Summary of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" - Episode: "Hour 1 - Are the Steelers Set Up for Success This Season?"

Release Date: July 29, 2025
Host: Danny Parkins (in place of Colin Cowherd)
Guests: AJ Persinski, Jeff Schwartz, Ben Bolan, Nick WR

1. Introduction

The episode kicks off with Danny Parkins stepping in for Colin Cowherd, setting the stage for a comprehensive discussion on current sports topics. The primary focus revolves around the Pittsburgh Steelers' prospects for the upcoming NFL season, intertwined with insightful commentary on other major sports narratives.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: A Boomer Bust or a Playoff Contender?

Danny Parkins delves into the Pittsburgh Steelers' strategic moves during the offseason, primarily highlighting the acquisition of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

• Vote of Confidence: Parkins expresses his confidence in the Steelers' improvements, stating, “I think this is a playoff team. I think this team could win a playoff game” (05:15).

• Aaron Rodgers' Impact: He scrutinizes Rodgers' potential, mentioning, “He’s objectively better than Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett” (07:42) and discusses the ramifications of Rodgers' one-year contract, labeling him as a “mercenary” and contemplating the longevity of his commitment to the team.

• Team Enhancements: The trade for John Who Smith is praised for adding versatility to the offense, with Parkins noting, “They can block for Aaron because I don't know if you've heard he's on the wrong side of 40” (10:03).

• Future Prospects: While optimistic about the Steelers winning 10-11 games and possibly clinching a playoff spot, Parkins raises concerns about the long-term strategy, especially if Rodgers' tenure doesn't extend beyond the current season.

• Coaching Stability: He highlights the Steelers' coaching consistency under Mike Tomlin, remarking, “It’s pretty much the single most unbelievable fact in all of football that in the history of the Pittsburgh Steelers they've had three head coaches” (12:27).

3. Justin Herbert: A New Peyton Manning?

Transitioning to the NFL's broader landscape, Parkins draws parallels between Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers and the legendary Peyton Manning.

• Statistical Comparisons: He presents a detailed comparison, stating, “Herbert 41 and 38 win-loss record. Peyton 42 and 38” (15:50), emphasizing their similar early careers and playoff challenges.

• Leadership and Potential: Parkins is unwavering in his belief, asserting, “I am just so utterly convinced that he's one of the best players in football” (18:10), and challenges the narrative around Herbert’s inconsistent playoff performances.

• Future Outlook: He anticipates Herbert maintaining a trajectory akin to Manning's, projecting, “I think he’s absolutely in the running for the MVP” (20:45).

4. MLB Insights: Cubs, Brewers, and the Yankees’ Challenges

Shifting gears to Major League Baseball, Parkins engages in an analysis of key teams ahead of the trade deadline.

• Chicago Cubs Needs: He identifies the Cubs' requirement for a starting pitcher, mentioning, “They definitely need a starter because if Imanaga is right and Tyon's been okay” (23:50).

• Milwaukee Brewers’ Resilience: Discussing the Brewers, Parkins praises their management and player development, stating, “The Brewers are unbelievable at finding pitchers, developing pitchers” (24:55).

• Yankees' Struggles Without Aaron Judge: He expresses concern over the Yankees' performance impacted by Aaron Judge's injury, noting, “The Yankees without Aaron Judge are a different team” (25:37).

• Emerging Stars: Highlighting Cal Raleigh’s exceptional performance, Parkins remarks, “He’s got 41 homers... he’s the best defensive player in the American League” (26:44).

5. Tribute to Ryan Sandberg: A Baseball Legend

A poignant segment honors the late Ryan Sandberg, a Hall of Fame catcher for the Chicago Cubs.

• Personal Connection: Parkins shares a heartfelt narrative about meeting Sandberg during his brother’s wedding, reflecting on Sandberg’s humility and dedication to the Cubs community.

• Sandberg’s Legacy: He emphasizes Sandberg’s legacy, quoting from his Hall of Fame speech, “Never disrespect your opponent or your teammates… the name on the front is a lot more important than the name on the back” (45:39).

• Impact on Fans and the Game: Highlighting tributes from prominent figures like Barack Obama, Parkins underscores Sandberg’s influence both on and off the field.

6. Closing Remarks

As the episode concludes, Parkins briefly touches upon other sports topics, including Luka Doncic's offseason training and its media portrayal, while reiterating the importance of team strategies and player performances in shaping the future of their respective leagues.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “I think this is a playoff team. I think this team could win a playoff game.” – Danny Parkins (05:15)

• “He’s objectively better than Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett.” – Danny Parkins (07:42)

• “We have to see how the season goes, but absolutely, you know, he's...” – Omar Khan, Steelers GM (09:55)

• “I am just so utterly convinced that he's one of the best players in football.” – Danny Parkins (18:10)

• “Never disrespect your opponent or your teammates... the name on the front is a lot more important than the name on the back.” – Ryan Sandberg (45:39)

Conclusion

This episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" offers a multifaceted exploration of current sports dynamics, with a particular emphasis on the Pittsburgh Steelers' strategic moves and the burgeoning career of Justin Herbert. Through in-depth analysis and personal anecdotes, host Danny Parkins provides listeners with a thorough understanding of the challenges and potentials facing key teams and players in both the NFL and MLB.