Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 1: Stop Trying to Make Bronny James a Thing
Release Date: January 29, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Episode Title: Stop Trying to Make Bronny James a Thing
1. Introduction to the Episode
In the premiere hour of "Stop Trying to Make Bronny James a Thing," Colin Cowherd delves into the controversial decision by the Los Angeles Lakers to promote Bronny James, LeBron James' son, to the NBA roster. The discussion centers on the implications of this move for both Bronny and the NBA at large.
2. Main Discussion
a. Bronny James’ Promotion to the Lakers
Colin Cowherd initiates the conversation by criticizing the Lakers' decision to rush Bronny James into the NBA after an impressive performance in the G League.
"So last night, AD got hurt. Lakers went into the tank, got blown out by Philadelphia... I have confidence in him. You did not put him in a tough spot. He is 1 for 16 in the NBA from the floor..."
[03:03] – Colin Cowherd
Cowherd emphasizes that Bronny, a 6'2" guard, lacks the necessary skills and consistency to compete at the NBA level, highlighting his poor performance metrics.
"He has not scored in 38 minutes on the floor. But J.J. Redick, instead of just being honest, pandered. He is a 6’2” guard that can’t shoot in a league where 7’4” guys can. He’s not an NBA player."
[06:15] – Colin Cowherd
b. Comparison to NFL’s Handling of Players
The discussion shifts to a comparison between the NBA and NFL, with Cowherd praising the NFL's straightforward approach to player evaluation and accountability.
"The NFL is a serious league. The games matter. It's adults, it's men. It's real conversations. Can we stop pretending on this? Come on, let's just stop pretending."
[09:30] – Colin Cowherd
Cowherd argues that the NFL maintains a level of professionalism and directness that the NBA lacks, particularly in holding players accountable without pandering to star players.
c. Mike McCarthy’s Coaching Search
The conversation transitions to NFL coach Mike McCarthy, who is withdrawing from the coaching search for the New Orleans Saints and instead looking for a job in 2026.
"Mike McCarthy is officially pulling his name out of the coaching search in New Orleans... I think McCarthy dodged a bullet here big time."
[32:33] – Colin Cowherd
Cowherd critiques the Saints' organizational issues, suggesting that McCarthy’s decision is prudent given the team's lack of cap space and quarterback instability.
d. NFL Draft Analysis with Daniel Jeremiah’s Mock Draft
Colin and J. Mac delve into Daniel Jeremiah's NFL mock draft, questioning Jeremiah’s unconventional choices, such as prioritizing running backs over quarterbacks and top receivers.
"You can't take Abdul Carter first. You cannot. You have to take a quarterback. So what are you going to do? Tell me the game plan so Callahan keeps his job."
[35:21] – Colin Cowherd
Cowherd expresses skepticism about Jeremiah’s selections, particularly criticizing the decision to prioritize running backs like Ashton Genti and Abdul Carter over more critical positions like quarterback.
e. Additional Sports Insights
The duo also touches upon various other sports topics, including the performance and management of other NFL teams, the role of head coaches, and the dynamics of player development in professional leagues.
"Shador Sanders is a real player. He has Shadour going six to the Raiders. We know he wants to go to the Raiders... He goes to the Raiders because they need a quarterback, a receiver, and a back."
[37:02] – Colin Cowherd
Cowherd highlights potential moves in the NFL, advocating for strategic acquisitions that address team needs rather than following media hype.
3. Notable Quotes
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"You can't fool the pro athletes. They know the stars, they know the soft spots, they know the weaknesses."
[03:03] – Colin Cowherd -
"The NFL is a serious league. The games matter. It's adults, it's men. It's real conversations."
[09:30] – Colin Cowherd -
"Mike McCarthy dodged a bullet here big time."
[32:33] – Colin Cowherd -
"You can't take Abdul Carter first. You cannot. You have to take a quarterback."
[35:21] – Colin Cowherd
4. Conclusion
In this episode, Colin Cowherd presents a critical perspective on the NBA's handling of young talent, specifically targeting the Lakers' decision to promote Bronny James prematurely. By contrasting the NBA with the NFL’s more pragmatic approach to player management and team building, Cowherd advocates for greater accountability and strategic decision-making within professional sports leagues. The episode serves as a call to action for sports organizations to prioritize genuine talent and long-term success over hype and nepotism.
5. Additional Notes
For listeners who missed the episode or wish to revisit specific segments, notable discussions occur between the 3:00 and 40:00-minute marks, where the core analysis and debates take place.
This summary encapsulates the primary discussions and viewpoints presented in the first hour of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," providing a comprehensive overview for those who have yet to listen.