Best of the Week on The Herd

Summary

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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])

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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.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[John Middlekauff]

Proud partner of the Volume Podcast Network hi, it's Colin.

[Colin Cowherd]

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[John Middlekauff]

Tito Soda, one lime, lot of ice.

[Colin Cowherd]

Refreshing easy. Summer, winter, spring. Totally versatile. Always works. Listen. Baseball season's here.

[John Middlekauff]

The perfect time to kick back with some Tito's.

[Colin Cowherd]

It's what I pour. You should too. Distilled and bottled by 5th Generation Inc. Austin, Texas. 40% alcohol by volume.

[John Middlekauff]

Savor responsibly.

[Colin Cowherd]

Thanks for listening to the Herd podcast.

[John Middlekauff]

Be sure to catch us live every.

[Colin Cowherd]

Weekday on Fox Sports radio and noon to 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific. Find your local station for the [e-mail] or stream us live every day on.

[John Middlekauff]

The iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR now let's get this party started.

[Unknown Announcer]

You're listening to Fox Sports Radio.

[John Middlekauff]

Here we go, hour two. It is a Monday. We are live. And it's the herd. Wherever you may be and however you may be listening, thanks for making us part of your day. My buddy John Millercock, part of the Volume 3 Now podcast, is joining us this week. J. Mack is, I think he's doing a volleyball tournament in Scottsdale down in your home.

[Unknown Guest]

Switch spots.

[John Middlekauff]

Yeah, it's a little warm, so I don't want to be Mr. Buzz Kill. I know I. I stay off the phone right, like. But I'm probably getting crushed today because I just think we have to be honest. And I do think Oklahoma City has become another one of these teams where I'm kind of left watching it thinking, yeah, yeah, I guess they're the champ. It's roster construction, it's defense, it's depth. And I just. When Halliburton got hurt last night, it just was a gut punch. I felt so bad for him. I felt bad for me as a consumer. Just wasn't that interesting. So we do it every Monday where Colin was right, where Colin was wrong.

[Unknown Announcer]

And here we go, where Colin was right.

[John Middlekauff]

I said last week five things I trust will happen in game seven. And they mostly did. Oklahoma City's defense was great. Rick Carlisle's coaching, I mean, they let it half SGA, got to the free throw line and OKC's bench was very good. Young benches usually are at home. So I think this game, Game seven, I don't know who would have won without Halliburton's injury, but I thought it was a fairly predictable sequence of events that would occur regardless of the winner.

[Unknown Announcer]

Where Colin was raw.

[John Middlekauff]

I don't trust young playoff teams. In fact, the bubble is the only time in my adult life where young teams flourished. And I had my questions about okc. Yeah, they'll be great in the regular season. And they ended up being a very mediocre road playoff, but they remained healthy. They were good at home. They won the games they had to against Indy and Denver. And so I didn't know if this team was going to win. I kept being told, colin, they're going to mow through the West. Well, they didn't mow through Indiana and they didn't mow through Denver. But I'll take a wrong where Colin was right, Kevin Durant to the Rockets. To me, this was the obvious fit. You know, Houston didn't have to give up a second first round pick and now Phoenix is sort of ball centric guard heavy. So I don't know what it looks like for Phoenix but I I do think he works here and The Suns were 3 and 17 when he didn't play. He's a get a bucket guy. He's agreeable, he can catch and shoot it. He's got length now. He's going to give you about 60, 65 games but because of the construct of the Rockets roster that's going to be okay. So I I like the move for.

[Unknown Announcer]

KD where Colin was raw.

[John Middlekauff]

Team USA how about this? Plus 7 point differential number one in the gold cup so far. Surprising because I think without pulisic and Weston McKinney they lack creativity in the midfield but they're the highest scoring team right now in the Gold Cup. What's interesting is we don't know what we're doing in goal which is usually our strength as a country. They were distracted and kind of, to be honest, reeling before the Gold Cup. So I am surprised as the competition ratcheted up that they've scored and been.

[Unknown Announcer]

This competent where Colin was right.

[John Middlekauff]

Well, multiple sources in an ESPN story reported around the NBA. The Lakers selling to Mark Walter was going to help the Lakers become what I've been preaching for five years, a big time sports brand. They're very mom and pop. They're very Cincinnati Bengals with a much better brand. Very small, insular. They need a fresh set of eyes and perspective. I think this was needed and the ESPN article last week had multiple sources saying they've needed to graduate to the next level. The billionaire club for several years.

[Unknown Announcer]

Where Colin was wrong.

[John Middlekauff]

Well Shador Sanders immaturity and bad judgment. I'm selling my stock. It's not the end of the world and nobody's saying it is. But when you're a fifth round marginal prospect at quarterback, the maturity position, you can't get caught speeding twice in a week going over 90 miles an hour. You just lack the judgment and self awareness for a position, fair or not, that demands an adult and great decision making. At 24 years old he's a good quarterback prospect. He's not special. He's not great. He doesn't have a huge arm. He doesn't move like Josh Allen or Lamar Jackson or Kyler Murray. In the end I overvalued him, overlooked some of his maturity stumbles and now.

[Unknown Announcer]

Here we are where Colin was right.

[John Middlekauff]

Dodgers, Padres. We've been on this since last year in the playoffs. This is the best rivalry in sports. Maybe it is an unbelievable rivalry. They met last week. We had ejections, drama suspensions. They were throwing at each other. The managers were bumping walk off home runs. This is everything a rivalry should be. There's a proximity geographically, Machado, the former Dodger, is now a Padre. The Padres are young and cocky. The Dodgers are winners and more established. All the great things that make a great sports rivalry and that's a baseball series in June that had the feeling of a playoff series. We said it last year, this not the Yankees and Red Sox is must watch television.

[Unknown Announcer]

Where Colin was right.

[John Middlekauff]

I've talked about that. Caitlin Clark isn't part of the moment. She is the moment. Last week, Sophie Cunningham, who's been in the WNBA seven years, sold her jerseys out in a day and 350,000 IG followers by just fouling somebody hard in support of Caitlin Clark. Sophie Cunningham's been around seven years. Nobody paid much attention. Suddenly you can't keep her jerseys on the rack because she's just defending Caitlin Clark. That is the definition of a transformative basketball player. Caitlin Clark is not part of it. She is the moment. It is a Taylor Swift tour. I don't care who plays before and after. I don't care about anybody else on the label. It's all about Caitlin Clark.

[Unknown Announcer]

Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app.

[Jay]

Hi, this is Jay. I'm the producer of the Paulie and Tony Fusco show. Usually in these promos, they ask you to listen to the show. I'm here to ask you, please don't listen to the show. The hosts are two absolute morons who have the dumbest takes on sports imaginable. Don't listen to this show so it can get canceled.

[John Middlekauff]

What the hell are you doing in our studio? Get him, Paulie. Ignore that fool.

[Unknown Guest]

Listen to the Pauli and Tony Fusco.

[John Middlekauff]

Show on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Colin Cowherd]

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[John Middlekauff]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[John Middlekauff]

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[John Middlekauff]

So a lot of things going on. Rick Patino will join us tomorrow. I am told it is a very good draft. Last year was very international. You know my take on this. I think going forward college basketball players will mostly dominate the draft where it's been very internationally driven many times. And my theory is is that the nil, not that it saved college basketball, but it has made college basketball much better. Nil. Now American colleges are able to go buy the best European players at 18. And like there's there's been stories that they may consider shuttering the Spanish league because American colleges now with the NIL are buying up their best players. So they come over here and play. They get excellent coaching. Also the G League, which I've always thought is nonsense, it was like trying to hurt college basketball and marginalize it. Very few G League players. Amen Thompson is one of the few G League guys I really, really love. Most of them never kind of define their games. These finals were all about guys that went to college for at least two years. SGA is an exception. Chet Holmgren was an exception, but it was a lot of two and three year players. So I think college basketball is being empowered and and Rick Patino. We will talk about the draft. It is Rutger guys and it's Arizona guys and it's Duke guys and I think that helps the NBA. That's what makes college football in the NFL. So great is the marriage is that you you're rooting for against Baker Mayfield, but you know who he is. You're viscerally connected to Baker Mayfield or Caleb Williams. You may not like Lincoln Riley, but you were interested in Caleb Williams because of Lincoln Riley and these college guys, there's just, you know, they're either not, they're going international, they're going G League, they're going to play college basketball. You're going to see them at least one year in March. But like a Zach Edie Purdue can pony up some money and he can stay another year. And I was interested to watch Zach Edie last year in college basketball if Purdue was on I was watching so I think this is going to empower college basketball. The drafts going forward are going to be more. It's not that they're going to be more domestic but there's going to be higher quality, more mature players like Cooper flag that can help you immediately. And I think Cooper flag with that great back front line for Dallas I think he comes in averages 18 a game. They're a playoff team. I think Dallas of healthy will be the second best team in the west next year. It'll go you know OKC Houston and Dallas could be very good. John, you're looking at me. You ready to go?

[Unknown Guest]

I'm ready.

[John Middlekauff]

Okay. I'm just gabfest over here. So we're going to do AFC today, we're going to do NFC tomorrow. These are our surprises. These would be surprising moves and big headlines if they happen all start. I think Kansas City is a wild card team and Jim Harbaugh and the Chargers now they have their running back situation and offensive tackle set upgraded receiver. Last year the only thing they were missing was juice. Offensively their defense finish almost near the top of the league. It went from last to near first in one year. They, they built the culture last year but free agency and a draft and you know, you know Harbaugh is good at the draft. I think they're going to be one of the better teams in the league. I think they're an 1112 win team and the Chiefs come into the season which would concern me with offensive line issues. So I like the Chargers to win the division.

[Unknown Guest]

You're going to think I'm nuts. Daniel Jones leads the Colts to the playoffs. This race is over. He's going to be the starting quarterb you would have said two years ago. Baker Mayfield leads Tampa to the playoffs. No chance. Last year Sam Darnold leads the Minnesota Vikings to 14 wins. No chance. What does he get in Indy? An offensive coach who created the start of Jalen hurts his career. Yes a great running game a lot like a couple years ago when he had a healthy Saquon Barkley. Jonathan Taylor almost had 1500 yards last year. The division stinks. The Jags haven't been good ever obviously the Houston Texans a lot of moving, a lot of moving parts, a lot of question marks with the offense and the Titans no depth. So when you just look at the division you look at recent high picks, who's who've resurrected their career. The Colts have pretty good players and just a couple years Ago. Lou Amaruno, their new defensive coordinator, one of the best defensive coordinators in the league. Did he just get dumb overnight?

[Unknown Announcer]

No.

[Unknown Guest]

The Bengals let all their players go. So I think the Colts, Daniel Jones, a little like Alex Smith when Jim Harbaugh got to the Niners. They're not going to ask them to do something. They're not looking for 40 touchdowns here. Throw me 20.

[John Middlekauff]

Interesting. Mike Tomlin. The Steelers, after 18 years without a losing record, will have one. First of all, I think Baltimore, now they've upgraded their secondary, may have the second best roster to Philadelphia in the sport. I think Joe Burrow may be the best quarterback on any Sunday in the sport. Aaron Rodgers, the quarterback, well, he was 5 and 12 last year. He didn't do well with a defensive culture in New York. There's less dysfunction in Pittsburgh, but not necessarily on the offensive side. They lost their leading rusher, their left tackle, their leading receiver. I like DK Metcalf, but he can be booty too. I just think the reality is they spend too much money on defense, not enough on offense. The T.J. watt contract extension will be hovering over their head. I don't think they're going to be a six win team, but I think eight is probably the number. Mike Tomlin finally losing record.

[Unknown Guest]

Zach Taylor seems like a good guy, but I think this will be his last season in Cincinnati. The Bengals will have a new coach in 2026. This team feels like an NBA team. Star players everywhere, high price. Something's missing. I mean their star defensive player, which you kind of need a pass rusher, nowhere to be found. The guy they drafted to replace him showed up, said I'm out. I mean, classic Bengals. Joe Burrow pressure. We saw him throw a bunch of touchdowns last year, have an incredible offensive season. They still couldn't make the play.

[Colin Cowherd]

Playoffs.

[John Middlekauff]

Crazy.

[Unknown Guest]

Division's hard. We're all going to pick the Ravens. The conference is really hard. How good the AFC west is now. The Patriots are going to be much better. We think that the, the AFC south will be a little more competitive. I, I just think this Bengals thing, you could see it coming from a mile away. And the other thing, when you have Joe Burrow and you have Jamar Chase, some of these guys under contract think how desirable that job would be for some of these coaches. And I, I just think that Zach Taylor again seems like a nice guy. They always start slow and they do a lot of negative momentum. I feel like coming into this season.

[John Middlekauff]

For the Bengals and my final one. Dolphins blowout. Mike McDaniel and the GM, they went from number two scoring offense to 22 last year. Inexplicably bad offensive line and no backup to tua. If you have two as a quarterback, the two things you have to have are a good old line and a capable backup. They have neither. They overpaid for Jalen Ramsey. Now they're looking, you know, Tyreek Hill. A lot of splashy moves. I don't feel like there's a lot of stake. It's a lot of sizzle. The best teams in this league, none of them have battle lines. They just lost. Armstead just retired. So I don't like their direction. I think McDaniels, this is a team that's run through coaches. Scott Greer, don't know him, but I haven't loved the moves. I think both Greer. Chris Greer. I think Chris Greer and Mike McDaniel are gone after a. Remember, New England now is really good, potentially really good. Buffalo's winning the division. Third place gets both the GM and the coach removed.

[Unknown Guest]

Speaking of the Patriots, I think they make the playoffs. I mean, is there a bigger coaching upgrade? I mean, Pete Carroll and Mike Frable, but Mike Frable's got more to work with. Like you said, the defense stinks. And the other thing is they got an offensive coordinator to go with Drake May. Josh McDaniels, not a great head coach, excellent offensive coordinator. Patriots schedule not very difficult. I like the Patriots to be playing some games in January like old times, you know.

[John Middlekauff]

So here we go. I got the chargers winning the AFC West. The Steelers will have a losing record, probably 8 and 9. The Dolphins start over, total reboot. And then John, I don't think Daniel Jones leading the Colts to the playoffs. He made the playoffs in New York.

[Unknown Guest]

I know. And way more talent on this roster. Again, they're just looking 9, 10 wins. I'm not talking 12, 13. Could he save Chris Ballard and Shane Siken's career? Owners, you passed away recently. Obviously, the girls are now in charge.

[John Middlekauff]

I've said, you know, I think I've said this. You've heard me say this. This. I like everything about the Colts.

[Colin Cowherd]

They.

[John Middlekauff]

When Andrew Luck retired, they get wins. It was pretty good. And then they get Philip Rivers for a year. It was actually excellent. But they felt like the. The late owner had a strong opinion on the quarterback situation. And Andrew Luck leaving really illustrates how hard it is to find a quarterback. Because their O line's good. They get a pass rush. They've got nice receivers. They have a star backfield. They have maybe the first or second best guard in the league and Quentin Else. They have really good pieces. Yeah, but when Andrew Luck retired, they did a remarkable job. Wentz into Philip Rivers. They're just trying. It's a life preserver offensive situation and Daniel Jones may be it. We're not talking 13 wins, but playoffs in that division may be nine for sure. Nick right around the corner.

[Unknown Announcer]

Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific.

[Colin Cowherd]

Summer is here and you can now get almost anything you need for your sunny days delivered with Uber Eats. Now, what do we mean by almost? Well, you can't get a well groomed lawn delivered, but you can get chicken parm delivered. A day at the lake? That's a no. A Philly cheesesteak? That's a yes. A nice tan. Sorry. A box fan? Happily, yes. What about a day of sunshine? Not happening. How about a box of fine wines? Yeah, that's happening. Delivery's on its way. Okay, how about some clear skies? Nope. Well, how about some French fries? Yeah. So how about a freshly cut lawn? Can't help you there. But a barbecued prawn? Order it and it's on its way. Even throw in some paper towels. Clean up after the feast. So while you can't get fun in the sun delivered, don't worry because you can get pork buns delivered. Uber Eats can definitely get you that. Get almost almost anything delivered with Uber Eats. Order now. Alcohol in select markets. Product availability may vary by region. See app for details. At the end of the season, there's only one team that can call themselves NBA champs. Only one player that can call themselves the number one pick in the NFL draft. Well, there's only one electric SUV worthy of the title. The Ultimate. The all electric BMW ix. What I love about the IX is that it delivers legendary BMW performance. While its sleek design exudes innovative style from the inside out. Not to mention how much space and utility it provides. Over 75 cubic feet of cargo space, the IX is completely changing the game with an all electric suv. The greatest legends of sports never compromise.

[John Middlekauff]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[John Middlekauff]

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[Colin Cowherd]

Long emails, leaving all the time in.

[John Middlekauff]

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[John Middlekauff]

We did the afc. John's a former NFL scout and if you've heard our podcast at the Volume on Sunday nights and Monday morning, we like to chop it up and talk a lot of NFL. So yesterday we did our three things that would be surprises to I think a lot of people. I mean, we didn't want to go too over the top. I bought all of yours because I think Daniel Jones and the Colts could win the division. I don't think they could win the AFC West. I think they could win the AFC South. So here we go. Here are the surprise moves. Number one, this is the least surprising of any I've done in the last two days. Brian Schottenheimer is a one and done. Jerry will know by Thanksgiving he made a huge mistake. Forget the fact that Philadelphia and Washington will probably both blow them out in division twice. We've got a lot of one and dones happening now. David Cully, Steve Wilkes, Urban Meyer, Nathaniel Hackett, Antonio Pierce, Jared Mayo People liked Antonio Pierce. I mean he was the Raiders Played a lot of people tough, including the Chiefs. One and one. Happens all the time now. And as the nfc there was about a three year window to make hay in the NFC where it was kind of soft. As John's pointed out, the coaching and the NFC are no longer soft. And I think Dallas is going to be humiliated on a lot of Sundays. That's my first surprise.

[Unknown Guest]

You know, I'm going to go with the packers, win the North. I think a lot of people. Minnesota, Detroit. Minnesota, new quarter. A new quarterback, right? Detroit, two new coordinators. We don't know if Ben Johnson can coach. The packers went 1 in 5 last year in the division. They won 11 games. Their quarterback also got hurt week one, which kind of threw them off. They have one of the best offensive coordinators in the league, who's their head coach in LaFleur. Their defense last year getting halfway from Boston College was a top five unit in the league. So. And they got a lot of young players. I think the packers are going to be a force to be reckoned with. I wouldn't be stunned if they were the number one overall seed.

[John Middlekauff]

Well, here's what's interesting about that pick. I had this kind of inner conversation. I was thinking about this the other day. My problem with Green Bay is every team in the league I like has at least three elite players. Who's their best player?

[Unknown Guest]

It's a, it's a group unit.

[John Middlekauff]

It is a team unit. I mean.

[Unknown Guest]

But I love the operation, Colin.

[John Middlekauff]

It is, but I, you know, they don't get free agents, so they can't solve holes. So if they have a hole, they have to get it in the draft. Like I like their wide receivers, they saw it as a weakness and attacked it in the first round. Like I thought Jair Alexander two years ago was their best player. I don't know who he is right now.

[Unknown Guest]

I'll say this about the Packers. A lot like the Ravens. They draft and develop as well as any team they do. And their offensive line is always excellent. So to me, Jordan Love, obviously they need him to play at a higher level, but I just trust the infrastructure there.

[John Middlekauff]

Okay, you're not going to like this. Number two is Niners missed the playoffs. So first of all, they lost Dre Greenlaw, Hunga and Debo Samuel. They didn't really want to. Those are good players. The players they have now in offense get injured. They have a sub 500 record. Kyle does without Christian McCaffrey, how many games do you get? They're a sprained knee on Trent Williams. At left tackle from having a bad offensive line again. McCaffrey coming off an injured season, they were 6 and 11 last year. I think Seattle's got an excellent roster. That Rams defense only getting better. And I think the Arizona guy can coach. I don't know how great they are, but they're going to upset including the Rams. They're going to get some upsets next year. Brandon Aiyuk is still recovering. Ricky Pearsall, Joanne Jennings are ones. I think the schedule helps them but they are a key offensive injury. Christian or Trent Williams or Kittle from being a different team.

[Unknown Guest]

Yeah. I don't think you're going to like this, Colin. The 49ers are making the playoffs.

[John Middlekauff]

Okay.

[Unknown Guest]

You just talked about it coaching, right? They have one of the best coaches in the league. Oh yeah. They also added Robert Sala back in the mix.

[John Middlekauff]

Excellent.

[Unknown Guest]

D.C. they were terrible last year in one score games, especially in the division. They lost a close game to the Rams. They lost a close game to the Cardinals. They lost a close game to the Seattle all in the last final couple minutes of the fourth quarter. Christian McCaffrey is healthy. Kyle just said it a couple weeks ago. He's full. Go Trent Williams healthy. They have been a lot like an NBA team. They've been making these deep runs, deep runs and they just ran out of juice last year. It happens well, last year they've been off since January 1st, so you get extra rest. I think Brock Purdy is going to have a big year. I think Kyle has a lot to prove and I just think based on the schedule, I don't think it's inconceivable. They get 10, 11 wins.

[John Middlekauff]

The Chicago Bears will make the playoffs. First of all, I think Minnesota is going to regress. I don't think Detroit will be as good because I don't know if the coordinators are. And Green Bay could be good, but they're not dominating. They don't have dominating personnel. First of all, I think Ben Johnson's got a Sean McVeigh field. First thing he attacks is the offensive line. Sean Payton, first thing he attacks. Offensive line. Andy Reid's done it multiple times. Fix the offensive line. The Bears offensive line was awful. Some of that's Caleb, absolutely. But young quarterbacks, even Jaden Daniels, It's Cliff Kingsbury. They need a mentor. They need a king, a guide. Eber Fluss, defensive staff. Your passing game coordinator becomes your head coach. Jonah Jackson, Drew Dahlman, Joe Tuney. That's a really good guard, center guard combination. I think it's a 9 to a 10 win team. Detroit's good, not dominating because as Philadelphia showed us, you can get to a Super bowl. If you lose good coordinators and replace them with BNCs. Things get ugly by Thanksgiving. I think the Bears make the playoffs.

[Unknown Guest]

Don't hate it. Tyler Murray, he's one of the best athletes we've ever seen. Is he a good quarterback? I think this will be his last season on the Cardinals. This, this GM and head coach did not draft him. He's never won a playoff game. I don't think they're going to make the playoffs this year. How many years can you go with a high priced quarterback and not win? Usually those guys get moved. He still has value. You could put a highlight tape together just because 10, 20 plays at Kyler Murray, he's as good as anyone in the league.

[John Middlekauff]

That's right.

[Unknown Guest]

But when you watch him over the course of a game, over the course of a month, he leads leaves a lot to.

[John Middlekauff]

I don't think he can always see receivers like two was talked about because of size.

[Unknown Guest]

He's five nine but he, he can move. He's got a huge arm. I still think he'd have a market. He, he's not a bad player.

[John Middlekauff]

He, he's.

[Unknown Guest]

If anything he's a frustrating player because the talent's there. He's pretty accurate down the field. Obviously his speed is pretty special. But can he slice and dice the good teams when he has to? In the third and fourth quarter down the stretch of a season, I don't see it happening. So I would expect kyler Murray in 2026 to be in a new home.

[John Middlekauff]

Yeah, he will have a market because he's still in his athletic prime. So I have Dallas blows out the coaching staff after one year. Niners close but miss the playoffs. A little too old offensively. There'll be injuries. I think the NFC north is very even but I don't think Detroit's coaching is as good. And John has the packers win the division, Niners do make the playoffs and Kyler Murray gets moved. I, I think in over the course of two days the one that people go whoa. Is Daniel Jones makes the playoffs last year CJ Stroud pulled back. They blamed the offensive coordinator. They blamed injuries to receivers. That one, if that's the crazy one, I think that's got legs.

[Unknown Guest]

Yeah to me we've seen it in recent, you know, with Baker Mayfield, Sam Donald high picks resurrecting their career and to me the Alex Smith comp. He's going to hand the Ball off. They're going to play defense. They're not looking for 40 touchdowns. They just need like 22.

[Unknown Announcer]

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.

[John Middlekauff]

Yesterday there was, you know, sometimes you just shouldn't bring stuff up. You could be on a date, you could be in a business meeting, you could be in the back of an Uber. Like certain things just don't bring up into the conversation. There's trigger words, there's. There's things that frighten people. So Stan Kroenke owns the Rams. Great owner Josh Cronky also owns the Nuggets. Josh Cronky's his son. He's running, he's kind of running day to day. The Nuggets president, he's running things. So he was talking about, you know, this was pre draft and he had this to say.

[Josh Cronky]

Frightening for us as an organization. Going into that second apron is not necessarily something that we're scared of. I think that there are rules around it that we needed to be very careful of with our injury history. The wrong person gets injured and very quickly you're into a scenario where that I never want to have to contemplate. And that's trade number 15.

[John Middlekauff]

Don't bring that up in front of a microphone. Not for like nine more years. He's the best player in the NBA. That's one of those things don't even comply. You just gave sports talk radio in Denver four weeks of off season chatter. Broncos. And Jokic is getting traded. Like, don't say that. And I was saying this. So I was talking to the staff yesterday after the show and I said, oh, you'd be amazed how few players are completely untradable. So I have the significant seven. Cannot trade them. Number one is Caitlin Clark. Literally moved merchandise up 550% for the league. She is not only the face of the wnba, she's the greatest face, the most popular face ever. If Indiana moved off her, and I'm not joking here, I think the fan base would absolutely revolt. She's turned the Fever and the league around untradable. Number two, Patrick Mahomes. It's not that he's just talented. He's the only guy in the last 20 years. You're gonna surpass Brady here. Like, like we're serious here. Like Brady picked up the greatest of all time a long time ago, right? Like, is he the guy? Unbelievably marketable. Kansas City was swimming an average even with Alex Smith and andy Reid. A1 and Doner. Can't trade him. Most talented quarterback probably and come from behind quarterback even better than Elway. Second most untradable American athlete and a good guy. Number three, Shohei Ohtani. I'm sorry. His connection to the Pacific Rim. He drives road attendance. He is better than Babe. He is the best, most talented baseball player in the history of the sport in a market that has, I think is Dodger Stadium the biggest stadium in baseball. It's certainly close. It's like 56, 57,000. He makes Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. We live in an event era. He makes every Dodger game an event. Completely untradable. Shohei Ohtani, number four is the world's best basketball player. The joker. Listen, Denver is a football town. The fact that they have the best basketball player in the world can't trade him. I mean, best passing big, best shooting big, one of the best scoring bigs. Elevate your roster. And when your coach got fired, he became sort of a surrogate coach for the Nuggets. I mean, they took Oklahoma City 7 and they had no bench outside of Russell Westbrook. So untradeable. Number five is Josh Allen. I know he doesn't have a ring outside of Josh Allen, outside of Patrick Mahomes. Privately. If the Bills called every single team in the league and offered him, everybody except Kansas City should take him. I don't care. I don't care if it's Cincinnati. Burrow's been hurt multiple times. He is the most physically gifted quarterback in the league's history. And I was a Elway zealot. Nothing like him. 66250. All about team jumps over linebackers. He's more talented than Mahomes. He is. He's bigger, he's stronger, his arms as strong. Number five, Josh Allen. Number six, Aaron Judge. Aaron Judge is so great that if the Dodgers called and said you want Ohtani for Judge, they wouldn't do it. They wouldn't do it and they shouldn't. He is so unique. He's a mountain man. He's 6, 6, 6, 7. He's a great guy. He's by far and away, he's the only guy outside of Otani that a casual baseball fan would probably pay to see. He's got a Paul Bunyan esque kind of gravitas. Most home runs. He's already a record setter. Most home runs in American League history for a season 62. And I. And I'm serious. If the Dodgers said We'll give you Ohtani for judge. They wouldn't move off him. He is a beloved player. And number seven. You're going to think this is crazy. I think it's Jaden Daniels. I think he is our next superstar in the NFL. I thought last year was the greatest rookie season by far. He took over a laughing stock for 15, 20 years of franchise relevance, maturity, arm movement to the nation's capital. There is an argument over the next 20 years, they're going to become Kansas City in the NFC. That kid was bizarrely good as a rookie. You cannot trade him. So, J. Mac, I'm only doing seven. You're gonna bring up. I do think there's a number eight that you're gonna jump on. I'm not gonna put it in there. Who's the first one that jumps out that's not on it?

[Unknown Analyst]

Okay, so I'll throw a bunch of guys at you. We got some time here. Let me just start with the guy who just won the NBA title, right? Was the MVP of the league, scoring leader, Finals mvp. Wanted you. He's in hallowed territory, sga. I'm just going to start. Do you think he's tradable?

[John Middlekauff]

If the Denver Nuggets called and said, we'll trade you. Nice title. Jokic for sga, you would be a moron. I get six, eleven and a half. A better passer, a mountain man. The only guy in the league. Draymond Green has said in his career, wave the white flag. There is no way. Anthony Davis can't defend him. Draymond can't. SGA had three bad games in the Finals.

[Unknown Analyst]

Fine. I wanted to lay up. I don't. I would. I would largely agree. SGA is not on this list.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay.

[Unknown Analyst]

But if that's your measure, Jokic, would you do the trade one? Benyama, you do that in Harpies 21.

[John Middlekauff]

Ask yourself this.

[Unknown Analyst]

15 years of Webby.

[John Middlekauff]

Okay, okay. Wemby has already missed 40 games with a blood clot. So what? 40? Oh, interesting. That's what people said about Chris Bosh. He went from an all star to out of the league. Big guys get hurt. Blood clots for taller players do. I think Wemby's going to be great? Yeah, he's 7 4. Nobody is really supposed to be built to be 74 and play the style and pace of the NBA. I think he's going to be great. But if I told you he had another injury this year. He is 7 4. So you say. Well, Yokich is 7ft. He's 275 pounds.

[Unknown Analyst]

Well, I don't know. Caitlin Clark's hurt for the second time in two weeks. Maybe we add her to the list because of the.

[John Middlekauff]

There is no history of guards being hurt. Let's go. Joe Burrow.

[Unknown Analyst]

You're telling me the Bengals.

[John Middlekauff]

One more injury and you have to draft a quarterback in Cincinnati.

[Unknown Analyst]

Are you serious?

[Colin Cowherd]

Yes.

[Unknown Analyst]

You think the Bengals would actually trade.

[John Middlekauff]

Joe Burrow second game of the year? ACL tell for Joe Burrow.

[Colin Cowherd]

All right.

[John Middlekauff]

You are drafting another quarterback.

[Unknown Analyst]

I got a big list here. Giannis, he doesn't have injuries. So what other card are you going to play?

[John Middlekauff]

Yeah, and. And can't hit a free throw late. No, I mean does not have a jump shot. And what if they can't get out of the first round? Since his best teammates left. Can't get out of the first round.

[Unknown Analyst]

They waited 40 years after Jabbar to win a title. Giannis brought it to him. He makes them relevant and you get.

[John Middlekauff]

Out of the first round in the East.

[Unknown Analyst]

Let me hit you with Lamar Jackson, who's kind of a divisive player.

[John Middlekauff]

Josh Allen has lost playoff games but has played brilliantly. The criticism of Lamar is totally fair. He has struggled in the postseason. If Buffalo called today and said, hey, Baltimore, you want Josh? You make the deal immediately. You may, and I love Lamar. You make the deal immediately. Immediately.

[Colin Cowherd]

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[John Middlekauff]

Okay.

[Colin Cowherd]

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[John Middlekauff]

There's a reason it's the number one.

[Colin Cowherd]

Men'S antiperspirant and it's back in Walmart, Target and other stores now for under four bucks. So try and see what the fuss is about. Head to your local Walmart or Target to try the OG degree Cool Rush for yourself. Every once in a while, you get the chance to make a real difference, and this is one of those moments. Folds of Honor provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled military members and first responders. It's a powerful mission, honoring their sacrifice through the Gift of Education. But last year, about 7,000 qualified students didn't receive funding, and that number is expected to grow to nearly 10,000. Don't let financial needs stand in the way of their future. Visit foldsofhonor.org to donate. Any amount helps. Together, we can close that gap one scholarship at a time.

[John Middlekauff]

This is an iHeart podcast.