Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: Hour 2 - Thoughts on the Dodgers-Padres Rivalry
Release Date: June 18, 2025

Introduction to Hour Two

At the onset of the second hour, Jason McIntyre welcomes listeners back, acknowledging a significant presence of Caitlin Clark in Chicago and setting the stage for a deep dive into various sports topics. The conversation seamlessly transitions from broader sports discussions to specific rivalries and player analyses.

Dodgers-Padres Rivalry

Overview of the Rivalry

The central focus of this segment is the intense rivalry between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres. Jason McIntyre emphasizes the competitiveness and parity between the two teams:

"The best rivalry in baseball is Dodgers vs. Padres. Since Ohtani arrived, they've played 23 games. The Dodgers have won 12, the Padres have won 11."
— Jason McIntyre [04:00]

Statistical Comparisons

McIntyre provides a comprehensive statistical comparison, highlighting the closeness in their performances:

• Home Runs: Dodgers (26) vs. Padres (27)
• Runs Scored: Dodgers (112) vs. Padres (108)
• ERA: Dodgers (4.4) vs. Padres (4.2)

Despite these near-equal stats, the Dodgers hold a slight edge in overall trophies and star player presence.

Player Incidents and On-Field Tensions

The rivalry is marred by physical altercations and intentional plays:

"Last night, the Dodgers hit Tatis in the back... Padres go after Ohtani, throwing it at his leg."
— Jason McIntyre [05:15]

These actions have fueled the animosity, making games between these teams highly charged and unpredictable.

Insights from Dave Roberts

Dodgers’ manager, Dave Roberts, provides his perspective on recent incidents:

"This guy, he hasn't come close. I do feel it was intentional. That's part of baseball, which we all understand."
— Dave Roberts [06:08]

Roberts acknowledges the intentionality behind some of the aggressive plays but frames them within the competitive nature of the sport.

Mark Sanchez on the Rivalry

Former NFL quarterback and guest, Mark Sanchez, offers an analytical viewpoint:

"The Dodgers are a wealthier, richer franchise and more iconic. But when these two teams meet, they cannot stand each other."
— Mark Sanchez [07:30]

Sanchez underscores the blend of financial prowess and competitive spirit that intensifies the rivalry, noting that both teams are star-studded, adding to the high stakes during their encounters.

NFL Discussions

Aaron Rodgers Joining the Steelers

The conversation shifts to the NFL, focusing on Aaron Rodgers' move to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The hosts delve into Rodgers' motivations and the potential impact on his performance:

"He loves football and he wants to play football, and he respected Mike Tomlin, and that's okay."
— Jason McIntyre [09:21]

Mark Sanchez expands on the cultural and performance aspects of Rodgers' transition:

"Pittsburgh is an iconic brand... Aaron's an outsider... he's battling against that in the public eye."
— Mark Sanchez [10:05]

Sanchez highlights the challenges Rodgers might face in a new environment that prides itself on homegrown talent and a strong team culture.

Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears

Jason McIntyre introduces a discussion on Caleb Williams, the quarterback for the Chicago Bears, analyzing his performance and the challenges he faces:

"He needs a cleaning at more than an elevation. You tell me, as a guy who played in this league, does that make sense at all?"
— Jason McIntyre [12:00]

Mark Sanchez advises on coaching strategies to harness Williams' potential:

"Ben Johnson's job is to separate when it's time to be Superman and when it's time to operate the offense."
— Mark Sanchez [13:20]

Sanchez emphasizes the importance of disciplined play and decision-making to maximize Williams' brilliance while minimizing risky maneuvers.

College Football and USC's Conference Move

The hosts delve into collegiate sports, particularly USC's strategic move to the Big Ten Conference. Jason McIntyre defends USC's decision, citing financial and competitive motivations:

"USC is prioritizing getting into the Big Ten, get the NIL up and get to the playoffs."
— Jason McIntyre [17:00]

Mark Sanchez reflects on the emotional and traditional aspects of this shift:

"It would feel good to see Notre Dame still as a part of the schedule... There's something to it. It's a beautiful tradition."
— Mark Sanchez [19:04]

The discussion touches on the balance between tradition and the evolving landscape of college athletics, emphasizing the practical benefits of conference realignment.

NFL Team Analysis

Green Bay Packers

A detailed analysis of the Green Bay Packers unfolds, focusing on managerial decisions and team performance:

"They have a lot of good players. They don't have a lot of holes or liabilities."
— Jason McIntyre [33:00]

The conversation notes uncertainties surrounding key players and future prospects, with Mark Sanchez providing insights into team dynamics and potential outcomes within their division.

Baltimore Ravens' Secondary Strength

The discussion highlights the Baltimore Ravens' defensive prowess, particularly in their secondary:

"Their secondary now might have the best in the league with Starks from Georgia and Kyle Hamilton."
— Gavin [29:35]

Jason McIntyre agrees, praising the Ravens' defensive strategy and player acquisitions:

"Cornerbacks are the receivers of defense... they have to play with a heightened level of confidence."
— Jason McIntyre [30:46]

NBA Talk: Jalen Williams vs. Scottie Pippen

Transitioning to basketball, the hosts compare emerging star Jalen Williams to the legendary Scottie Pippen:

"Jalen Williams is paving his own path. Allow him to create his legacy."
— Lou Williams [35:00]

Jason McIntyre asserts Williams' offensive prowess over Pippen:

"Jalen Williams is a more skilled offensive player than Scottie Pippen."
— Jason McIntyre [36:09]

Gavin counters by acknowledging Pippen's complete game and leadership:

"Scottie Pippen is almost underrated... He's a complete player."
— Gavin [38:49]

The debate centers on Williams' potential and current performance, juxtaposed against Pippen's established legacy and all-around skills.

Concluding Remarks

As the episode winds down, Jason McIntyre and Mark Sanchez recap the discussions, extending congratulations to Sanchez on his new twins and reflecting on the multifaceted sports landscape covered in the hour. The conversation underscores the interconnectedness of team dynamics, player performance, and strategic decisions across different sports leagues.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jason McIntyre [04:00]: "The best rivalry in baseball is Dodgers vs. Padres. Since Ohtani arrived, they've played 23 games. The Dodgers have won 12, the Padres have won 11."

• Dave Roberts [06:08]: "This guy, he hasn't come close. I do feel it was intentional. That's part of baseball, which we all understand."

• Mark Sanchez [07:30]: "The Dodgers are a wealthier, richer franchise and more iconic. But when these two teams meet, they cannot stand each other."

• Jason McIntyre [09:21]: "He loves football and he wants to play football, and he respected Mike Tomlin, and that's okay."

• Mark Sanchez [10:05]: "Pittsburgh is an iconic brand... Aaron's an outsider... he's battling against that in the public eye."

• Mark Sanchez [13:20]: "Ben Johnson's job is to separate when it's time to be Superman and when it's time to operate the offense."

• Jason McIntyre [17:00]: "USC is prioritizing getting into the Big Ten, get the NIL up and get to the playoffs."

• Mark Sanchez [19:04]: "It would feel good to see Notre Dame still as a part of the schedule... It's a beautiful tradition."

• Jason McIntyre [33:00]: "They have a lot of good players. They don't have a lot of holes or liabilities."

• Gavin [29:35]: "Their secondary now might have the best in the league with Starks from Georgia and Kyle Hamilton."

• Jason McIntyre [36:09]: "Jalen Williams is a more skilled offensive player than Scottie Pippen."

• Gavin [38:49]: "Scottie Pippen is almost underrated... He's a complete player."

Conclusion

Hour Two of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers an engaging exploration of the Dodgers-Padres rivalry, enriched by statistical analysis, player insights, and managerial perspectives. The episode seamlessly transitions between baseball, NFL, college football, and NBA discussions, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of current sports dynamics. Notable quotes and expert opinions from guests like Mark Sanchez and Dave Roberts enhance the depth of the conversation, making it a valuable listen for sports enthusiasts seeking detailed analysis and insider viewpoints.