Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 1: "Caleb Williams Continues to Struggle"
Release Date: July 25, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Introduction
In the latest episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, broadcasted on July 25, 2025, Colin Cowherd engages in a comprehensive discussion focusing primarily on Caleb Williams, the highly-touted quarterback whose recent performances have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. Co-host Sarah Spain joins Colin to delve deep into the intricacies of Caleb Williams' struggles, the broader implications for his team, and comparisons with other quarterbacks and coaching dynamics in the NFL.
Caleb Williams' Performance Struggles
The episode kicks off with Colin Cowherd highlighting Caleb Williams' inconsistent performances over the past few days. Referencing specific issues, Colin states:
"Yesterday, struggled with a deep ball. Today, Caleb Williams, two red zone picks, one tip ball, another one horrible pass. So three days in a row, it's gotten a little bumpy for Caleb Williams."
[03:51]
These recurring problems have fueled skepticism about Williams' readiness and adaptability at the professional level. Colin draws parallels between Caleb and other quarterbacks who have had rocky starts but eventually found their stride, emphasizing the critical nature of early performance indicators.
Quarterback Development and Comparisons
Colin and Sarah engage in an in-depth analysis of quarterback development, comparing Caleb Williams to peers like Bo Nix and J.J. McCarthy. Colin reflects on the modern landscape of quarterback evaluation:
"The quarterbacks in 2025 are a little bit like streaming shows, bro. If you're not getting me by the second episode early, I'm out...I think you got to grab people early in this relationship."
[07:02]
This analogy underscores the rapid pace at which talent is assessed and either embraced or discarded in today's NFL environment. Sarah echoes this sentiment, noting the heightened expectations placed on young quarterbacks compared to previous generations:
"You want to start protecting the moneymakers...Quarterbacks are supposed to put out fires, not start them."
[36:38]
Coaching Challenges with Ben Johnson
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Ben Johnson, the head coach responsible for Caleb Williams' development. Colin examines Johnson's coaching approach, comparing him to renowned coordinators like Kyle Shanahan and Kevin O'Connell:
"I do think Ben feels like more of a McVeigh, a Shanahan or a Kevin O' Connell. Zach Taylor wasn't somebody...But Ben's coming in with a lot of momentum."
[16:51]
The critique centers on Johnson's unconventional methods, such as misdirection trick plays and his overall adaptability in nurturing Caleb Williams' potential. Sarah shares her concerns regarding Johnson's transition from offensive coordinator to head coach:
"I'm starting to wonder if Garrett Wilson...what you're going to be as a head coach. Head coach is a lot more difficult than just being an offensive coordinator. And so far, you know, rocky start."
[15:18]
Broader NFL Comparisons and Insights
Beyond Caleb Williams, the hosts touch upon broader NFL topics, including quarterback protection rules and comparisons between LeBron James and Michael Jordan's reputations in their respective sports. Colin articulates his views on athlete branding and legacy:
"LeBron has been transactional. That's the downside to being the best basketball opportunist ever...You don't get that with LeBron and you got it with Michael."
[07:14]
Furthermore, the discussion extends to the WNBA, with Colin critiquing officiating disparities between the WNBA and NBA, emphasizing the impact on player safety and game quality:
"It's taken the WNBA a couple years to figure out how popular she is...They have to get better officiating and blow the whistle in the regular season."
[34:07]
Nick Saban and Future Coaching Moves
In a segment that veers slightly off the main topic, Colin and Sarah discuss the potential retirement or career moves of NFL and college coaches like Nick Saban. Colin speculates on Saban's future, analyzing his recent statements and the current coaching landscape:
"Nick Saban said there is no opportunity that I know of right now that I would enhance me to go back to coaching right now...There is no place I'm going to leave for right now."
[40:17]
Audience Engagement and Additional Topics
Throughout the episode, Colin encourages listeners to stay engaged with ongoing sports narratives, especially focusing on how early performance trends can forecast future success or failure. The conversation also briefly touches on Aaron Rodgers' legacy and the media's role in shaping athlete reputations.
Notable Quotes
-
Colin Cowherd (03:51):
"Caleb Williams' three days of struggles have raised red flags that can't be ignored." -
Sarah Spain (15:18):
"Head coach is a lot more difficult than just being an offensive coordinator. And so far, rocky start." -
Colin Cowherd (07:02):
"Quarterbacks in 2025 are a little bit like streaming shows...you have to grab people early in this relationship." -
Colin Cowherd (34:07):
"The WNBA officiates like the NBA does in the postseason. People get knocked to the floor...It's a learning curve."
Conclusions and Takeaways
The episode concludes with Colin and Sarah emphasizing the volatile nature of professional sports, where early performance can significantly influence a player's career trajectory. They advocate for a balanced perspective, acknowledging both potential and present shortcomings, and stress the importance of coaching adaptability in fostering young talent.
Listeners are encouraged to tune into future episodes for ongoing analysis and insights into the dynamic world of sports. The hosts reaffirm their commitment to providing in-depth, honest discussions that resonate with both avid fans and casual listeners.
Note: This summary intentionally omits advertisement segments, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the substantive discussions pertaining to Caleb Williams and related sports commentary.