Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Episode: Reaction to Rory McIlroy Winning The Masters, Shedeur Sanders to Saints?
Release Date: April 14, 2025

1. Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin Cowherd delves into two major sports topics: Rory McIlroy's dramatic victory at The Masters and the potential move of Shedeur Sanders to the New Orleans Saints. The discussion provides in-depth analysis, personal insights, and expert opinions, making it a comprehensive listen for sports enthusiasts.

2. Rory McIlroy’s Masters Victory

Colin Cowherd opens the conversation with an emotional reflection on Rory McIlroy's performance at The Masters. Having recently clinched the title, McIlroy's journey through the tournament became a focal point of discussion.

• Emotional Investment:
  "I'm off vacay, and I can't remember the last two days of a golf tournament where I was more emotionally vested in a golfer than Rory McIlroy..."
  [02:02] Colin Cowherd

• Vulnerability and Relatability:
  Colin and guest John Middlekoff highlight Rory's human side, noting his mistakes and how they make him more watchable and likable.
  "What makes Rory so likable is that he is vulnerable..."
  [02:08] Colin Cowherd

• Performance Analysis:
  They dissect Rory's performance, acknowledging both his spectacular shots and unexpected errors, such as his double bogeys and shots into the water.
  "He had a couple shots that are like the most incredible shots in the history of Masters..."
  [04:24] John Middlekoff

• Comparison with Peers:
  Rory's resilience is compared to legends like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, emphasizing his ability to bounce back under pressure.
  "If Tiger led by five strokes going into Sunday, it was over... Rory ends up going to a playoff."
  [05:25] Colin Cowherd

• Future Prospects:
  Colin expresses optimism about Rory's future, suggesting that if he maintains his drive and focus, he could achieve historic success.
  "He's playing by far the best in the world right now by a pretty wide margin."
  [09:30] Colin Cowherd

3. Shedeur Sanders and Potential Move to the Saints

Transitioning from golf to football, Colin discusses the burgeoning situation surrounding Shedeur Sanders and his possible move to the New Orleans Saints.

• Aaron Rodgers Speculation:
  Colin touches upon the ongoing speculation about Aaron Rodgers potentially joining the Saints, analyzing the dynamics and challenges involved.
  "If Aaron wanted to sign, he would... But I don't know what Pittsburgh is even offering."
  [33:06] John Middlekoff

• Shedeur Sanders' Performance and Prospects:
  The conversation shifts to Shedeur Sanders, addressing his performance, injury concerns, and the broader implications for his NFL career.
  "We should be examining what our government spends its money on and are these jobs necessary..."
  [30:03] Colin Cowherd

• NFL Draft Insights:
  Colin and John debate the quality of the current NFL draft class, particularly focusing on quarterback prospects and the challenges teams face in selecting the right talent.
  "This kid is talented, but he doesn't have the feel for the pocket..."
  [46:27] Colin Cowherd

• Impact on the Saints:
  They explore how Sanders' potential move could affect the Saints' dynamics, team performance, and future strategies.
  "Minnesota definitely is still on the table... So I think if he keeps it down like Jordan or Tiger or Brady..."
  [10:01] Colin Cowherd

4. Golf Industry and PGA Tour vs. LIV Dispute

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the ongoing tensions between the PGA Tour and the newly formed LIV Golf, highlighting the financial and brand implications for the sport.

• Financial Stakes and Egos:
  John Middlekoff emphasizes the immense financial resources at play and how ego clashes contribute to the divide.
  "They have access to a piggy bank that's bigger than any piggy bank in the history of the world..."
  [20:26] John Middlekoff

• Impact on Major Tournaments:
  The Masters' enduring popularity is partly attributed to the rivalry between top golfers from both tours, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
  "The Masters has really benefited the last couple years from LIV because these guys only get back together four times a year."
  [23:14] John Middlekoff

• Future of Golf Broadcasting:
  Colin criticizes the reluctance of traditional broadcasters like CBS and NBC to embrace LIV Golf personalities, arguing that adapting to modern influences like YouTube is essential.
  "Bryson gets more people watching on YouTube. And I just think there's a lot of bitterness..."
  [21:10] Colin Cowherd

5. NFL Draft Quality and Quarterback Prospects

Colin and John further analyze the current NFL draft class, expressing concerns about the overall talent pool and the shifting characteristics of quarterbacks.

• Declining Quarterback Mobility:
  They discuss the trend of quarterbacks becoming less mobile and more pocket-dependent, questioning the future of this style in the evolving NFL landscape.
  "You watch college football, no one plays like that anymore... Only the most athletic quarterbacks seem to survive."
  [58:51] John Middlekoff

• Shedeur Sanders’ Athleticism:
  Shedeur Sanders is evaluated based on his physical attributes and potential fit within modern offensive schemes, weighing his mobility against his accuracy.
  "He doesn't have the feel for the pocket... but he is talented."
  [46:54] Colin Cowherd

• Draft Strategy and Team Needs:
  The hosts debate how teams should approach drafting quarterbacks, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and athleticism in player selection.
  "If you ask every coach in the league next 10 years to pick a quarterback, I think they'll all take Jaden Daniels..."
  [62:39] Colin Cowherd

6. Personal Reflections and Anecdotes

Towards the end of the episode, Colin shares personal stories about vacations and lifestyle preferences, offering a glimpse into his life outside of sports commentary.

• Vacation Insights:
  Colin recounts his recent trip to the Bahamas, reflecting on his preferences for weather and urban living.
  "I like the pace of Chicago, I like the pace of Boston, I like cold weather cities..."
  [64:44] Colin Cowherd

• Socializing Through Golf:
  John Middlekoff highlights how golf has played a pivotal role in his social life, allowing him to connect with high-level individuals and integrate into his community.
  "Golf's been really good for me in this area... It's very comfortable to socialize."
  [66:50] John Middlekoff

7. Conclusion

Colin Cowherd and John Middlekoff wrap up the episode by reiterating their insights on Rory McIlroy's Masters win and the intriguing developments surrounding Shedeur Sanders and the NFL draft. The conversation underscores the intertwining of personal passion, professional analysis, and the ever-evolving landscapes of both golf and football.

Notable Quotes:

• "What makes Rory so likable is that he is vulnerable..." – Colin Cowherd [02:08]
• "He had a couple shots that are like the most incredible shots in the history of Masters..." – John Middlekoff [04:24]
• "If Aaron wanted to sign, he would... But I don't know what Pittsburgh is even offering." – John Middlekoff [33:06]
• "They have access to a piggy bank that's bigger than any piggy bank in the history of the world..." – John Middlekoff [20:26]
• "He doesn't have the feel for the pocket... but he is talented." – Colin Cowherd [46:54]

This episode offers a multifaceted exploration of significant moments in golf and football, enriched by Colin's candid reflections and expert analysis from John Middlekoff. Whether you're a fan of Rory McIlroy's artistry on the golf course or intrigued by the strategic maneuvers in the NFL draft, this episode provides valuable perspectives and engaging discourse.