Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Colin Cowherd Podcast Prime Cuts - NFL Schedule Winners + Losers, Basketball Gods Gift To The Mavericks, Landing Spots For Giannis
Release Date: May 17, 2025
Host: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Description: The Herd with Colin Cowherd is a thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven journey through the top sports stories of the day.

1. Introduction

Colin Cowherd kicks off the episode by setting the stage for an in-depth analysis of the current NFL schedules and significant NBA developments, including potential trades and team strategies.

2. NFL Schedule Winners and Losers

Guest: John Mittlekoff, Former NFL Scout and Host of the "Three and Out" Podcast

a. San Francisco 49ers' Weak Schedule

• Analysis: Colin and John discuss the perceived weakness of the 49ers' schedule for the upcoming season.
• Key Points:
  • Removal of key quarterbacks like Jimmy Garoppolo and C.J. Stroud would render the schedule the weakest in over a decade.
  • Comparison to the 2015 Atlanta Falcons' schedule, noting it as the weakest in the past ten years.
• Notable Quote:
  Colin Cowherd [04:20]:
  “If I was John Lynch and looked at the schedule, I would sign Brock Purdy now because this schedule screams 12 and 5, 13 and 4.”

b. Impact of Kyle Shanahan’s Drafting Strategy

• Analysis: The discussion delves into Kyle Shanahan's influence on the 49ers' draft picks, emphasizing a short-term win mindset over long-term team building.
• Key Points:
  • Preference for skill players and defensive linemen over offensive linemen.
  • Lack of focus on attacking the offensive line, a crucial area of weakness.
• Notable Quote:
  John Mittlekoff [07:19]:
  “Kyle's admitted, like, we don't value offensive linemen unless we think you're like an all-time great.”

c. Kansas City Chiefs’ Strengths and Weaknesses

• Analysis: The Chiefs' offensive line issues and their implications for the team's performance.
• Key Points:
  • Replacement challenges following Joe Tunney's departure.
  • Drafting of Josh Simmons as a potential left tackle solution.
  • Andy Reid's adaptability in managing team changes.
• Notable Quote:
  Colin Cowherd [10:22]:
  “They’re now replacing Joe Tunney in the preseason like you, you need snaps. I thought Kansas City’s schedule was about as tough as the League deals to 2A.”

d. Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears Outlook

• Analysis: Evaluation of the Vikings and Bears’ prospects, focusing on quarterback uncertainties and roster strengths.
• Key Points:
  • Minnesota’s reliance on quarterback performance for double-digit wins.
  • Bears’ offensive line investments and quarterback challenges with J.J. McCarthy.
• Notable Quote:
  Colin Cowherd [16:36]:
  “This is not a defensive division. This is not the AFC North. This is the NFC North. And it is going to be a track meet.”

3. Basketball Gods Gift to the Mavericks

a. Luka Doncic Trade Critique

• Analysis: Colin critiques the Dallas Mavericks' decision to trade Luka Doncic, highlighting financial and performance-related implications.
• Key Points:
  • Financial burden of Luka’s contract at $75 million.
  • Trade outcome: Acquisition of Cooper Flag, Austin Reaves, and draft picks.
• Notable Quote:
  Colin Cowherd [28:06]:
  “Instead of 300 million, you get the best domestic prospect maybe in 10 years.”

b. Benefits of Acquiring Cooper Flag

• Analysis: Discusses how Cooper Flag complements the Mavericks’ roster with his work ethic and versatility.
• Key Points:
  • Contrast between Cooper Flag and Luka in terms of skills and team fit.
  • Potential synergy with Anthony Davis.
• Notable Quote:
  Unknown Guest [33:19]:
  “He’s such a natural fit next to Anthony Davis, which I really like.”

4. Landing Spots for Giannis Antetokounmpo

a. Potential Trade Destinations

• Analysis: Exploration of possible teams Giannis could be traded to, focusing on strategic fits.
• Key Points:
  • San Antonio Spurs as the ideal destination, offering draft picks and young prospects.
  • Houston Rockets as a backup option with their need for shooting.
  • Oklahoma City Thunder and their potential to build a powerhouse around Giannis.
• Notable Quote:
  Colin Cowherd [33:19]:
  “They can give Milwaukee both picks and like a really intriguing young prospect like Stefan Castle.”

b. Strategic Fit and Team Dynamics

• Analysis: How Giannis would fit with teams like San Antonio, including complementary players like Victor Wembanyama.
• Key Points:
  • Enhanced defensive capabilities with Wembanyama complementing Giannis.
  • Potential pairings with De’Aaron Fox for effective ball handling and offense.
• Notable Quote:
  Unknown Guest [33:21]:
  “Giannis probably isn't the perfect fit.”

5. NBA Playoffs and College Basketball Reflections

a. Excitement for the Playoffs

• Analysis: Colin shares his enthusiasm for the NBA playoffs, highlighting the drama and high-stakes performances of stars like Steph Curry and LeBron James.
• Key Points:
  • Comparison of regular-season grind to the playoff excitement.
  • Impact of veteran presence on playoff success.
• Notable Quote:
  Colin Cowherd [21:55]:
  “I just love it... if San Antonio wins, Stefan Castle, Wemby, Cooper Flag.”

b. Importance of College Basketball Experience

• Analysis: Discussion on how collegiate play, especially with NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) changes, prepares players better than the G League.
• Key Points:
  • Advantages of playing in high-pressure college environments.
  • Collegiate coaching and competition vs. G League and international play.
• Notable Quote:
  Unknown Guest [38:18]:
  “I think college basketball has been a bit marginalized by the league.”

c. Impact of Collegiate Experience on NBA Performance

• Analysis: Emphasis on how college competition fosters resilience and skill development, which are crucial for NBA success.
• Key Points:
  • Real game intensity and pressure in college basketball.
  • Development of fundamental skills and game management.
• Notable Quote:
  Colin Cowherd [39:46]:
  “The way everyone talks about them like... it's something that carries with you.”

6. Conclusion

Colin wraps up the episode by reiterating the interconnectedness of team strategies in both the NFL and NBA. He emphasizes the importance of long-term planning, strategic player acquisitions, and the impact of collegiate experience on professional sports performance. The discussions highlight the ever-evolving nature of team dynamics and the critical decisions that shape the future of sports franchises.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd [04:20]:
  “If I was John Lynch and looked at the schedule, I would sign Brock Purdy now because this schedule screams 12 and 5, 13 and 4.”

• John Mittlekoff [07:19]:
  “Kyle's admitted, like, we don't value offensive linemen unless we think you're like an all-time great.”

• Colin Cowherd [10:22]:
  “They’re now replacing Joe Tunney in the preseason like you, you need snaps. I thought Kansas City’s schedule was about as tough as the League deals to 2A.”

• Colin Cowherd [28:06]:
  “Instead of 300 million, you get the best domestic prospect maybe in 10 years.”

• Unknown Guest [33:19]:
  “He’s such a natural fit next to Anthony Davis, which I really like.”

• Unknown Guest [38:18]:
  “I think college basketball has been a bit marginalized by the league.”

• Colin Cowherd [39:46]:
  “The way everyone talks about them like... it's something that carries with you.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd provides a comprehensive analysis of current NFL schedules' impact on team performances and delves into significant NBA trade rumors and their potential ramifications. With insights from seasoned NFL scout John Mittlekoff, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the strategic maneuvers shaping both leagues. Colin's passionate commentary, supported by notable quotes, offers valuable perspectives for sports enthusiasts looking to stay informed about the latest developments in professional sports.