Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 2 Featuring Greg Cosell

Episode Details:

• Title: Hour 2 - Greg Cosell
• Release Date: December 5, 2024
• Host: Colin Cowherd
• Guest Analyst: Greg Cosell
• Produced By: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. NFL Quarterback Landscape

a. Evaluating C.J. Stroud vs. Bryce Young

Greg Cosell delves into the evolving quarterback dynamics within the NFL, particularly focusing on C.J. Stroud and Bryce Young. He emphasizes the increasing hit rate for first-round quarterbacks, attributing this improvement to better offensive coaching and more comprehensive quarterback development programs.

Greg Cosell [05:14]: "The hit rate for quarterbacks is going up. It used to be a 50/50 proposition in the first round. It's much better than that now."

Cosell compares Stroud's potential to that of seasoned quarterbacks who have shown resilience and adaptability, suggesting that Stroud is poised to become a solid franchise quarterback.

Greg Cosell [06:00]: "I think C.J. Stroud is better than Bryce Young. The offensive coaching is better, which is going to increase the hit rate on quarterbacks making it."

b. The Impact of Coaching on Quarterback Success

The discussion highlights how offensive coaching innovations are revitalizing quarterbacks who previously struggled, such as Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield, positioning them as valuable assets in their new teams.

Greg Cosell [06:21]: "Geno Smith, Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold—guys get reborn now when they get better offensive coaches."

2. Team Dynamics and Performance

a. The San Francisco 49ers and Christian McCaffrey

Cosell analyzes the synergy between the San Francisco 49ers and running back Christian McCaffrey, noting how his presence significantly enhances the team's offensive schemes. He points out that Coach Kyle Shanahan’s strategies become less effective without McCaffrey on the field, underscoring his pivotal role.

Greg Cosell [07:16]: "McCaffrey is a sensational all-time talent. What is remarkable is that Kyle Shanahan has a losing record without him."

b. The Baltimore Ravens vs. Philadelphia Eagles Defensive Strategies

Greg and co-host Jason McIntyre discuss the Ravens' defensive adjustments against the Eagles, critiquing the decision to maintain a nickel defense that plays into the Eagles' strengths. Cosell argues that the Ravens failed to impose their own defensive style, allowing the Eagles to dictate the game's pace.

Greg Cosell [11:58]: "They didn’t play Ravens football and allowed the Eagles to dictate the game on the defensive side."

3. Coaching Gaps in the NFL

Cosell elaborates on the significant disparity between top-tier and average NFL coaches. He argues that the quality gap is akin to a "Grand Canyon," affecting team performance across the board.

Greg Cosell [24:32]: "The gap in coaching is the Grand Canyon here. You know, some of this stuff... nothing against the kid, but you don’t see it."

He also touches on organizational challenges, citing examples like the Jets, who have struggled due to coaching instability and poor management.

Greg Cosell [24:32]: "The gap in general managers, owners... It's as big as Mahomes and Desmond Ritter and just you don’t see it."

4. Specific Game Analyses

a. Sam Darnold’s Performance Against Arizona

Greg Cosell breaks down Sam Darnold's strategic play during the 49ers' game against Arizona, highlighting his improved decision-making and precision in passing. He explains a pivotal play where Darnold executed a complex route, showcasing his growth as an NFL quarterback.

Greg Cosell [20:53]: "He throws a ball really early and sticks it right on him. This is not an easy throw. This is big-time NFL quarterback."

b. Lamar Jackson vs. Philadelphia Eagles

The conversation shifts to Lamar Jackson’s performance, noting his usually dominant presence against NFC teams but recent vulnerabilities against Philadelphia. Cosell suggests that specific defensive schemes employed by the Eagles have successfully neutralized Jackson's strengths.

Greg Cosell [11:30]: "Lamar against the NFC is unbeatable. And then all of a sudden against Philadelphia, he was very beatable."

5. NBA Insights: LeBron James and the Lakers

a. Lakers' Performance Decline

Transitioning to the NBA, Cosell and McIntyre discuss the Los Angeles Lakers' recent slump, attributing their poor performance to defensive lapses and inconsistent play. They highlight the significant losses the team has faced, questioning the sustainability of their current roster and strategy.

Greg Cosell [36:14]: "This team has no chance to win. This could be LeBron's final season."

b. LeBron James’ Potential Retirement

A major segment is dedicated to LeBron James' future, with Cosell contemplating whether this could be LeBron's final season. He compares LeBron's situation to other legendary athletes who have pondered retirement, suggesting that LeBron's achievements may lead him to retire on a high note.

Greg Cosell [36:14]: "Paul Pierce said he believes this could be LeBron's final season. What else do we gotta, Brian, what else you gotta accomplish?"

Jason McIntyre [37:25]: "LeBron doesn't have anything left to prove."

COSCEL also speculates on LeBron's post-retirement possibilities, hinting at potential ventures into politics or other fields.

6. Betting and Predictions

a. Big Ten Football Bets

In the latter part of the episode, Greg and Jason engage in their "Big Bets" segment, where they make predictions on upcoming Big Ten football matchups. They analyze team strengths, weaknesses, and recent performances to inform their betting choices.

Greg Cosell [43:01]: "I think Oregon’s got a head coaching, quarterback, and perimeter speed advantage. I'll take the Ducks to win by over three and a half points."

b. College Football Playoff Predictions

Further predictions are made regarding potential national championship contenders, with Cosell favoring teams like Tennessee and Oregon, while critiquing traditional powerhouses like Alabama.

Greg Cosell [49:27]: "I think Alabama can't win a Natty. They’re way too inconsistent, especially on offense."

7. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

In his concluding remarks, Greg Cosell underscores the importance of understanding the complex interplay between coaching, player performance, and organizational stability in determining team success. He reiterates the significant gaps in coaching quality within the NFL and stresses the need for strategic adjustments to enhance team performance.

Greg Cosell [47:46]: "The gap in coaching is the Grand Canyon here."

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Cosell [05:14]: "The hit rate for quarterbacks is going up. It used to be a 50/50 proposition in the first round. It's much better than that now."

• Greg Cosell [07:16]: "McCaffrey is a sensational all-time talent. What is remarkable is that Kyle Shanahan has a losing record without him."

• Greg Cosell [24:32]: "The gap in coaching is the Grand Canyon here. You know, some of this stuff... nothing against the kid, but you don’t see it."

• Greg Cosell [36:14]: "This team has no chance to win. This could be LeBron's final season."

Conclusion:

In this episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," Greg Cosell provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of the NFL, focusing on quarterback development, coaching disparities, and team dynamics. He seamlessly transitions into NBA discussions, contemplating the future of LeBron James and the Lakers' declining performance. The episode is rich with expert insights, strategic breakdowns, and thought-provoking predictions, making it a valuable listen for sports enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive understanding of contemporary sports narratives.