Best of the Week on The Herd

Summary

Podcast Summary: Best of the Week on The Herd

Title: Best of the Week on The Herd
Host: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Release Date: December 28, 2024
Description: A comprehensive recap of the top sports stories of the week, featuring in-depth analysis, expert insights, and key takeaways from Colin Cowherd and co-host Joy Taylor.

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1. NFL Season Recap and Team Analyses

a. Dallas Cowboys vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The episode opens with Colin Cowherd reflecting on the Dallas Cowboys’ recent victory over Baker Mayfield’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Colin expresses skepticism about the Buccaneers’ playoff prospects, questioning whether their recent performances have cost them a better draft position.

Colin Cowherd [02:15]: "I kept waiting for Tampa to win. I feel like Tampa's better and now with Michael Penix at quarterback, they're looking like a better version of themselves."

b. Sam Darnold’s Resurgence

Joy Taylor highlights Sam Darnold's improved performance, emphasizing his growth as a playmaker despite past criticisms regarding coaching and decision-making.

Joy Taylor [04:52]: "The kid has it. He's a playmaker with a big arm, tough, and coachable. Now, can he be a little reckless? Sometimes, but I could never quit Sammy."

c. Kyler Murray’s Leadership Under Scrutiny

Colin criticizes Kyler Murray's recent performances, noting his high number of interceptions and inconsistent decision-making, leading to concerns about his leadership and reliability as a quarterback.

Colin Cowherd [04:49]: "Kyler Murray is officially out of the playoffs and has four TDs versus six picks in the last five games. His lack of size and questionable leadership are concerning."

d. Washington Commanders as a Dark Horse

The Commanders are positioned as a surprising contender in the playoffs. Joy commends their coaching changes and Jaden Daniels' unexpected excellence at quarterback, attributing their success to strategic adjustments and strong performances from key players.

Joy Taylor [06:30]: "Dan Snyder and the new coaching staff transformed the Commanders. Jaden Daniels stepped up remarkably, proving to be a dark horse playoff team."

e. Ohio State Dominates Tennessee

A detailed analysis of Ohio State’s overwhelming victory against Tennessee, with Colin expressing surprise at the defensive prowess Ohio State displayed, overshadowing Tennessee’s strong defensive line throughout the season.

Colin Cowherd [09:00]: "Ohio State demolished Tennessee 21-0 in the first quarter, showcasing an exceptional pass rush that Tennessee couldn't handle all year."

f. Chargers’ Playoff Prospects Under Jim Harbaugh

The Chargers' potential to make the playoffs is discussed, attributing their success to Jim Harbaugh’s coaching and Justin Herbert’s ability to thrive under the right guidance and culture.

Joy Taylor [11:22]: "With Jim Harbaugh at the helm, the Chargers are transforming. Justin Herbert has all it takes to be an elite quarterback with the right support."

g. Brock Purdy’s Inconsistencies

Colin critiques Brock Purdy’s inconsistency, highlighting his dependency on favorable conditions and the surrounding offensive line's performance, questioning the viability of his high salary given his performance fluctuations.

Colin Cowherd [13:15]: "Brock Purdy is an 'if guy.' Unless everything aligns perfectly, his performance lacks consistency, making his high salary unjustifiable."

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2. Sam Darnold and Derrick Henry’s Performance Improvements

a. Sam Darnold’s Pocket Movement

Joy Taylor delves into Sam Darnold’s significant improvements in pocket movement and decision-making, attributing his growth to natural development and effective coaching.

Joy Taylor [31:04]: "Darnold has become much more efficient within the pocket, making critical late-down throws with better reads and less recklessness."

b. Derrick Henry’s Renaissance with the Ravens

The resurgence of Derrick Henry with the Baltimore Ravens is analyzed, focusing on his ability to gain yards before contact and his powerful run style, which has redefined his presence in the league.

Joy Taylor [34:49]: "Derrick Henry’s combination of speed and power makes him a formidable force. His ability to gain yards before contact has given him a much-needed renaissance with Baltimore."

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3. NBA Ratings Decline and Player Criticisms

Colin and Joy discuss the troubling decline in NBA Cup ratings, with notable figures like LeBron James and Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla voicing concerns over the league’s shift towards excessive three-point shooting, detracting from the game’s traditional layering and entertainment value.

Colin Cowherd [14:00]: "The NBA Cup is down 35% in ratings. LeBron and Mazzulla agree—the game has become monotonous with teams shooting 45 three-pointers a game."

Joy Taylor [14:20]: "LeBron and Coach Mazzulla are right. The focus on three-point shooting is making the game less engaging. The NBA needs to make changes to reclaim its audience."

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4. Top 10 Herd Hierarchy: NFL Team Rankings

Colin and Joy present their "Herd Hierarchy," ranking the top NFL teams based on performance, coaching, and player impact. The rankings include:

1. Philadelphia Eagles

   • Reasoning: Strong running game with Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley, exemplary offensive line, and a balanced roster.

2. Kansas City Chiefs

   • Reasoning: Consistent performance led by Patrick Mahomes, effective coaching, and a formidable defensive line.

3. Buffalo Bills

   • Reasoning: Dominant offense with Josh Allen, minimal turnovers, and a resilient team capable of winning close games.

4. Green Bay Packers

   • Reasoning: Leading point differential, strong offensive synergy between Jordan Love and Josh Jacobs, and robust defensive play.

5. Minnesota Vikings

   • Reasoning: Sam Darnold’s stellar quarterbacking, strong coaching by Brian Flores, and a potential for deep playoff runs.

6. Detroit Lions

   • Reasoning: Comprehensive roster strength, undefeated road record, and a powerful run game showcasing physicality.

7. Los Angeles Rams

   • Reasoning: Improved defense, stable quarterback play with Matt Stafford, and strategic offensive enhancements.

8. Baltimore Ravens

   • Reasoning: Lamar Jackson’s exceptional performance, leading offense, and strong defensive capabilities.

9. Los Angeles Chargers

   • Reasoning: Top-scoring defense, solid coaching by Jim Harbaugh, and Justin Herbert’s elite quarterbacking.

10. Washington Commanders

    • Reasoning: High-scoring offense, easy strength of schedule, and promising rookie quarterback Jaden Daniels.

Colin Cowherd [17:17]: "The Philadelphia Eagles top our hierarchy with their unparalleled run game and strong offensive line play."

Notable Insight:

Colin emphasizes the importance of diverse offensive strategies, particularly the effective use of motion in the run game, which enhances play-action and bolsters passing efficiency.

Colin Cowherd [41:00]: "Motion is critical in the run game, allowing teams like the Packers to confuse defenses and create advantageous matchups."

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5. Betting Picks and DraftKings Promotions

The latter part of the episode focuses on Colin’s betting strategies, sharing his top picks for upcoming NFL games and promoting DraftKings Sportsbook. Highlights include:

• Broncos vs. Bengals: Betting on Denver Broncos with a +3.5 point spread.
• Raiders vs. Saints: Favoring the New Orleans Saints with a +1 point spread.
• Jets vs. Bills: Taking the Buffalo Bills to cover with a -9.5 point spread.
• Falcons vs. Commanders: Supporting the Atlanta Falcons with a +4 point spread.
• Ohio State vs. Oregon: Predicting Ohio State to win with a -2.5 point spread.

Colin Cowherd [54:45]: "My favorite bet of the week is Broncos plus three and a half. Denver is seven and zero against teams with a losing record."

Additionally, Colin promotes DraftKings’ holiday bonus offers, encouraging listeners to place bets with the promo code "HERD" to receive $150 in bonus bets on winning wagers.

Colin Cowherd [46:01]: "Use promo code HERD on DraftKings Sportsbook and get $150 in bonus bets when your first bet wins."

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6. Special Segments and Interviews

a. Greg Cosell’s Insights

Colin welcomes Greg Cosell from NFL Films, who provides deeper analysis on quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy, discussing their development, strengths, and areas needing improvement.

Greg Cosell [37:00]: "Sam Darnold has significantly improved his pocket movement and decision-making, making him a more reliable quarterback."

b. Sam Darnold’s Quarterback Evolution

A detailed breakdown of Sam Darnold’s enhanced within-pocket mechanics and his ability to make critical throws under pressure, highlighting his improved spatial awareness and reduced interceptions.

Joy Taylor [31:04]: "Darnold's ability to stay within the pocket and make late throws when the pocket is squeezed has vastly improved his game."

c. Derrick Henry’s Impact on the Ravens

Discussion on how Derrick Henry’s running style synergizes with Lamar Jackson’s offensive strategy, creating a formidable ground game that challenges opposing defenses.

Joy Taylor [34:49]: "Henry’s power and ability to gain yards before contact complement Jackson’s playmaking, making the Ravens a balanced and dangerous team."

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7. Closing Remarks

Colin and Joy wrap up the episode by reiterating their top team rankings, sharing final thoughts on upcoming games, and encouraging listeners to engage with their betting picks. They emphasize the strategic planning behind team performances and the importance of coaching in shaping successful squads.

Colin Cowherd [59:56]: "It’s about execution and smart coaching. Teams like the Eagles and Chiefs exemplify what it takes to be at the top of the Herd hierarchy."

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Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd [04:49]: "Kyler Murray is officially out of the playoffs and has four TDs versus six picks in the last five games."

• Joy Taylor [31:04]: "Darnold's ability to stay within the pocket and make late throws when the pocket is squeezed has vastly improved his game."

• Greg Cosell [37:00]: "Sam Darnold has significantly improved his pocket movement and decision-making, making him a more reliable quarterback."

• Joy Taylor [34:49]: "Henry’s power and ability to gain yards before contact complement Jackson’s playmaking, making the Ravens a balanced and dangerous team."

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Conclusion: The "Best of the Week on The Herd" episode provides an extensive overview of pivotal NFL performances, quarterback developments, and a critical look at the NBA’s declining engagement. With insightful analyses and strategic betting advice, Colin Cowherd and Joy Taylor deliver a comprehensive recap for sports enthusiasts eager to stay informed and ahead of the game.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Joy Taylor]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. I think sometimes talented people can be a little reckless at the position. But I could never quit Sammy and couldn't be happier for him. Colin was raw. I may have to sell some of my Kyler Murray stock. They're officially out of the playoffs and they've lost four of five. And in that stretch, he's got four TDs and six picks. Listen, I always liked his talent. There's no. There's no question that his lack of size hurts him in the pocket. I don't know if he's a great leader. I think he makes some really bad picks, especially on the move. And often quarterbacks that are mobile make some of their better throws on the move. He makes some of his worst as a mobile quarterback. So I got to take an L on Kyler Murray and that support. Where Colin was right. Listen, I had the Washington Commanders as my surprise pick. Guys, I think. Let's do Commanders on this story. Yeah, I had the Washington Commanders as my dark horse playoff team. And I said Dan Snyder, the coaching staff and the front office was so bad that literally changing everybody out was actually the right move to make. So I had the Commanders as a dark horse playoff team. I did not know Jaden Daniels. I liked him. I did not know he would be that good, but he is. And congratulations. Where Colin was wrong. Ohio State. Wow. I thought Tennessee would keep it close. I thought this would be a really good game. I watched Tennessee's defensive line all year and they got housed. That was 21 nothing with three minutes left in the first quarter. Will Howard, who struggled on the easy stuff against Michigan, was on it. I mean, Will Howard looked great. And so they finally realized that Ohio State, hey, we have NFL receivers in college. Nobody can guard them. But it was the way they hit, the way they defended. It was the pass rush. I thought that was going to be a classic, an epic one for the ages. And it was over and eight minutes where Colin was right. Chargers, Harbaugh. I said, I know they're a five win team. I'm going to pick the Chargers to make the playoffs because I think Jim Harbaugh is a top five football coach, college or pro in America. So right now they're a 98% bet to make the playoffs. I loved how they took advantage of an old school rule to kick a field goal against Denver right before half. And they use that as inertia for the rest of the game to take it over. All Justin Herbert has ever needed is the right coach and the culture to separate and be an Elite quarterback. We predicted it and it happened where Collin was right. Well, I'll accept your apologies on Brock Purdy. He's okay. He's fine if everything's right. But once again, when it's less than perfect in big spots, that late game interception in four of his last five starts, passer ratings under 100. Listen, I like him, he's solid. But I'm not paying a quarterback anything close to 50 million if you only win when everything is perfect. If you go to his last 20 starts and yes, they've had injuries, he's 10 and 10 again. Quarterbacks are trucks, they're pulling a team or tractors, they're getting pulled. I think he's the latter, which is why I'd pay him 32, 34, 35 million and nothing starting with a 5 where Colin was wrong. No, I think I'm done with it. I got one more right and that is the NBA cup was down 35% last week and LeBron James agreed with me and Joe Missoula, the Celtics head coach, agreed with me. The game has gotten increasingly maniacal, monotonous. You have NBA teams now shooting 45 threes a game. There's no layering. It's just a three point shooting contest. And again, LeBron came out and criticized the league. Joe Missoula, the Celtics coach, said, I don't watch a lot of NBA beyond my own team. Nobody's picking on the NBA. I do not want to see Wemby at 74 pulling up 11 times for threes. I don't want to see the most dynamic athlete in the league, ant Edwards, shooting 10, 11 threes. I don't care about analytics. Math does not necessarily make great entertainment. Baseball made changes. The game's gone up in ratings and attendance. The NBA needs to make changes. The NBA cup and the overall ratings right now are headed in the wrong direction. 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 so 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 Ko Vino and Rich wherever you get your podcast. And of course on social media, that's Covino and Rich. This podcast is sponsored by PayPal. We've partnered with them to make this holiday season even better. With all the shopping, gifting and holiday prep, my PayPal debit card is my go to for getting more out of my purchases. Here's how it works. I choose my monthly category Gas, Restaurants, Apparel, Groceries, Health and Beauty or just for the holiday season Tech. And I earn 5% cash back on up to a thousand bucks in the purchases in those categories. Yeah, 5% cash back this month I'm gonna go with tech. It's my category. It's a no brainer, right? Everybody loves the latest tech gifts, so whether it's stuff for the fam or adding new gadgets to my personal collection, that cash back adds up fast. So this holiday season, let the PayPal debit card do the heavy lifting. Sign up for the card when you download the PayPal app. Then pay in store and online and get cash back with a PayPal debit card. Don't just pay PayPal terms and limits apply. See paypal.com rewardspal the PayPal Debit MasterCard is issued by the Bancor Bank N.A. pursuant to a license by MasterCard International, Inc. And may be used everywhere MasterCard is accepted. What makes the holiday special are the details from Genesis, and every little detail in a Genesis is another gift to you. Like during winter, you'll be thankful for the available heated steering wheel and the available snow mode to help get you through the snowiest of snow days. And the available All Wheel drive is helpful all year round, but especially during the winter. I mean, Genesis has put a lot of thought into the details. And of course the best gifts are thoughtful ones like the available Nappa leather seating. Oh, speaking of gifts, you'll have plenty of room to haul around everything you've picked up for family and friends. No matter which genesis you're driving and with a lineup featuring SUVs, EVs, Sedans, something for everybody. Experience the Genesis Signature event. And as one big final gift, Genesis is offering you a $1,000 bonus on select Genesis vehicles. The deal ends January 2nd. See participating Genesis retailers for details. Visit genesis.com to see how Genesis can make your holidays even brighter. Details make the holidays from the Delta Sky Club. 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Simplisafe's Active Guard Protection changes the game by preventing crime before it ever happens. If somebody's lurking around or acting suspiciously, those agents can see them in real time, talk to them directly, set off a spotlight, even call the police. There's no long term contracts, no cancellation fees. A buck a day. That's it. For all that protection, Simplisafe is extending its massive Black Friday deal. You can get 50% off any new system with a select professional monitoring plan. At your last chance to protect your home at Simplisafe's lowest prices of the year. Head to simplisafecollen.com simplisafecollin.com there's no safe like Simplisafe. Uncertainty. I'm not even sure if I could describe it. Well, it almost just felt like I was. I wasn't living isolation. I stopped going to the doctor. I stopped trying to find treatments. Nothing was working.

[Joy Taylor]

Breakthrough. You couldn't imagine that anyone could be alive and have a mutation in that gene.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm Lauren Bright Pacheco, host of Symptomatic, a medical mystery podcast. Every episode we investigate the medical mysteries behind symptoms. Someone's truly baffling symptoms. Revealing how the quest for answers transforms the lives of everyday people. This is symptomatic. My name. My name is Kelly Athena. Giovanni Govak Stoner Jose Torres and for 19 years, for 15 years, for over 12 years, I suffered with a mysterious illness. I struggled with. I struggled with misdiagnoses of a previously undiagnosed disease. What an unknown disease. Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get the stories that matter to you. Here we go. Our two we're off tomorrow. Bringing everything, our herd hierarchy in. Nick Wright in about one minute live in Los Angeles. It's the herd. J. Mac went to the Lakers last night. They lost both games to the Pistons this year. Brutal. It was tough. My guy, Austin Reaves, you know, I'll defend him, but I gotta call him out. He had a rough game. Yeah. Turning the ball over like I do in my men's league. Yeah. Austin Reaves and Brock Purdy. Stop. Rough year. It was one game. Brock Purdy didn't even have a terrible year. You've been good with your picks, but some of your takes have been lukewarm at best. Are you still upset? I went after the inside. The NBA guys. I heard from more people in like the 72 hours after that than I for any story I'd had in a while. Did they call you out? They were just like, wow, dude, that was crazy. And I don't know if that's like a nice way of saying you're crazy or they're agreeing with me, but NBA's got its issues right now. All right, let's do our top 10 herd hierarchy on a Tuesday. Here we go. Herd hierarchy time is now.

[Joy Taylor]

Let's go.

[Colin Cowherd]

The top 10 NFL teams according to college. Number 10, the Washington Commanders now, highest scoring average, 29 a game. All time for a rookie starting quarterback. But they've also played the easiest strength of schedule so far this year. The teams they've played, 96 wins and 129 losses. But Jaden Daniels, three of his five touchdown passes coming in the fourth quarter. I like the staff, I like the rookie. I still think the roster's a year away. Six or seven draft picks and a free agent signing are three commanders at number 10, number nine. The Chargers have limitations offensively, but they are the number one scoring defense in the league. So they're going to crack the hierarchy. And they're 6, 0 when they score 20, when they when scoring 25 plus points, you're not going to beat them. It's hard for this team to get to 25 plus points though, lad. McConkey's been great but they've kind of got B level running backs. They don't get a ton out of their tight end position. They stay in games mostly because of their defense. Great coaching and Herbert, but I put them at nine. Chargers number eight. The Ravens. They're probably better than this but they've been a bit hot and cold. They have the number one offense. It is a run first offense back to back wins by 17 plus points. But I will say and Lamar has been amazing. He's my mvp. Leads the NFL in passer rating. I worry about them getting tight in big games. I would just be terrified if I was Baltimore. Having to open the playoffs in Pittsburgh after you just hammered him. But I have so much respect for the organization. I'll put him at eight. Number seven. But I think the Rams right now have a better defense. McVeigh, Stafford. Tyler Higby, the tight end is back. Matt Stafford over his last six games has a passer rating over 110. Nobody's getting to him. They're not turning it over in the last four weeks. Number three scoring defense. I think they're a year away, but Stafford has all sorts of time. It's the first time all year the offensive line's in great shape. They got a weapon at tight end, wide receiver, running back, quarterback and a brilliant head coach. Rams at seven. Number six, Minnesota. You know you keep. You keep waiting for the shoe to drop. Sam Darnold has 30 touchdown passes this year. He had only 27 over the previous four seasons combined. So he's playing out of his mind. I don't think they have a great roster. I think they have a great coach, a really good quarterback and a couple of outstanding young receivers. And Brian Flores right now is the best defensive coordinator in the league. So I can absolutely see them winning a couple of playoff games. Eight game winning streak. The Darnold story is comeback player of the decade in Sam Darnold. Vikings at six, number five. But I like the Lions roster better. Even with 19 defensive players, 14 currently on the iron, 19 total players on the IR, but I think they've got a better roster. They're the only undefeated team on the road. That speaks well to their run game and physicality. They're 7 and O on the road. Third straight game, over 34 points. I like them a lot, but at some point this league is a league of attrition and I have concerns defensively. Number four. That's why I put the packers at four, not because they drop the Saints. They lead the NFL in point differential nine two record. Now their losses are to Detroit, but this morning they're a much healthier team. Josh Jacobs is so Perfect for Matt LaFleur, the head coach from Derrick Henry in Tennessee to Matt to Josh Jacobs. Jordan Love, by the way, is throwing less and yet scoring more. This team is on a roll, I always say. My final four teams in the Herd hierarchy are the teams I believe that can win the Super Bowl. Green Bay's one of them at number four. Number three Buffalo nine one over their last ten. Listen, the story of this team is the defense isn't as good, but the offense is better and they don't turn the ball over. And you can't get the Josh Allen. He doesn't get sacked. Even when they play poorly, they win. Like this past weekend. James Cook has been a revelation for them for years and years. Josh didn't have a running back. Now he's got an A running back. Team is very good, can win it all. Number two Philadelphia. They lost, but Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley are the best running back, quarterback, run tandem in a long time and he got a concussion early in the game. So it's the number one rush offense, the number one or number two offensive line to Detroit. Their line play is exemplary and I think it remains the best overall roster in the league in terms of young stars, stars in their prime and older stars. Philly at two, number one. But you know, you guys can all keep denying it. They're 19 and 1 Kansas City over the last 20 games and 11 and 0 and 1 score games. Not every super bowl champ. You should have learned this from the dynasty known as the Patriots. Not every super bowl champion is physically overpowering. Those Ray Lewis teams had better players than New England teams in most years. There were Colts offenses that blew you away. The Randy Moss offense for New England never got a trophy. This team best coach, best big pressure quarterback, arguably best defensive lineman along with Myles Garrett and T.J. watt and Chris Jones. They'll probably rest him down the stretch. Hollywood Brown is back. Isaiah Pacheco is back. I have them at number one. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd. We weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific. This podcast is sponsored by Paypal. We partnered with them to make this holiday season even better. With all the shopping, gifting and holiday prep. My Paypal debit card is my go to for getting more out of my purchases. Here's how it works. I choose my monthly category. Gas, restaurants, apparel, groceries, health and beauty or just for the holiday season tech. And I earn 5% cash back on up to a thousand bucks in the purchases in those categories. Yeah, 5% cash back this month I'm gonna go with tech. It's my category. It's a no brainer, right? Everybody loves the latest tech gifts, so whether it's stuff for the fam or adding new gadgets to my personal collection, that cash back adds up fast. So this holiday season, let the PayPal debit card do the heavy lifting. Sign up for the card when you download the PayPal app, then pay in store and online and get cash back with a PayPal debit card. Don't just pay PayPal terms and limits apply. See paypal.com rewardspal the PayPal Debit MasterCard is issued by the Bancor Bank N.A. pursuant to a license by MasterCard International, Inc. And may be used everywhere MasterCard is accepted what makes the holiday special are the details from Genesis. And every little detail in a Genesis is another gift to you. Like during winter, you'll be thankful for the available heated steering wheel and the available snow mode to help get you through the snowiest of snow days. And the available all wheel drive is helpful all year round, but especially during the winter. I mean, Genesis has put a lot of thought into the details. And of course the best gifts are thoughtful ones like the available Nappa leather seating. Oh, speaking of gifts, you'll have plenty of room to haul around everything you've picked up for family and friends, no matter which Genesis you're driving. And with a lineup featuring SUVs, EVs, Sedans, something for everybody. Experience the Genesis Signature event. And as one big final gift, Genesis is offering you a $1,000 bonus on select Genesis vehicles. The deal ends January 2nd. See participating Genesis retailers for details. Visit genesis.com to see how Genesis can make your holidays even brighter. Details make the Holidays from the Delta Sky Club welcome back Ms. Klein, to the JetBridge. Delta Air Lines relies on 5G solutions from T Mobile for business to power operations and serve customers faster. Together, we're putting 5G into the hands of ground staff so they can better assist on the go travelers with real time information throughout the airport. This is elevating customer experience. This is Delta Air Lines with T Mobile for business. Take your business further@t mobile.com now. Uncertainty I'm not even sure if I could describe it. Well, it almost just felt like I was. I wasn't living isolation I stopped going to the doctor. I stopped trying to find treatments. Nothing was working.

[Joy Taylor]

Breakthrough. You couldn't imagine that anyone could be alive and have a mutation in that gene.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm Lauren Bright Pacheco, host of Symptomatic, a medical mystery podcast. Every episode, we investigate the medical mysteries behind someone's truly baffling symptoms, revealing how the quest for answers transforms the lives of everyday people. This is Symptomatic. My name. My name is Kelly Athena Girbani Dovak Stoner Zay Torres. And for 19 years, for 15 years, for over 12 years, I suffered with a mysterious illness. I struggled with. I struggled with misdiagnoses of a previously.

[Joy Taylor]

Undiagnosed disease, an unknown disease.

[Colin Cowherd]

Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get the stories that matter to 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, Uber Eats 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 will 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. Here we go. It's hour two and a Thursday day after Christmas. I hope you had a joyous holiday season. My kids are all over the country. Maybe yours are as well. But I stopped by and saw a couple of friends last night and it was so great to see everybody. I came bearing gifts, little wine, little vino. Hope you had a great holiday season. I hope you're safe. I hope you're avoiding airports as much as you can. Three really good NBA games yesterday. NFL kind of stinkers. But Saturday in the NFL, J Mac, we have three really, really good Saturday NFL games. So they move games around late in the season because of the holiday schedule. And then next week, between Saturday, Sunday and next week, early the college football games. This is the heart of great football in America. It is unbelievable. Chris. New Year's Eve, we get one of the playoff games and then three on New Year's Day. So it's, it's a banger of a week coming up. It really is. It is a banger of a week. I want to just get. I told you, I'm going to sell. I got a four point plan for the Jets. I'm going to unveil this at the bottom of the hour about 25 after. I really feel strongly about this. I watched Enigma, the documentary Gotham Chopra and Aaron Rodgers. And I said, I mean I'm. Listen, I'm a big enough nerd. I sat there and took notes and I thought to myself, you know, this Rubik's Cube is not impossible to solve. And it's actually very easy if they do four steps and I'll get to those. But first let's bring In Greg Cosell, NFL Films, 45 years, always on Thursday. So, you know, you watch Kansas City and this is what they do. They end up in January, December and January. They solve an offensive line issue. Now they've got Xavier Worthy and here's Hollywood Brown. They do a very good job. What's important to me in the media is big stories. What's important to them are the details and solving little riddles throughout the course of the season. And let's talk about Mahomes and his efficiency over the last couple of months. What's the film say?

[Joy Taylor]

Yeah, and I think, Colin, quite frankly, there's been a little misconception about the Chiefs. This is a Mahomes driven offense. He has the most dropbacks of any quarterback in the NFL going back nine weeks. But in his last six games he has not thrown an interception. And again, most drop backs in the league. So it's a pass first offense. There was a lot of talk early in the season about the running game that's kind of disappeared. It's all driven by Mahomes. They lead the NFL in third down conversions. He's phenomenal on third down. They control the ball, they're second in time of possession. And that becomes really important because when you control the pace and tempo of the game, your defense plays fewer snaps. And that is absolutely critical. I remember a coach telling me years ago that in an ideal world, you don't want your defense playing any more than 60 to 64 snaps a game. And we know how good Steve Spagnolo is. Anyway, so now you have a complete team. But make no mistake, this is driven by Patrick Mahomes. He's playing really well. What we're not seeing, and I think where people think, oh, Mahomes isn't what he used to be, is we just don't see a lot of 60 yard touchdown passes. But he's controlling the game with incredible efficiency.

[Colin Cowherd]

So you and I both like Sam Darnold. Rough start. We always saw the playmaking, we always saw the playmaking, we always saw the big arm. But he could be reckless. Is there something the film says though and this is why I love bringing you on. Is there something the film says about Darnold that he doesn't necessarily get a ton of credit for?

[Joy Taylor]

I think there's two things. And you know, Colin, because I send you my evaluations of college quarterbacks, you know I'm a traits guy.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yes.

[Joy Taylor]

So there's two traits that I think have really stood out with Darnold that we didn't see much of early in his career. It might be his natural development, it might be the coaching. We don't know that. But there's two traits. One is pocket movement. He's much more efficient and much more effective when he moves within the pocket. I'm not talking about running out of the pocket. I'm talking about moving within the pocket. As we see on this touchdown last week that won the game to Jefferson. The other thing is sort of a corollary point to that. That's his ability to stay in the pocket and make late in the down throws when the pocket is squeezed and there's bodies around him. That was something he did not do well early in his career. He made a lot of bad reads and bad throws. When he tried to do that, he's gotten so much better at that. So there are two areas of pocket play that are absolutely critical to being a higher level pocket quarterback that he's improved significantly at.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, he's willing to take a hit, play a little linebacker in high school. He's a tough kid and he'll sit in there to the very end and get smoked. And I think you nailed it. So I think what's fascinating with Philadelphia, everybody acknowledges it's a Barkley offense and Jalen throws less. But if you look at Green Bay, I'm actually seeing the same thing where it's a Josh Jacobs, LaFleur offense and Jordan Love who they like, who has excellent weapons, is throwing less. And I find it fascinating because when LaFleur was in Tennessee, you had Derrick Henry and his reputation. I remember making calls, people said, I don't know about creating a culture, but he likes to pound the ball. And it feels like we're finally seeing his offense.

[Joy Taylor]

Well, it's the year of the running back. We're going to have probably five or six backs with over 300 carries. We had none last year. And Josh Jacobs will be one of those backs barring an injury. And they start with the run game. And they're very multiple with their run game. That's the thing. You're seeing a lot more multiplicity with teams that run the Ball. Packers are a great example. All the use of different backfield actions. They play with two running backs, what we call the pony package. A lot of teams are doing this. The packers are one of the teams doing it quite a bit. And they're so multiple with their run game concepts. The way they use Jaden Reed in the backfield with different motions. So it all starts with the run game. But it's not old school run game. Colin, where you just line up and give it to the back and say, let's bang it up in there. There are very, very multiple. A lot of different formation looks, a lot of different personnel, a lot of different motions.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, it's funny about Derrick Henry. First couple years wasn't a superstar in the league. Then he develops into one. And then, then he goes to Baltimore and it's easy to say, well, you know, it's the Ravens, of course he can run it, but they replaced three starters on the O line. It seems to me that it's. It's not just that Derrick Henry's talented. It seems to me that the way they use him, it's. He's getting yards before contact a lot this year. That's what it looks like to me. He's always been good plus post contact. But what are they doing specifically to Derrick Henry who's given. It's given him kind of a rebirth in the league?

[Joy Taylor]

Well, there's no question that the Lamar factor plays into that because you have to account for Lamar in the run game. So there's no question that the way defenses have to align has to have an accounting for Lamar Jackson and that impacts run support. So it's not just as he was in Tennessee, where they would just line up and give him the ball. But I think Henry as a whole, you know, it's funny. I remember talking to a coach who was at Alabama at the time and he's now in the NFL. And I wasn't sure after two years if this was. If Derrick Henry could be what he's become.

[Colin Cowherd]

Same.

[Joy Taylor]

And I'll be the first to admit I was wrong because obviously Derrick Henry's on his way to being a Hall of Fame back. But the thing about Henry, because in a sense, he's not a power runner in that he runs over people. Colin. But he's a power runner in this sense. When it's blocked for three, you look up and he just got seven. And you go, how do you get seven? It didn't look like he got seven, but he just got seven. And then you add that to the fact that he can take it to the house for his size on any given play. And that combination is really hard to beat. But there's no question that the Lamar Jackson factor figures into how defenses have to align and therefore that really dictates run support issues for defenses.

[Colin Cowherd]

So I want to talk about a kid because I picked Atlanta to win their division and they've beaten the Bucks twice and you know, we were going back and forth on this show. Why won't they play him as Kirk Cousins was regressing and my take was they wrote a big check to Kirk Cousins and Arthur Blank probably wanted to get every start out of Kirk Cousins before they sent him to the bench because once you played Penix, you're not going to go back to Cousins. What did the debut, the debut, what about it did you like?

[Joy Taylor]

Well, you've always talked about this with quarterbacks, Colin, about coaching and I thought this was a great example. The kid's making his first start. You and I both love his talent. We know he can throw the ball. We know he can sit on his back foot and drive it with velocity. We know what his traits are. But what they did exceptionally well, you're almost seeing it on this play right here that we're looking at is they're an outside zone foundation run team with Bijon Robinson, another back by the way, who might get 300 carries. So what they did is they countered off that beautifully with the play action and the play action boot pass game. So they used their outside zone run foundation to really help Penix get comfortable in the game and define the reads and the throws. And the thing that he does really well and there's not a lot of quarterbacks who do this, he throws outside the numbers really well and there's a lot of juice on those throws and obviously he can throw between the numbers. I mean those are easier throws, relatively speaking. But to drive the ball outside the numbers, he can do that and he can just sit on his back foot and do that. He does not necessarily need to stride into those throws.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, no, he's got an arm. So this past week, on Monday, Matt Hasselbeck said something interesting. He said, said, you know, Caleb's not an anticipatory thrower. And he goes, I think you have to be in this league and some guys can develop into it. But you have been higher on Caleb even during his losing streak. There's a lot to like. Let's address that anticipatory thing because I thought Hasselbeck was willing to say it and I think it's true. I now watch him when he plays and that some guys you got to be open or I won't let it rip. What do you make of that criticism?

[Joy Taylor]

I think it's fair. And don't forget he's got a big arm. He throws a really tight spiral. The ball comes out, so at times he can compensate for that. But what the film shows is when he sees it and the primary is clean. Man, does he look good. He made two throws at the end of the first half last week. A dig ball to Moore for about 25 yards and then he threw the touchdown to Keenan Allen. And those throws were defined, they were clean, they were the primary reads on those throws. When he sees it that way, he looks really good. But I think one reason he doesn't throw a lot of interceptions, Colin hasn't thrown one in a long time, is if he doesn't see it, he's not going to throw it because he just doesn't feel it that way. Now, I don't know how Matt Hasselbeck feels. I think that coaches would say you can improve that to some degree, but you're not going to take a guy who's not an innate anticipation thrower and make him Joe Burrow. That's not going to happen. So, you know, you sort of have to work around that. But he's got really high level throwing traits and obviously we know he's got some movement ability. The other thing he needs to work on is he needs to work on moving within the pocket. And that's a totally different trait than running out of the pocket, which he can be pretty good at. He's got a feel when he moves out of the pocket. Pretty good spatial awareness because the sacks have to come down. There's too many sacks.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay. A team that's getting red hot is the Rams. It's interesting. Stafford's older and they have struggled in the first half. And I've said, you know, I was telling a friend a couple nights ago, I'm like, is it a Stafford's not warmed up thing? Does he need to get to the fifth inning? But they usually, he's not getting sacked, they're not turning it over. Finally now with Tyler Higby back, everybody's ready to go on offense. But yet it's the defense with a lot of first, second and third round draft picks that have all hit. All hit. So to talk about, because I don't know if this defense, it's really, really young, but when I watch it, I mean, this week they play Arizona and both Arizona's offensive tackles are out, so it could be a feast. What do you make of the Rams defense?

[Joy Taylor]

I really like what they've done. They've won eight of their last 10. Okay. In those last 10 games, no team in the NFL has played more with six defensive backs, what we call dime, than the Rams. That has really been their foundation. They play a ton at a dime. They play with Jalen McCullough, who's a rookie safety. They play with Kitchens, the rookie from the University of Miami. They even play what we call big nickel with three safeties a lot. I mean, this is a safety driven defense with a front four that's young and improving. And I have to tell you, when you watch Jared Verse play and we're seeing him here, his speed to power for a young player may be as good as any in the league. So this is a continually evolving defense that plays a ton of dime. That's sort of their foundation. They're getting better and better and offensively they're really another team that's really built on the run. You and I both love Stafford, but Kyron Williams, another back with over 300 carries, that's where they start their offense, with the zone run game.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. It's funny, we always think these McVeigh, LaFleur, Shanahan guys, offensive wizards or pass guys, they all love to run. The truth is, all of them, I mean, Kyron Williams, a small guy, is carrying it 24 times a game.

[Joy Taylor]

Yeah. And you know what? Motion is so critical. We think of motion in the pass game. You know, you were talking about the pass game and you're right. We think of motion being a big deal in the pass game game. It's really a bigger deal in the run game. You can almost go back to Joe Gibbs with the Washington Redskins and the use of motion to really mess up teams run support problems and how they handle the run. So motion is a critical factor in the run game.

[Colin Cowherd]

So, Greg, I don't know if I've ever told you this before. I have something, I have a belief in quarterbacks is I'll pay a quarterback 50 large if he's not an if guy. But if Brock Purdy is your classic if guy, if the weather's good, it's not raining, if he gets protection, if he has an above average O line, if he has an offensive Coach, if Christian McCaffrey is healthy, it's very much a qualifying scenario if he gets that. And to me, I'm not paying guys 40, 50 million if they're the if quarterback. I like Purdy, but when I watch the Niners, I see offensive line issues and then I see a very average player. What does the film say on Purdy?

[Joy Taylor]

Well, I guess I'd almost ask you a question. How many quarterbacks are not if guys. How many quarterbacks can be really great and carry a team without a lot of things working for them? There's probably very few, Colin, if you really think about it. Yeah. Okay, so 90% of the quarterbacks in the league would be if guys, based on your definition. So you have to separate the money. You have to separate the money from the conversation because, look, everybody knows what Brock Purdy is. Brock Purdy is not a big guy. He doesn't have a great arm. So what has to happen for Brock Purdy to be a really good player? He has to have a good O line, which by the way, has not been good this year. No, the depth of the pocket, which is controlled by the interior of the O line has not been very good. So he's been squeezed a lot and because he doesn't have a big arm, he needs space to throw the ball. They've almost had no run game this year. Maybe early in the year they did when Mason was pretty good early, but they've almost had no run game and they've got no speed right now at receiver. I think Piersol is going to be a good player, but he's a rookie who basically had no practice because of the unfortunate tragic situation. So really this is an offense that's lacking in so many areas. But you could say that about a lot of quarterbacks. I mean, we can talk about the Mahomes, the Allens, the Burrows, the Jacksons. Maybe there's one or two more I'm missing. But most, almost all quarterbacks in the league are if quarterbacks. It depends what they have around them. And right now Purdy does not have much around him. So his game is going to look like it lacks consistency at times on a week to week basis.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, interesting. The Cowboys, obviously Dak Prescott's the starter, but we, we brought stats out last week with Cooper Rush and if you, if it was a blind test, it's the same guy. Is there anything, I mean, where is Cooper Rush? Clearly not Dak. And where is he very similar to Dak?

[Joy Taylor]

Well, I think their coaching staff is doing a great job because what you see a lot with them is you see a ton of different personnel packages, a ton of different formation looks, a lot of shifts in motions. They're giving A defense, a lot to have to deal with. That was really evident in the game against Tampa on Sunday night last week, where you just saw that Tampa, they really struggled a bit to figure all this out. And therefore he was phenomenal against their blitz because Todd Bowles will blitz rush was phenomenal on third down. He was phenomenal against their pressures, and the Bucs pressured a lot. Now, he's a guy that you need to get pressure on, and the pressure must be effective, which it was not by the Bucs because he tends to fall away from throws. But one thing about him, he's been very decisive the more he plays. And I'm sure that's being drilled into him that, hey, just get rid of the football. Do not hold it. They're not going to tell him this, but the bottom line is he's not good enough to sit in the pocket and drive the football. So the ball needs to come out. And he's been doing well. And prior to last week where they didn't run well. But in the previous four weeks prior to the Bucs game, Dowdle was the second leading rusher in the league behind Saquon Barkley.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, interesting. All right, we're gonna. We're gonna end it here over the next two minutes on Jaden Daniels. I thought it was impressive that he struggled early, was trying to give that puppy away, and then in the end, he was great in the fourth quarter. And I like his ability. Andrew Luck had this. An ability, a short memory. It's about the win. Don't get caught up into your emotions. You're going to make mistakes. It's the NFL guys sometimes make great plays. I love it's an Andrew Luck quality. Herbert's got this too as well. Just. Just get the ball that drives. Done. Move to the next drive. Have you noticed that?

[Joy Taylor]

Yeah. And I like Daniels. I liked him coming out a lot because I thought he was far better in the pocket than a lot of people gave him credit for. And he's made some outstanding pocket throws this year. I mean, he made one against the Eagles, a touchdown in McLaurin for 32 yards, where he had a free hitter right in his face. And he threw the ball to the pylon. It was a spot throw. He threw the ball to the pylon at the edge of the end zone and McLaurin was 20 at the 25 yard line. It was an unbelievable throw. But, you know, obviously he led the game winning drive and I love the final touchdown drive to Crowder, which is our play of the week. Collins so we can take a look at it because this is an example of great execution, but also great coaching because they knew exactly what they were going to get from the Eagles on this red zone play. And teams tend to know that in the red zone. So you're going to see that there's an empty set here. Daniels is in an empty set. There's nobody on either side of him, so that's an empty set. Now what he's looking at, and this is what they anticipated, he's looking at a two shell coverage structure. There's two safeties. But the other really important player here is going to be Zach Bourne, the linebacker. Because very often when teams play this two shell in the red zone, they have the linebacker who kind of works the middle of the field as a middle hole player. Now these are the three receivers here, because don't forget it's empty that are key to this whole play. Okay? So what they want to do, we're going to see the route concept, which is all designed to high low Zach Bond. That's the whole premise of this route concept. So you're going to have Crowder, who runs a route behind him and Ertz in front of him, and then you have Robinson. This is critical. You must control the backside safety. That's absolutely essential on this play. So Robinson the back, of course, it's an empty set. He's going to do that with his route. So now what you're going to get as we see this go in motion is Crowder. He's going to run the bender. As we saw, he's going to bend inside away from the play side safety. And the play side safety can't chase him because at this point he doesn't know what Ertz is going to do. But Ertz is going to run the bender inside. And as I said, Bohn is the player here that they're really high lowing and you're going to see and Daniel sees this because he knows what the concept is. You're going to see Bond's body position. Quarterbacks are taught this, this look at body position. Right now Bourne cannot flip his hips to be in position to react to the bender by Crowder. So this is a spot throw. Daniels is going to throw this to a spot now, basically the N in commanders, and he's going to hit him right there. And this was just beautifully designed, beautifully executed. They knew exactly what they were going to get in the red zone. J Colin, this is the stuff I love. You know that. This is football. This is X's and O's and it's execution about as beautifully as you can do it.

[Colin Cowherd]

Greg Cosells, Merry Christmas to you, the staff, 45 years, NFL Films. It's always a pleasure to have you. We get smarter every time and thank you Greg.

[Joy Taylor]

Thanks Colin. Great holiday and I'll see you next week.

[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. This podcast is sponsored by PayPal. We've partnered with them to make this holiday season even better. With all the shopping, gifting and holiday prep, my PayPal debit card is my go to for getting more out of my purchases. Here's how it works. I choose my monthly category Gas, restaurants, apparel, Groceries, health and beauty, or just for the holiday season, tech. And I earn 5% cash back on up to a thousand bucks in the purchases in those categories. Yeah, 5% cash back this month I'm gonna go with tech. It's my category. It's a no brainer, right? Everybody loves the latest tech gifts, so whether it's stuff for the fam or adding new gadgets to my personal collection, that cash back adds up fast. So this holiday season, let the PayPal debit card do the heavy lifting. Sign up for the card when you download the PayPal app, then pay in store and online and get cash back with a PayPal debit card. Don't just pay PayPal terms and limits apply. See paypal.com rewardspal the PayPal Debit MasterCard is issued by the Bancor Bank N.A. pursuant to a license by MasterCard International, Inc. And may be used everywhere MasterCard is accepted. What makes the holiday special are the details from Genesis, and every little detail in a Genesis is another gift to you. Like during winter, you'll be thankful for the available heated steering wheel and the available snow mode to help get you through the snowiest of snow days. And the available all wheel drive is helpful all year round, but especially during the winter. I mean, Genesis has put a lot of thought into the details. And of course, the best gifts are thoughtful ones like the available Nappa leather seating. Oh, speaking of gifts, you'll have plenty of room to haul around everything you've picked up for family and friends, no matter which Genesis you're driving. And with a lineup featuring SUVs, EVs, Sedans, something for everybody. Experience the Genesis Signature event. And as one big final gift, Genesis is offering you a $1,000 bonus on select Genesis vehicles. The deal ends January 2nd. See participating Genesis retailers for details. Visit Genesis.com to see how Genesis can make your holidays even brighter. Details make the holidays from the Delta Sky Club welcome back, Ms. Klein to the JetBridge. Delta Air Lines relies on 5G solutions from T Mobile for business to power operations and serve customers faster. Together, we're putting 5G into the hands of ground staff so they can better assist on the go travelers with real time information throughout the airport. This is elevating customer experience. This is Delta Air Lines with T Mobile for business. Take your business further@t mobile.com now. Uncertainty I'm not even sure if I could describe it well. It almost just felt like I was. I wasn't living isolation. I stopped going to the doctor. I stopped trying to find treatments. Nothing was working.

[Joy Taylor]

Breakthrough. You couldn't imagine that anyone could be alive and have a mutation in that gene.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm Lauren Bright Pacheco, host of Symptomatic, a medical mystery podcast. Every episode we investigate the medical mysteries behind someone's truly baffling symptoms, revealing how the quest for answers transforms the lives of everyday people. This is Symptomatic. My name is Kelly Athena Girbra Stoner Jose Torres and for 19 years, for 15 years, for over 12 years, I suffered with a mysterious illness. I struggled with. I struggled with misdiagnoses of a previously.

[Joy Taylor]

Undiagnosed disease, an unknown disease.

[Colin Cowherd]

Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get the stories that matter to 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 will 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. All right, it's hour two. It is a Friday. Live in Los Angeles. It's the Hurt. Bring your energy folks. This is the best time. This is the best stretch of the year. Doug, last night was a stinker. It's the best stretch of the year. Say what you want. I am counting the days. To pitchers and catchers reporting. I'm all fired up. J Mac's been in a heater with his picks this year. I'll acknowledge it now. My picks for divisions and playoffs has been unbelievable. You have to look at me sometimes and think, how does coward pick division winners? Because I look at you sometimes and think, how do you always get the right team? Well, your logic is strong. Just take the best quarterback and that usually works out. But hey, by the way, four games in the NBA decided last night in the final 10 seconds, two mid range game winners. Two three point game winners. So maybe they're listening. Colin, say that again. Mid range game winners. Tyler Hero, your boy. Mid range game winner. And someone else had one and then two three point game winners. Exciting night on the hardwood. I know you were watching. Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Blazing 5. Been a rough year. What do you think? I'm going to stop doing this. Poppy, let's go.

[Joy Taylor]

That's a hot one.

[Colin Cowherd]

Let's blaze it up. Fire it up. It's Collins Blazin Five. Sponsored by DraftKings Broncos and Bengals. Listen, I think it's. It's my favorite bet of the week. Broncos plus three and a half. I get Sean Payton, a great offensive coach with extra rest. And I have the Bengals on a little shorter week. They played a Saturday game. I like Denver. They're seven and oh. Against teams with a losing record. They lead the NFL in sack differential and that matters their second meet. NFL and sacks because Burrows offensive line protection is horrid. So I think Burrow is going to be under constant duress. I think Bo Nix will have more time to throw. And remember, the Bengals have yet to beat a legitimate number one quarterback this year. It's been Gardner Minshew and Will Levis and Dorian Thompson Robinson. The Bengals defense is bad all the way around. I think Denver take the points. Wins at Cincinnati. 28, 27. Raiders and Saints. I don't. I don't bet the Saints much, but I'm going to take the Saints at home plus one. Why? Any team that gets humiliated in a standalone game usually plays with intensity, especially if they're home. They're coming off a loss. They're three and three under their interim coach and their losses have been to playoff teams. The packers and the Commanders and the Rams. Listen, the packers are beating up on a lot of people. Their defense is playing well. 10 sacks last three games. And the Raiders offense is anemic. Under 20 points in six straight games. They've trailed by 10 points in 14 of their last 15 games this year. So the Raiders get into these huge holes. I think the Saints will play with intensity. I'm going to take the Saints plus one to win 24 to 20. Jets said Bills. I took Buffalo last week. I'm taking them again. They're 70 at home. They played like crud last week and still won. The jets injury report Many of their best players are hurt. The jets are falling apart. Listen, here's Buffalo. They don't give the ball up. You can't get to Josh Allen 72 against the jets and they're taking the ball away. Meanwhile, the jets outscored in the second half again against the Rams. 13 nothing. One of six teams. One versus six, excuse me, against teams with a winning record. I think they're over their depth here. I'm going to take Buffalo to bounce back. I think it's a reasonable division game. It's not a blowout, but I'm going to swallow the nine and a half points, lay the points. 28:17 Bills winning cover Falcons at commander this feels like a J Mac. I like the Falcons plus four. It's a primetime game of two young quarterbacks. Listen, Michael Penix the the offense is different. Eight for 14 on third down. He gets rid of the ball quickly. It can move. No sacks by the Giants and the defense is actually playing well. Raheem Morris has this defense for Atlanta playing well. Third in the NFL last month with 16 sacks and they're taking the ball away. The Commanders for their last five wins have come by five points or fewer. Their defense stinks. Terry McClaurin will play, but he's banged up. The Falcons defense is playing very well. A young defense and Raheem Morris has got him playing intense football. Upset, baby. Falcons 3027 upset over the Commanders. Ohio State versus Oregon. Well, I called it before the season. I said take the Ducks to beat them at Watson and take the Bucks guys when they meet again. I'm going to take Ohio State minus two and a half. Listen, top 10 in the country in yards per play on offense and defense. Ohio State's got better players. Will Howard criticize them all. You want. Second highest completion percentage in the country over 73%. 36 touchdowns. He moves okay and nine picks. Oregon's had a long layoff. I don't necessarily love that. They could be rusty early. And Penn State dropped 37 points and almost 300 rushing yards on Oregon. I don't think you can win a natty with a bad defense. Boise State moved the ball on Oregon, Penn State, Ohio State. Ohio State's defense this season. You saw it against Tennessee. It's in a class by itself. Ohio State wins the game. I think it's going to be wildly entertaining, but I'm going to lay the points and take Ohio State 34 to 30 on DraftKings Sportsbook bet 5 bucks. Get 150 in bonus bets if your $5 bet wins. Download the app. The promo code is heard H E R D When you sign up my bets again, I'm going for a couple of ups. I think Atlanta and Michael Penix is a real thing. The rookie from Washington gets a W. I also like the Broncos and their rookie quarterback winning on the road and and I'll take. You know what? I'm going to take the Saints, the Bills in Ohio State, J Mac Any thoughts on that? Usually you have a strong Only real disagreement is I'm on the Bengals at three, but obviously that's a different line than three and a half. But overall, hey, good stuff, man. Saints Raiders. That's a that's a thriller. Oh boy. If I can endure last night's nonsense, I can take that.

[Joy Taylor]

Sounds like Saints down two.

[Colin Cowherd]

Starting offensive lineman Spencer Rattler under center, undaunted. I love it. I'm partnering with PayPal. The holiday season is here and I'm going to save big with cash back offers in the PayPal app. It's easy. I browse deals from my favorite brands, save offers in the app and use PayPal checkout online. Really, really easy. Whether I'm buying gifts for my family or treating myself to something nice, I'm earning cash back and you can too. Don't just pay PayPal check offers in the app for details and exclusions. Cashback earned as points redeemable for cash and other options, see PayPal rewards terms. 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, Uber Eats 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 Uber Eats, the official on demand delivery partner of the NFL. Order now for game day. Terms and conditions apply. See app for details. From hobby farmers to weekend gardeners and everyone in between, tractor supply trusts 5G solutions from T Mobile for Business to make shopping more personal. Together, we're connecting over 2,200 stores with 5G business Internet and powering AI so team members can match shoppers with products faster. This is enriching customer experience. This is Tractor Supply with T Mobile for Business. Take your business further@t mobile.com now.

[Joy Taylor]

This is Doug Gottlieb from All ball with Doug Gottlieb.

[Colin Cowherd]

Listen, I'm gonna get serious for a minute. The hate in our country is getting out of control. In fact, it's sadly at an all time high. But it's gonna take all of us to stop it. I mean, we're all on the same.

[Joy Taylor]

Team in this country.

[Colin Cowherd]

So let's take a break from our hate so our team can regroup. We need to take a timeout against hate. Visit standuptoallhate.org to help and join me in calling for timeout against hate by following OTs upwithhate or posting the Blue Square Emoji. As we gather together during this holiday season, let me share a gift that keeps on giving. Chase Freedom With Chase Freedom Unlimited, you'll not only experience the joy of 1.5% unlimited cash back back. But also the freedom to create cherished memories with your loved ones. Discover the magic and learn more at chasefreedom. Com.

[Joy Taylor]

And let this season be filled with.

[Colin Cowherd]

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