Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "Hour 1 - No longer America's Team" Release Date: May 14, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
1. Introduction and Overview
In the premiere of "Hour 1 - No longer America's Team," host Colin Cowherd delves into the evolving landscape of American sports, focusing primarily on the shifting dynamics within the NFL and NBA. The episode explores the diminishing prominence of traditionally dominant teams like the Dallas Cowboys and examines rising contenders in both leagues. Through insightful analysis and spirited discussions with co-hosts J. Mac and guest Jalen Brunson, the podcast provides listeners with a comprehensive look at current sports narratives.
2. NFL Schedule Release and the Dallas Cowboys' Decline
Colin Cowherd initiates the conversation by expressing skepticism about the Dallas Cowboys maintaining their status as "America's Team." He critiques the NFL's scheduling decisions, particularly the Cowboys' opener against Philadelphia, citing the team's poor historical performance against the Eagles.
"The Cowboys are one in five in their last six against Philadelphia. That does not scream get this team on television." (08:15)
Cowherd highlights the team's struggles, noting their offensive and defensive rankings:
"The Cowboys were not a top 20 team last year offensively and they were 30th defensively." (09:00)
He forecasts a decline in the Cowboys' viewership, suggesting they may drop to the fifth or sixth most-watched NFL team due to better-performing rivals like Kansas City and Buffalo.
"Those teams this year will surpass the Cowboys because they'll be in more big games." (09:45)
3. NBA Insights: Rising Stars and Team Strategies
The discussion transitions to the NBA, where Cowherd and co-hosts analyze the current state of various teams and standout players.
a. Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets
A significant portion is dedicated to the intense playoff series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets. Cowherd praises the Thunder's energy and roster depth, contrasting it with Denver's reliance on Nikola Jokic.
"Oklahoma City's got the roster and they just have fresher players at the end of games. This is not to say that Denver couldn't have taken at seven but... they deserve to win this thing." (14:04)
Nikola Jokic’s performance is lauded, though Cowherd suggests that the Thunder's balanced team gives them an edge despite Jokic's prowess.
"They just keep rolling guys out sick." (15:32)
b. Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Halliburton's Impact
Guest Jalen Brunson emphasizes the importance of maturity and execution in players like Tyrese Halliburton and himself, contrasting them with more flash-oriented athletes. Brunson defends Halliburton against polls labeling him as overrated, highlighting his leadership and clutch performance.
"Halliburton is a winning player. Brunson is a winning player." (22:24)
He further discusses the potential impact of Jayson Tatum's Achilles injury on the Boston Celtics, expressing optimism about Tatum's recovery and future contributions.
"I think he'll be okay. They'll have to make a decision. Do we just take away next year's title?" (29:22)
4. Draft Lottery and the Dallas Mavericks' Strategy
The Mavericks' recent success in the draft lottery becomes a focal point, with Cowherd analyzing the team's strategic choices. Contrary to initial speculation, the Mavericks opt not to trade their top pick, Cooper Flag, valuing his potential as a future star over immediate trades for established players like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
"This is their first, like star, domestic star. They're going to be led by... a Duke star in Dallas, I'm not moving that." (31:04)
Brunson supports this decision, emphasizing the importance of building around homegrown talent for sustained success.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers' Personnel Moves and Team Dynamics
The podcast shifts focus to the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers, discussing their recent acquisition of wide receiver George Pickens. Cowherd critiques the team's history of trading promising receivers, drawing parallels with other franchises like Kansas City.
"It's hard enough to win in the NFL when you're distracted. It makes it even harder." (33:50)
Brunson comments on the instability within the Steelers' roster, particularly concerning their quarterback situation and the potential distractions brought by high-profile player movements.
"Pittsburgh just continues to be just a mess." (34:46)
6. Coaching and Front Office Strategies Across NFL Teams
Cowherd and Brunson delve into the critical role of coaching and front office decisions in shaping team success. They compare different franchises' approaches, highlighting how proactive and visionary management can lead to sustained excellence.
"Front offices run the NFL. That never happened in my life." (33:00)
Using examples from teams like Arizona and New England, they discuss how strategic drafting and coaching hires can significantly impact a team's fortunes.
7. Concluding Remarks and Future Predictions
As the episode wraps up, Cowherd and his co-hosts summarize their insights, predicting a continued shift in America's favorite teams across both the NFL and NBA. They emphasize the importance of strategic planning, player development, and adaptive team dynamics in maintaining relevance and competitiveness in the ever-evolving sports landscape.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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"The Cowboys are one in five in their last six against Philadelphia. That does not scream get this team on television." – Colin Cowherd (08:15)
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"The Cowboys were not a top 20 team last year offensively and they were 30th defensively." – Colin Cowherd (09:00)
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"Oklahoma City's got the roster and they just have fresher players at the end of games. This is not to say that Denver couldn't have taken at seven but... they deserve to win this thing." – Colin Cowherd (14:04)
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"Halliburton is a winning player. Brunson is a winning player." – Colin Cowherd (22:24)
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"This is their first, like star, domestic star. They're going to be led by... a Duke star in Dallas, I'm not moving that." – Colin Cowherd (31:04)
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"It's hard enough to win in the NFL when you're distracted. It makes it even harder." – Colin Cowherd (33:50)
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"Front offices run the NFL. That never happened in my life." – Colin Cowherd (33:00)
Time Stamps Reference
For ease of navigation, below are quick reference links to the timestamps mentioned:
This episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" offers a deep dive into the current shifts in American sports, challenging the status quo and highlighting emerging talents and teams poised to become the new faces of America's sporting landscape.