The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Hour 1 - Caleb Williams at Training Camp

Release Date: July 24, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, aired on July 24, 2025, Colin dives deep into the current state of the Chicago Bears' training camp, focusing primarily on quarterback Caleb Williams and the team's offensive strategies. Joining Colin are notable guests Jason McIntyre and Steve Sarkisian, who provide expert insights into coaching dynamics, quarterback development, and broader NFL and college football landscapes.

Chicago Bears' Training Camp Woes

[03:04] Colin Cowherd:
"Two things can be true. I think he's a huge talent and I also think his critics are valid."

Colin opens the discussion by addressing the tumultuous Bears practice session in Chicago, where head coach Ben Johnson visibly pulled Caleb Williams off the field after a series of disappointing performances. Williams, who joined the Bears following Lincoln Riley from USC, has shown flashes of brilliance but is struggling with organization and execution on the field.

Key Points:

• Caleb Williams' Performance: Reports and video footage indicate that Williams has been unable to get plays right, exhibiting disorganized movements and poor footwork.
• Ben Johnson's Coaching Style: Known as a scheme coach, Johnson demands precision and discipline, similar to coaches like Sean Payton and Andy Reid. His approach contrasts with more flexible coaching styles, potentially leading to friction if Williams cannot adapt.
• Early Season Outlook: Colin remains optimistic, predicting that by early October, Williams' performance will clarify whether he can meet the team's expectations. He cites the upgraded offensive line and favorable early schedule as factors that could aid the Bears' success.

Notable Quote:
[06:00] Colin Cowherd:
"If you're not doing it right, he's going to get you out and he's not going to just see that stuff continue."

Guest Insights: Steve Sarkisian on Coaching and Quarterbacks

Steve Sarkisian joins the conversation to offer his perspective on coaching dynamics and quarterback management in the NFL.

Key Points:

• Detail-Oriented Coaching: Sarkisian emphasizes the importance of focusing on details during training camp to build a cohesive team, especially when dealing with young quarterbacks.
• Scheme vs. Hero Ball: He discusses the tension between playing within a strict scheme and allowing quarterbacks to exercise their individual talents. Sarkisian leans towards structured schemes to ensure team success.
• Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson Partnership: The partnership between Williams and Johnson is scrutinized, with Sarkisian expressing skepticism about the longevity of their collaboration if Williams doesn't align with Johnson's system.

Notable Quote:
[07:27] Steve Sarkisian:
"Ben's all about the details and you feel that in every meeting."

Caleb Williams: Talent vs. Practicality

Jason McIntyre and Colin engage in a back-and-forth about Caleb Williams' future with the Bears.

Key Points:

• Free Rein Concerns: McIntyre raises concerns about Williams having too much freedom in his play style, reminiscent of Lincoln Riley's "backyard football" approach at USC, which may not translate well to the NFL.
• Coaching Frustrations: There's apprehension that if Williams cannot adapt to playing within Johnson's structured system, their professional relationship may deteriorate, leading to potential managerial changes.

Notable Quote:
[15:56] Colin Cowherd:
"So, Ben's going to get really frustrated, clearly, if you can't get that playoff and you can't get that ball."

Quarterback Development and Ownership Impact

The conversation shifts to a broader discussion about quarterback development in the NFL and the significant role of team ownership.

Key Points:

• Ownership Matters: Colin emphasizes that strong ownership is crucial for a team's success, citing the Cincinnati Bengals' issues under current ownership despite having a talented quarterback in Joe Burrow.
• Comparisons to Other Teams: He draws parallels between the Bengals and past teams like the Detroit Lions under Matt Stafford, highlighting how excellent players can underperform without supportive management.
• Drafting and Scouting: The importance of a robust scouting department is underscored, contrasting teams like the Bengals with resource-rich organizations like the Philadelphia Eagles.

Notable Quote:
[27:21] Colin Cowherd:
"There's a couple teams in the NFL that it's hard for me to predict. Like, I like Zach Taylor and I love Joe Burrow and I love Jamar Chase. I mean, Jamar Chase won the Triple Crown last year. Joe Burrow was amazing. They didn't make the playoffs. Okay, so it's like, why would that be?"

Updates on NFL Players and Teams

The episode also covers recent developments in the NFL, including injuries and team performances.

Key Points:

• Justin Fields Injury: A significant scare for the New York Jets as quarterback Justin Fields suffered a leg injury during practice, raising concerns about the team's quarterback situation.
• Cleveland Browns' Kenny Pickett: Discussions about Pickett's performance in training camp juxtaposed with predictions of a possible roster cut, highlighting the volatile nature of quarterback prospects.
• Dallas Cowboys' CD Lamb: CD Lamb expresses excitement about the upcoming season, emphasizing his role as a key player for the Cowboys.

Notable Quote:
[25:08] Jason McIntyre:
"All right, Colin, about two hours ago, the New York Jets had a huge scare. Justin Fields was carted off the practice field and everybody's panicking."

College Football Spotlight: Texas Longhorns and Arch Manning

Steve Sarkisian shares insights into the Texas Longhorns' preparations for the upcoming college football season, spotlighting standout player Arch Manning.

Key Points:

• Arch Manning's Leadership: Sarkisian praises Manning's work ethic and intuitive understanding of the game, positioning him as a pivotal player for Texas.
• Early Season Challenges: The Longhorns face a tough opener against Ohio State, serving as a litmus test for the team's cohesion and offensive line performance.
• Impact of NIL and Transfer Portal: The discussion touches on the complexities of Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining team chemistry amidst new players.

Notable Quote:
[39:09] Steve Sarkisian:
"His work ethic is incredible. Whether it's studying tape, studying film, studying the playbook, working at his craft, you know, in the weight room like that is whether it's innate in him or it was, you know, handed down from his uncles. Whatever, whatever it was, his work ethic is really pretty incredible."

Concluding Thoughts

Colin wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of early-season performances in both the NFL and college football. He highlights the transformational potential of structured coaching and strong leadership, drawing connections between team dynamics and individual player success.

Key Takeaways:

• The intersection of coaching style and player adaptability is crucial for team success.
• Ownership and management play a pivotal role in maximizing player potential.
• Early-season games serve as critical assessments for team cohesion and strategy efficacy.

Final Quote

[41:23] Colin Cowherd:
"That's one of my favorite guys, Sark, who's had just a fascinating journey. I mean, I'm telling you, right? Texas, Ohio State. I mean, I am parked pre game, game, post game on Fox. That, that is going to be. That's as good an opening game as we've ever had on that Labor Day weekend."

This summary encapsulates the core discussions of Hour 1 of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of the episode's key themes and insights.