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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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]

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.