Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Title: Hour 1 - 4th of July Recap
Release Date: July 7, 2025
Host/Authors: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Duration: Approximately 53 minutes
1. 4th of July Weekend Recap
Timestamp: [03:00] - [14:55]
Colin Cowherd and co-host LeVar Arrington kick off the episode by reflecting on the tumultuous 4th of July weekend. The discussion centers around the rampant use of fireworks in Los Angeles, highlighting both the festive spirit and the ensuing chaos.
Fireworks Frenzy: LeVar shares a personal anecdote about a rooftop gathering that spiraled into a near-mishap when a portable fire pit ignited unexpectedly. He recounts:
“So, we put it out, but that was, that was an eventful deal.” ([07:00])
Safety Concerns: Colin expresses his bewilderment at the non-stop fireworks display, questioning the rationale behind lighting fireworks all day:
“Why people light fireworks off during the day?” ([08:03])
LeVar emphasizes the continuous nature of the fireworks, mentioning they went off non-stop from 9 AM to 1 AM:
“It was nonstop. You could hear the fireworks going off nonstop from 9 to 1 AM.” ([08:31])
Access and Availability: The hosts lament how fireworks, once confined to specific areas like Fillmore, have become increasingly accessible:
“You can get them anywhere. Like somebody's got like a trunk, then they're selling fireworks out of them.” ([09:36])
Cultural Shift: They discuss the shift from professional fireworks displays to amateur, often hazardous attempts to go viral:
“It's the dumbest thing that people do to try to go viral sometimes during the 4th of July weekend.” ([12:27])
Community Impact: Colin highlights the emotional toll on neighborhoods, recounting how community members reacted to the unexpected fire pit incident:
“A whole crowd of people... They thought that bad boy was burning down.” ([07:00])
Key Takeaway: The segment underscores the fine line between celebration and public safety, urging listeners to enjoy fireworks responsibly.
2. NFL Quarterback Dynamics: Justin Fields, Aaron Rodgers, and Russell Wilson
Timestamp: [15:00] - [41:30]
The conversation shifts to the NFL, focusing on the quarterback carousel involving Justin Fields, Aaron Rodgers, and Russell Wilson. Colin and LeVar delve into the implications of player movements on team performance and fan perception.
Justin Fields' Move to the Jets: LeVar discusses Justin Fields' transition to the New York Jets, emphasizing optimism from teammates:
“We got a team that has good bones. Personnel-wise. So it's going to take a collective belief starting with Woody Johnson.” ([30:04])
Colin remains skeptical about Fields' potential success, citing his past performance metrics:
“He hasn't really proven it. He did not show the ability to push the ball downfield at a level that moved people to have the belief that he's the long-term answer.” ([34:21])
Comparisons with Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson: The hosts draw parallels between the three quarterbacks, considering their career trajectories and current team dynamics:
“How does Justin Fields do? How does Aaron Rodgers do? How does Russell Wilson do?” ([35:10])
Team Culture and Management: LeVar criticizes the New York Jets' management and organizational culture, suggesting it hampers the team's potential:
“The team has good enough personnel where you can have success with Justin Fields as your quarterback. That's not a qualifier.” ([25:43])
Colin echoes concerns about foundational issues within the Jets, drawing a metaphor:
“It's not about the furniture. It's about the foundation.” ([30:04])
Impact on the Steelers and Broader NFL: The discussion touches on the Steelers' quarterback struggles and how it reflects on their leadership:
“It's a really bad look for Mike Tomlin and Aaron Rodgers.” ([37:26])
Key Takeaway: This segment provides a critical analysis of quarterback performance, team management, and the broader implications for NFL franchises. It highlights the challenges teams face in fostering a winning culture amidst high-profile player movements.
3. Support and Acknowledgment of Texas Flooding
Timestamp: [17:10] - [18:15]
Colin briefly addresses the recent devastating floods in Texas, expressing sympathy and promoting support efforts:
“Our hearts are with everyone affected by the Texas flooding. If you saw that over the weekend, devastating.” ([17:10])
He announces a partnership with the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country to aid flood relief, encouraging listeners to donate and support those affected.
4. Dodgers vs Astros Series Analysis
Timestamp: [45:36] - [50:44]
The hosts transition to baseball, reviewing the Los Angeles Dodgers' dismal performance against the Houston Astros during a recent series.
Series Performance: Colin highlights the Dodgers' being swept by the Astros, noting it as the worst home loss in franchise history:
“Swept at home, including an 18-1 loss, the worst home loss in franchise history.” ([45:42])
Rivalry and Fan Reactions: LeVar and Colin discuss the lingering rivalry from the 2017 sign-stealing scandal, emphasizing lasting animosity among fans:
“It's never going to go away. ... Dodger fans will never let it go.” ([47:43])
They highlight player interactions and fan behaviors, including boos directed at Astros' Jose Altuve:
“Altuve was booed throughout the entire weekend.” ([47:42])
Key Moments: The conversation touches on specific plays and controversial moments, such as questionable umpire calls and high-scoring games:
“21 Controversial, no call in the 66th minute.” ([50:35])
Impact on Team Morale: Colin recounts the atmosphere during the games, including fellow fans' reactions and the overall impact on team morale:
“Greg Tuohy trying to fist bump over here. Tough series against the Astros.” ([45:36])
Key Takeaway: This segment underscores the intensity of the Dodgers-Astros rivalry, the historical baggage from past seasons, and its influence on current team performances and fan interactions.
5. Additional Highlights
Timestamp: [41:30] - [53:21]
While not central to the primary discussions, the hosts briefly mention ongoing U.S. Men's National Team struggles in the Gold Cup and tease upcoming topics, including an in-depth look at one of sports' greatest players.
Additionally, LeVar announces a new podcast, “Up on Game,” featuring fellow Pro Bowlers and a Super Bowl Champion, aimed at sharing real-life experiences and teachable moments.
Conclusion
The episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd provides a comprehensive recap of the 4th of July weekend, delving into personal stories and broader societal issues related to fireworks usage. It transitions smoothly into an in-depth analysis of NFL dynamics, particularly focusing on quarterback performance and team management. The discussion is enriched with notable quotes and personal anecdotes, offering listeners both entertainment and insightful commentary on current sports topics.