Hour 1 - NFL Week 13 Takeaways

Summary

The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 1: NFL Week 13 Takeaways (Released December 2, 2024)

The Herd with Colin Cowherd delves deep into the pivotal moments and emerging narratives from NFL Week 13, offering expert analysis, lively debates, and sharp insights into the current state of professional and college football. Hosted by Colin Cowherd, alongside co-host Jason McIntyre, the episode navigates through team performances, playoff implications, and broader trends shaping the sport.

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1. Dominance of the Buffalo Bills

[15:10] Colin Cowherd:
"Josh Allen ran for a touchdown, threw for a touchdown, caught a touchdown. Nothing he can't do."

The Buffalo Bills showcased their formidable prowess in Week 13, overpowering the San Francisco 49ers with a decisive 35-10 victory amidst a driving snowstorm. Colin Cowherd highlights the Bills as the "champion that never was San Francisco" and posits that Buffalo embodies the quintessential January and February football team.

Key Points:

• Josh Allen's Multifaceted Performance: Allen delivered an exceptional game, contributing offensively in multiple facets—running, passing, and even catching touchdowns.
• Team Rebuilding and Strengths: The Bills have effectively addressed gaps in their roster, such as adding tight end Dalton Kincaid and rebuilding their offensive line, positioning themselves as the best version of Buffalo to date.
• Playoff Prospects: With a strong defensive culture and minimal coaching chaos, the Bills are poised to secure the AFC East division and potentially vie for the number one seed in the AFC.

Cowherd emphasizes, "The Bills are just built for January and February football," underscoring their readiness and resilience in postseason scenarios.

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2. San Francisco 49ers' Struggles and Rebuilding Efforts

[16:45] Colin Cowherd:
"The sooner San Francisco admits this puppy's over, the better. Reinforcements aren't coming. Tear it down to the studs."

Contrasting Buffalo's ascendancy, the San Francisco 49ers face significant challenges. Injuries to key players like Christian McCaffrey and Fred Warner have decimated their lineup, exacerbating their defensive frailties.

Key Points:

• Injuries and Inconsistencies: The 49ers have been plagued by injuries, leading to unpredictable performances and diminished bench strength.
• Coaching Critiques: Colin criticizes the coaching strategies, suggesting that offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan's influence has led the team astray, much like previous coaching tenures under Bill Belichick and Bill O'Brien.
• Future Outlook: With quarterback Brock Purdy's reliability in question, Colin asserts that the 49ers need to undergo a comprehensive rebuild, moving away from their current trajectory to regain competitiveness.

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3. Pittsburgh Steelers and the Russell Wilson Partnership

[12:19] Jason McIntyre:
"Mike Tomlin and Russell Wilson are perfect together. Russell is focused, driven, and disciplined—exactly what the Steelers needed."

The Pittsburgh Steelers have found a resurgence with the acquisition of veteran quarterback Russell Wilson. Under the stewardship of Coach Mike Tomlin, Wilson has infused the team with the necessary discipline and focus to complement their traditionally tough, physical playstyle.

Key Points:

• Enhanced Offensive Strategy: Wilson's ability to command the offense has allowed the Steelers to diversify their winning strategies beyond turnovers and underdog victories.
• Chemistry with Coach Tomlin: The mutual respect and understanding between Wilson and Tomlin have cultivated a harmonious environment, essential for sustained success.
• Playoff Potential: With a balanced offense and a robust defense, the Steelers are positioned as legitimate contenders in the AFC, capable of overcoming opponents like Philadelphia and Baltimore.

Cowherd remarks, "Russell Wilson is the adult in the room for an offense that's desperately needed," highlighting the quarterback's pivotal role in the Steelers' current form.

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4. Baltimore Ravens' Special Teams Woes

[24:23] Jason McIntyre:
"Justin Tucker, arguably the best kicker ever, is now a liability. Missing three kicks in five losses—it’s a game-changer."

The Baltimore Ravens, despite Lamar Jackson's stellar performance, are grappling with significant issues in their special teams unit. Kicker Justin Tucker, once a reliable asset, has become a focal point of their recent struggles.

Key Points:

• Kicker Inconsistencies: Tucker's recent misses have directly contributed to the Ravens' close losses, undermining their otherwise dynamic offense.
• Dependence on Jackson: While Jackson excels, the team's reliance on his dual-threat capabilities exacerbates problems when special teams falter.
• Overall Team Balance: The Ravens remain a compelling team to watch but need to address their special teams and defensive reliability to climb higher in standings.

Cowherd underscores the impact by stating, "When you play Philadelphia, you cannot miss kicks," emphasizing the critical nature of Tucker's performance in tight games.

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5. Kansas City Chiefs and the Luck Factor

[28:07] Jason McIntyre:
"Kansas City has won 14 straight one-score games. Is that an NFL record? It’s got to be up there."

The Kansas City Chiefs continue to defy expectations with a remarkable streak of close-game victories. However, concerns about their underlying team strength persist.

Key Points:

• Winning Streak Analysis: The Chiefs have consistently edged out opponents by narrow margins, raising questions about the sustainability of such wins.
• Point Differential Concerns: Despite the high win count, their overall point differential remains the worst among similarly winning teams, suggesting potential vulnerabilities.
• Team Depth and Injury Impacts: With offensive tackles struggling and a weakened defense, the Chiefs' reliance on luck and clutch plays is questionable.

Cowherd critiques, "This is not a great Kansas City Chiefs team. Let me get lucky almost every week," highlighting the precariousness of their sustained success.

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6. New York Jets' Decline with Aaron Rodgers

[25:04] Colin Cowherd:
"Aaron Rodgers is now a liability. If you're asking me, are we going to move on from Aaron Tucker, I'm not really planning on doing that right now."

The New York Jets find themselves in tumultuous waters as veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers struggles to lead the team effectively, leading to speculation about his future with the franchise.

Key Points:

• Rodgers' Performance Dip: Rodgers has shown declining accuracy and decision-making, resulting in critical turnovers and missed opportunities.
• Impact on Team Morale: His underperformance has contributed to the Jets' ongoing struggles and exacerbated their lack of success over nine seasons.
• Future Uncertainties: While Rodgers remains with the team for the current season, his long-term prospects appear bleak, with management debating the potential benefits of moving on.

McIntyre adds, "He's now a liability," encapsulating the growing dissatisfaction with Rodgers' recent performances.

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7. Atlanta Falcons and Kirk Cousins' Struggles

[29:38] Colin Cowherd:
"Kirk Cousins has gone three straight games without a touchdown, a first in his career."

In Week 13, the Atlanta Falcons faced significant challenges as quarterback Kirk Cousins delivered one of his poorest performances, marked by interceptions and fumbles.

Key Points:

• Performance Decline: Cousins' inability to produce touchdowns and his turnovers have severely hampered the Falcons' offensive effectiveness.
• Coaching Considerations: Colin contemplates the feasibility of moving on from Cousins, suggesting that the team explores other quarterback options to rejuvenate their offense.
• Team Dynamics and Future Moves: With talented skill positions but an underperforming quarterback, the Falcons must reassess their strategy to enhance competitiveness.

Cowherd emphasizes the urgency by stating, "He needs to step up and play better," reflecting the critical juncture at which the team stands.

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8. College Football Insights: Ohio State vs. Michigan Showdown

[43:27] Jason McIntyre:
"Ohio State's loss to Michigan was the worst in their history of that matchup."

Shifting gears to college football, the episode scrutinizes the unexpected defeat of Ohio State by Michigan, a game that has significant implications for the national championship landscape.

Key Points:

• Game Analysis: Ohio State's reliance on finesse and wide receiving corps was upended by Michigan's physicality and dominant rushing game, leading to a historic upset.
• Coaching Philosophy Clash: Head coach Ryan Day faced criticism for prioritizing perceptions over pragmatic game strategies, particularly after comments dismissing toughness.
• National Championship Implications: Despite the loss, Colin maintains optimism about Ohio State's ability to contend for the national title, projecting a possible face-off against Texas.

Cowherd defends the Buckeyes, remarking, "I still think Ohio State can get to the national championship against Texas," underscoring his belief in their resilience and talent.

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9. The Impact of Transfer Portal and NIL on Big Programs

[15:09] Jason McIntyre:
"The big football programs don't have the depth anymore. Injuries can decimate their rosters like never before."

The rise of the transfer portal and Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) deals has significantly altered the landscape of college football, particularly affecting the depth of traditionally dominant programs.

Key Points:

• Depth Challenges: Elite programs like Ohio State, Alabama, and Georgia are struggling with roster depth as high-profile players transfer to other schools, leaving gaps that are difficult to fill.
• Injury Impact: With limited depth, injuries to key players can have outsized effects on team performance, destabilizing once-reliable squads.
• Shift in Competitive Balance: Programs once revered for their depth and consistency are now vulnerable, leading to more unpredictability and parity across conferences.

Cowherd highlights the vulnerability, stating, "Those big dogs are getting cherry-picked because everybody's got NIL money now," indicating a shift in recruiting dynamics.

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10. Chicago Bears' Dysfunction and Coaching Crisis

[52:34] Colin Cowherd:
"The Chicago Bears are a tornado of dysfunction."

The Chicago Bears are embroiled in a deep-rooted crisis, characterized by ineffective coaching hires, ownership inflexibility, and a lack of coherent team culture.

Key Points:

• Coaching Instability: Multiple coaching missteps, including Matt Eberflusse's poor record and the failed attempts to bring in coaches like Jim Harbaugh, have left the Bears without a clear leadership direction.
• Ownership Issues: The McCaskey family's outdated management style has hindered progressive decision-making, keeping the team stuck in inefficiency.
• Potential Solutions: Colin discusses the possibility of hiring Marcus Freeman from Notre Dame as a fresh offensive-minded coach, although logistical and contractual hurdles pose significant challenges.

McIntyre adds, "The Bears lack a culture and a philosophy," emphasizing the need for foundational changes to revive the franchise's fortunes.

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11. NFL Playoff Picture and Predictions

[31:03] Colin Cowherd:
"If Denver wins tonight at home against Cleveland, I think this is going to be the AFC playoffs."

As the NFL season nears its conclusion, Colin and Jason lay out their projections for the upcoming playoffs, focusing on the AFC and NFC divisions.

Key Points:

• AFC Contenders: Chiefs, Bills, Steelers, Chargers, Ravens, and Broncos stand out as primary playoff candidates, each bringing unique strengths and challenges.
• NFC Contenders: Washington is anticipated to make the playoffs, facing teams like Saints, while the dynamics within the NFC South remain uncertain.
• Underdog Narratives: Teams like Denver Broncos are highlighted for their dynamic offense, possibly disrupting stronger opponents and securing playoff spots.

Cowherd confidently predicts, "Kansas City, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Texans, Chargers, Ravens, Denver. Those are the playoff teams," outlining a clear vision of favored teams advancing.

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12. Final Thoughts: The State of Football

As the episode wraps up, Colin and Jason reflect on the broader trends affecting both professional and college football. They discuss the fragility introduced by modern recruiting challenges, the importance of adaptable coaching strategies, and the enduring need for strong leadership within teams.

Key Takeaways:

• Adaptability and Resilience: Teams must evolve with changing dynamics, addressing depth challenges and maintaining flexibility in strategies to stay competitive.
• Leadership Importance: Effective coaching and stable management are crucial for navigating the complexities of both the NFL and college football environments.
• Future Projections: The landscape of football is poised for significant changes, with potential shifts in power dynamics based on emerging trends and pivotal season outcomes.

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Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd on the Bills:
  "The Bills are just built for January and February football." — [15:10]

• Cowherd on San Francisco's Rebuilding:
  "The sooner San Francisco admits this puppy's over, the better." — [16:45]

• McIntyre on Ravens' Kicker Issues:
  "Justin Tucker, arguably the best kicker ever, is now a liability." — [24:23]

• Cowherd on Chiefs' Luck:
  "This is not a great Kansas City Chiefs team. Let me get lucky almost every week." — [28:07]

• McIntyre on Jets' Rodgers:
  "He's now a liability." — [25:04]

• Cowherd on Bears' Dysfunction:
  "The Chicago Bears are a tornado of dysfunction." — [52:34]

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The Herd with Colin Cowherd delivers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of NFL Week 13, blending expert opinions with strategic foresight. Whether dissecting the Buffalo Bills' rise, the San Francisco 49ers' struggles, or the evolving dynamics in college football, the episode provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the current football landscape and its potential future trajectories.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

Hey, what's up everybody? It's Levar Arrington here from up on Game and I need you to listen for a moment, all right, and get serious. The hate in this country is getting out of control. It's at an all time high. It's going to take all of us to stop it. I mean, think about it. We're all on the same team in this country, right? Let's take a break from hate so our team can regroup. We need to take a time out against hate. Visit standuptolhate.org to help and join me in calling for a timeout against hate by following at what's up with Hate or posting the blue square emoji. Hi, it's the Herd. I'm partnering with PayPal. Turn Black Friday into Stack Friday in the PayPal app, find tons of cash back offers to stack on top of Black Friday deals from your favorite brands. All you got to do is check out with PayPal online. Now that's a stack. Don't just pay PayPal. Check offers in the app for details. Cash back earned as points redeemable for cash and other options. 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The college football season was predictably wacky. We told you it was gonna be chaos all weekend. Somehow Ohio State lost to a football team that can't pass the ball. It's the craziest thing I've ever seen. The history of that game. That was the goofiest thing I've ever seen in my life. We'll try to get Urban Meyer on later. Colin Right. Colin Wrong. One hour from now. J. Mac I want to start with last. So the Buffalo Bills, they look like 8 year olds on the first day of snow every winter. They were having the time of their lives. And so I think what you were watching last night as the bills hammered the 49ers 35:10 is the champion that never was San Francisco. And the potential champion that should be Buffalo. And the reason Buffalo should win a ringer 3. Josh Allen ran for a touchdown, threw for a touchdown, caught a touchdown. Nothing he can't do. Missing a couple of top offensive performers. Meh. Six straight games, 30 plus points in a driving snowstorm. We've been saying this. When you get Superman, you don't want to overuse him. And for years they didn't have a home run hitter at running back. Now they do. They had drama at wide receiver. Now they don't. They add Kincaid, Dalton Kincaid, a great tight end. They've always had a great left tackle. They've rebuilt their offensive line. This is the best version of Buffalo. And I believe in the afc. They've sort of separated Baltimore. The defense, special teams reliability. Joe Burrow has the worst defense in the last decade. Kansas City is flawed. The Chargers are not dynamic enough. And the Steelers, I like them. I was wrong on the Steelers, but I don't think their ceiling is Buffalo. They are built. The Bills are just. They had A ball last night. I mean, they're the only team that plays in snow. They don't have, like, a heating system under it. No, that's okay. We're 6 and 0 at home. We're having the time of our lives. We'll lean into it. They are built for January and February football. You watch Miami go to Chile. Green Bay, they're like, can we get back on the flight home? Even the uniforms. Dolphins in Green Bay. It doesn't work. Buffalo's built for this stuff. You look at the dynasties of the NFL. They've been Green Bay, right? They've been. Oh, they're Kansas City, it's New England, it's the Baltimores, it's the Steelers. Cold weather, January, February. In a sport mostly played outdoors, Buffalo's got all the elements. A strong, armed quarterback. Don't have one of those in Miami. The ball can get through this. A strong run game. Sometimes windy, you gotta just hand it off. Good old line. Tough defensive culture. Snow games generally don't do it for me. Except if it's the Bills, you know, it's Elvis in Vegas. It just works. You know, it just works. And Josh Allen is your set of all weather tires. I mean, and then you're watching them have the time of their lives. On the other side, it's San Francisco. I said a week ago, it's time to tear this puppy down. People push back. That's not true. We're close. No, you're not. Christian McCaffrey hurt again. Fred Warner hurt. Trent Allen. Bosa didn't play. Folks, put up the signs. Liquidation sale. Get draft picks. The sooner San Francisco admits this puppy's over, the better. Reinforcements are not coming. Stop drafting wide receivers. Get Kyle Shanahan away from the personnel department. It ruined Bill Belichick and Bill O'Brien and among other things, Jon Gruden didn't help Pete Carroll get Shanahan away from personnel. Go back to being a strong, forceful team. Run first. Brock Purdy's not a guy you can rely on in January and February. If he's got to play in cold weather or against, you know, he's not a Joe Burrow. He's not a Lama Holmes. He's not. He's not. I don't think he's a Jalen hurts in terms of playmaking. That's not what he is. He doesn't throw it as well as golf or move as well as Jalen hurts in the NFC or Jordan Love. So San Francisco, the sooner they can come to terms with it, the better. But what you were watching last night is the champion that never was San Francisco. And they're going to struggle letting go of this puppy. It's over. Reinforcements aren't coming. Tear it down to the studs. And on the other side, you saw Bill's team once again dominate the AFC East. They're going to win this division as long as Josh Allen is in his prime, which is five more years, just like Brady did. And here's Josh after this one. Feels a little bit different. You know, this early in the season, we still got five games left. At the same time, we're chasing the one seed. We understand that. We know that. And we got to keep getting better each and every week, so. But it's. It's going to be fun. I mean, to go out there and play free and play relaxed and play loose. I think that's. That could be a dangerous team. A lot of sports, when it comes to team sports, is taking advantage of these tiny windows. Kansas City's flawed, Baltimore and Cincinnati defense not up to stuff. And you start looking at Pittsburgh ceiling. This is the year for Buffalo. They're mostly healthy. They could get the number one seed. They've got a superstar quarterback, good front office, no chaos in coaching. And they've had a little bit of that in the coordinator head coaching space. This feels like the year for the Bills. I want to talk about this next. The Steelers beat the Bengals 44 38. So for years and years, I defended Russell Wilson. I think everybody liked him, let Russ Cook, and then it ended poorly. Then he went to Denver. It was a bit of a mess. He and Sean Payton personalities clashed. He went to Pittsburgh, and my take was, I think the players are going to like Justin Fields more young, relatable, athletic. But the one thing the Steelers haven't been, and I mean, even in the Big Ben days, Big Ben prime days, they've always been loose, a little overly dramatic, loud and undisciplined offensively. And Mike Tomlin needed Russell Wilson. And frankly, Russell Wilson needed Mike Tomlin, a head coach that isn't looking over his shoulder in the meeting rooms. Mike lets offense do offense. And I don't know if this team, Pittsburgh is going to beat Philly in two weeks or Baltimore in three. But Tomlin and Russell Wilson are perfect. Russell is the adult in the room for an offense that's desperately needed that for years. He's focused, he's driven, he's aspirational, he's grateful, he's serious, he's disciplined. He doesn't turn the ball over. And defensive coaches like that. And here's the thing. Both Tomlin and Russell Wilson have trophies, have healthy confidence. I think they're good people. Both got humbled. Tomlin kept hearing, bro, you can't win playoff games. Brady Manning, Mike Tomlin had to look himself in the mirror and go, you know what? I gotta get a grownup to run this offense. And Justin Fields had a winning record. He pulled him out, gave it to Russ Tomlin, got nothing but crap. And he was right. He was right. He's like, I need a senior statesman. And by the way, Russell Wilson figured out in Denver, you know what? I'm probably going to be a complimentary piece. I can't be the savior for football teams. So before Russell Wilson arrived the last several years with Pittsburgh, there was one way to win. Create turnovers, mostly low scoring. Played really well as an underdog, not necessarily as a favorite. 44, 38 wins over Joe Burrow were not available to this franchise the last several years, and now they are. So there's multiple ways to win. And I mean, in my entire life, every really great Steeler team has had two things. A great, tough defense and a quarterback that could beat you over the top. From Terry Bradshaw to Big Ben. And that is Russell Wilson's primary asset. Now, at his age, he'll beat you down the field. And the last time the Steelers finished In the top 10 in offense, Andrew Luck was starting for the Colts. So it has been a while where they had a quarterback that would couple with a defense and a Mike Tomlin and a Chuck Knoll or a Bill Cower that could burn you if you weren't honest. And it gives the Steelers now multiple ways to win. And Mike Tomlin and Russell Wilson, there's no clash of personalities. Sean Payton sees offense a certain way. Russell didn't play it that way. Clash, right. And then Russell saw the world a certain way. And by the end, Pete Carroll didn't. The Tomlin Russell thing works. Here's the coach. After thought, our group, you know, smiled.

[Jason McIntyre]

In the face of it, particularly Russ.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, it's the first time for.

[Jason McIntyre]

Him going through this AFC north football. And I thought he acclimated himself to a. Well, today he put himself squarely in.

[Colin Cowherd]

The history of these series and this.

[Jason McIntyre]

Series with that performance today, man, and we're thankful for it.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'll tell you, there was a moment after the game, it was one of those in the hallway gestures where Tomlin grabbed Russ and gave him a hug. And you could really see the affection Tomlin understands. And this has been Pittsburgh even during the Big Ben days is Mike is a very emotional coach. His Steelers are tough, physical. They're emotional and sometimes with young players, you know you gotta have a grown up on the offensive side because Mike will monitor the defensive side. But it's always been the offense and you're like, you're a little noisy, you're a little loud, you're a lot buttoned up. And that's what Russ brings. Disciplined, focused, grown up, grateful, aspirational, driven. That's exactly what they needed. And the fit works. I didn't think it did. I didn't think it would. It does. So J. Mac, Matt Hasselbeck in one hour calling. Right Colin. Wrong. I still, I'm going to talk about Ohio State, Michigan, among other things later. This, I still think I'll say this. I'll throw it out there. Ohio State I still think has a strong chance to end up in the national championship against Texas. I really believe that.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah, sure.

[Colin Cowherd]

I honestly do. Anything's possible and I picked Tennessee before the season. So I'll just say Tennessee was my pick before the season. Halfway through the season I look to be off course. Keep your eye on the balls.

[Jason McIntyre]

What happens if Penn State beats Oregon? Colin and I don't know, Georgia shocks Texas. Is Penn State the number one seed? Like that's insane. College football right now is bonkers.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre]

Makes no sense.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well you know what, it's interesting because you and I both love it. The transfer portal and the NIL have created something and I'm not sure any of us saw it is that none of these big brands have any depth. Because if you're a five star player and you go to an Ohio State, a Georgia, you go to a Bama, you go to a Notre Dame and if you're not playing by your sophomore year because there's some NFL first rounder ahead of you, you'll get cherry picked to go somewhere else. Oregon will come pluck Washington, Michigan will come pluck Michigan State, whoever. And so what you're finding is an injury can be decimating to a top brand. It used to be five star guy out, five star guy up. But you're finding is these big time teams and I'm talking the Texas, the Penn states, they don't have the depth over a two year period. Those big dogs are getting cherry picked because everybody's got NIL money now.

[Jason McIntyre]

I mean Georgia doesn't have any depth.

[Colin Cowherd]

None.

[Jason McIntyre]

I mean they had Bowers and McConkey who are now in the NFL crushing.

[Colin Cowherd]

They have nothing now.

[Jason McIntyre]

And I mean, I thought they were going to lose to Georgia Tech. That was a crazy College football is off the rails right now.

[Colin Cowherd]

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If you're traveling this holiday season, pick up the jLabs, J buds, Lux, ANC, tune out the Drove of the Jet Engine or your talkative relative. Save up to 60% on select JLab products this holiday season. On JLab.com find your perfect pair of headphones. Look for the JLab Blue Box at retailers everywhere or visit JLab.com to upgrade your sound and style today. All right, so Philadelphia last night beat Baltimore. We know Philadelphia is good for the moment. We know Saquon Barkley is great for the moment. Let's talk Baltimore. So they lost again. There's three things. First of all, Justin Tucker, who was the best kicker arguably ever and for about a 10 year run, is now a liability. Missed three different kicks. Number two, the Ravens have lost to some really good teams. Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Kansas City. And number three is once you pay your quarterback a fortune, you're not going to be great everywhere. Kansas City's tackles right now are bad offensive tackles. Chargers, they don't have any dynamic wideouts. Baltimore, it's the defense and special teams. They're very good, but they're not exceptional. And you know, you start missing three kicks in a game like that against a great Philadelphia team, that is ball game. It's not Lamar Jackson. He's number one in the NFL in passer rating, number two in touchdown passes, number one in best athlete that plays the position. It's not a Lamar Jackson issue. But when you play Philadelphia, you cannot miss kicks. I mean, Baltimore with Lamar Jackson had more first downs, was better on third down, had more passing yards, had fewer penalties and dominated time of possession. It's not a Lamar Jackson issue. It's a very unbalanced team, okay? And the Ravens offense is creative and it's dynamic and it distracts us from the truth. Their kicker now is a liability and in big close games, you can't have it. And all their losses, by the way, all of them are one possession losses. Listen to this. If you take Baltimore's five losses, they've lost by a total of 22 points. In those five losses, Justin Tucker has missed 22 points of kicks. And so when you get into the better AFC teams, the margins are inches, not feet. Whereas the Chiefs tend to make the big third down offensive play, the Ravens miss the kick or have a penalty. So Baltimore is riveting to watch, but they're a very inconsistent team. And because they're not as reliable with special teams or defense. And Joe Burrow is finding this out. That puts more pressure on the quarterback. And Lamar's having a remarkable year. Burrow's having a remarkable year. You can't do it by yourself. And I feel like Lamar now there's more pressure to be brilliant. Justin Tucker's a Hall of famer, a first ballot, the best kicker, arguably ever. But he's mid-30s now and whatever out of your prime is for a kicker, I have no idea. It's not working. And here's the coach after. He's definitely capable of making every kick and you know, we need him to make. Need to make those kicks. Nobody wants to make them more than Justin. If you're asking me are we going to move out from Justin Tucker, I'm not really planning on doing that right now. Yeah, again, it's a little late for it and he's not shanking them, but he's missing the putts consistently and he made him forever. And you know they got a trophy because of it. But it's when you are playing in the AFC at the top of the AFC that is the difference. Kansas City's ability to make third downs and Baltimore's inability to hit clutch kicks. That's the difference between winning streaks and losing several games. Here's J. Mac with the news. No, no, no, turn on the news. This is the Herdline news.

[Jason McIntyre]

Sadly, I'm wearing green because the jets lost and we have to start with them. Colin. The New York jets are a train wreck and as we've been saying all season, Aaron Rodgers was quite bad. I would believe he cost them the game, but we can get to that in a second. Here's the big story. According to Ian Rapoport, Aaron Rodgers is considered a long shot to return to the jets next season. To which I say, thank goodness. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich just announced that they will not be benching Rodgers this week. He will start against Miami. The team even tweeted out a happy birthday message to Rogers, who turned 41. He's owed a $35 million option bonus if the jets decided to bring him back.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, he's never been a foxhole guy. This is. I always felt he was Jay Cutler with more talent. Is that when you're winning with him, it's great, but if it's mid or you're losing, he's not good in the locker room and people will rush to defend him. But even after the game, nobody finds a scapegoat other than themselves. Better than Aaron. Aaron missed a wide open. Garrett Wilson in the end zone and it's 28 7. The game's over. Couple plays later, pick six. Other way. So it's like that game was on. Aaron. They up 28 7. Seattle was not coming back. DK Metcalf was being shut down by Sauce Gardner. Like it was. It was the Jets. It was really the day to win. And this was on Aaron. This was a bad performance. Again, you can have pick sixes. When Kirk Cousins has him, we make sure and shout he's washed. When Aaron has him, we defend him. But I'm watching the same thing you are. He is now inaccurate. He's an inac. If I told you Darnold or Aaron, it's not close.

[Jason McIntyre]

Okay, let me level up to another one and we'll get to them shortly. But let's just say the Falcons have had enough of Kirk Cousins, who look about as washed as Aaron Rodgers. And let's say the Falcons move on the same way the Broncos moved on from Russell Wilson. Who would you rather have Aaron Rodgers next year? Let's say you're the Raiders or whatever. You're picking 10th, Rogers, Darnold or Kirk Cousins? Because I don't even know if Rogers is two. He might be three out of all those.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, I think it's Darnold number one and then draft somebody. I don't think you want to inherit those contracts. Aaron's expensive now. He's expensive and not mobile and prickly and losing.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah. He's going to come into your locker room like thinking he's the man. It's over for Rogers. And I know, I know a lot of people who watch the show are be like. But Jason, you said. Yeah, I said a lot of stuff in the off season. I was excited. I was optimistic.

[Colin Cowherd]

You acknowledge you're a huge jets fan. I get it.

[Jason McIntyre]

And I was way wrong. Listen, Breeze hall is tied a career high for fumbles. He has not been great. Roger's missing everything. There's a couple bright spots. Will McDonald. Double digit sacks. Woo. But they stay. They now are at the longest drought in the NFL. Nine years. No playoffs.

[Colin Cowherd]

Colin.

[Jason McIntyre]

Nine years. I still remember the last one. It was Mark Sanchez in that playoff game against the Steelers. Yeah, I still remember where I was watching that. Like they just needed one stop, couldn't get it. And I, I personally think Rogers is done in the NFL. I. I don't think he'll be.

[Colin Cowherd]

I don't think he has a big market. It may be one team.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah. Let's go to the Kansas City Chiefs. Oh, geez. Black Friday. They got lucky once again. That's what they do. They get lucky. The lucky Chiefs. As you see, Aiden O'Connell has a snap go off his shoulder.

[Colin Cowherd]

Maybe he should pay attention in the final 20 seconds.

[Jason McIntyre]

Rookie center I believe. And the ball get kicked.

[Colin Cowherd]

Chiefs recover and Raiders played 10 rookies. I'll give the Raiders credit. He plays so hard.

[Jason McIntyre]

Kansas City has won 14 straight one score games.

[Colin Cowherd]

14.

[Jason McIntyre]

I don't know if that's an NFL record but it's got to be up there. I saw a stat that since 2000 I guess a lot of teams there's like 21 teams that have got 11 wins by week 13.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre]

And the Chiefs have the worst point differential of all those 21 teams. This is not a great Kansas City Chiefs team. Let me get lucky almost every week.

[Colin Cowherd]

No Detroit, Philadelphia, Buffalo look better and I think her deeper team.

[Jason McIntyre]

I think the Baltimore Ravens look better. I mean they get a kicker.

[Colin Cowherd]

I don't tr. Listen. San Francisco special teams in the tank this year. They lost two games. They should have won. Baltimore's lost three games. They should have won Neutral site.

[Jason McIntyre]

Green Bay or the Chiefs. Yeah, that's what I thought.

[Colin Cowherd]

Kansas City. Oh, I trust him in a big spot. KC has veteran leadership. Green Bay has youthful leadership. I would take the Chiefs, Chargers, Chiefs.

[Jason McIntyre]

This week but the Chargers are walking wounded, man. Yeah, Dobbins on the ir. I don't know. There's a report that Hollywood Brown could return which would be a shot in the arm.

[Colin Cowherd]

Kansas City is going to be a better offensive version of last year but a weaker defensive version. You can move the ball on them.

[Jason McIntyre]

How were they better with because they're Rashid Rice.

[Colin Cowherd]

Because Xavier worthy deep threat. They now have a second tight end. Now they have two running backs they like. Now their issues. Offensive tackle, they're bad at tackle.

[Jason McIntyre]

They got humble. Sounds like he's probably going to start coming off the street. Listen, I'm just saying when the Chiefs lose in January, because they will it's going to be a celebration on the show. I will come here with bells.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm going to hold your breath on.

[Jason McIntyre]

They're not going to the Super Bowl. Colin Final story. Ah, Kirk Cousins. This was the spot of spots for the Falcons.

[Colin Cowherd]

Oh man.

[Jason McIntyre]

Kirk Cousins vomited all over himself. Four interceptions including a pick six that. I mean there's no velocity on that pass at all.

[Colin Cowherd]

No, he has now he looked. I mean it was like arm fatigue.

[Jason McIntyre]

He looks like a shot fighter right now. No movement at all. He's now gone three straight games without a touchdown, a first in his career. And he actually said he needs to step up and play better. I look to myself and say I gotta play better. You know, it hurts when you feel like your defense play winning football. I feel like your special teams made big plays, felt like, you know, run game, did a solid job.

[Colin Cowherd]

I got to play better and you.

[Jason McIntyre]

Know, I need to play at a level that, you know, justifies being out there. And so that's the way I'll always view it.

[Colin Cowherd]

I will say this and you've seen this. Aaron Rodgers gotten worse since the season started. Kirk Cousins gotten worse. I think these guys worked really hard in rehab and I think they're old fighters. And we're getting to the eighth and ninth round. Cousins looked tired. Aaron Rodgers first half to second looked tired. He had no pop. And I think these, these, I mean I. A couple of throws by Kirk Cousins, I mean look, it looked like a fastball in a major league old pitcher that was like 84 miles an hour.

[Jason McIntyre]

Maybe slower than that.

[Colin Cowherd]

I mean it was just painful to watch.

[Jason McIntyre]

Let's first at the Chargers did not cross midfield in the second half.

[Colin Cowherd]

They only had 187 total yards.

[Jason McIntyre]

How did they. McConkey left injured. They had nobody.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, the Chargers are winning games. They lost last year just on sheer coaching and smart, efficient quarterback play and a tough defense. I mean, all these games were losses last year and they're winning them due to Harbaugh and Jesse Minter.

[Jason McIntyre]

I'm sure you saw that. You know, Dobbins is on ir. Haskins, it gets a shot to replace him. First carry. Fumble.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I know.

[Jason McIntyre]

Bench did not get another carry. I mean, Harbaugh's not going to put up with that. I mean, I don't know, man. I don't know if the Chargers are good. They're just so banged up.

[Colin Cowherd]

They're a. Denver plays tonight, Monday Night Football at home against Cleveland. Denver's defense is not quite as good as the Chargers, but their offense is more dynamic. They've got. I think they have better tight ends and wide receivers and running backs in.

[Jason McIntyre]

A real defense tonight.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay, watch, watch Denver tonight. That offense is pretty spicy.

[Jason McIntyre]

So a few weeks ago the Broncos were shut out for three quarters against the Chargers at home and then they put up garbage time stats that got you excited. We'll talk about Monday Night Football later, but I don't know what to make of it. Remember falcons, Colin were 6 and 3. This is a team that beat the Eagles in I think week two.

[Colin Cowherd]

And Cousins every week he's killing them.

[Jason McIntyre]

He looks, you gotta, you gotta give Penix some first team reps. Oh, absolutely.

[Colin Cowherd]

I would have no problem starting Penix now. By the way. Go back to Lamar Jackson's first year. Joe Flacco started struggling. They were going to sit Lamar Jackson, week 11. Lamar go out.

[Jason McIntyre]

That's a good.

[Colin Cowherd]

And so all of a sudden Kirk Cousins, a proud veteran like Flacco, you know, he starts to struggle. Put in Panix, great O line, nice weapons. You don't have to ask penix to throw 48 times a game. Atlanta's got a better yards. Absolutely. This is a perfect time.

[Jason McIntyre]

I like Drake London by the way. He catches everything. Yeah, he's better than Pitts. I, I don't know if he's a one, but he's, he's a really, he's.

[Colin Cowherd]

Like the T. Higgins if he, if he's. He's the best two in the league or he's a 1A ish, but he's really good.

[Jason McIntyre]

McLeod show like they had guys making plays and I don't know how you look at Kirk Cousins after that loss if you're in that locker room. I mean he costs.

[Colin Cowherd]

That's tough. Yeah. And he's a guy everybody likes, but it's. That was a tough watch J. Mac with the news. Well, that's the news and thanks for stopping by. The Herd lie so they call us the game. Ohio State, Michigan. I don't care what anybody says. That's the worst loss for Ohio State in the history of that matchup. They lost at home to a walk on quarterback in Michigan. A team that can't throw with the forward pass that was missing two of their stars. And so Michigan, for the last four seasons, this fr. This, this game has always been about physicality. Whichever team has the most rushing yards has won this game 23 straight years and the last four it's been Michigan. So Ohio State spent almost four hours trying to prove they could win that way, which is not what they are. They're pretty, they're more finesse. They have unbelievable wide receivers. So Ryan Day is super sensitive to this narrative that Ohio State under Ryan Day is finesse and they're soft and they lack toughness and he does not like that at all. But get over it. When you're a head coach, it's about winning. You have to be able to block out the media and the noise and not worry about the aesthetics. Coordinator. Sometimes a defensive coordinator, he's looking to pad a resume. He wants sacks, offensive coordinator, Wants to be clever. A head coach is there to say it's about winning the game. It is about using our best players to win the game. Ohio State's got good running backs. They have unbelievable wide receivers and a more than capable head coach. They went into that game to prove a point. Michigan just played Michigan football. We can't pass. We're going to be the more physical team. So Ohio State's a better team. But this was Ryan Day who has shown he's very sensitive. He clapped back at Lou Holtz. Remember that? When Lou Holtz questioned their toughness and he was more worried about looking a certain way than just playing the game he should have played. This was Ryan Day responding to Lou Holtz after they beat Notre Dame last year when Holtz called the Buckeyes soft. Remember that? Toughness. Toughness. That's it. Physicality across the board. Finish it off. Having guts now. Like, I like to know where Lou Holtz is right now. What he said about our team. What he said about our team. I cannot believe this is a tough team right here. We're proud to be from Ohio, and it's always been Ohio against the world. It'll continue to be Ohio against the world. But I'll tell you what, I love those kids, and we got a tough team. Lou Holtz is like, 90. Who cares? He's a commentator now. Who cares? You can't worry about that stuff. I honestly watched that game, and I'm like, oh, Ryan Day is trying to prove a point. And what's happened to Ohio State? I still think they can get to the national championship. I think they would probably lose to Texas, but I think they can beat anybody and maybe Texas. I'm not bailing on them. I'm not firing Ryan Day. He's too good of a coach. But you got to get as a head coach, they become Kentucky basketball. Kentucky basketball did everything right except win in March. Everything else, they were great at getting publicity, recruiting the nil, the transfer portal, developing players for the NBA. Kentucky did everything right under John Calipari except win in March. And Ohio State does virtually everything right with Ryan Day except beat Michigan and win bowl games. They do everything else. Well, nil. Their collective is huge. They use the transfer portal they have. I mean, they win a lot of games, but head coaches are not about proving points. Who cares what Lou Holtz says? I mean, it's like, you know, it'd be one thing if you were playing Lou Holtz the following week, but Michigan has limitations. By the way, this year they won't have them next year. They just signed the top quarterback at a high school football and they're loading up. Okay. This was the year to beat Michigan. I watched Michigan play six times. They were hard to watch. I mean, I mean like Michigan's like, I'm going to turn to the Western Kentucky game. It's more dynamic for them to win that game in Columbus is. I still can't. It's unbelievable. But a head coach's job is not to win arguments, it's to win games. It's not to prove a point, it's to prove you're better. And I thought it was a bad game plan. I just nothing about it smelled right or felt right. And that game now goes back to Michigan and they've loaded up last two years with recruits and they have the number one high school quarterback in the country. This was the year to get them wild. Wild Weekend Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific. What makes the holiday special are the details from Genesis. And every little detail in a Genesis is another gift to you. Like during winter, you'll be thankful for the available heated steering wheel and the available snow mode to help get you through the snowiest of snow days. And the available all wheel drive is helpful all year round, but especially during the winter. I mean, Genesis has put a lot of thought into the details. And of course the best gifts are thoughtful ones like the available Nappa leather seating. Oh, speaking of gifts, you'll have plenty of room to haul around everything you've picked up for family and friends, no matter which Genesis you're driving. And with a lineup featuring SUVs, EVs, Sedans, something for everybody. Experience the Genesis Signature Event. And as one big final gift, Genesis is offering you a $1,000 bonus on select Genesis vehicles. The deal ends January 2nd. See participating Genesis retailers for details. Visit genesis.com to see how Genesis can make your holidays even brighter. Details make the Holidays this podcast is sponsored by PayPal. Now that the holiday shopping season is in full swing, my PayPal debit card is a real MVP. I'm out here stacking deals on deals, and with this card, I'm maximizing every purchase. That's why I'm calling Black Friday Stack Friday one of my favorite ways to rack up cash back tech. Love it. Between holiday shopping and grabbable gifts, I'm shopping for tech more than ever. Are you? I am with family and friends visiting those gifts pile up fast. Thanks to 5% cash back I'm earning every time I Shop for Tech. Here's the best part. Each month I get to pick my cash back category and earn 5% on up to $1,000 in purchases. So for me, tech is a no brainer. Whether it's gifts from a family, latest products to add to my collection, I'm stacking up those deals. So this Black Friday turn it into stack Friday. 5% cash back on a category of your choice. Health, Groceries, Beauty Apparel and just for this holiday season, tech don't just pay PayPal terms and limits apply. See [e-mail] rewardspal this card is issued by the Bancorp Bank N.A. pursuant to a license by MasterCard International Incorporated and may be used everywhere MasterCard is accepted. The Herd's Brought to you by Granger Everyone has been in this situation. Well, maybe not everybody, but maintenance specialists certainly have. You're halfway through the season when an air blower belt in the furnace suffers a major tear and the whole thing goes down for the count. The furnace has been going for so many seasons you don't have a replacement belt on hand. In fact, you're not sure if anyone does. What's your play? Easy. You call Grainger. With over 1 million industrial products and supplies, their depth chart off the charts. And with fast, dependable delivery, you can get the belt you need when you need it. So your furnace can get back in the game. Call 1-800-GRAINGER clickgrainger.com or just stop by a local branch. It's time to start thinking about holiday gifts. What are you going to get that person that's impossible to shop for? We all know somebody like that. What do they want this holiday season? What do you want? Give the gift of sound with JLab headphones JLab headphones are the perfect gift. I love them for the podcast lover in your life or the one that wants to stream sports all day long. JLab Perfect gift for anybody with a diverse collection of headphones, which makes it easy to find the gift for your family and friends with a variety of styles, colors and sizes. JLab. They have products for under $100, under 50, even under $25. Gift yourself a new pair of JLab headphones too. If you're traveling this holiday season, pick up the JLabs J buds, Lux, ANC, tune out the drove of the jet engine or your talkative relative. Save up to 60% on select JLab products this holiday season on JLab.com find your perfect pair of headphones. Look for the JLAB Blue Box at retailers everywhere or visit jlab.com to upgrade your sound and style today. Hey, this is Levar Arrington here from up on game. And listen, I want to talk to you about something very serious for a minute, all right? Something personal to me and right now something that should be personal to you as well. In our country, the hate is at an all time high and it's like we're going backward. The hate is winning. We can't allow that, all right? It's out of control. So many different people, so many different groups are facing too much hate and it's enough. It's time for it to stop. We need to stop, regroup, change the momentum as a team because that's what we are. Everyone in this country is on the same team, so let's act like it. And when a team can't get it together, what do you do? You call a timeout. And that's what we need to do, call a timeout against hate. Let's think about what we say and do. And when we see hate, when we see someone doing or saying those things we know are wrong and hateful, we need to call it out. I'ma call it out. You need to do the same thing. Visit standuptoallhate.org to help and join me in calling for a timeout against hate by following at what's up with Hate or posting the blue square emoji Friday night on Fox.

[Jason McIntyre]

It's a fight for the Mountain west conference crown as 22nd ranked UNLV takes on Heisman contender Ashton Gentee and 11th ranked Boise State. Coverage begins Friday at 7 Eastern on 5.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, all the years of doing this, one of the things I've noticed about media companies, politicians, political parties in sports and sports teams is some teams, and this is poor ownership or management do not have the ability to see problems on the horizon. And when you watch the Bears and Matt Eberflusse and this mess of coaching, it all could have been avoided. And remember before the draft I had said on the air, I believe Caleb Williams and his party are concerned about ending up in Chicago. Now he came out the next day and said that's not true. It's not true. I just saw Caleb this weekend, seems happy, saw his dad, but there were concerns and these are the concerns. So let's see. Yet a losing defensive head coach. Here comes Caleb Williams. Maybe hire Cliff Kingsbury, his offensive coordinator who wanted the job. Nope. They pass on him for Shane Waldron, who when he got moved out of Seattle, Seahawk players were highly critical of they didn't do their homework all they had to do is make a couple of calls. The players wanted him out in Seattle, he bombs in Chicago. So now you have a defensive coach going on the hot seat. Day one. You saw it coming. Hot seat, day one in a division with excellent offensive coaches. Matt LeFleur, Kevin O'Connell, Dan Campbell and Ben Johnson. In an offensive league, they should have hired Jim Harbaugh. They couldn't because Harbaugh doesn't like Kevin Warren, the president of the Bears who used to run the Big Ten. They don't get along. The owners. The McCaskeys are the poorest and the oldest in the NFL. The McCaskeys, what do you know? When they were looking for a Coach, leaned on 80 year old Bill Polian, who I like, he's a Hall of Famer, but he is not in the culture of the NFL right now. That's a different time in the NFL. It's an offensive league. So the McCaskeys are so old fashioned. I'm not joking here. They would not allow swearing when the Bears were on Hard Knocks. So it was, it was a lot of malarkey, as they say. So this they just have no sense of. They're still clinging to the 85 Bears. They have no real sense of the new league. And this is what Caleb Williams, privately, everybody was like, ugh, can they get it right? The Chicago Bears are a tornado of dysfunction. I mean, the world's going to AI. They're still clinging to aol. It doesn't work and I just don't know. And this division is so good. And the coaching with LaFleur and Kevin O'Connell and Dan Campbell is so dynamic and so smart. I mean, this team won seven games last year. They upgraded it quarterly, quarterback, running back, tight end and wide receiver and got worse. And so I don't think there's an easy answer on this stuff. You know, I said this when Al Davis got old, the last decade for the Raiders, Raider fans would go, how do you think we're going to be? And I used to tell him, you will not have a chance to be good. Al Davis is going to block any chance for optimism. The Cincinnati Bengals right now, the Brown family, it's dysfunctional. Joe Burrow can only do so much. And so I feel with Caleb Williams, this is why I would support an Eli Manning or a John Elway or a Caleb Williams and say, you haven't proven the ability. I mean, this franchise has never had a 4,000 yard quarterback. That's insane. I didn't even make sense So I wish there was an easy answer. What would I do? I would go get an offensive coach. Now, Marcus Freeman is the coach at Notre Dame. Good looking, young guy, culture, great recruiter. He's got a real presence. I think Marcus Freeman's interesting. That's not who I would hire. In fact, I wouldn't leave Notre Dame for the Bears job. I wouldn't do it. Notre Dame's a great job. Marcus Freeman could be there for a decade. He's got a beautiful family. He's changing the lives of kids. Notre Dame's a great academic powerhouse and a football iconic. Football. I wouldn't leave the Notre Dame job for that job. Jim Harbaugh could have had it. No, thanks. So it's not a good job. It's like the Jets. It's better than the jets because they have Caleb Williams. That's it. They both, jets and Bears both have good defensive players. They both have dysfunction in ownership. Those are just not good jobs. So what happens is coaches talk and people. I was just out this weekend talking to an NFL general manager that was in Los Angeles for the weekend, and he's like, listen, man, Mike Vrabel's not taking every job. He's not desperate. He made a lot of money. Bill Belichick's not taking every job. Last year, Jim Harbaugh was interested in one job, the one that had Justin Herbert. That's the only job he wanted. So you can. You gotta be able to see problems before they arrive. That's what a good general manager does, or a good owner, or a good business or a CEO, a good political party. We've got a problem. You gotta see it six months out. That's why these managers in every company are in meetings all day to figure out what's the next roadblock, what's the next flare, what's the next problem. So I just don't, I don't have high hopes here. I think Caleb's remarkably talented. But I mean. And by the way, Washington cleaned house. Ownership down right now. Let's look at the playoff picture. Washington's going to make the playoffs. They have a bye. And then they got to play the awful Saints. So they're going to have nine wins. So if you look at the NFC playoff picture, Washington was the Bears. And they're like ownership gm, coach, coordinator, quarterback. They went all in and changed it. The McCaskeys aren't selling it. They've owned that thing since the 20s, I'm not joking, since 1920s. So it's, it's a tough Situation. Let's go look at that NFC playoff again because I want to talk about this, the playoff picture. So the nfc, I don't see the only change here is the NFC south with Atlanta. So Atlanta's beaten Tampa twice, but I think Detroit, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Green Bay and Washington are in. Seattle, Rams, Arizona still up for grabs. Atlanta, Tampa with Kirk Cousins. Now, I don't know how this is going to end. I picked the Falcons to win it. If you go to the AFC playoff picture, I think it's set in stone. First of all, Kansas City, Buffalo, Pittsburgh set in stone. Houston is getting healthier. They're fine. Chargers, Ravens, Broncos feel like playoff teams. I mean, give me a break on Miami. Was that loss to Green Bay the most predictable loss of the season? I mean, if you only bet one game all year, it should have been that game. Miami going into cold weather. I like Anthony Richardson and the Colts, I like the roster. But Anthony, you can't get into a shootout. They are limited as a team throwing the football with Anthony Richardson at this point in his career. So I think if Denver wins tonight at home against Cleveland, I think this is going to be the AFC playoffs. And I think you're going to find some of the teams down the stretch will be resting people. But I mean now underdogs did very well. They had a fight this weekend. You don't, you know, there can be soft tanking. But I think Kansas City, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Texans, Chargers, Baltimore, Buffalo, excuse me, Denver. Those are the playoff team. Nfc. I don't trust the Seahawks, although they keep winning. They keep winning these games and Atlanta is, I think, I think Tampa's got better players. I'm not going to make any prediction on the NFC South. I don't really like any of them right now and that's where we are right now. Wild.

[Jason McIntyre]

Hey, can we go back to the Bears situation for a sec? So I'm going to rattle off the last few coaches the Bears have had.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay.

[Jason McIntyre]

Matt Eberflusse went 14 and 32.

[Colin Cowherd]

Inexpensive.

[Jason McIntyre]

Matt Nagy, cheap. John Fox, Mark Tressman, Lovey Smith was the last guy to have success. What the Bears lack is a culture and a philosophy. We don't know what they are like. It's obvious they play outdoors in Chicago. They should go back to being a smash mouth team. We mentioned him last week on the show. I said, keep an eye on this guy. He's coaching in college. I like what he's doing. He's instilling a philosophy at Notre Dame and his name is Freeman and he is I think a lights out coach. Now you told me yesterday you heard over the weekend that Freeman's name is being bandied about. I think the Kingsbury stuff is just obvious. People connecting Kingsbury to Caleb. I think Marcus Freeman and the Bears make a whole lot of sense. Colin, this, if you look at this Notre Dame team, they know what they are against usc. Did you say that?

[Colin Cowherd]

Hand off the football.

[Jason McIntyre]

We're going to run it down your throat. They had like 250 yards on the ground in the third quarter. Yeah, like they know what they are. And the Bears, I don't think know what they are. I think Freeman would be a home run hire.

[Colin Cowherd]

Kevin Warren just said this on Chicago's head coaching search. This will be the most coveted job in the NFL this year.

[Jason McIntyre]

Right now it is.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, they have the best quarterback, but.

[Jason McIntyre]

Just know there's a lot of talent, man, skill positions.

[Colin Cowherd]

They're.

[Jason McIntyre]

They got guys, defense, they got some dudes. They just lack like end game situations have been a nightmare. They've frittered away at least three games. The one that I think is the super sleeper, if you're looking for a super sleeper is Jacksonville where maybe they say, hey, we just lucked into Shador Sanders. Let's go after Dion and let's move on from Trevor Lawrence.

[Colin Cowherd]

I can see that. Trevor Lawrence, well, if I was Trevor Lawrence, I wouldn't mind being moved on from. I would have no problem restarting. They can't protect him.

[Jason McIntyre]

You could get a haul for Trevor Lawrence.

[Colin Cowherd]

Oh, you'd get two number ones easier. Two first round picks. Yeah, yeah. You could get. If you're the Raiders. If you're the Raiders, you have to strongly consider that.

[Jason McIntyre]

And Shador and Deion go back, no problem with it.

[Colin Cowherd]

I have no problem with that at all. Colin right? Colin wrong. Matt Hasselbeck next. Hi, it's the Herd. I'm partnering with PayPal. Turn Black Friday into Stack Friday in the PayPal app. Find tons of cash back offers to stack on top of Black Friday deals from your favorite brands. All you gotta do is check out with PayPal online. Now that's a stack. Don't just pay PayPal. Check offers in the app for details. Cash back earned as points redeemable for cash and other options, terms and exclusions apply. It's football season and Uber Eats is dropping undefeated deals on all your game day favorites this week. Score, buy one, get one free World famous pangate combos from ihop only on Uber Eats. Craving even more. We've got you covered with game day deals. On pizza, burgers, tacos and more all season long. Uber Eats Official On Demand Food Delivery Partner of the NFL. Order now for game day terms, taxes and fees apply. See app for details. This is Doug Godley from All Ball with Doug Godley. Listen, I'm going to get serious for a minute. The hate in our country is getting out of control. In fact, it's sadly at an all time high. But it's going to take all of us to stop it. I mean we're all on the same team in this country. So let's take a break from our.

[Jason McIntyre]

Hate so our team can regroup. We need to take a time out Against Hate.

[Colin Cowherd]

Visit standuptoallhate.org to help and join me in calling for time out against hate by following hatsupwithhate or posting the Blue Square Emoji. What makes the holiday special are the details from Genesis. And every little detail in a Genesis is another gift to you. Like an available heated steering wheel during winter. That's a gift you'll love for the available Nappa leather seating. And how about a $1,000 bonus on select Genesis vehicles? The deal ends January 2nd. See participating Genesis retailers for details. Experience the Genesis signature event. Visit genesis.com to see how Genesis can make your holidays even brighter. Details make the holidays 0 Foxtrot isn't just a brand, it's a way of life. Founded and operated by veterans, Zero Foxtrot's unique apparel and gear echoes the grit of the warrior culture. Zero Foxtrot dedicates itself to producing content, honoring the sacrifices of forgotten heroes of the past and connecting history to the present. Embark on a journey with Zero Foxtrot today at Zero Foxtrot.com it's not merely our products. It's about the ethos that we embody. Rugged, resilient and timeless.