Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 1
Episode Title: Knicks Make It a Series, Best Additions to NFL Teams
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Host/Authors: IHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. Memorial Day Acknowledgment

At the outset of the episode, Colin Cowherd extends heartfelt gratitude to military families, recognizing the sacrifices made for the nation's liberties and freedoms. This sets a respectful tone for the discussion.

2. New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers Series Breakdown

Timestamp: [03:05] – [35:05]

Colin Cowherd delves deep into the NBA playoff series between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers, highlighting the Knicks' resilient performance:

• Series Turning Point: The Knicks were trailing by 20 points but mounted a comeback when Carl Anthony Towns assumed control in the fourth quarter. As Cowherd states, “Carl Anthony Towns said, I'll show you what kind of man I am. I'm going to single-handedly take over the fourth quarter” ([03:32]).

• Towns' Impact: Towns' ability to dominate games despite defensive shortcomings is emphasized. Cowherd remarks, “He has quarters like this. He averages 23 a game in his career” ([03:32]).

• Pacers' Offensive Struggles: The Pacers lost their offensive rhythm late in games, particularly when Halliburton was benched, leading to missed shooting opportunities. Colin notes, “Indiana is a rhythm team and that they have the fastest pace in the league and they get out of their rhythm” ([07:16]).

• Knicks' Strategy: The Knicks controlled the game tempo, especially evident in their free-throw shooting. “They hit their last 15 free throws” ([07:16]).

• Conclusion: Cowherd concludes that the Knicks have effectively “stolen game three,” indicating a competitive series ([07:16]). He further analyzes team dynamics, suggesting that removing Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns leaves the Pacers vulnerable.

Guest Insights:

• Matt Hasselbeck and Jason McIntyre join the discussion, providing additional perspectives on team performances and playoff implications.

• Jason McIntyre emphasizes the unpredictability of leads in basketball, stating, “With the three-point shot, people make up ground quickly, pace the game, make up ground quickly” ([07:16]).

3. Aaron Rodgers and NFL Quarterback Uncertainties

Timestamp: [07:34] – [31:01]

Colin transitions to the NFL, focusing on Aaron Rodgers and his potential future:

• Rodgers' Dilemma: According to Jeremy Fowler from ESPN, there is speculation that Rodgers may be contemplating a move away from the Steelers, possibly to Minnesota. Colin asserts, “Aaron loves to make people think he's a mystery and the media can't figure him out” ([07:34]).

• Steelers' Offensive Issues: The Steelers’ consistent offensive struggles, particularly their poor offensive line performance, are highlighted. Colin contrasts Green Bay's successful offensive culture with Pittsburgh’s difficulties, stating, “They lost Najee Harris, their left tackle. And by the way, it does matter” ([11:41]).

• Potential Moves: Colin speculates that Rodgers might prefer Minnesota over the Steelers, noting the Vikings’ conducive environment for his playing style. He remarks, “The Vikings makes a ton of sense. Great, brilliant offensive head coach and play caller” ([12:10]).

• Expert Analysis: An unnamed analyst discusses Rodgers' mindset, suggesting he believes himself to be “the smartest guy in the room” and that this mentality might not mesh well outside Green Bay ([11:41]).

Guest Insights:

• Matt Hasselbeck questions Rodgers' future, comparing him unfavorably to legends like Brett Favre and expressing disappointment over recent negative publicity surrounding Rodgers ([13:41]).

Conclusion: Colin wishes Rodgers and the Steelers the best, indicating a respect for Rodgers' potential departure while lamenting the Steelers' lack of offensive prowess.

4. Caitlin Clark’s Transformational Impact on the WNBA

Timestamp: [18:49] – [35:20]

In a standout segment, Colin discusses Caitlin Clark, a phenomenon revolutionizing the WNBA:

• Economic Influence: Associate Professor of Finance at Indiana University highlights Clark's massive economic footprint, stating, “She generated last year 26.5% as a rookie on a terrible team” ([18:49]).

• Merchandise Sales: Clark’s popularity has surged merchandise sales by 500%, with Colin noting, “She's Steve Jobs. She's taking an insolvent company and turning it into a powerhouse” ([18:49]).

• Fan Engagement: Her presence can increase attendance by 30% and potentially lead to a billion-dollar economic impact for the WNBA within the year.

• Comparative Analysis: Colin compares Clark's impact to that of Steph Curry in the NBA, emphasizing that Clark's influence is fourfold greater in the WNBA, ensuring her dominance remains unchallenged ([21:00]).

• Future Projections: The discussion predicts Clark will continue to drive the WNBA’s growth, urging the league to “ride the wave, enjoy the fruits, be grateful” ([25:11]).

Guest Insights:

• Matt Hasselbeck and Jason McIntyre further explore Clark’s significance, labeling her as not just a star but a transformative figure for the league ([35:05]).

5. Shohei Ohtani’s Return and MLB Implications

Timestamp: [35:20] – [38:51]

Matt Hasselbeck brings the conversation to MLB, focusing on Shohei Ohtani’s first live pitching practice post-surgery:

• Injury and Recovery: Ohtani's limited pitching practice is discussed, with Colin anticipating his return to the Dodgers’ pitching roster. “He's a great pitcher, so obviously he makes the team better when he pitches” ([35:20]).

• Dodgers’ Strategy: Given the Dodgers' history with pitching injuries, Ohtani’s availability is deemed crucial for their postseason aspirations. Colin mentions, “He would arguably be the ace of the staff” ([35:20]).

• Future Impact: The conversation predicts Ohtani’s significant role in August through October, impacting playoff outcomes ([38:51]).

6. Timberwolves’ Dominant Victory Over Thunder

Timestamp: [23:37] – [30:54]

The episode shifts back to the NBA, dissecting the Minnesota Timberwolves' 143-101 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder:

• Game Performance: Colin highlights the severity of the loss, noting, “They were blown out 143 to 101” ([24:03]).

• Player Spotlight: Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves’ MVP, is credited with carrying the team, outperforming the Thunder in critical moments: “He outscored OKC in the first quarter” ([27:06]).

• Series Implications: Colin and Matt analyze the potential series outcomes, suggesting that if OKC loses, the series may conclude, while a win could shift momentum in Minnesota’s favor ([26:12]).

• Strategic Insights: Colin emphasizes the Thunder’s home dominance versus their road struggles, predicting a tightly contested fourth quarter that could determine the series outcome ([27:06]).

7. Best Additions to NFL Teams Changing Outcomes

Timestamp: [31:01] – [53:53]

Colin presents his analysis of four key NFL additions poised to significantly impact their respective teams:

1. Cam Ward – Tennessee: Praised for his accuracy and humility, Colin asserts, “I think he's a really special player” ([37:47]).
2. Mike Vrabel – New England Patriots: Recognized for his ability to instill a physical play style, Colin states, “This is going to be a much more physical team” ([37:47]).
3. Geno Smith – Las Vegas Raiders: Highlighted for his passing accuracy and potential to transform the Raiders’ offense, Colin notes, “Geno Smith is going to make this a real offense” ([37:47]).
4. Ben Johnson – Detroit Lions: Valued for his mandate to enhance the Lions' offensive capabilities, Colin believes Johnson can turn the team's fortunes around, “Caleb Williams' upgrade” ([37:47]).

Additional Discussion:

• Colin emphasizes the importance of strategic player and coach acquisitions in shaping team performances, advocating for proactive management to leverage these additions effectively.

8. College Football Playoff Structure Changes

Timestamp: [53:53] – [51:37]

Colin discusses recent modifications to the college football playoff system:

• New Format: The 12-team playoff now guarantees first-round byes for the top four seeds, including independent teams like Notre Dame. Colin remarks, “This is much more an NFL model” ([53:53]).

• Conference Realignments: He explains the Big Ten's expansion, noting the shift to predominantly cold-weather teams and the impact on team dynamics and rivalries.

• Competitive Balance: Colin argues that weather significantly affects team performance and championships, citing historical NFL examples: “We don't have dome dynasties” ([53:53]).

Guest Insights:

• Lincoln Riley, a prominent coach, provides his perspective on adapting to the new playoff changes, emphasizing flexibility and embracing new opportunities ([51:09]).

9. Final Analysis on Knicks vs. Pacers Series

Timestamp: [31:01] – [35:20]

Returning to the NBA series, Colin offers a conclusive analysis:

• Knicks' Needs: He outlines that the Knicks require a "catch and shoot" player like Kevin Durant to enhance their defense and complement Jalen Brunson’s playmaking. Colin states, “KD is better defensively than Carl Anthony Towns” ([35:05]).

• Team Dynamics: Emphasizing the synergy between potential new additions and existing players, Colin believes that strategic roster changes can solidify the Knicks' position in the series.

• Future Projections: He predicts that the Pacers will gain consistency and possibly win the series, but the Knicks remain a formidable contender with the right adjustments ([35:05]).

10. Upcoming Highlights

As the episode wraps up, Colin teases upcoming topics:

• Four Newcomers in the NFL: Identifying key players and coaches set to influence the league’s landscape.
• Economic Impact of Caitlin Clark: Further exploration of Clark’s contributions to the WNBA.
• Final Thoughts: Insightful commentary on team strategies and player performances.

Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd:

  • “[Carl Anthony Towns] told you, 'I'll show you what kind of man I am. I'm going to single-handedly take over the fourth quarter’” – [03:32]
  • “Aaron loves to make people think he's a mystery and the media can't figure him out” – [07:34]
  • “She is not only transcendent, she is transformational. She has changed the league” – [22:55]
  • “If you have Lamar Jackson 10 times in the next five years, you're still viable” – [30:54]
  • “The greatest legends in sports never compromise in any aspect of their game. So why would you settle for anything less from your SUV?” – [39:22]

• Jason McIntyre:

  • “No, no, no, turn on the news” – [22:55]

• Lincoln Riley:

  • “There are some changes that, that we've all just got to accept because it's just part of it right now” – [51:09]

Conclusion

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, listeners are treated to an in-depth analysis of pivotal moments in sports, from the Knicks' strategic maneuvers in the NBA playoffs to transformative figures in the WNBA and key player movements in the NFL. Colin Cowherd, alongside guest experts, offers insightful commentary on team dynamics, player impacts, and the broader economic implications within various sports leagues. The episode underscores the ever-evolving nature of sports, emphasizing strategic acquisitions and individual performances that shape the outcomes of games and seasons.

Note: This summary omits advertisements and non-content segments, focusing solely on the substantive discussions and analyses presented during the episode.