Podcast Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Episode: Hour 2 - Cam Ward has an advantage
Release Date: August 1, 2025

Introduction

In the second hour of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosts Covino and Rich delve deep into the intricacies of the NFL draft, focusing primarily on Cam Ward, the latest number one overall pick. The episode explores media biases, player expectations, and the potential advantages that come with being an under-the-radar quarterback.

Cam Ward: Under the Radar Number One Pick

The central theme of this hour revolves around Cam Ward, the newest number one draft pick quarterback. Covino and Rich dissect the factors that make Cam Ward a unique prospect in the current NFL landscape.

• Low Madden Ratings:
  Covino highlights a critical point: "Cam Ward has the lowest overall Madden rating for a number one pick in the last 25 years." [09:06] This low rating suggests that he isn't surrounded by the typical hype that accompanies top draft picks.

• Media Hype and Expectations:
  Rich adds, "We established yesterday that he’s the number one draft pick and sort of going under the radar. Of course, he’s playing for a non-sexy team." [30:09] The lack of media attention could be a double-edged sword, reducing pressure but also limiting early endorsements and spotlight opportunities.

• ESPN's Coverage Bias:
  Listener Danny G voices frustration over ESPN's favoritism towards Shador Sanders over Dylan Gabriel, another promising quarterback. Danny states, "ESP tends to bury people they don’t like and prop up people they do. Shador Sanders has been propped up a little too high." [04:34] Covino counters by pointing out the extensive coverage only Shador Sanders receives across all major sports networks, which isn't equally extended to Dylan Gabriel. [06:30]

Advantages of Being Under the Radar

Covino and Rich argue that Cam Ward’s minimal media exposure can work to his advantage:

• Less Pressure, More Room to Grow:
  "The simple fact that the expectation is not off the charts... leaves you the opportunity to create your own buzz." [12:27] Without the burden of high expectations, Ward has the freedom to develop his game organically.

• Focus on Performance:
  Rich emphasizes, "It takes some pressure off the situation. Listen, gives you room to grow a little bit." [13:02] This environment may allow Ward to focus solely on improving his skills without the constant scrutiny that often hampers rookie quarterbacks.

Broader NFL and Sports Discussions

Beyond Cam Ward, the hosts touch upon various other sports topics, providing listeners with a comprehensive analysis of current events.

• MLB's Historic Thriller:
  Danny G recounts an unforgettable game between the Braves and the Reds: "It was just the third time in major league history that both teams scored eight or more runs in the same inning." [33:35] The game ended dramatically with a 12-11 victory in 10 innings, showcasing unparalleled offensive play.

• NFL Injuries:
  An update on Baker Mayfield’s injury: "Baker Mayfield has a contusion on his throwing hand, which is essentially a bruised hand." [35:07] Covino and Rich discuss the implications of this injury on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' performance.

• Michael Phelps and the Ravens:
  The legendary swimmer Michael Phelps plans to assist the Ravens with swimming lessons, as requested by cornerback Marlon Humphrey. Covino remarks, "Michael Phelps is a lot cooler than a random middle-aged woman giving my kids swimming lessons." [36:16]

Cultural and Media Commentary

The hosts also venture into discussions about media representations and cultural phenomena:

• Pronunciation of Names:
  An ongoing conversation about correctly pronouncing athletes' names, highlighting the challenges broadcasters face. Covino asks, "When someone corrects you on their name, is it then rude to go back to what you were saying anyway?" [18:31]

• MTV’s Evolution:
  Reflecting on MTV’s 44th anniversary, Rich nostalgically states, "Yo, MTV Raps. Headbangers Ball. Yeah, I loved it. I lived it." [31:13] They lament the shift from music videos to reality shows, noting the platform’s decline in influence.

Listener Engagement and Final Thoughts

Throughout the episode, Covino and Rich engage with listener feedback, emphasizing the importance of community interaction. They encourage listeners to participate in discussions and share their opinions on various sports topics.

• Encouraging Open Dialogue:
  "We love when our listeners chime in." [42:35] This openness fosters a sense of community and ensures diverse perspectives are heard.

• Cam Ward’s Future:
  Concluding their discussion on Cam Ward, Covino and Rich remain optimistic. "Cam Ward is set up for success here... no pressure, he has room to grow." [20:27]

Conclusion

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Covino and Rich offer a nuanced exploration of Cam Ward’s position as a number one draft pick, juxtaposing media biases and the potential benefits of low expectations. Their comprehensive analysis extends beyond individual players to encompass broader sports and cultural topics, providing listeners with a rich and engaging listening experience.

Notable Quotes:

• "Cam Ward has the lowest overall Madden rating for a number one pick in the last 25 years." [09:06]
• "We established yesterday that he’s the number one draft pick and sort of going under the radar." [30:09]
• "It takes some pressure off the situation. Listen, gives you room to grow a little bit." [13:02]
• "Yo, MTV Raps. Headbangers Ball. Yeah, I loved it. I lived it." [31:13]

For those interested in the full breadth of discussions, tuning into The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers an insightful journey through the top sports stories of the day, enriched with expert opinions and lively debates.