Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Episode Title: Colin Cowherd Podcast - College Football Reaction: Does Ohio State Need A Coaching Change? USC Getting WORSE Under Lincoln Riley
Release Date: December 2, 2024

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin Cowherd engages in a deep dive into recent developments in college football, focusing primarily on Ohio State University's coaching situation and the declining performance of the University of Southern California (USC) under Lincoln Riley. Joined by regular contributor Doug Gottlieb, the hosts dissect game outcomes, coaching strategies, recruiting dynamics, and the broader impact of media and institutional changes on top-tier football programs.

Ohio State's Coaching Conundrum

The episode opens with a critical analysis of Ohio State's recent performance, particularly their narrow 13-10 loss to Michigan. Doug Gottlieb asserts that this game represents one of the biggest upsets in the storied rivalry's history. He emphasizes Michigan's defensive prowess, noting that despite limited passing success—"Michigan passed for 62 yards, had two picks on the road and still won" (Cowherd Podcast - 11:00)—they managed to secure victory through aggressive defense.

Gottlieb questions the effectiveness of Ohio State's head coach, Ryan Day, drawing parallels to former coach Mark Richt. He states, "I think Ryan Day is one of those guys that… he can recruit like Rick. He's a nice guy like Rick. But those Georgia teams never had an identity" (05:22). This comparison underscores concerns about Day's ability to instill a championship mentality within the team, despite his successful recruitment efforts.

Furthermore, Gottlieb critiques Day's coaching strategies, particularly his response to adversity. Referencing an incident where Day reacted defensively to Lou Holtz's criticism by saying, "Why do you care about that? Because he doesn't have a history of success" (08:30), Gottlieb suggests that Day lacks a winning formula akin to coaching legends like Nick Saban or Urban Meyer. This deficiency is highlighted by Day's inability to consistently defeat powerhouse teams like Michigan, leading to speculation about the necessity of a coaching change at Ohio State.

Media Influence and the Impact of NIL

The discussion shifts to the role of media in shaping public perception of Ohio State and Ryan Day. Gottlieb posits that media narratives often unfairly label Ohio State fans and coach Day, stating, "For a long time, there has been a media apparatus that has told everybody, Ohio State fans are lunatics" (06:10). He argues that such portrayals can undermine the program's reputation and contribute to heightened scrutiny over coaching decisions.

Additionally, Gottlieb explores how the advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements and the transfer portal have introduced new challenges for recruiting and team depth. He explains, "The transfer portal and the NIL have actually created parity… the backup left tackle is 6, 2, 3, 10. He's a center. They have one really nice draftable running back" (11:45). These factors complicate the ability of elite programs like Ohio State to maintain consistent talent levels, as star players may depart for better financial opportunities or starting roles elsewhere, leaving gaps that are difficult to fill.

USC's Decline Under Lincoln Riley

Transitioning to USC, Cowherd and Gottlieb express concern over the university's deteriorating football performance under head coach Lincoln Riley. Despite a lucrative contract and high expectations, USC has seen a regression in their gameplay and overall team effectiveness. Gottlieb critiques Riley's offensive strategies, particularly his reliance on specific play-calling that fails to adapt against stronger defenses. He remarks, "Lincoln doesn't have a draftable defensive player on this team… the quarterback, they have is Hammond Egger. I mean, he either can't read the middle of the field or they don't trust him" (17:30).

The hosts also discuss the financial constraints hindering coaching changes at USC. With a $90 million contract and substantial investments in facilities, Gottlieb asserts, "They can't buy him out. They are not going to get it" (19:18). This financial immobility forces USC to endure underperforming leadership, exacerbating frustrations among fans and stakeholders.

Moreover, the conversation touches upon USC's recruiting struggles in the highly competitive Southern California region. Gottlieb notes, "You have to recruit. If you're at LSU, at Georgia, at Alabama, you know, Florida ever got good. Now Tennessee, you're all recruiting against each other" (20:05). The intense competition for top talent makes it increasingly difficult for programs like USC to secure and retain elite players, contributing to their decline.

Broader Reflections on College Football Coaching

Throughout the episode, both hosts draw comparisons between successful coaches and those they believe are underperforming. They highlight the significance of leadership styles, recruitment efficacy, and the ability to cultivate a winning culture. Gottlieb emphasizes that coaches like Nick Saban and Kirby Smart possess a "formula that works," which contrasts sharply with Ryan Day and Lincoln Riley's struggles to achieve similar success consistently.

The impact of regional recruiting advantages is also discussed, with Gottlieb pointing out that programs in dominant conferences like the SEC have an edge in talent acquisition. He states, "Why do Kirby and Nick and the guys that win in the South win? Because they nail the players in their region" (20:45). This realignment of recruiting power underscores the challenges faced by programs outside these powerhouses in maintaining competitiveness.

Conclusion

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the discourse centers on the pressing question of whether Ohio State University should consider a coaching change amidst recent underperformances and consistent losses to key rivals. The analysis extends to USC's faltering performance under Lincoln Riley, highlighting systemic issues rooted in coaching strategies, financial constraints, and recruiting challenges exacerbated by the evolving landscape of college athletics.

Both hosts agree that successful programs require not only exceptional recruitment and resource allocation but also adaptive and visionary leadership. As college football continues to evolve with factors like NIL and the transfer portal reshaping team dynamics, the necessity for coaches to embody both tactical acumen and cultural stewardship becomes increasingly paramount.

Notable Quotes:

• Doug Gottlieb [05:22]: "Ryan Day is one of those guys that… he can recruit like Rick. He's a nice guy like Rick. But those Georgia teams never had an identity."

• Doug Gottlieb [08:30]: "Why do you care about that? Because he doesn't have a history of success."

• Doug Gottlieb [11:45]: "The transfer portal and the NIL have actually created parity… the backup left tackle is 6, 2, 3, 10. He's a center. They have one really nice draftable running back."

• Doug Gottlieb [17:30]: "Lincoln doesn't have a draftable defensive player on this team… the quarterback, they have is Hammond Egger. I mean, he either can't read the middle of the field or they don't trust him."

• Doug Gottlieb [19:18]: "They can't buy him out. They are not going to get it."

• Doug Gottlieb [20:05]: "You have to recruit. If you're at LSU, at Georgia, at Alabama, you know, Florida ever got good. Now Tennessee, you're all recruiting against each other."

For listeners interested in a comprehensive analysis of current college football dynamics and the challenges facing top-tier programs, this episode offers insightful commentary and critical perspectives on coaching efficacy and program sustainability.