Hour 3 - Aaron Rodgers and the Vikings

Summary

Summary of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" – Hour 3: Aaron Rodgers and the Vikings
Release Date: March 24, 2025

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Introduction

In this episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," the conversation delves deep into the NFL offseason, focusing on quarterback movements, team strategies, and the dynamics surrounding some of the league's most talked-about figures. Hosts Jason McIntyre, Jordan Schultz, and Joy Taylor engage in a comprehensive discussion about Aaron Rodgers' potential transition to the Minnesota Vikings, the future of JJ McCarthy, Brock Purdy's contract negotiations with the San Francisco 49ers, and the New York Giants' quarterback landscape. Additionally, the episode touches upon broader sports topics, including fan base expectations, college basketball developments, and the challenges faced by the US Men's National Soccer Team.

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1. NFL Offseason Quarterback Movements

Aaron Rodgers and the Minnesota Vikings
Jason McIntyre initiates the discussion by highlighting the speculation surrounding Aaron Rodgers' potential move to the Minnesota Vikings:

Jason McIntyre [02:47]: "Aaron Rodgers was waiting, reportedly, on the Minnesota Vikings to make, you know, a decision because that's where he really wanted to go."

Jordan Schultz responds by emphasizing the Vikings' commitment to their young quarterback, JJ McCarthy:

Jordan Schultz [03:25]: "The Vikings want to give JJ McCarthy the keys to the car. They believe he's the guy they traded up to take him 10th overall. They love him as a person. They love him as a player. He's put on some weight. They think he is the future of the franchise..."

Despite Rodgers' preference, Schultz opines that the Vikings might seek a veteran quarterback to complement McCarthy, suggesting Ryan Tannehill as a more suitable option:

Jordan Schultz [05:13]: "If they're going to bring in a veteran, which I still think they will, it would be someone more like Ryan Tannehill, who's a definitive backup at this stage of his career, where they can really allow JJ McCarthy to be the guy not only now, but for the future, foreseeable next decade."

Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers
When questioned about Rodgers potentially joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, Schultz supports the idea, citing the synergy between Rodgers and Steelers' coach Mike Tomlin:

Jordan Schultz [05:13]: "The best spot for Aaron Rodgers and, really, the most logical place is the Pittsburgh Steelers. I think Mike Tomlin and him would get along very well."

Schultz further elaborates on the Steelers' capacity to handle a quarterback like Rodgers, drawing parallels to Ben Roethlisberger's tenure:

Jordan Schultz [05:13]: "They've already had that type of quarterback in Roethlisberger. There's also the Russell Wilson element... So if you're the Steelers, you have to take a long look at both of these guys and then also realize that you don't pick until 21."

Brock Purdy’s Contract Negotiations with the 49ers
McIntyre shifts focus to Brock Purdy's ongoing negotiations with the San Francisco 49ers:

Jason McIntyre [06:58]: "I see my conspiracy tinfoil hat says Aaron would love a call from San Francisco. He would even like to train in Thousand Oaks or Malibu..."

Jordan Schultz provides insights into Purdy's situation, predicting a multi-year extension starting at $51 million:

Jordan Schultz [07:31]: "I believe that number is going to start with a five. And when it comes to Brock Purdy... he will have a multi-year extension. Three, four years and I believe that number is going to start with a five."

New York Giants’ Quarterback Landscape
The conversation then moves to the New York Giants' quarterback scenario, particularly the role of Jameis Winston and the potential drafting of Shador Sanders:

Jason McIntyre [12:16]: "If Shador Sanders is available, will the New York Giants draft him at quarterback?"

Schultz discusses the Giants' flexibility due to Winston's contract and the strategic options they have:

Jordan Schultz [12:30]: "The Giants at three, having signed Jameis, give themselves a tremendous amount of flexibility because they can go quarterback. They can hypothetically go Shador Sanders, but they also have Jameis Winston, who could start week one."

He further explains the mentorship value Winston could provide if the Giants opt to draft young quarterbacks:

Jordan Schultz [12:30]: "He felt like Jameis was the type of person and leader that if we were to draft a Shador Sanders, he's sure enough within himself, Colin, that he could be a mentor."

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2. Fan Bases and Team Expectations

Pittsburgh Steelers' Fan Base Perceptions
The episode critiques the Pittsburgh Steelers' fan base, suggesting a disconnect between fan optimism and the team's actual performance:

Joy Taylor [32:38]: "Don't buy into this. I know they're looking good. They've won six in a row. This is just not going to last."

McIntyre draws parallels to the Dallas Cowboys' fan base, emphasizing unrealistic expectations:

Jason McIntyre [32:37]: "The Pittsburgh Steelers have become that fan base like Cowboy fans when pulled by Dallas media... Steelers fans still view themselves as contenders. They're not close."

Realistic Appraisal of Team Performance
Taylor underscores the team's limitations despite recent successes, pointing out a "ceiling" that hinders Super Bowl aspirations:

Joy Taylor [32:43]: "There's a ceiling with this team. We've called them out, and then they get smashed in the playoffs."

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3. NBA and College Basketball Dynamics

Impact of NIL on Player Development
The hosts engage in a debate about the NBA's relationship with college basketball, particularly focusing on the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) regulations:

Jason McIntyre [15:55]: "Nil gives those guys a chance to stay in college a little bit, get right and get better and they'll be better pros for it."

Schultz highlights Bruce Pearl's perspective on allowing players to develop further in college:

Jordan Schultz [15:55]: "Neil gives those guys a chance to stay in college a little bit, get right and get better and they'll be better pros for it."

Comparison Between NBA and NFL Approaches
The discussion contrasts the NBA's approach to player development with that of the NFL, arguing that the NBA takes a more supportive stance towards college athletes:

Jason McIntyre [22:01]: "NFL teams lean into college football. Like they totally get..."

College Basketball Tournament Highlights
The conversation touches upon standout performances in the college basketball tournament, mentioning teams like Duke, Baylor, and players such as Cooper Flag:

Joy Taylor [19:27]: "Cooper Flag is like a franchise-changing player... he's everything I want in my game."

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4. US Men's National Soccer Team Challenges

Recent Losses and Managerial Changes
The hosts discuss the US Men's National Soccer Team's disappointing performances, including losses to Panama and Canada:

Joy Taylor [34:36]: "We have good players. They're young, they're talented. It's the best young team ever. We're about 12th, maybe 15th."

They also touch upon the new manager Mauricio Pochettino's efforts to rectify the team's issues:

Joy Taylor [34:45]: "He's still getting the lay of the land, assessing players. I'm not gonna panic."

Fan Expectations vs. Reality
McIntyre expresses frustration with the disconnect between fan expectations and the team's actual performance:

Jason McIntyre [35:16]: "We're the 14th best team in the world. They don't believe that. They think they're five."

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5. College Basketball Tournament Highlights

Standout Players and Team Performances
The episode highlights exceptional performances in the college basketball tournament, emphasizing players like Cooper Flag:

Joy Taylor [19:27]: "Cooper Flag is like a franchise-changing player... he's everything I want in my game."

McIntyre praises Flag's versatility and marketability:

Jason McIntyre [41:18]: "How do we get that guy? That's a franchise-changing player. Yeah, you're relevant instantly."

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Conclusion

This episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" offers an in-depth analysis of significant developments in the NFL offseason, scrutinizes fan base expectations, and explores the intricate dynamics between college basketball and the NBA. The discussion also sheds light on the challenges faced by the US Men's National Soccer Team, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of current sports narratives and future prospects.

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Notable Quotes

• Jason McIntyre [02:47]: "Aaron Rodgers was waiting, reportedly, on the Minnesota Vikings to make, you know, a decision because that's where he really wanted to go."

• Jordan Schultz [05:13]: "If they're going to bring in a veteran, which I still think they will, it would be someone more like Ryan Tannehill."

• Joy Taylor [32:43]: "Don't buy into this. I know they're looking good. This is just not going to last."

• Jason McIntyre [15:55]: "Nil gives those guys a chance to stay in college a little bit, get right and get better and they'll be better pros for it."

• Jordan Schultz [07:31]: "I believe that number is going to start with a five."

• Joy Taylor [19:27]: "Cooper Flag is like a franchise-changing player... he's everything I want in my game."

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This comprehensive summary encapsulates all major discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode, providing a clear and engaging overview for those who haven't listened.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Joy Taylor]

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[Jason McIntyre]

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[Joy Taylor]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[Jason McIntyre]

Radio or FSR now, let's get this party started. You're listening to Fox Sports Radio.

[Jordan Schultz]

All right.

[Jason McIntyre]

There's about four things I want to hit on in the NFL that are. That are noteworthy. Let me start with this. This is so crazy. So Aaron Rodgers was waiting, reportedly, on the Minnesota Vikings to make, you know, a decision because that's where he really wanted to go. Don't blame him. With that, Jordan Schultz joins us now live. So now I read a story where they're bringing in. Minnesota's bringing in Ryan Tannehill. So first it was Darnold, then it was Dan Jones, and then it's Aaron Rumors. Now it's Tannehill. Can you. What is the story with J.J. mcCarthy in Minnesota?

[Jordan Schultz]

Okay, so, Colin, here. Here's the deal. The Vikings want to give JJ McCarthy the keys to the car. They believe he's the guy they traded up to take him 10th overall. They love him as a person. They love him as a player. He's put on some weight. He. They think he is the future of the franchise, and it's a big reason why they were okay with losing Sam Darnold in free agency. That being said, they want a veteran quarterback. I've never really believed that it's going to be Aaron Rodgers. And there's been a lot of hype, a lot of talk about Rodgers with the Vikings. And I understand why. Who wouldn't want to play there with Hawkinson, with Addison, with Jefferson, that coaching staff, Kevin O'Connell. But to me, if they're going to bring in a veteran, which I still think they will, it would be someone more like Orion Tannehill, who's a definitive backup at this stage of his career, where they can really allow JJ McCarthy to be the guy not only now, but for the future, foreseeable next decade. They want to invest everything they can into him. He had two. Two knee surgeries, obviously missed the entire rookie year. But there is no question in my mind that he will be the week one starter. And I think if you go back, even to Daniel Jones. They wanted to bring Daniel Jones back. They offered him essentially the same money as Indy did, but ultimately it was going to be McCarthy's job.

[Jason McIntyre]

Okay, so what is Aaron Rodgers waiting for? He goes to Pittsburgh. The Steelers staff cancels their pro day at Michigan. With four NFL guys that could go in the first round and a team that needs an infusion of talent, I think we'd all agree with that. Is Aaron waiting for something? Is it. Is he worried about, like, they lost their left tackle, they lost Najee Harris, it's cross country. He's done the east coast thing. What is he waiting for?

[Jordan Schultz]

Well, anybody that tells you they know definitively what Aaron Rodgers is going to do, more power to them. Because I would be lying if I told you he's going to do this. But I do believe, and have believed for quite some time, Colin, that the best spot for Aaron Rodgers and, and really the most logical place is the Pittsburgh Steelers. I think Mike Tomlin and him would get along very well. I say that because Tomlin has already had an alpha male personality and Ben Roethlisberger. And when I've talked to some folks around the league much smarter than me, they told me that the Steelers are the type of franchise and Tomlin is the type of coach that could handle Aaron Rodgers because obviously there are going to be the extracurricular activities with him. And the Steelers can handle it. They've already had that type of quarterback in Roethlisberger. There's also the Russell Wilson element. Russell Wilson is still in play with the Giants even though they signed Jameis. But as has been made clear to me, he does not have the same type of relationship he had with Mike Tomlin going back a year ago. So if you're the Steelers, you have to take a long look at both of these guys and then also realize that you don't pick until 21. So unless you really believe that that Shador Sanders is going to fall into your lap or you want to maybe go a little early on a Jackson Dart, you have to take a long look at one of these veterans. So you're asking me why is it taking so long? I think Pittsburgh is still figuring out what their best solution is. And I think if you're Aaron Rodgers, Colin, the money is not the issue. The Steelers are okay and they have told him we are okay waiting on you. We're not really in a rush. And they told me the same thing going back to a month ago. We're not in a rush. We're going to take this as we're going to take as much time as we need and if that includes the draft, so be it.

[Jason McIntyre]

All right. Brock Purdy negotiations. I see my conspiracy tinfoil hat says Aaron would love a call from San Francisco. He would even like train in Thousand Oaks or Malibu, not sign with anybody and just sit and watch the off season, watch the draft. I don't think that is a bad move by Aaron to just take. Just, just let the league develop. Somebody will call. I think that's a better fit than the Steelers. What's the Purdy situation?

[Jordan Schultz]

So Brock Purdy Listen, there is no question that they're going to get this deal done with Brock Purdy. I don't know if it's in a couple of weeks, I don't know if it's in June or July before camp, but they are going to pay him. And the more I think about it, the more GMs that you talk to, the more you believe that that number is going to start with a five. And when it comes to Brock Purdy, what the Niners are saying Colin to him and what they will say to him throughout these negotiations as they continue is that when we had you last year when the weaponry was not the same, you did not play great football. So that's what they're going to say to him. And what he's going to say to them is I have been and continue to be the best option for this franchise. I can run Kyle's offense to a tee and when I have a hype, when I have a healthy Christian McCaffrey, I'm going to be the best quarterback potentially in the division. So Brock Purdy I don't believe and I don't think the Niners are in a rush. That being said, there is no way the season starts in 2025 and Brock Purdy does not have a multi year extension. Three, four years and I believe that number is going to start with a five. I don't know if it's going to get close to Dak Prescott. In fact, I don't think it gets into the DAC territory. But it will. But I believe now start with the 51 more herd.

[Jason McIntyre]

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[Jordan Schultz]

Seven days a week within the iHeartRadio.

[Jason McIntyre]

App search herd to listen live or.

[Jordan Schultz]

On demand, whenever you'd like.

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Jason McIntyre]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[Jason McIntyre]

They're not going to be A good team either way. But if Shador Sanders, despite the Jameis Winston signing, which you broke, if Shador Sanders is available, will the New York Giants draft him at quarterback?

[Jordan Schultz]

So, okay, so the Browns told us at the combine, Colin, that they were going to take a quarterback at 2. They've kind of walked it back. So we still don't know what the Browns are going to do. Is it Abdul Carter? Is it Travis Hunter? Is it Shore? Sanders? We're not sure. The Giants at three, having signed Jameis, give themselves a tremendous amount of flexibility because they can go quarterback. They can hypothetically go Shador Sanders, but they also have Jameis Winston, who could start week one. But in reality, they gave him a two year, $8 million deal. Incentives go up to 16, but the base is only 4, 4 million a year. And that allows the Giants to have the flexibility to sign another veteran. Maybe it's Russell Wilson to bring in a Shador Sanders, perhaps. Or we could start Jameis week one and not feel too badly about it. I think one of the reasons they brought him in, as it was made clear to me, was when they talked to everybody in Cleveland and New Orleans, they felt like Jameis was the type of person and leader that if we were to draft a Shador Sanders, he's sure enough within himself, Colin, that he could be a mentor. And there is a lot of value to that when you're talking about the New York Giants. So I'm still not sure what direction they're going to go, but I do know the reason they signed Jameis again, two years, eight million flat. The reason they did it was because they, it gives them the flexibility potentially week one, and they felt like he'd be a great mentor if they were to go young in the draft.

[Jason McIntyre]

All right, Jordan Schultz, good stuff. We've had Bruce Pearl, Bill Simmons, Jordan Schultz. We've kept it moving today. I appreciate you stopping by, my man.

[Jordan Schultz]

My pleasure, brother.

[Jason McIntyre]

Hey, J. Mac. By the way, I'm. As we talk about these NFL things and a lot of it's off season stuff. The draft is a month away, but, you know, Purdy's going to get his money. You know, it's interesting today because Simmons, obviously big NBA guy, Bruce Pearl, college. Bruce Pearl had a real moment on our show today that I hope isn't lost because this has been like a three year argument for me on the show is I do not get college basketball. Being marginalized by pro basketball is that if you watch what the NFL does, they lean in to college football. Like they totally get Go play at Bama, Georgia, Michigan, Ohio State. It's like, it's like microwavable stars. They walk into the league, sell jerseys, everybody loves them. Bruce Pearl earlier today and I have Auburn winning the national championship, beating Tennessee. We'll see. I think SEC is the best conference by a long shot, but Bruce Pearl broke this down. It's just interesting, his perspective on how he views it as a college coach with NBA players on his roster and the relationship college to pro basketball.

[Jordan Schultz]

It's not how much you make, it's how long you can make it. And so what I tell kids, look, you're going to get rich when you sign your first contract, but you're not going to get wealthy until you sign your second or third. There are some great freshmen this year that were on losing college teams. They're going to draft it really high and they're going to be great players, but they're not ready right now. So what are you going to do? Put them out there in the NBA where they're not going to play very good basketball or stick them in a G league? As an 18, 19 year old kid, I don't think right now that system's working. Nil gives those guys a chance to stay in college a little bit, get right and get better and they'll be better pros for it.

[Jason McIntyre]

I think the NBA thought, hey, listen, we're going to do this on our own. We don't like these kids being used. These kids aren't being paid. And you know, hey, we're going to pay these kids. The NFL is not as encumbered by that. They're like, listen, you go to college, you work hard, you know, you get taken care of one way or another, but you get taken care of, wink, wink. Everybody knows you get taken care of. We've all had Division 1 friends, swag, money, car, you get taken care of. But in basketball, it's like, no college basketball. Bad G league is the answer. When I watch college basketball players and the emotion and the coaching and the intensity, you can't tell me the G league is a better place at 19 years old. For half the guys in the G league are just holding on. Half the coaches will never coach in the NBA. I, when I watch this tournament, I see intensity, I see NBA length, I see lots of skill, I see hard coaching. If I had a kid like the idea to just go get paid, you're going to get paid if you're an NBA player, okay?

[Joy Taylor]

But that's a tough sell to a lot of these kids who come from impoverished backgrounds. And all of a sudden the NBA is like, hey, the rookie deal, you're gonna make three, four million dollars a year. And this kid, you know, maybe his parents don't have much. Like, it's tough to tell them, hey, just stay in college another year. Like if you, I mean, I understand you're saying if you made it to.

[Jason McIntyre]

18 years old and you know, if you stay in one more year, that 3 million becomes 11, you know, it might take if.

[Joy Taylor]

And you know there's a chance of an ACL or an like. Again, I'm with you. But I wonder if Pearl is secretly sending a message to those two Rutgers kids, Bailey and Harper, who are studs and they're going to go in the top five. Hey, guys, why would you go to the pros? Hey, hang around college. Just get out of Rutgers. Come to Auburn. We'll make a run. I wonder if that was a subtle recruiting move. Very savvy from Bruce Pearl, because he's right. He's not wrong about those two guys.

[Jason McIntyre]

I'm not. I don't have a problem with kids getting paid. That, that doesn't bother me. But the idea, I mean, it's, it's, it's very short sighted to say, I mean, ask yourself this. If somebody gave you $3 million, your entire family, you said the word you use was impoverished. How long is that going to last?

[Joy Taylor]

Well, it depends on who's managing my money. If I'm savvy. Now, If I'm an 18, 19 year old and you give me 3 mil, I'm probably blowing through that in a year.

[Jason McIntyre]

Okay? And you, you use the word impoverished, okay? So this idea that I'm going to take the money, go G League, and my take is just go to Duke, the marketing alone, you'll get a better shoe deal. And by the way, even before nil, you get taken care of.

[Joy Taylor]

You're not wrong.

[Jason McIntyre]

And I think we agree. Yeah. I mean, again, it's. Well, it's not like at 18, you're not eating. If you're an unbelievable top 12 prospect in the country, you got taken care of in AAU under the table. These kids are getting taken care of. My take is, I've always thought just if you have a choice, go to Duke for one year, get wink wink taken care of over the G League, you get a better coach, it's better for you, you get way more marketing and promotional value. There's no promotional value in the G League. Jalen Green Cooper flag has more national commercials today at Duke than Jalen Green does. And he was a similarly unbelievable product.

[Joy Taylor]

He's scoring like 20 a game, but still, so are you. Where are you on Cooper flag? He. He doesn't need to stay eight.

[Jason McIntyre]

No, no, no.

[Joy Taylor]

Okay, just make it.

[Jason McIntyre]

But he's. He's 18 points.

[Joy Taylor]

So let me ask you, the kid from Auburn, Pettiford, man, his game, I love his. His game is everything I want in my game. Guard, shifty, handle quick, can shoot layups. He's everything. He could go pro. He's going to be a first round pick. Or does he stay, boost his profile further? He's an awesome player.

[Jason McIntyre]

So in my take. My take is if you're a big. Because there's so few good college bigs, you may be better to just go pro. But as a guard, you'll face other NBA guards in the sec. Florida's got one or two. You'll face other NBA guards if you do a. A Maui tournament. You do the sec, you'll face NBA guy. And if Auburn can pay you 450 and the G League could pay you 5, stay in college in the area. People forget this. Zion doesn't get a shoe deal like that if he goes to the G League. He got it because of Duke.

[Joy Taylor]

Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre]

And again, I'm not saying I'm not like the word you used was impoverished.

[Joy Taylor]

I mean, again, maybe. I hope you would you agree with that word. There's a lot of kids coming from tough backgrounds getting free, free education, which is great because they're great at basketball.

[Jason McIntyre]

My take is if you've gone to 18 and not had a lot in your life, you can wait another year. If you go to Duke, Carolina and get massive expenses.

[Joy Taylor]

I have a great example for you. Richardson's son. Jason Richardson's son at Michigan State, not impoverished. His dad played in the league. Yeah, he's awesome.

[Jordan Schultz]

Let's be real.

[Joy Taylor]

If you watch yesterday, he struggled. I think he was over nine and then hit his last shot. He probably should stay in school. But Colin, you watch him and you're like, that guy's a pro. He could go get money now. Or stick around. Like, Bronny didn't have to leave usc.

[Jason McIntyre]

Well, Bronny's dad's a billionaire, so let's.

[Joy Taylor]

Well, I mean, Jason Richardson played in the league and made hundreds of games.

[Jason McIntyre]

Here's the other thing is that if you look at Division 1 athletes, if you look. I read a study on this. Almost Everybody playing Division 1 sports has somebody in their family that played Pro or Division 1 sports. So, you know, it's again, it feels like a cliche to say, oh, these kids, they're starving. If you're an elite basketball prodigy and to play Division 1 basketball by 14 or 15 in your community, you are the man. Yeah, you are getting taken care of.

[Joy Taylor]

Well, Harper's son, his dad, sorry, is Ron Harper, who played on the Chicago Bulls. So, like, he's. He doesn't qualify for impoverished. I mean, I would assume Ron Harper cleaned up in the 90s.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah.

[Joy Taylor]

But, like, yeah, it's. It's a great discussion. I don't think you could make a blanket statement stick in school because there's some guys like Cooper Flag who are like, you got to go to the league. But it's a great discussion.

[Jason McIntyre]

If you're a top 10 player, you go pro. But if you're like, late mid to late first round, your game's not developed and you're at a top six program. Kentucky, I'll take a little less and stay in college. I think March. Look at the ratings in March Madness. Big dude. It's. You know who's watching these games? Consumers. Consumers buy Nike and Puma and Adidas. So that, that my whole take has always been we kind of just. The NBA looked at college basketball and like, oh, they don't take care of the kids. I know Division 1 coaches pre nil. Kids were doing fine.

[Joy Taylor]

Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre]

I covered the Rebels in Tark. The starters all had nice cars. Okay. And I'll just leave it at that. And I saw them at casinos all the time. And that wasn't the only program doing that.

[Joy Taylor]

Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre]

All right. Bruce Pearl, Bill Simmons, Jordan Schultz. Calling right, calling wrong. This bracket is like a Willy wonka golden ticket. 15 of 16 teams. J, man, you have to admit.

[Joy Taylor]

Well, we have a point tally going on.

[Colin Cowherd]

Right.

[Joy Taylor]

It's not just you at 15 left.

[Jason McIntyre]

So you win, I think. Well, I lead you significantly, that's fine. But you have to start winning it.

[Joy Taylor]

It's how you finished.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah, I think I'm gonna get.

[Joy Taylor]

By the way, they're. They're talking about Duke is looking like Yukon did the last two years. Did you see what they did to Baylor in the second half? And Baylor's pretty good.

[Jason McIntyre]

No, Baylor. Baylor couldn't shoot, particularly.

[Joy Taylor]

Duke made 17 out of 23. Two pointers they could have missed from two. They're just awesome.

[Jason McIntyre]

There are very few good offensive college basketball teams. There's a lot of them that play defense. Yeah, but I mean, the truth of the matter is you can become a one or a two seed without the ability to hit jumpers, Michigan State and St. John's yeah, Michigan.

[Joy Taylor]

They cannot chew.

[Jason McIntyre]

No, and St. John's can't. But if you have a great coach and a good culture and you play your arse off on the defensive end and you create your own fast break opportunities, transition through defense, you can be a one or a two seed if.

[Joy Taylor]

Arizona takes down Duke. And it better not happen for many reasons.

[Jason McIntyre]

Oh, I, I am going to.

[Joy Taylor]

I'm toast. But Caleb love does scare me. That guy, volcanic. I mean, the dribble handoffs, top of the 3. Key, just splash like every shot he cost me. I don't know if you remember at UNC UCLA a few years ago. Yeah, he cost me money. I was on the Bruins and he just erupted like, oh gosh.

[Jason McIntyre]

Live in L. A, it's the Herd. Be sure to catch live editions of.

[Joy Taylor]

The Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific.

[Jason McIntyre]

Hey, Steve Covino. And I'm Rich Davis and together we're Covino and Rich on Fox Sports Radio. You can catch us weekdays from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific on Fox Sports Radio. And of course, the iHeartRadio app. Why should you listen to Covino and Rich? We talk about everything. Life, sports, relationships, what's going on in the world. We have a lot of fun talking about the stories behind the stories in the world of sports and pop culture. Stories that, well, other shows don't seem to have the time to discuss. And the fact that we've been friends for the last 20 years and still work together, I mean, that says something, right? So check us out. We like to get you involved too. Take your phone calls, chop it up, as they say. I'd say the most interactive show on Fox Sports Radio, maybe the most interactive show on planet Earth. Be sure to check out Covino and Rich live on Fox Sports radio and the iHeartradio app from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific. And if you miss any of the live show, just search Covino and Rich wherever you get your podcast. And of course on social media, that's Covino and Rich.

[Colin Cowherd]

All you renters out there, here's something from Rocket Mortgage you're going to want to hear now. Anyone who has ever rented before knows that feeling you get every month. Your hard earned cash gone. It's like throwing money away. Even more frustrating is the knowledge that every dollar you spent on rent is a dollar you could have put towards your future. It can make it feel like you'll never be able to save enough to afford a home of your own. And that's what makes what Rocket Mortgage is doing so special. Rocket Mortgage is now helping you put your monthly rent payments towards home ownership. It's called Rent Rewards, and for the first time, you can save up to $5,000 off the cost of your home just by paying rent. Only at Rocket Mortgage. If this sounds like something that could make a difference in your life, call 804Rocket or visit Rocket.com learn more about rent rewards. That's 804Rocket or Rocket.com Rocket Mortgage LLC/early.

[Joy Taylor]

Housing lender licensed in all 50 states.

[Jason McIntyre]

NMLS ConsumerAccess.org Number 3030 this podcast is.

[Colin Cowherd]

Brought to you by Pfizer. If you're 50 or older, getting sick can keep you away from where you need to be. You don't want surprises like pneumococcal pneumonia or invasive pneumococcal disease. You're 6.4 times more likely to get pneumococcal pneumonia compared with adults 18 to 49. It's recommended that people 50 or older get vaccinated. Being sick could get between you and the people who rely on you, so schedule your [e-mail] everybody loves a good MVP story, and the story of Wasabi Technologies is one of the best. Wasabi is purpose built to free businesses from skyrocketing storage costs and unpredictable egress fees from old and top heavy legacy providers. You know the big guys Wasabi is the world's hottest cloud storage company, becoming the go to provider for professional and collegiate sports teams and leagues around the world. And here's why. From Wasabi's AI enabled intelligent media storage, Wasabi Air to the industry's only cloud storage service with triple protection against cybercriminals, data deletion and ransomware. Wasabi has taken the lead in driving innovation in data storage, eliminating overhead where it matters to deliver you results you can count on and won't break the bank. In fact, Wasabi is up to 80% less than those other guys and doesn't charge a cent for businesses to access their own data. Wasabi Another championship story. Check them out for [e-mail] Wasabi Hot Cloud Storage Proud partner of the Voluum Podcast Network. When it comes to college basketball and the big tournament, one thing is for sure, nothing's for sure. Upsets, buzzer beaters, Cinderella advancing top seeds going home early. It's all going to happen. You know it. Bet the unexpected. Every upset, Every day with DraftKings, sportsbook, live betting, exclusive content, promos and parlays DraftKings is the ultimate college basketball destination for March. Are you ready to make your first bet? Check out the matchups. Pick a team to win that simple first time. Here's something special just for you. New DraftKings customers bet just five bucks to get $200 in bonus bets instantly. I love it. Bet the unexpected with DraftKings Sportsbook. Download the DraftKings Sportsbook app and the code is HERD H E R D. That's code Herd for new customers to get $200 in bonus bets. When you bet just five bucks only on DraftKings, the crown is yours.

[Joy Taylor]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[Joy Taylor]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[Joy Taylor]

Bonus bets expire 168 hours after issuance. For additional terms and responsible gaming resources, see DKNG Co Audio. New York's newly minted superstar Juan Soto as he leads the Mets against Jose Altuve and the Astros or the Braves take on the Padres baseball night in America returned Saturday at 7 Eastern on Fox. Check local listings for the game in your area.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah. Huh. Hold on one second here. Got a little NFL stuff. Hold on. JMAC with the news.

[Jordan Schultz]

No, no, no, no. Heard on the news. This is the Herd line news.

[Joy Taylor]

All right, let's get started with the Steelers. Still waiting on Aaron Rodgers after he met with a team at the facility Friday. I don't know if you remember last week, but Cam Hayward made some comments about Rogers joining Pittsburgh. He had to clarify them, speaking about the team's mentality on the Rich Eisen Show.

[Jordan Schultz]

It's funny. Everybody gave me crap. They said I called it. Called him out. I don't think I really called him out. I just said I was go. I was not going to go on a darkness retreat to recruit him. But if he wants to be a Steeler, he can be a stealer. Like right, it doesn't. That's. That's the pitch. We have a lot of guys that, like myself that are in the latter stages of their career and we all want to win. It's not just enough to win a playoff game, which we haven't won in a couple years, and there's a bad taste in our mouth because of that.

[Jason McIntyre]

That's fine. I mean I, I, I, I, I, I. Ayahuasca is one thing. A lot of creatives take that. Darkness retreats. It's a little, I'm sorry not to be judgmental, but it's a little out there.

[Joy Taylor]

That's not a judgy. That's an opinion.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah. I mean it's, it's just now ayahuasca. I am for a mind altering drug use. If you're an artist and I think.

[Joy Taylor]

You'Re an artist, are you gonna.

[Jason McIntyre]

I'm not, I'm, I'm more of an accountant. I just stack topics. Aaron's more of a creative. He's out there.

[Joy Taylor]

This reaction from the Steelers fans, it's almost like nine years ago. You got to do the math. We got into this thing in this country with you're either against us or you're for us. There's no middle ground anymore. So Cam Hayward making a joke about a darkness retreat. There's like, oh, you're being mean to Aaron Rodgers. And that's the problem. There's no middle ground anymore. I kind of hate that.

[Jason McIntyre]

You know, for years and years Notre Dame was for a long time it felt like post, like Lou Holtz. They went through about a 15 year run where they were the program, the biggest brand with the least self awareness. Like guys, you're not a national title contender. Brian Kelly arrived and then at the end they, they could compete with almost anybody. Lost twice to Georgia close. And now they can compete with anybody. Yeah, nil. But I the Pittsburgh Steelers have become that fan base like Cowboy fans when pulled by Dallas media and when pulled in like the Dallas Morning News, Cowboy fans know they're not a Super bowl team. Are the Pittsburgh Steelers now the least self aware fan base in the country where they have no chance to win super bowl, but they still really think.

[Joy Taylor]

They'Re elite and the fans don't realize.

[Jason McIntyre]

Like Cowboy fans know it. They've been pulled multiple times in the last two years and they say we're not close.

[Joy Taylor]

How many times this season did we say the Steelers are fool's gold? Don't buy into this. I know they're looking good. They've won six in a row. This is just not going to last. We saw it, we called them out. And then they get smashed in the playoffs and it's like there's a ceiling with this team.

[Jason McIntyre]

But I think Steeler fans still view themselves as contenders. They're not close.

[Joy Taylor]

Not even close.

[Jason McIntyre]

Not even close. I mean they are closer to the bottom of the league than the top.

[Joy Taylor]

I think next stories to the NBA were Jimmy Butler, AKA Jimmy Buckets. He's been great with the Warriors. And Colin, he's got a return date to Miami tomorrow night. He says he's looking forward to it, but it's just another game. No big deal. Now Steph Curry is traveling to meet the team. Unclear if he's going to play. I saw a report he was looking good at shoot around today, so maybe he's going to go. I wonder if Butler will be booed or cheered at Miami because it was ugly at the end. He's like, get me the hell out of here. But he did take them to the finals twice.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah. I mean, why would you. I mean, maybe the way he ended was a little choppy. Not sure if I. He'll probably get booed. But he got you to the Finals. He was a great player. He was your best player. I don't get that. But fans are different. Yeah, I don't get it. Like, if you. If you give me six or seven years as a pro athlete in my town and you play as hard as anybody and you're actually better in the playoffs when it matters, and you take an average roster to the Finals. Yeah, I'm. I'm a fan.

[Joy Taylor]

I've been here two and a half years. If I walk away, you're not going to disrespect me in public or boo me when you see me or anything.

[Jason McIntyre]

Not. Not publicly.

[Joy Taylor]

Final story is to soccer. Okay? I don't want to go off the top rope too hard, but it was a rough week for the US national team. Too brutal. And that is putting it mildly. Losses in the CONCACAF Nations League, losing to Panama and Canada.

[Jason McIntyre]

You know what?

[Joy Taylor]

I'm gonna hold off. Let me. Let me just. Let's get to Mauricio Pochettino, the new manager. He says things can be fixed. Colin, don't worry.

[Jason McIntyre]

All right. I know to say I am happy that this. Don't take me wrong, but it's something negative about Russell. For sin to learn is better now because I think we have time. Because if we will be today in this situation in one year time for sure, I will tell you. Houston, we have a problem. No sos.

[Joy Taylor]

I like that.

[Jason McIntyre]

I think I've come to the conclusion that I root against the United States men's national team except the World cup, because I don't like their fans.

[Jordan Schultz]

Oh.

[Jason McIntyre]

I think. I think the United States men's national team fans. I like the team, but the fans are so not jilted. There is this Sense. Because they've been ignored for most of their life. So all these sort of young fans, hey, I know the team. You don't get an opinion. Well, your opinion's been wrong for 20 years. That you keep running through coaches and blaming the coaches. This guy was the great coach. Well, and they were awful this week in this league. They got shut out by Panama. And we have the best on ball talent we've had in my lifetime.

[Joy Taylor]

We didn't have everyone, but we had a lot of people. This is disappointing. No way.

[Jason McIntyre]

To Canada.

[Joy Taylor]

It's tough to sugarcoat it. I won't be as harsh as Alexi Lalas and Sue Holden, our colleagues here. They were harsh, understandably. I'm just going to say, listen, he just got here, okay? He's still getting the lay of the land, assessing players. I'm not gonna panic.

[Jason McIntyre]

When's the last time Josh and Ethan and all those soccer fans in America, all the hipsters said, you know, our talent's not as good. Remember when we lost the Netherlands in the World Cup? Like veteran great players. Yeah, like an elite top five. When I was a kid growing up in the 70s, they won world Cups. Johan Cruyff.

[Joy Taylor]

Yeah, they.

[Jason McIntyre]

England and Netherlands were it. Okay, we never sniffed that. We. We barely even couldn't find a soccer ball at a sporting goods store back then.

[Joy Taylor]

Stop it.

[Jason McIntyre]

And so when's the last time our soccer fans, Ethan. Had to look in the mirror and go, we're probably the 14th best team in the world. They don't believe that. They think they're five.

[Joy Taylor]

We're better than 14, I'll say that. Now listen, we didn't have a great tournament.

[Jason McIntyre]

We're not as good as Canada right now.

[Colin Cowherd]

Stop.

[Joy Taylor]

It's one game.

[Jason McIntyre]

We're better than Mexico.

[Joy Taylor]

And by the way, Panama and Canada, very motivated off the field, if you know what I'm talking about. To take down the US Canada is better in hockey, whatever that hockey event was.

[Jason McIntyre]

Well, Canada was better than us.

[Joy Taylor]

Yeah, but they were extra motivated.

[Jason McIntyre]

I'm just telling you, all that stuff.

[Joy Taylor]

When you hit the ice, some of that stuff matters.

[Jason McIntyre]

I'm just saying right now, we're better than Mexico. We have been for years. We are inferior to Canada in soccer.

[Joy Taylor]

I will not stand for that. We tied England at the World Cup. What are you talking like, settle down, okay? You are very pessimistic.

[Jason McIntyre]

No, I'm not pessimistic. I am over being lectured. I've been on this since you guys. Ryan, since you've known me for eight years here I've been on this for eight years. We have good players. They're young, they're talented. It's the best young town ever. We're about 12th, maybe 15th. They think we're six. And if we lose to the Netherlands, they want the coach out of here.

[Joy Taylor]

World cup is still two and a half years away. I'm putting it, assuming this show still exists, that I'm with you, I'm saying confidently, quarterfinals or semifinals for us at the World cup? In this, in the U.S. i'm sorry, it's not two and a half years.

[Jason McIntyre]

I'm hoping we can beat Trinidad Tobago.

[Joy Taylor]

Colin, who's texting you over there? That's in your head. Trinidad. We're not losing to tnt, baby.

[Jason McIntyre]

Hey, I'll tell you. Ivory coast or us right now. Coin flip. I don't think I'd be a negative. You couldn't score against Panama. What's the excuse?

[Joy Taylor]

It's early.

[Jason McIntyre]

I'll just.

[Joy Taylor]

It's like my bracket against you.

[Jason McIntyre]

It's early. Got time, J. Mac, with the news. Well, that's the news.

[Joy Taylor]

And thanks for stopping by the herd lie news.

[Jason McIntyre]

And again, I'm not trying to be antagonistic, but when you were on something for 10 years and then it's proven to be true and people have been, you shouldn't talk soccer. You don't know soccer.

[Joy Taylor]

We know soccer.

[Jason McIntyre]

We kick a ball around the yard. It's like, new coach, new culture, new schemes. Same old stuff. Can't. Can't score against Panama. Maybe I'm Mr. Negative. Whatever. I don't think I am. But are you going to watch that HBO Max thing? Celtic City? It's getting very good reviews.

[Joy Taylor]

What day is today?

[Jason McIntyre]

Have you seen in Los Angeles? They put billboards up all over LA about this HBO Celtics series. And all Laker fans are all, maybe.

[Joy Taylor]

I'll check it out after Lakers. Orlando. By the way, should we bet Lakers first quarter again?

[Jason McIntyre]

What are they, like 16, 18?

[Joy Taylor]

No, they. Well, they didn't deliver Saturday against the bulls. Embarrassing.

[Jason McIntyre]

Bullshot. 72% on twos and I think the first half. 72%.

[Joy Taylor]

I think Reddick will lecture them. Lakers should. I haven't seen a line yet, but I'll probably be on it. Lakers first quarter in Orlando. Come on. They're down, everybody. Are they your boy Suggs?

[Jason McIntyre]

I read an article in the Athletic I thought was really interesting. They were saying, this is a bad. March is a bad month for the NBA because college basketball is so intense and passionate and NBA teams subtly tanking are sitting their starters Now, I watched OKC in the Clippers last night. It was good.

[Joy Taylor]

Who won?

[Jason McIntyre]

OKC was leading by four. I think they won by sga. Got to the free throw.

[Joy Taylor]

Oh, he did. Oh, interesting flopper.

[Jason McIntyre]

So it was a good game, though. But the point being, if you're not like worried about seating, which is half the league or more, you watch an NBA game. It's amazing how many starters aren't available in March. So March is a really bad month, aesthetically for the league. And then you turn on college basketball and the teams are limited, but Florida, UConn are playing their arse off. That was a great game.

[Joy Taylor]

At the same time, you watch Cooper Flag and you're like, holy hell, how do we get that guy? That's a franchise changing player. Yeah, you're relevant instantly.

[Jason McIntyre]

That second, I would say go to the last 10 drafts. Do we get a Cooper flag about every third draft. Like Wemby was obvious, but Wemby did not change wins for the Spurs.

[Joy Taylor]

Not yet.

[Jason McIntyre]

Well, no. I mean, like they were worst team in the league. Got Wemby next year. They won the same amount of games.

[Joy Taylor]

Well, they did. Roster's garbage.

[Jason McIntyre]

Well, Cooper Flag will win you eight games. You wouldn't win his game. Is that.

[Joy Taylor]

I think Cooper Flag makes you in. If you go to the East, I think you're instantly like a playoff team. I mean, the Bulls are nearly a playoff team now and they stink.

[Jason McIntyre]

Yeah, he'll. He'll be a very. He runs the floor really well.

[Joy Taylor]

I've seen him guard, defend guards on the perimeter. No, he moves like a. I mean, that guy's fantastic.

[Jason McIntyre]

No, he's a great player. Yeah, he is a great. And again, you couldn't be at a better place to be. He's already got commercials. I mean, look at him. Look at him run. Outrun guards up the floor and finish.

[Joy Taylor]

Get out of my way, please.

[Jason McIntyre]

He is really good.

[Joy Taylor]

I'm a fan. I mean, he's only 18. Colin, this isn't one of these 21, 22 year olds. He's 18.

[Jason McIntyre]

Something else.

[Joy Taylor]

Big time.

[Jason McIntyre]

Bill Simmons, Bruce Pearl, Jordan Schultz. We gave you a little everything today.

[Joy Taylor]

How are we going to follow this up tomorrow?

[Jason McIntyre]

Probably shouldn't. Probably should call in sick. Feel.

[Colin Cowherd]

No.

[Jason McIntyre]

Under the weather. Weather's good. Maybe I'm not. We'll see you tomorrow.