekauff on Untradable Players:

  "Caitlin Clark is not part of it. She is the moment." ([08:37])

• J. Mack on SGA Trade:

  "There's no way... SGA had three bad games in the Finals." ([41:57])

• Colin Cowherd on Playoffs:

  "Only one team can call themselves NBA champs. Only one player can call themselves the number one pick in the NFL draft." ([10:07])

Conclusion

The "Best of the Week on The Herd" episode provides a comprehensive analysis of current sports landscapes, blending statistical insights with passionate opinions. From NFL team projections to the unbreakable bonds between star athletes and their franchises, Colin Cowherd and his guests offer listeners a thought-provoking journey through the week's top sports stories. Whether you're a seasoned sports enthusiast or a casual fan, this episode delivers valuable perspectives and engaging discussions worth tuning into.