Colin Cowherd Podcast - INSTANT REACTION: Ravens HUMILIATE Steelers, Texans CRUSH Chargers

Release Date: January 12, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd
Podcast: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

1. Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin delivers instant reactions to two significant NFL games: the Baltimore Ravens' decisive victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Houston Texans' overwhelming win against the Los Angeles Chargers. Colin provides in-depth analysis, critiques team performances, and explores the broader implications for the teams involved as the NFL playoffs approach.

2. Ravens’ Dominant Victory Over the Steelers (28-14)

Timestamp: [02:55]

Colin opens the discussion by addressing the Ravens' impressive 28-14 win against the Steelers. He emphasizes the Ravens' strategic prowess, particularly their ability to dominate the running game throughout the first half.

“Baltimore decided to just run 15 straight times against Pittsburgh over the course of the first half. And I think that's what's most humiliating is, you know, you knew that.” ([03:10])

He critiques the Steelers' offensive struggles, attributing their lackluster performance to the absence of star wide receiver Zay Flowers and the injury to George Pickens, which left their offense "lifeless."

“The Steelers offense has been really lifeless since George Pickens got hurt. He’s a tremendous talent. But it's time for the Steelers to change direction with their coaching staff.” ([04:45])

Colin highlights the Ravens' rushing dominance, noting their 300 rushing yards compared to the Steelers' meager 29 yards. He underscores the Steelers' inability to run the ball effectively, leaving them vulnerable to being pushed around.

“Pittsburgh can’t even run the ball anymore. They can’t run it. They got pushed around. They’re not innovative.” ([06:15])

3. Texans’ Crushing Win Over the Chargers (32-12)

Timestamp: [07:30]

Transitioning to the Texans' performance, Colin draws parallels between last year's financial struggles of the Chargers and their current form. He praises the Texans for their comprehensive rebuild under new leadership, highlighting quarterback C.J. Stroud's solid performance.

“C.J. Stroud was a little bit all over the map when he didn’t have Svon Diggs or Joe Mixon. But at home, he’s very good. He’s now 12 and 5 with a passer rating over 100.” ([09:00])

Colin addresses the Chargers' defensive issues and offensive deficiencies, particularly targeting Justin Herbert's four interceptions in the game, which he likens to historical playoff struggles of other quarterbacks.

“Justin Herbert had more interceptions today. Four than he had all season, three. It forces him to make plays against good teams on the road that are tough to make.” ([10:45])

He reflects on the Chargers' cultural and locker room problems, suggesting that despite having a talented quarterback, the lack of a robust offensive line and sufficient playmakers hampers their success.

“Their defense is more set than their offense. They need a running back, they need another receiver or two, they need another tight end. They don’t have enough playmakers.” ([12:20])

4. Critical Analysis of Steelers’ Coaching and Quarterback Play

Timestamp: [13:10]

Colin delves deeper into the systemic issues plaguing the Steelers, particularly criticizing head coach Mike Tomlin for lacking innovation on the offensive side of the ball. He argues that Tomlin's defensive background may be hindering the team's offensive evolution.

“Justin Fields isn’t the answer. I don’t think Mike Tomlin’s the answer. They need to be innovative and creative just because of the structure and stability of the ownership.” ([14:00])

He contrasts the Steelers' stagnation with the success of other franchises like the Ravens, Buffalo Bills, and Kansas City Chiefs, highlighting a recurring theme of dominance among a select group of teams in recent years.

“For the last five years, it’s been the same teams at the top. Baltimore and Buffalo and Kansas City and Philadelphia, San Francisco just went back a bit into a rebuild. But the Rams are good again. The Lions for the last couple years, Green Bay, it’s the same teams at the top. And Pittsburgh is not in that group.” ([15:30])

5. Evaluating Lamar Jackson and Team Dynamics

Timestamp: [17:45]

Colin shifts focus to Lamar Jackson, celebrating his role as the cornerstone of the Ravens' success. He praises Jackson's dual-threat capability and his integral presence in Baltimore's identity.

“Lamar Jackson is the identity of the team. It’s just toughness, physicality, intensity. He just feels like Baltimore is the perfect place for him.” ([19:00])

He contrasts this with Justin Fields, questioning Fields' ability to elevate the Steelers due to his performance issues and lack of support from the offensive line.

“Justin Fields has limitations. He looks for the first guy, can’t see over the line many times. He doesn’t have the elusiveness.” ([20:30])

Colin emphasizes the importance of innovation and risk-taking in coaching, commending the Ravens for their strategic flexibility compared to the Steelers' rigid approach.

“Baltimore is more innovative, they're more creative, they're more willing to take big swings and take chances.” ([22:15])

6. NFL Playoff Landscape and Future Predictions

Timestamp: [24:00]

Analyzing the broader NFL playoff picture, Colin discusses the dominance of teams like the Ravens and Texans, while questioning the Steelers' ability to compete in the upper echelon. He predicts that the Ravens, led by Jackson, are strong contenders to advance further in the playoffs.

“Lamar Jackson has won three playoff games. He’s going to go probably to Buffalo in the next round, which is tough.” ([25:30])

Colin also touches on the consistency of top teams in the league, pointing out that franchises like Kansas City and Philadelphia continue to perform at high levels, further marginalizing teams like Pittsburgh.

“The Tennessee's and your Jacksonville's and the Raiders and the Jets and the Bears, it's the same 12 teams at the top of this draft seemingly every year or every other year.” ([27:00])

He concludes by urging the Steelers to reassess their strategy and make necessary changes in coaching and player development to regain competitiveness.

“It's time to stop settling. What are we doing? You guys are just not in the same league as the top teams anymore.” ([29:45])

7. Conclusion

Colin wraps up the episode by reiterating the need for strategic overhauls within the Steelers and acknowledging the rising dominance of teams like the Ravens and Texans. He underscores the importance of innovation, strong leadership, and adaptable playbooks in securing playoff success.

“They need to be innovative and creative just because of the structure and stability of the ownership. They’re a top half team in the league, but they need to elevate to the next level.” ([31:00])

Key Takeaways

• Ravens vs. Steelers: The Ravens' formidable running game and strategic execution led to a decisive victory, exposing the Steelers' offensive vulnerabilities and lack of innovation.
• Texans vs. Chargers: The Texans showcased effective rebuilding efforts, while the Chargers struggled with offensive inconsistencies and defensive shortcomings.
• Steelers’ Challenges: The Steelers face critical issues in coaching strategies and quarterback performance, necessitating significant changes to remain competitive.
• Lamar Jackson’s Impact: Jackson remains a pivotal figure in the Ravens' success, embodying the team's physical and strategic strengths.
• NFL Playoff Predictions: Dominant teams like the Ravens and Texans are poised for deeper playoff runs, while teams like the Steelers must address internal flaws to compete effectively.

Notable Quotes

• “Baltimore decided to just run 15 straight times against Pittsburgh over the course of the first half.” ([03:10])
• “The Steelers offense has been really lifeless since George Pickens got hurt.” ([04:45])
• “Pittsburgh can’t even run the ball anymore. They can’t run it. They got pushed around.” ([06:15])
• “Justin Herbert had more interceptions today. Four than he had all season.” ([10:45])
• “Lamar Jackson is the identity of the team.” ([19:00])
• “It’s time to stop settling. What are we doing?” ([29:45])

For listeners seeking a comprehensive analysis of these pivotal NFL games and their implications for the postseason, this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers valuable insights and expert commentary.