Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 2: NFL Teams Are Playing Too Many Games, Eric Mangini

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
• Description: A thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven journey through the top sports stories of the day.
• Episode: Hour 2 – "NFL Teams Are Playing Too Many Games, Eric Mangini"
• Release Date: December 27, 2024

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin Cowherd delves into the increasingly congested NFL schedule and its ramifications on teams, players, and the overall quality of the game. Joined by guest Eric Mangini, a seasoned NFL coach, the discussion offers in-depth analysis and diverse perspectives on whether the current number of games is detrimental to the sport.

The Impact of a Dense NFL Schedule

Colin Cowherd initiates the conversation by expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming stretch of the NFL season, highlighting it as "the best stretch of the year" despite some recent disappointments. He underscores the excitement surrounding the return of pitchers and catchers reporting for spring training, emphasizing the renewed energy among teams.

Eric Mangini agrees, noting the challenges that come with a packed schedule. He explains, "To me, learning how to win is a skill and learning how to win close games is a skill that takes a long time to develop" (12:32). Mangini elaborates on how teams with strong coaching and robust player rosters can better navigate the demands of frequent games, while others may struggle with fatigue and injuries.

Coaching Strategies Amidst Scheduling Pressures

The discussion shifts to the role of coaching in managing a team through a hectic schedule. Colin Cowherd raises concerns about coaches like Mike Vrabel of the Jets, questioning whether they can maintain team cohesion and performance when faced with back-to-back games. He remarks, "It's going to take all of us to stop this sort of hate because we're all on the same team in this country" (02:01), metaphorically linking team unity to the broader need for collective effort against external pressures.

Eric Mangini counters by highlighting Vrabel's potential options for the Jets, suggesting that a strong General Manager and cohesive coaching staff are crucial for mitigating the negative effects of an intense schedule. Mangini states, "You'd want to get a young quarterback. He could compete with that young quarterback, probably start and mentor that guy" (10:44), emphasizing the importance of strategic personnel decisions.

Player Performance and Health Concerns

A significant portion of the episode addresses the toll that excessive games take on players. Colin Cowherd points out specific instances where star quarterbacks like Joe Burrow have been under constant duress due to poor offensive line protection, leading to increased sacks and fatigue. He comments, "They're trying to keep Joe Burrow protected, but if they can't, it's only going to get worse" (35:08), highlighting the direct impact of a dense schedule on player health and performance.

Eric Mangini concurs, noting that teams must invest heavily in their offensive lines to protect quarterbacks better. He adds, "I think that kid can really play" (31:21), referring to promising players who could alleviate some of the burden if given the right support and development opportunities.

The Role of Team Management and Front Offices

The episode also explores how team management and front office decisions influence a team's ability to handle a crowded NFL calendar. Colin Cowherd critiques the Dallas Cowboys' management, questioning whether head coach Mike McCarthy remains the right fit under the ownership of Jerry Jones. He muses, "Does McCarthy say, I think I could go to Chicago? I could go Jacksonville if it gets open?" (38:25), probing the stability and future of coaching positions amidst managerial uncertainties.

Eric Mangini responds by emphasizing the importance of having a strong and aligned front office. He asserts, "You need a strong GM that can create a relationship with the owner and that can kind of temper some of his ideas" (12:32), suggesting that cohesive leadership is essential for navigating the complexities of a demanding schedule.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Colin Cowherd and Eric Mangini reflect on the broader implications of an overpacked NFL schedule. They agree that while scheduling adjustments could alleviate some challenges, the fundamental issues of coaching strategies, player health, and front office alignment remain pivotal in determining a team's success.

Notable Quotes:

• Eric Mangini: "To me, learning how to win is a skill and learning how to win close games is a skill that takes a long time to develop." (12:32)
• Colin Cowherd: "It's going to take all of us to stop this sort of hate because we're all on the same team in this country." (02:01)
• Eric Mangini: "You'd want to get a young quarterback. He could compete with that young quarterback, probably start and mentor that guy." (10:44)
• Colin Cowherd: "They're trying to keep Joe Burrow protected, but if they can't, it's only going to get worse." (35:08)
• Eric Mangini: "You need a strong GM that can create a relationship with the owner and that can kind of temper some of his ideas." (12:32)

Key Takeaways

• Scheduling Strain: The increasing number of NFL games is placing significant strain on teams, impacting player health and overall performance.
• Coaching Importance: Effective coaching strategies and strong front office leadership are critical in managing the demands of a dense schedule.
• Player Health: Protecting star players, especially quarterbacks, is essential to maintaining team competitiveness and mitigating excessive fatigue.
• Management Decisions: Front office decisions regarding coaching staff and player development play a pivotal role in a team's ability to succeed despite scheduling challenges.

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd provides an insightful exploration into the complexities of the NFL's scheduling practices, offering valuable perspectives from both the host and an experienced NFL coach. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of how these factors intertwine to influence the future trajectory of their favorite teams.

[Timestamp References]

• [02:01] Colin Cowherd on collective effort against hate.
• [10:44] Eric Mangini on quarterback development.
• [12:32] Eric Mangini on the importance of strong GM and coaching staff.
• [02:01] Colin Cowherd introduces the need for team unity.
• [31:21] Eric Mangini discusses player potential.
• [35:08] Colin Cowherd on Joe Burrow's protection.
• [38:25] Colin Cowherd questions Mike McCarthy’s future.
• [12:32] Eric Mangini on front office alignment.