Colin Cowherd (3:03)

Thanks for listening to the Herd podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox Sports Radio and noon.

Unknown Advertiser (3:09)

To 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific.

Colin Cowherd (3:12)

Find your local station for the herd@foxsportsradio.com.

Unknown Advertiser (3:16)

Or stream us live every day on.

Colin Cowherd (3:17)

The iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR.

Dana White (3:23)

Now, let's get this party started.

Colin Cowherd (3:25)

You're listening to Fox Sports Radio. All right, hour three. We finally had Dana White. He's busy. He's in New Orleans. UFC 318. This is gonna be a great card, highlighted by one of those classic fights. Remember when McGregor and Nate Diaz would meet two and three times and you're like, Saturday knew what you were going to be doing. And I think we got Dustin Poirier, who's. Who's one of the all time most likable fighters, most interesting, most entertaining. Against Max Holloway, they're meeting for a third time. I don't want to waste Dana White's time. He's the CEO and the UFC president. He is joining us live from New Orleans, and we appreciate he's a busy guy. So it's interesting, in the history of ufc, the best fighters I've ever seen are Jon Jones, who was unbelievable in his prime, and I think Khabib, who made even Conor McGregor look completely outmatched. But Dustin Poirier, who fights Holloway tomorrow, is one of the more entertaining, likable, interesting guys. He's on that second tier of guys that when he fights, I have to watch. Did you envision him when you found him being this great, this captivating for this long? Dana who?

Dana White (4:36)

Max and Dustin.

Colin Cowherd (4:36)

I mean, they both handed these guys.

Dana White (4:40)

Yeah, yeah. Well, you never know. You never know. Obviously, you know, when he first faced Conor, they were really early in their careers, and Conor won that fight. And you never know how a guy is going to bounce back from a loss. But if you look at Poirier's last 11 fights, I mean, it's all been straight killers, and seven of them are former world champions. So you. He. He's absolutely a very special fighter, as is Max Holloway, which is what makes this fight so intriguing.

Colin Cowherd (5:14)

In the history of the ufc, nobody's landed more strikes than Holloway and. But Poirier will sit in the middle of the ring and throw Blows is. You know, what's interesting about your sport. And. And I was talking to a member of the staff. When Caitlin Clark came to the wnba, they weren't prepared for it. They weren't well run. They. They weren't well organized. She's overwhelmed them. The officiating's bad. You got you. And the fertitas ran a great sport. So when Conor McGregor arrived, you were prepared for it. But like Caitlin Clark, he was so damn popular, so fast. And I want you to talk about that. You have not only been on the ground floor, but you had your Caitlin Clark. You had a superstar emerge that was literally the most viral human being in American sports. So as the WNBA is struggling with Caitlyn, Go back to the Conor days of what it's like to run a sport, and here comes a superstar, a Taylor Swift into your lap. Do you remember? Was it great? Did it create anxiety? Take us back to that time.

Dana White (6:16)

Yeah, no, I mean, the first time that I ever sat down and had dinner with Conor McGregor in Las Vegas, he flew out from Ireland and I left the dinner and I called Lorenzo Fertitta and I said, let me tell you what, I don't know if this guy can fight or not, but if he can even throw a punch, he's going to be a huge superstar for us. And. And obviously, you know, we leaned into that. And you're right. Listen, Caitlin Clark is a massive superstar. I'm a fan. So all the stuff that I got going on right now, I actually had my assistant look to see when I have season tickets to the Aces. So I had them find out, you know, when she was coming to town, and I'm clearing my schedule so I can go to that game and watch her play live. I agree with what you're saying.

Colin Cowherd (7:00)

Yeah, so you are. Apparently. I just read this the other day and this made news. Are going to have a card at the White House. So you've gone to an island, you travel around the country. Now you're going to have something at the White House, obviously. I mean, there's security and all these things. Were you shocked when that was offered to you or did you know that was coming?

Dana White (7:20)

I did not know it was coming. Yeah. But when he offered it up, I was like, oh, yeah, I'm all in on this. So we've already sent a logistics team out there that have walked the White House. There's calls going back and forth every day between Craig. We're sorry, my head of production, and the White House. And then we will have all these renderings done within the next 10 days. And we're going to fly out, sit down and walk them through it and see what he wants and what he doesn't want.

Colin Cowherd (7:47)

So you're also going getting involved in boxing with Canelo and Crawford. So you and I have talked about this. We both grew up boxing fans. I grew up with Muhammad Ali and Frazier. I grew up with Sugar Ray and Hearns and Hagler. You did, too, as a Boston guy. And then you're part of ufc. I've. I prefer ufc. I think it's more consistent. I think the quality the women's division. But I still have a soft spot for a great boxing match. I saw Pacquiao fight six times. So as you go into boxing, why did you choose to do it?

Dana White (8:21)

You know, I've been talking about it for a long time. You know, I've had a lot of criticism of boxing over the years, and now here I am. It's time to put my money where my mouth is. And tickets go on sale today, actually for Canelo Crawford Legion Stadium, September 13th. Tickets on sale today. You know, for me to be able to. My first boxing match that I'm going to promote, other than McGregor, Mayweather, is Canelo versus Crawford. You know, two of the greatest fighters of our era. And in a big, massive fight in a stadium in Las Vegas, I mean, this whole thing just sort of fell in my lap. I have other plans in 26 and what I'm going to do with boxing. But this fight here, yeah, this just sort of happened. Shake Turkey. And I ended up doing this deal for me to promote this fight.

Colin Cowherd (9:16)

So Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier tomorrow, one of the hard things for you, even in Nick Khan at the wwe, although USC is different, obviously, is finding your next star. Now in the NFL, you have a draft, you have seven rounds of draft and they come to you. But in your world, where do you find. Take me behind the scenes on this, Dan. Where do you find your next Dustin Poirier? Where do you find your stars? Are you flying around the globe to find. Do you have a team of people that do that?

Dana White (9:45)

Yeah, we do. I have matchmakers that are always looking for up and coming talent, but we're really coming from right now. We do a show called Dana White's Contender Series.

Colin Cowherd (9:54)

Yeah.

Dana White (9:55)

Starts in August. And the best unsigned fighters in the world fight each other on this show to see who earns a contract. And it's been unbelievable for creating talent. We've already had three world champions come off that show. So, yeah, that, that's that's really where it is right now.

Colin Cowherd (10:16)

Okay. UFC 318, Holloway, Poirier, tomorrow, the Smoothie King center in New Orleans is a great. By the way, it's a great, great venue. It's going to be wild because Poirier is actually from there. Holloway's from Hawaii. Before I let you go forever, there was this stupid stigma about you can't have pro teams in Vegas. And you know, it was ridiculous. I mean, it just abs. I mean, nobody monitors sports gambling like Vegas. They don't want games thrown. So now you've got hockey, ufc, you've got baseball coming, you've got the Raiders. For people that haven't been to Vegas in a while, are you surprised how willing over the last five years pro sports have been? I mean, you were the first in that really, you, you. Because boxing was all over the place. Are you surprised that people have finally embraced Vegas over the last half decade?

Dana White (11:08)

Well, I think it was the gambling issue. I think that, you know, they were so stuck on the gambling issue and one stack it over. You could tell if you grew up in Vegas. When you think about the UNLV Runner Rebels, they were like the pro team when I was a kid and they were so well supported and you know, financially and people buying tickets and the list goes on and on. I knew, listen, if you're going to go to an away game for your team anytime during the year, which one are you going to pick? You're definitely going to Vegas. It's a no brainer. You go in there, you have an unbelievable weekend. Tons of hotels, the greatest restaurants in the world, the best shopping. There's always something to do. And it's just a no. I mean, there are so many sports teams. There's going to be a ping pong league there pretty soon. Vegas is the sports capital of the world right now.

Colin Cowherd (12:03)

Dustin Poirier, before we go. When I but a boxer gets older and do they say to you, hey, Dana, this could be my last fight, do you approach them sometimes and go, you know what, man, we care about your health, we care about you as a guy. When you get a Poirier who's still very good, how who makes the decision? Dana, is it. Do you ever lead that and say, hey guy, I think you got about two fights left?

Dana White (12:28)

Well, Poirier and Holloway are ranked number.

J. Mac (12:31)

Four and number five in the world.

Dana White (12:32)

In the nastiest division in the sport. So, you know, it's not like they're, they're on this huge decline or anything like that. And, you know, Poirier was the one that said, I think I'm ready to retire. And he wanted to do it here, you know, in his home state. And think about this. Highest grossing event in arena history tonight, over seven or Saturday night, and over 17,000 in attendance. So still a huge superstar, still, you know, on top of his game and a legitimate badass fight for his last fight, you know, his retirement fight. So now there's stuff I would never go to a guy like Poirier and say, hey, you should think about, you know, retiring. There have been guys, but it's usually guys that are on a skid and don't want to retire that. Those are usually the ones that I say, you know, you should probably hang it up.

Colin Cowherd (13:27)

So I'm buying it tomorrow. Max Holloway, Dustin Poirier, UFC 318. Danny, you're a busy guy. I always appreciate you stopping by and giving the herd 10 minutes.

Dana White (13:35)

Good to see you, buddy.

Colin Cowherd (13:36)

All right. It's going to be a great fight. Those guys will stand in the middle of the ring. Poirier's last fight. Holloway still good. Holloway more of a volume guy. Poirier is going to stand up and try to knock you out. So that's going to be good stuff. Dana White stopping by tomorrow's headlines today as well. I know what I'm doing tomorrow night a lot. Again, a lot of people be out partying. Not me. J. Mac, home early, buying it, ready to go.

J. Mac (13:59)

What, are you having a cocktail with Zach Taylor or something? What's going on?

Colin Cowherd (14:02)

No. Hey, by the way, what's your poll say now and then?

J. Mac (14:04)

Oh, let me call it up here momentarily. I. I really don't like this Twitter machine, but okay, currently. Oh, the gap is shrunk. Zach Taylor, 56%. Mike McDaniel 43%. So it was 57. Now down to 56. You know, if you could get on that Twitter machine and pop it, you know, your sizable audience over there might side with you or me, if they're.

Colin Cowherd (14:26)

Well, I've always said our audience is very intelligent, and over time, they fall on the right side.

J. Mac (14:30)

Yeah, when I called them the unwashed masses, that was probably not a good move, right?

Colin Cowherd (14:33)

Yeah, you probably lost 6% right there. There you go. Hey, it's me, Rob Parker.

J. Mac (14:39)

Check out my weekly MLB podcast, Inside.

Colin Cowherd (14:42)

The Parker, for 22 minutes of piping.

J. Mac (14:45)

Hot baseball talk featuring the biggest names and newsmakers in the sport. Whether you believe in analytics or the eye test, we've got all the bases covered. New episodes drop every Thursday, so do.

Colin Cowherd (14:58)

Yourself a favor and listen to Inside.

J. Mac (15:00)

The Parker with Rob Parker on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcast.

Colin Cowherd (15:06)

Be sure to catch live editions of the herd weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am.

Unknown Advertiser (15:10)

Pacific there's nothing like sinking into luxury. At washablesofas.com, you'll find the Annabe sofa, which combines ultimate comfort and design at an affordable price. And get this, it's the only sofa that's fully machine washable from top to bottom. Starting at only $699. The stain resistant performance fabric, slipcovers and cloud like frame duvet can go straight into your wash. Perfect for anyone with kids, pets or anyone who loves an easy to clean spotless sofa. With a modular design and changeable slipcovers, you can customize your sofa to fit any space and style. Whether you need a single chair, loveseat or a luxuriously large sectional, Annabe has you covered. Visit washablesofas.com to upgrade your home. Right now you can shop up to 60% off store wide with a 30 day money back guarantee. Shop now@washablesofas.com Add a little to your life. Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply.

Colin Cowherd (16:11)

Interested in investing in Bitcoin but not sure how to get started? Well, with the Gemini Credit card you can dip your toes into Bitcoin without even trying. Just spend like you normally do groceries, gas or night out and instantly earn up to 4% back in Bitcoin or one of over 50 other cryptos straight to your account with no annual fee. The Gemini Credit card is pretty much a no brainer and right now you can grab a $200 bitcoin intro bonus. So go to gemini.com card to learn more and start earning today. Terms apply. Again. Go to gemini.com card start building your Bitcoin stash now. Terms apply. The Gemini Credit card is issued by Web bank in order to Qualify for the intro $200 crypto bonus, your application must be approved by June 30, 2025 and spend $3,000 in your first 90 days. Terms apply. Some exclusions apply to instant rewards in which rewards are deposited when the transaction posts. This content is not investment advice and trading. Crypto involves risk. For more details on rates, fees and other Gemini Credit Card terms, see Rates and Fees.

Unknown Advertiser (17:15)

American Public University is the number one provider of education to our military and veterans in this country. They offer something truly unique special rates and grants for the entire family, making education affordable not just for those who serve, but also for their loved ones if you have a military or veteran family member and are looking for affordable, high quality education, APU is the place for you. Visit Apu Apus Edu Military to learn more. That's Apu Apus Edu Military.

Unknown Advertiser (17:55)

Let's face it, sometimes cars don't get the attention they deserve. That's where McGuire's new paint dashing glass comes in from the brand trusted for over 120 years for quality and performance. This all in one solution is built for convenience and speed. Perfect for those short on time paint dash and glass tackles, light dust on paint, vinyl, leather, even screens, as well as bugs and debris on glass. It's an interior exterior detailer that removes the guesswork and keeps vehicles looking sharp on the go. Quick to use and incredibly effective, it's a must have addition for anyone who wants to keep their car looking fresh between deeper details. With a legacy of top tier car care, Meguiar's delivers again with a product that makes it easy to reflect your passion. Maguire's Paint Dashing glass is available now at select auto parts stores and online.

Colin Cowherd (19:03)

All right, Dana White stopped by today. Tomorrow's headlines today as well. We had, it was fun. We had Urban Meyer on yesterday. I've said that this time of the year is sort of dead and breadcrumbs become raging infernos of misinformation. But I do think one of the really interesting stories this week, this is what we do on the show, is that Greg McElroy down in Alabama, he's a very former smart guy, former, one of the better college football guys covering the sport. He said he's been told Saban sniffing around coaching again. Lane Kiffin, also very connected to the sec, also mentioned it. I know both. I trust both. So if Lane's saying it and if Greg McElroy is saying it, he's sniffing it. And that's nothing against the network he works at now. But he, he's a guy that needs to be challenged. I've always had this theory about Nick. Nick thinks he's as good a coach as Belichick. I'm not saying he's wrong. He's the best college coach ever. And I think it just rankles him that he went to the pros. The team doctor wouldn't let him have Drew Brees and go look at Jim Harbaugh. Super competitive. Harbaugh got to a Super bowl, won a Natty, and the minute a top quarterback was available and an ownership group that would pay for a great coaching staff, he left. I mean Michigan was loaded recruiting Was rolling. Big Ten was expanding. Jim was the talk of the sport. He's like, I'm out. So I. I just. Nick is old Herb, but does not play old. Here's Urban yesterday on Saban to the NFL potentially. I have not talked to him about this. I could guess because I know him.

Dana White (20:45)

Fairly well and competed against him, that it's not a little scratch. It's probably pretty big scratch that that's.

Colin Cowherd (20:51)

The one area that he is not, you know.

Dana White (20:55)

You know, he was like you said, he's getting things going at Miami. I actually visited him when he was down there. But I don't think he'd go back to college. I don't see that fit. I would say very little to no.

Colin Cowherd (21:06)

Chance he would get involved in college, but I think he would take phone.

Dana White (21:10)

Calls from the NFL.

Colin Cowherd (21:13)

So do I. And again, the math is pretty simple. Six openings a year, maybe seven. College coaches are not leaving their post and sniffing around the NFL as much because with the nil, universities can't afford to buy them out. You're not going to. You're not buying out Brian Kelly and Lincoln Riley. You're not buying them out. And an owner doesn't want to have to write a $70 million check for a new coach and buy him out of his college contract for 70. If you wanted to buy out right now, Lincoln Riley be 70 million, $80 million at USC and then you have to pay him 80. And even billionaires have their limitations. And he's unproven. It's not really proven he can build a program in college. He can inherit a program. Oklahoma. Can he build his own? That's still unproven. So a lot to talk about here. J. Mac with the news.

J. Mac (22:00)

No, no, no.

Dana White (22:02)

Turn on the news.

Colin Cowherd (22:03)

This is the third line news.

Unknown Advertiser (22:05)

All right.

J. Mac (22:06)

We haven't talked about the Colts in a minute. Anthony Richardson, Collin. Remember, they shut him down this offseason due to soreness in his shoulder as he was recovering from shoulder surgery. Sounds like are behind him. Multiple reports indicate Anthony Richardson is believed to have recovered and be ready to go next week. When training camp opens, it feels like Daniel Jones versus Anthony Richardson for the starting spot. I mean, Jones is a veteran, but he's learning a new offense. I mean, he ended very badly in New York. Richardson obviously drafted in the top five. They are invested in him. Any. Any read from you on who has the edge going into camp next week?

Colin Cowherd (22:47)

I TR my sources in the league in the general manager spots, and they like Daniel Jones more. I just think he's more Consistently accurate. Anthony Richardson. I had a general manager tell me he was the least accurate quarterback on simple throws he'd ever seen in the NFL who, who was a starter. So he's a good kid. He's a hard working kid. But we've always talked about this. J. Mac, you got to hit your layups in the NFL. You got to get eight or nine those things out in the flat. You got to be 10 for 10. You can't skip the ball out there. You can't sail it to a guy in the flat. You've got to get, you know, as great as Mahomes is and he'll make two or three throws a game that are wow, he makes about 18 throws a game. He doesn't miss them. You do a curl route, you're open. You do a drag route, you do something in the flat. Mahomes doesn't miss those. Herbert doesn't miss those. C.J. stroud doesn't miss them. Anthony Richardson struggles on 12 yards in. On the easy stuff.

J. Mac (23:43)

Well he, he, Josh Allen struggled on those early as well. Josh Allen had way more college starts. Remember Richardson barely started any games in college. It was like 12 or 14, some low number. And now he's been hurt and hasn't really played that much. I'm not, I would start him like you're not going anywhere with Daniel Jones. You're not winning, you're not saving your job with Daniel Jones. I think you got to see what Anthony Richardson has and if he sink or swim, baby.

Colin Cowherd (24:08)

When, when Jim Ursay passed away, I think one of the things his three daughters want to create is stability because Jim, as great as he was, could be very impulsive in his later years. So I don't think they're, I think they're going to keep Chris Ballard. I think he's going to get if he hasn't a big contract, long contract. I think they're going to keep Shane Steichen. Steichen and Ballard are they, they support each other and I think the three. We talked about ownership today. I think the three daughters of Irsay are going to create a very stable environment. Maybe compensating for some of their dad's impulsive nature. So I don't think Shane sty. Shane Steichen would not be unemployed long. He would get a job. He's really good. They are just trying to bail like Andrew Luck retiring. They've never, I mean that's just like right before a season. They're still trying to figure that out.

J. Mac (24:59)

I might as well ask it Just humor me. Shane Steichen or Zach Taylor?

Colin Cowherd (25:03)

Shane Steichen.

J. Mac (25:06)

Oh, okay. I think he's one of just that. You're on him. He doesn't have any playoff wins.

Colin Cowherd (25:12)

No, but I think he is viewed as somebody who literally made Jalen Hurts. Was struggling as a pro. Go back to Justin Herbert's rookie year when he broke all the records. Who was the coach? Who was the coordinator? Go look at Jalen Hurts best year. Who was the coordinator? And by the way, he's. Indiana is viable. Google, go look at the Gardner Minshew year.

J. Mac (25:35)

So by the way, who you got winning that division? I. I know it's kind of topsy turvy, but who are you on today? Tennessee.

Colin Cowherd (25:42)

Yeah, interesting.

J. Mac (25:43)

I'm going Jags. Pushing all my tips into the Trevor Lawrence.

Colin Cowherd (25:48)

Two organizations in the NFL might as well have my debit card. They've taken so much money from me, Atlanta and Jacksonville. Oh, now what's the point? Well, here's my. Here's my debit card. Go ahead and take it. Yeah, just, just, just take 300 bucks out a day.

J. Mac (26:02)

It's like giving your kid, you know, hey, you want to go on a shopping spree at 7:11? Go for it. Go crazy. All right, next up, let's go to Bengals. Big topic today, Cincinnati Bengals. Well, how about this? They took Shamar Stewart with the 17th overall pick in the draft. Edge rusher, who had a career four and a half sacks at Texas A and M. But he's got the skills and the measurements. Anyways, he's the only first rounder not signed. Colin. Now, he's been working out at Texas A and M facilities, and a lot of people are saying, well, he's not signed. Can he go back to college? Their head coach, Mike Elko says there are no intentions of Stewart playing for them this year. I don't know what no intentions means. That's not, to me, a firm. No.

Colin Cowherd (26:44)

But against Cincinnati, if I'd have told you, you know, there's this team in the NFL that sets history. They draft a guy and he goes back to college.

J. Mac (26:53)

No.

Colin Cowherd (26:54)

What a shock that it's Cincinnati jets.

J. Mac (26:57)

Would have to be a consideration for that one.

Colin Cowherd (26:59)

No, the jets have spent money. They just haven't spent it smartly. They spent money on Aaron Rodgers. They'll spend money. Jets spend money. Dolphins spend money. The Bengals don't spend any money. Of all the organizations, if I would have guessed, somebody gets drafted and says, this is nonsense, I'm going back to college, I would have guessed Cincinnati. Ridiculous.

J. Mac (27:20)

It's bad final story.

Colin Cowherd (27:21)

Zach Taylor has to overcome driving to work every day.

J. Mac (27:24)

Yeah, luckily he's got Joe Burrow. Anyways, finally in the NBA, interesting tidbit from your friend Charles Barkley here. So the Thunder won the championship, obviously, and Barkley, I'm not allowed to say anything bad about him. Barkley believes there's only two teams that can hang with the Thunder in the West. Here we go. I said nobody can beat the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Colin Cowherd (27:48)

I says Denver got a shot at.

J. Mac (27:50)

It, but that's it.

Colin Cowherd (27:52)

Now, I think the Rockets got a shot at it, but they're going to be the favorites for the next three or four years.

Dana White (27:59)

They're young, they're talented, they're very well coached.

Colin Cowherd (28:03)

Now, the Rockets have had a great summer. They've had a great summer. So have the Nuggets, but those are the top three teams in the west right now. Yeah, I totally agree. I'll take the Nuggets 1, Rockets 2, OKC 3.

J. Mac (28:19)

Nobody's beating them four times. The Indiana Pacers, historic underdogs, pushed them to game seven. Yeah, let's get off this. They're unbelievable. Like two years ago, Nuggets won the championship.

Colin Cowherd (28:30)

I remember I fell for the Nuggets. I thought the Nuggets could be the spur. That was on me.

J. Mac (28:34)

But then last year, Celtics, we said they were like the most loaded roster ever. They're bringing back everybody. Like this is just how the league is now. This idea that. Okay, I mean, we should do a friendly wager.

Colin Cowherd (28:45)

No, let's be honest. You're right. If Halliburton doesn't get hurt in game seven, that is a coin flip.

J. Mac (28:53)

I agree.

Colin Cowherd (28:54)

I think I would have taken Indiana seriously.

J. Mac (28:56)

They look great. It was only 1/4, but they look great. This idea that OKC some kind of juggernaut.

Colin Cowherd (29:02)

No, no. And by the way, SGA had a great year. He's a great kid. He's not an all time great player. He's not as good as Curry in his prime. LeBron in his prime, Michael Kobichek.

J. Mac (29:10)

But we got to be careful what we say about Charles Barkley. Nobody wants to get thrown through window or anything. All right, let's just settle down.

Colin Cowherd (29:17)

Well, who said that?

J. Mac (29:18)

I did.

Colin Cowherd (29:20)

Charles. I like Charles.

J. Mac (29:21)

I know you do.

Colin Cowherd (29:22)

Well, you've. You've alienated him for so many years.

J. Mac (29:24)

I don't think. I think his takes are. Have been weak on this Oklahoma City, Come on. Are they that good, Colin?

Colin Cowherd (29:29)

No.

J. Mac (29:30)

They needed seven to get by Denver in the second round. Denver with hobble. Darren Gordon Michael Porter Jr. With one arm.

Colin Cowherd (29:36)

Denver. Denver is my pick to win it next year. Denver is going to meet Houston in the Western Conference final. I like that Denver and Jokic carry him. And then I think, you know, Halliburton, I don't know. In the East. Nick, I mean, I mean I, I don't know. Orlando is my, Orlando's in the Eastern Conference finals. I don't know.

J. Mac (29:55)

Nick's Rockets in the, in the finals. That's gonna be good.

Colin Cowherd (29:58)

Nick. If you told me Nick's magic in the East, I'd buy that. Yeah. Without Halliburton and Tatum, I'd buy that.

J. Mac (30:03)

Yeah.

Colin Cowherd (30:04)

Yeah. J. Mac with the noose. Well, that's the news and thanks for stopping by the Herd lie news. See a little news here. I love we had a Steelers writer. DeFayboy was on Mike the Fable was on earlier today and my lead today was it's not that I don't like the T.J. watt deal. I just don't like it how the Steelers have completely prioritized defense for four years and the defense isn't even that great. TJ Watt is, but the defense isn't that great. We had a graphic earlier today. If you go to the last five playoff games for the Steelers and they've led the NFL in defensive spending four years in a row and they will lead it next year because of the TJ Watt contract, their defense isn't great now. It's gotten better over the last several years, but their offense has gotten worse for our radio audience. In the last five playoff games dating back to 2017, they've given up 45, 48, 42, 31 and 28. So they lead the league in defensive spending over the last half decade, but they don't have a dominating defense. So I don't mind the T.J. watt contract. He's a great player. He's an all timer, first ballot hall of Fame as his brother was, great player. But it's the fact that you let Minka Fitzpatrick go and instead of just getting draft picks, you sign past his prime. Jalen Ramsey, who's $7 million more per year. So if you're going to move off defensive players, just get the draft picks. Don't go back to overspending on somebody who's past their prime. So T.J. watt is toward the end of his prime, but he's still great. But here's Mike Defebo on the urgency for Pittsburgh now to win this year with this contract for three years.

Mike Defabo (31:46)

Did Mike Tomlin get the most out of Antonio Brown or did he enable him? And you know, we saw history in some senses repeat itself with George Pickens. You go back to where this whole post season losing streak began. Le'Veon Bell reported late for that playoff game. Mike Tomlin always has a saying, I don't treat everybody equally, but I treat everybody fairly. But when you're treating people on different levels, that is unfair to the guys who are doing the right thing.

Colin Cowherd (32:15)

So, and that was in response to my question, is Tomlin so pro player, does it get in the way? And as Mike says, it kind of goes back to Lavion Bell, Antonio Brown, George Pickens is that it's sort of ice cream for breakfast parent where he gives the kids a lot of space. That's fine with 95% of your roster. But there's always some squirrely guys in the NFL or you know, in any pro sport. They're young, they're rich, they've got freedom, they got a lot of time on their hands and they make mistakes. So you know, I do think they become very permissive with players. And again, most TJ Watt doesn't, it's okay, you know, for the kid they drafted out of West Virginia, the first round kid, was it Zack Frazier, the center out of West Virginia was a, he is a dog. That guy is great. For most of your players it's fine. You know, Heinz Ward is going to show up every day and put the work in right, like. But for a lot of young guys, they don't. So. And here's Mike again on the urgent now. So they sign Aaron Rodgers and you know, so they're, they're, they're kind of Ozempic. Their answer to their unbalanced diet. They've gone heavy carbs. The league has gone to protein. Their answer is Aaron Rodgers. We're going all in. And Mike responds to that.

Mike Defabo (33:29)

They know that people are getting impatient. They want success and they haven't had it. You know, and I just look at the fact that there have been in the history of the NFL in the Super bowl era, quarterbacks over 40 have won a combined 12 games in the playoffs. Tom Brady has 10. Every other quarterback has two combined. So it's Tom Brady and it's everybody else. And here the Steelers are throwing their face behind a soon to be 42 year old Aaron Rodgers to try to.

Colin Cowherd (33:58)

Snap that skid in a division with arguably the best owned, well run, one of the best coached and great quarterbacks in the league in Baltimore. So the Baltimore screws it all up. Baltimore Steve Bouchotti and John Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson. They're such a gold standard of how to run an operation that Pittsburgh, if they were in the AFC south or if they were in the NFC south, they could win that division. But when you're in a division with Baltimore and then vis a vis, I compare you the Steelers to Baltimore and I look how Baltimore spends money on offense, takes big swings in free agency, moves off defensive players, really good players to make sure their O line is right. Or they can get Derrick Henry. You think Derrick Henry is this good on every team in the league? Or do you think going to Baltimore with Lamar Jackson, this staff and this whole line elevates and lengthens the greatness of Derek Henry? I'd argue it's the latter. All right, tomorrow's headlines Today, my favorite segment every week is coming up. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific.

Unknown Advertiser (35:12)

Let's be real Life happens, kids spill, pets shed and accidents are inevitable. Find a sofa that can keep up@washablesofas.com Starting at just $699, our sofas are fully machine washable inside and out so you can say goodbye to stains and hello to worry free living. Made with liquid and stain resistant fabrics, they're kid proof, pet friendly and built for everyday life. Plus changeable fabric covers let you refresh your sofa whenever you want. Neat flexibility. Our modular D design lets you rearrange your sofa anytime to fit your space, whether it's a growing family room or a cozy apartment. Plus, they're earth friendly and trusted by over 200,000 happy customers. It's time to upgrade to a stress free, mess proof sofa. Visit washablesofas.com today and save. That's washablesofas.com offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply.

Colin Cowherd (36:11)

Interested in investing in Bitcoin but not sure how to get started? Well, with the Gemini Credit card you can dip your toes into Bitcoin without even trying. Just spend like you normally do groceries, gas or a night out and instantly earn up to 4% back in Bitcoin or one of over 50 other cryptos straight to your account with no annual fee. The Gemini Credit card is pretty much a no brainer and right now you can grab a $200 bitcoin intro bonus. So go to gemini.comcard to learn more and start earning today. Terms apply. Again, go to gemini.com card start building your Bitcoin stash now. Terms apply. The Gemini Credit card is issued by Web bank. In order to Qualify for the intro $200 crypto bonus, your application must be approved by June 30, 2025 and spend $3,000 in your first 90 days. Terms apply. Some exclusions apply to instant rewards, in which rewards are deposited when the transaction posts this content is not investment advice and Trading Crypto involves risk for more details on rates, fees and other Gemini credit card terms, see Rates and Fees.

Unknown Advertiser (37:14)

Balancing work, family and education isn't easy, but American Public University makes it possible with online courses, monthly start dates and flexible schedules. APU is designed for busy professionals who need education that fits their lives. And Affordability matters too. APU offers the opportunity grant, giving students 10% off undergraduate and master's level tuition, helping you reach your goals without breaking the bank. Plus, they provide career services and 247 mental health support at no extra cost. Visit Apu Apus Edu to learn more. That's Apu Apus Edu let's face it.

Unknown Advertiser (38:02)

Sometimes cars don't get the attention they deserve. That's where Meguiar's new Paint Dashing Glass comes in from the brand. Trust it for over 120 years for quality and performance. This all in one solution is built for convenience and speed. Perfect for those short on time paint, dash and glass tackles, light dust on paint, vinyl, leather, even screens, as well as bugs and debris on glass. It's an interior exterior detailer that removes the guesswork and keeps vehicles looking sharp on the go. Quick to use and incredibly effective, it's a must have addition for anyone who wants to keep their car looking fresh between deeper details. With a legacy of top tier car care, McGuire's delivers again with a product that makes it easy to reflect your passion. Maguire's Paint Dashing Glass is available now at select auto parts stores and online.

Colin Cowherd (39:10)

All right J Mack, what a busy, busy week we've had. Everybody thinks it's the the doldrums this time of the year, but we have had, we've had a lot happen.

J. Mac (39:21)

Starting with your flight snafu earlier this week, huh?

Colin Cowherd (39:25)

So it should be noted I felt terrible about that. And then I called you and I'm like dude, I can't get out of here. My boss the next day was in New York. He tried to get out, got on a plane, went on the tarmac, came back in, got off the plane, waited five hours.

J. Mac (39:41)

Ooh, five hours at an airport.

Colin Cowherd (39:43)

Well, I told you before, it's very in the west coast, if you go to the airport and it's nothing but sunny skies Your plane will take off and you'll fly on the East Coast. You could be in Rhode island or a state and it's perfectly sunny, but there's a lightning storm or there's a, there's a, there's a front a state away and you're not taking off. And that's, you know, just the reality of you get, you get more intense storms out East.

J. Mac (40:05)

I'm sure you're hanging out in the lounge, right? You get the credit card and you can pay 50 bucks and you go in the lounge. Unlimited food, Internet.

Colin Cowherd (40:11)

No, no, no.

J. Mac (40:12)

That's where all the hot people hang out at the airport, in those lounges.

Colin Cowherd (40:15)

I'm in row 31, by the way. Rory McElroy is now six back of the lead at the Open in Northern Ireland behind Englishman Matt Fitzpatrick. So six back you can listen, you get, you get to that style course, you can make up ground pretty quick. You get a birdie, you can make up strokes pretty quick. All right, we do it every week at this time. The former newspaper man comes up with headlines. Tomorrow's Today. What's the headline? That, that one. I can't remember an opening game in college football that felt this big.

J. Mac (40:48)

Yeah.

Colin Cowherd (40:49)

Ohio State against Texas. Sark and Ryan Day. Ryan Day proved his value. Sark. This is a big one.

J. Mac (40:59)

Well, obviously this is a great start to the season. The game's on Fox, August 30th schedule. Your Saturday around this one, Ohio State's favored. The headline will be, ouch. Manning Buckeyes put Arch in full body. Manning cast. I'm going with the Buckeyes here. I know a lot of people are saying, hey, Arch, man, he's going to be. The truth. I don't know. I saw one report that said he was the 10th best quarterback in college football this season. Meanwhile, Ohio State's bringing back styles. All American linebacker Caleb Downs, top 10 pick, maybe the best defensive player in college football. Colin Texas only returns three offensive starters from a year ago. This is going to be difficult. And oh, by the way, little X factor, if you will. The new defensive coordinator for the Buckeyes, it's the rocket scientist, Matt Patricia. Remember that guy? He's looking for a career rejuvenation. He's got all summer to cook up stuff for Arch. I think this is the Buckeyes almost to the point where people are like, ooh, I don't know about Arch as a pro because I think it'll be a tough go for Texas. I would take Ohio State here by two touchdowns. I will remind People, Texas is going to be fine. The games after this are straight up cupcakes. So Arch will be fine, but this is just going to be a. Welcome to college football, buddy. This is the big time.

Colin Cowherd (42:14)

Yeah. I mean it's. There's such NFL factories. It is interesting when I look at this game, the one advantage Ohio State does have, they're at home. So Arch. But Arch is such a mature kid. But you know, your first big start is on the road at the Horseshoe. It's going to be called the Hype against the Horseshoe. It's going to be an all timer. Tomorrow's headlines. Today it was SEC media day. Yeah, Media week. This is always a hornet's nest down there. This is going to be Kaylin DeBoer and Kirby Puck, Kirby Smart and Brian Kelly and Lane Kiffin. And here's Sark. Boy. There's some big time coaches now in the sec. What is the headline?

J. Mac (42:55)

Well, one of the, one of the smart people who I lean on for college football a lot, he's close to the business, said, you schedule a national championship. Jay, just remember that it's all about the schedule. The headline for the SEC will be who let the dogs stay at home? Who, who, who? Who let the dogs. I got Georgia winning the sec. Colin, I looked at the schedule for the Bulldogs. Are you ready for this? They do not play lsu. They host Alabama. And the week before that game they have a buy. So they'll be very fresh. Other two good teams, Texas. Guess where that game's at. Yep, you guessed it. Georgia. Guess where the Ole Miss game is. Yes. Also Georgia. Their toughest games are all at home. I know there's a lot of questions about Gunner Stockton. He didn't show much against Notre Dame in the playoff, you know. Okay, fine. It was a tough spot start for him getting thrown in there. He doesn't need to be great. This is a loaded team with all their tough opponents at home. I think Georgia runs the table in the sec.

Colin Cowherd (43:55)

Runs the table. That's not. Yeah, that's interesting there. I don't know much about the quarterback, but that's interesting. All right, tomorrow's headlines. Today, a lot of speculation about the Lakers and LeBron James. What's. I've had a lot of opinions this week. What say you?

J. Mac (44:12)

Yeah, I don't know. I don't know whether or not to fall for the. The LeBron wants out all this nonsense. Or is it just like you said, the summer doldrums. The headline for LeBron and the Lakers will be the Billion dollar Baby King Chucks up Hollywood ending. I think LeBron is staying. I'm sorry for the whole baby, you know, I know people. LeBron is a baby. He's whining. I think LeBron stays. This is much ado about nothing. This is a simply. Hey, you guys didn't show me respect. You're catering too much to Luca. What about me? I'm the king. I brought you guys the title. I was second team all NBA last year. All that stuff is true. LeBron also got the coach he wanted in Reddick. They drafted his son Bronnie. I don't think LeBron's going anywhere. It's a fun middle of July topic to kind of satiate all those reporters who kept telling you Colin for weeks, oh, this is going to be the biggest off season since 2020. It's just going to be chaos. Everybody's moving around. None of that stuff's going to be remotely true. I think without question, LeBron stays with the Lakers.

Colin Cowherd (45:15)

Yeah. I think NBA free agency not dead. But I think because of the new aprons, I think NBA free. I think the NFL free agency is much more interesting going forward. And I told Adam Silver I love stars moving. He doesn't. And so I think the new apron is built for you to keep your draft well, develop and keep your own players. I think NBA free agency is kind of dead, 100%.

J. Mac (45:38)

Did you see the Phoenix Suns ownership with this Bradley Beal move, which is stupid and handcuffs you for five years. Right. They're out of the second apron just by doing that deal. That's all they wanted to do is avoid $175 million. And like, that's just not smart team building. But it's the new NBA. Adam Silver. You sure we want this? Are you sure I don't.

Colin Cowherd (45:58)

Tomorrow's headlines today, what's going to be the headline for the second half of the baseball season? Dodgers struggling. Yankees probably need a little help. What do you make of it?

J. Mac (46:08)

Yankees need some help. I. I didn't realize Detroit was as good. Yesterday's guest was like, yeah, the Tigers, they're winning. They're coming out. All right. The headline for the Yankees will be Yankee Doodle Done did it. Bronx Bombers are back. A Roni. Colin. We heard Jeter. We heard a Rod talk about it. I believe the Yanks are going to be going back to the World Series. I know people are down on them right now. The Red Sox breathing down their neck, only one game back. Obviously, Detroit has been exceptional. We got the Astros. But Colin, I look at run differential, and it just jumps off the page. The Yankees by a mile. Okay. Plus 111. Detroit, which has a better record way back there at 87. This is a Yankee machine. I know some people are criticizing their starters this weekend. I'm sure you saw. It's just like, who are these guys? This is not an imposing starting lineup. The Yankees are going to be fine. And like you said, I expect them to make moves. If Jeter and A Rod are publicly All Star Weekend talking about it, I think the pressure's on Cashman to make a move.

Colin Cowherd (47:10)

Finally, the Open. Tomorrow's headlines. Today, there's Rory. What about Rory? What's your headline for the Open Championship?

J. Mac (47:19)

So, you know, obviously you're a big Rory guy. You were hyping it. He's doing excellent. Well, that. We came up with an amazing headline for you at the Open. Rory's headline will be Rory Rory. Hallelujah. His truth is marching on down the fairway. We are all rooting for your guy, Rory McElroy. Maybe he'll come on the show next week if he's able to capture the Open Championship. Should be a good one. I. I would agree with you. He is a captivating watch. People just gravitate toward him. I remember when he first broke on the scene. Yeah, it felt like it was going to be him and Tiger going toe to toe forever. And then obviously Tiger kind of went sideways. And Rory hasn't been able to consistently been dominant. But he's starting to play better now, and I'm certainly rooting for him this weekend.

Colin Cowherd (48:01)

Well, you know, it's funny. Tiger was so dominant. People compare everybody to Tiger. And I've said this. Go look at Phil Mickelson's career. Just if Tiger didn't exist, it's like a top five career.

J. Mac (48:12)

Yeah.

Colin Cowherd (48:13)

Rory Bryson, DeChambeau, Brooks, Koepka. These guys are unbelievable. All timers but the. You know, it's like Brady Brady at 44 was better than everybody. Not named Josh Allen and Mahomes. And so I think the kid that came on from the athletics said there's 12 wins for quarterbacks over 40. Brady's got 10. All the other quarterbacks have two that you can't count. Brady's the outlier. Take Brady out. Favre was pretty good in his 40s. He was pretty good. Warren Moon was pretty good in his 40s. So my take is just take Tiger out. Rory's had an unbelievable career. DeChambeau who's like reinvented himself. Phil Mickelson has had an eye. Let me Guess this. Just look this up. How many tour wins does Mickelson have and how many majors? I'm gonna guess. I mean, just again, Tiger doesn't exist. I bet you Mickelson has all time tour wins. I'm gonna. Okay, and then this majors, everything else, I'm gonna guess That's a tough one. 48, 45.

J. Mac (49:22)

Oh, wow.

Colin Cowherd (49:24)

Majors six. Boom.

J. Mac (49:30)

I didn't know you were such a golf guy. Oh, that's right. You've been playing a lot of golf in shot in a windy City.

Colin Cowherd (49:36)

I already have three golf rounds lined up. Next time I go on vacay.

J. Mac (49:40)

Are you serious? By the way, what clubs are you playing with?

Colin Cowherd (49:43)

The kind of hit the ball long way and straight.

J. Mac (49:46)

Well, next time you're out here, we'll go to topgolf. I like to grip it and rip it. All I do is swing for the fence. I just want to whack golf as far as I can. You don't go to top golf.

Colin Cowherd (49:56)

Here was Rory after his round today. He's six back.

J. Mac (50:01)

I'm excited for the opportunity. I didn't have that opportunity six years ago, so, you know, to play an extra two days in this out atmosphere in front of these crowds, you know, I'm very excited for that. And I feel like my game's definitely good enough to make a run. You know, it was 20 years ago that I played the north of Ireland here and never in my wildest dreams that I think that I'd be coming back as a grand slam champion with the support of a nation behind me trying to win an Open championship.

Colin Cowherd (50:32)

I find that guy so easy to root for. Oh, my gosh. And I'll tell you this, Augusta, I mean, there's a lot of great golf tournaments. Augusta and the British Open are my favorites. The British Open just looks so different. It looked. It's so, you know, you have to get up early to watch it. And Augusta's just given me so many great moments. The U.S. open, I'm partial to Pebble Beach. Like, when it's at pebble beach, it's literally like a painting for the weekend. You're watching a painting. Pinehurst, there's a lot of great. But there are certain tournaments that matter more. Augusta one, British Open two. Because Augusta's on, wanted a better time. And then any US Open at Pebble Beach. But there are golfers that I'm really fascinated with. Brooks Koepka. I thought Brooks Koepka had a chance to be like Mickelson. 45, 50 tour wins. And then Bryson Dechambeau was kind of sticky and unlikable and DeChambeau sort of elevated and Brooks Koepka has gone a little sideways. So we'll keep our eye on that.

J. Mac (51:29)

Yeah. By the way, so, you know, let's say you want to take me out on the golf course and you can invite any two golfers to join us. Who rounds out the foursome, you say, rory, it's fine. You have a man.

Colin Cowherd (51:44)

So if I could golf, you and I. And rounds out the foursome, how about Steph Curry? Because on a golf course, people are totally.

J. Mac (51:55)

He's awesome at golf, by the way.

Colin Cowherd (51:56)

And if again, I get unfiltered Steph Curry and Elon Musk because he's so wacko.

J. Mac (52:06)

Did not.

Colin Cowherd (52:06)

I don't. I mean, he would tell you. I mean, what's going to happen in the future? Maybe Jeff Bezos, he'd be, he'd be less distracted. Bezos and, and Steph Curry. All right, we're done for today. We will have a great weekend. UFC 318. Can't wait to watch. Thanks for Dana White for stopping by and as always, been the herd.

Unknown Advertiser (52:27)

Balancing work, family and education isn't easy. But American Public University makes it possible with online courses, monthly start dates, and flexible schedules. APU is designed for busy professionals who need education that fits their lives. And Affordability matters, too. APU offers the opportunity grant, giving students 10% off undergraduate and master's level tuition, helping you reach your goals without breaking the bank. Plus, they provide career services and 24. 7 mental health support at no extra cost. Visit Apu Apus Edu to learn more. That's Apu Apus Edu. Okay, have you heard about this?

Colin Cowherd (53:15)

Last year, Degree changed the formula for their Cool Rush deodorant and their fans.

Unknown Advertiser (53:20)

Rebelled and wanted the old scent back.

Colin Cowherd (53:22)

And Degree listens. That doesn't happen often. They admitted they effed up and they're bringing back the original Cool Rush scent. They're bringing it back and it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. There's a reason it's the number one men's antiperspirant. And it's back in Walmart, Target and other stores now for under four bucks. So try and see what the fuss is about. Head to your local Walmart or Target to try the OG Degree Cool Rush for yourself. So in the last month, the Midas Touch Network beat Rogan, Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, Charlie Kirk and Ben Shapiro all combined.

Unknown Advertiser (53:54)

What happens when three brothers take on right wing media and start winning? I find out on the latest episode of Next Question with me, Katie Couric.

Colin Cowherd (54:03)

We just want people to live their lives and be happy and be able.

Unknown Advertiser (54:06)

To enjoy it without some, you know.

Colin Cowherd (54:08)

Lunatic screaming in their face every three seconds.

Unknown Advertiser (54:11)

Listen to Next Question with me, Katie Couric, on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Colin Cowherd (54:20)

Welcome to Pretty Private with ebony, the.

J. Mac (54:22)

Podcast where silence is broken and stories are set free. I'm Ebony, and every Tuesday I'll be sharing all new anonymous stories that would challenge your perceptions and give you new.

Colin Cowherd (54:34)

Insight on the people around you.

Unknown Advertiser (54:36)

Every Tuesday, make sure you listen to.

Colin Cowherd (54:38)

Pretty Private from the Black Effect Podcast Network.

J. Mac (54:41)

Tune in on the iHeartRadio app, Apple.

Colin Cowherd (54:44)

Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. This is an iHeart podcast.