Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 1: Franchise Leaders, Crocs at the Gym
Release Date: January 3, 2025
Hosts: Rich Davis and Steve Covino
(Filling in for Colin Cowherd)
1. Introduction and New Year’s Resolutions
The episode kicks off with Rich Davis and Steve Covino welcoming listeners to the show, extending New Year’s greetings and acknowledging the surge in gym memberships as people strive to maintain their New Year’s resolutions.
- Steve Covino: “Happy New Year. We have until this weekend to say it right?” [02:06]
- Rich Davis: “Over 10% of all gym memberships are activated on January 1st.” [03:42]
2. The Quarterback Conundrum: Veteran vs. Young Talent
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the strategic decisions General Managers (GMs) face concerning quarterback acquisitions in the NFL. Davis and Covino delve into whether teams should invest in seasoned veterans or take risks on young, unproven talent from college.
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Veteran Quarterbacks:
- Covino argues for veterans: “I'd put my money in that than some young nose-picking college kid who doesn't know what it's like.” [05:07]
- Examples include Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield, who have shown resilience and leadership despite previous setbacks.
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Young Quarterbacks:
- Davis expresses caution: “You know how hard it is for a young baby-faced college quarterback to come and play with all these men in the NFL.” [06:13]
- Concerns about leadership and experience are highlighted, with specific skepticism towards Zach Wilson and Daniel Jones.
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Strategic Analogies:
- The hosts draw parallels between quarterback choices and dating, emphasizing the importance of fit and maturity.
- Covino: “It's all about that middle ground. Person in life and on the field.” [32:53]
Notable Quotes:
- Covino: “Success rate seems to be higher with a guy that has a little more experience in the NFL.” [05:14]
- Davis: “There should be no debate. He's your quarterback. What do you do with J.J. McCarthy?” [13:55]
3. Franchise Leadership and Organizational Fit
The conversation shifts to the broader theme of franchise leadership, discussing how the right quarterback can rejuvenate a team. They examine the impact of coaching and team environment on a quarterback's success.
- Covino: “Stars attract other stars. There's a lot of star power on your 49ers, and maybe that will attract an Aaron Rodgers.” [32:39]
- Davis: “If you're a GM, it's about investing where that fire is.” [10:04]
4. The Debate Over Aaron Rodgers and Team Dynamics
A heated discussion ensues about whether teams should bring in high-profile veterans like Aaron Rodgers or focus on developing current young quarterbacks.
- Covino expresses reservations: “Is his head really in football right now or playing the bongos?” [12:18]
- Davis counters: “If you had your number one choice, most people with the Jets would say, yeah, you would hire Vrabel.” [48:14]
5. Crocs at the Gym: A Cultural Commentary
Transitioning to a lighter topic, Davis and Covino debate the appropriateness of wearing Crocs in gym settings. They explore gym culture, fashion choices, and the perception of newcomers.
- Covino: “I think they're the weakest looking shoe. But I lost this war because kids wear them all the time.” [37:06]
- Rich Davis: “For anyone going to the gym for the first time, instead of looking at them as an obstacle, applaud them.” [50:27]
Notable Quotes:
- Steve Covino: “Crocs at the gym – it's the weakest look ever.” [38:44]
- Ryan Music (guest): “Absolutely no Crocs at the gym.” [40:15]
6. Interactive Segments and Trivia
The hosts engage listeners with interactive segments, including trivia games and prize giveaways. They also touch upon current sports news, such as Patrick Mahomes’ performance streak and the evolving college football playoff format.
- Covino: “We got Showtime of Homes trivia.” [03:28]
- Ryan Music: “Patrick Mahomes last six games, 11 touchdowns, zero picks.” [49:16]
7. Closing Thoughts and Final Takeaways
In wrapping up, Davis and Covino encourage listeners to embrace both the challenges and the newcomers in their respective environments, whether it’s sports management or gym attendance.
- Covino: “It's about what fits, you know, it’s about the middle ground.” [32:53]
- Davis: “Don't want to see them as an obstacle; I want them to succeed.” [50:37]
Conclusion
This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a deep dive into strategic decisions in NFL team management, juxtaposed with a humorous take on gym culture. Rich Davis and Steve Covino provide insightful analysis on quarterback selections while maintaining an engaging and relatable dialogue about everyday topics like gym attire. The blend of sports strategy and cultural commentary makes for a rich and entertaining listen for both avid fans and casual listeners.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Rich Davis: “Over 10% of all gym memberships are activated on January 1st.” [03:42]
- Steve Covino: “I'd put my money in that than some young nose-picking college kid who doesn't know what it's like.” [05:07]
- Steve Covino: “Crocs at the gym – it's the weakest look ever.” [38:44]
- Ryan Music: “Absolutely no Crocs at the gym.” [40:15]
- Rich Davis: “Don't want to see them as an obstacle; I want them to succeed.” [50:37]
Stay Connected: For more insightful discussions and updates on sports stories, tune in to The Herd with Colin Cowherd on the iHeartRadio app or your preferred podcast platform.