Mark Few (3:35)

Yeah, I think it's the biggest thing. Colin, is just kind of staying true to your culture. I mean, and you can get tricked a lot of times just on chasing talent. And we stand. It still happens to this day. But I think in the end, what we found up here, like, what fits us is just staying true. I mean, we have to have somebody that really, really loves basketball and wants to work, and then also just values team. And then. And then in some cases, sometimes we have to teach our transfers that a little bit. We've kind of had to do that this year. I think it's taken a while for some of our guys to kind of really latch on to that and figure out that's what needs to be done. But I'll give this group a lot of credit, man. We lost a ton of games, you know, in the last one or two possessions this year, and it has not broke their spirit. They were very, very driven down the stretch. And, you know, the other night, I think it all came to fruition.

Colin Cowherd (4:40)

Yeah. What I was thinking about this. Has your experience with Team USA helped you at all in the nil world, which is kind of like semi pro in college? Like, what do you take from. Because everybody looks at college and pro as two different worlds. Is there anything they share that you've learned? Have you pulled something from college that can help you, Team USA, when you're dealing with LeBron and Steph or vice versa.

Mark Few (5:06)

Oh, hey, tons of it. I think my players are so tired of me referencing them. And. And I was listening earlier to your show and just a great take on LeBron. I reference him so much with our team on just how he impacts winning. I mean, he is just all about winning and his preparation and how much film he watches. He watches as much film as the coaches, his, how he takes care of his body and then to your point, how he communicates on the floor, I talked to my team time and time again. I mean, he hits the floor and he's calling out every ball screen, he's calling out every coverage, he's talking on offense. It's amazing. And I think that's why he's one of the greatest winners in the history of all sports, if you ask me, when you see the impact that he has. But then I reference Steph on, on his, his routine every day and how great he was at the end of every practice. No matter how hard we went or how long have been, he's in there just repping out his shots that he's going to take in games. And yeah, I know the players are probably a little tired of it, but it's been a great source for me. And then conversely, I shared with the USA guys like, hey, you know, you watch that quarter gold series, this is one and done. This is not a seven game series. And you guys, you know, this is my world now. And you can't have, we can't have a bad day. And to their credit, man, their competitive will shined bright in the, in the biggest moment for us to be able to get that gold and get it done.

Colin Cowherd (6:40)

Yeah. Hey, by the way, so I'm going to throw my hat and by the way, rip me to shreds if I'm wrong because you know, you know a million times more than I do. I said the other day, I said cooper.

Mark Few (6:51)

Well, you were wrong on the, on the hair like hair product comparison to making the athlete get stronger in the, in the weight room or whatever. Earlier. Whatever. Thought that was a strange analogy. A great take on LeBron hair product. Yeah, I didn't quite, I didn't grasp that one. I'm usually right on with you, pal, but you lost me there.

Colin Cowherd (7:12)

Okay, so we were talking about Cooper Flag and he just does everything well, score in transition, can use his body. And I said he's got some Jayson Tatum to him where there's nothing. I look at Jason Tatum and say he can do kind of everything. Who is the comp for Cooper Flagg? Because I think Duke's really good and I think this kid Mark, he's ready to play in the NBA. It feels to me like right away and can score right away.

Mark Few (7:38)

Yeah, well, he showed that this summer. He scrimmaged against us and he was ready to go from the jump and went right at us. You know, it was just a scrimmage it was our first scrimmage. Our guys were just getting off the beach and everything with Team USA and vacation. But yeah, he was very, very impressive. And the great thing about him, man, is he's like, to your point, he does everything well. I mean, he can score if he has to. He's got a great feel for the game. I mean, he's got tremendous positional size. He, John's done a great job with him, I think, and he played for a great coach in Kevin Boyle at Montverd and he really understands defense and he impacts the game in a big way on the defensive end. So, yeah, he's gonna, he's gonna have a huge impact from day one, but it's gonna be one of those impacts. Like he does everything well. You know, I think people are gonna pick up the paper and look at the stats and it's not always about that. It's, it's, you know, a little bit like LeBron. He impacts winning in a big way.

Colin Cowherd (8:43)

Has there been a team. I ask you this every year and tell me a team that none of us talking heads talk about and that you've seen them or watched them or scouted them and you're like, yeah, I'd rather avoid them in the tournament. I don't have any real interest. Has there been a little bit of a sleeper that, you know, sometimes we talk about the Dukes and the Gonzaga and the Carolinas. A little bit of a team that you think is better than people quite realize.

Mark Few (9:11)

I mean, I think people realize how good they are. I do. But listen, what Houston's doing and what Kelvin's been able to do and to go through that league, I think they went 19 and one in that league is just remarkable. And the intensity that they bring and the physicality that they bring and, and now, you know, their offensive efficiency is better than it has been. I had a chance to watch them last week a little bit and was just came away just. I mean, I've always been impressed, but was really impressed with them. That's probably one that jumps out. I don't know if that really counts as an under the radar team though.

Colin Cowherd (9:53)

Hey, you told us. I remember when Chet Holmgren was coming out and I said he's skilled, little skinny. And you said, oh no, this guy is tough. This guy's a fighter.

Mark Few (10:04)

Yes.

Colin Cowherd (10:04)

And I gotta tell you, he's good. He is a fighter. He is tough. By the way, sga. I saw him in college. I'm like, that's. What is that skinny? That kid's developed into something that's insane.

Mark Few (10:19)

My goodness. He torched us. Not this summer, but the year before in usa. And I mean, got to see him up close and personal in that. Just, he's one of those guys. You know how Steph changed the analytics back in the day with shooting threes? I'm telling you, sga, with that pull up jumper in the tough two. I mean, watching that firsthand, it was funny. I mean, I was sharing that with Ty Lu, like, okay, our drop coverage isn't going to work.

Colin Cowherd (10:46)

Yeah.

Mark Few (10:47)

But this guy, we had to start trapping him because he's just made. That's a, that's a layup for him. That little pull up. And that's what you give up and drop coverage. But yeah, they've had a terrific, terrific year. Mark, their head coach has done a beautiful job of kind of navigating through that. And Chet, I think that's one thing that's being underrated a little bit. Is Chet coming back for them. I mean, you talk about just adding another incredible piece and just an incredible entity. And he's a competitive, competitive dude, man. And he, he's got a big, big, strong belief in himself and he's. His body might not look like it, but that dude is tough as nails.

Colin Cowherd (11:25)

Yeah. You know, we were talking about this earlier a couple more is that I said I like analytics. I absolutely believe in it. But I always joke what I really like is Manalytics, which is when you get into big games. I want Jimmy Butler and Andrew Wiggins. Both average 18. Jimmy Butler is a handful. Like, they're both wing guys that average 18. They're totally different players. Is that when you get into the tournament? Sometimes I like, I always love Jalen Suggs. I like guys that get in your kitchen. I like physical guys. Do you think sometimes with analytics, are there players that you've had or seen at USA and you're like, yeah, I'm sorry, the analytics don't quite get the player.

Mark Few (12:08)

Absolutely 100%. And I'm so with you on that point. At some point, I mean, it just comes down to who, who can make up, who can make a play. And especially as you get deeper into the tournamen, you know, and deeper into the game, it's going to come down to, you know, do they have that moxie? Do they have that grit? Do they have that toughness? Do they have that. Everybody says they have confidence and swag, but do they really, really have that? I mean, again, I referenced the team usa, but look at, you know, look at the shots. Steph said. Look at LeBron, the shots that he made down the stretch. Look at the, the pull up the KD hit against Serbia. I mean just monster, monster shots and just happened because those guys are just so good and have such incredible belief in themselves. You have to have a guy like that going down the stretch of the games. And analytics has nothing to do with that. In fact, you got to just throw it out the windows in some cases. Colin, you'll be playing against the guy and the staff will say, well he's shooting 20% from three and I'm like, I don't care. At the end of the game, you know, we are double teaming him because I've seen him time and time again. Just make those shots.

Colin Cowherd (13:18)

Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific. This podcast is brought to you by Pfizer. Let's talk health. You may not know about pneumococcal disease, but if you're 50 or older or 19 or older with certain medical conditions like diabetes, you're at risk. And it could turn your plans, big or small, into a hospital visit. So get vaccinated. It's one action you can take to help protect against pneumococcal pneumonia, an invasive pneumococcal disease. Keep enjoying everything you're looking forward to, even if it's just a podcast. Schedule a shot@vaxassist.com welcome to a day.

Jonas Knox (13:58)

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Colin Cowherd (14:12)

This is so good.

Jonas Knox (14:13)

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Colin Cowherd (14:28)

Count on T Mobile to help keep you connected from big cities to small towns on America's largest 5G network. Switch the T Mobile keep your phone and they'll pay it off up to 800 bucks per line via prepaid card. Learn more@t mobile.com Keep and switch up to four lines via virtual prepaid card. Allow 15 days qualifying unlock device credit service port in 90 plus days with device and eligible carrier and timely redemption required card has no cash access and expires in six months. This message is brought to you by Apple Card. Choosing the Right. Credit card can be daunting. Among the countless credit card options, Apple Card stands apart. You get up to 3% daily cash back on purchases every day. That daily cash can automatically earn interest when you open a high yield savings account through Apple Card. Apply for Apple Card in the wallet app on iPhone and see a credit limit offer in minutes, subject to credit approval. Savings is available to Apple Card owners subject to eligibility. Savings and Apple Card by Goldman Sachs Bank USA Salt Lake City Branch Member FDIC terms and more@applecard.com okay, finally, I'm not a big pill popper, but a week ago, my daughter, I'm a crappy sleeper. She said, dad, I said, I can't sleep. She goes, oh, look, she pulled out her pharmacy drawer and she gave me magnesium. And you're a.

Mark Few (15:59)

Yes.

Colin Cowherd (16:00)

You're a lousy sleeper, too.

Mark Few (16:02)

Yes. In season. In season, I'm bad sleeper.

Colin Cowherd (16:05)

Yeah. Now, have you now tell me your Magnesium backstory?

Mark Few (16:09)

Well, first of all, I was listening to that show, and it was a day. We were kind of setting this up. Your entire staff was just fit to be tied with you on Magnesium. They were saying you were a maniac. And I was saying, I was texting back with them. I was like, I thought that was one of his best shows. So, yes, my daughter came to me and actually shared this thing with Magnesium. She had this little oil shed. Rub it on the bottom of your feet, dad. And I was like, come on. And I'm just telling you, I slept for eight hours that night. It's the best sleep I've had in a while. So when you started going off on it, I'm a big believer.

Colin Cowherd (16:47)

Hey, by the way, two final fours. You look great. Your energy's through the roof. I. Jay Wright's a friend of mine. I couldn't figure out why he retired. He probably didn't want that nil Nonsense. You should just. Steph Curry said something the other day. Steph said, I'll retire. It's not about stats. When I can no longer dominate a game, I'm out. Is there going to be something with you? Because you. Your energy is insane. You're in great shape. What will be the thing where you're like, all right, I'm going to shut her down and golf and go to my, you know, lake house and hang out.

Mark Few (17:22)

Yeah. Don't forget fly fishing there.

Colin Cowherd (17:25)

I know. That's good. That's good.

Mark Few (17:30)

Yeah. I mean, I think probably when. When you don't feel you're having the. The same type of impact on. On your guys and then. And then the other thing I would say, Colin, like, I honestly think there's a point where you get to where, you know, other people need to enjoy this spot, you know, and other people need to have the chance to. To do this, too, you know, that's why I don't see hanging on until you're, you know, I mean, some guys, it's fine if they want to hang on till they're 80, but I just think it's time at some point, it's good to share it. I got a great staff here, and it's time for them to experience this as a head coach, you know, at some point. So I think all of those factors go in, but, you know, as long as it's still fun, it's a huge challenge adapting. I mean, we could do a whole nother show on all the adaptations that have needed to be made in the last, like, 12 months in this profession. But, you know, you just. You have to be willing to kind of be flexible. And then I think doing the USA Basketball stints have really helped me kind of understand it from maybe the professional side.

Colin Cowherd (18:32)

Yeah. It's great seeing you, my man. Great seeing. Yeah, you too, Mark.

Mark Few (18:37)

You too. You look well rested this week, and.

Colin Cowherd (18:42)

You will be in about a month. You'll be well rested in a month. Great seeing you, Mark.

Mark Few (18:47)

Yeah. All right. Take care.

Colin Cowherd (18:48)

All right. He just, you know, he's. He and Coach K have really figured it out. You do a little bit of the Olympic stuff, which is just so fun, so international. And then you. You dominate a college landscape. And it's, you know, I went to college right next to Gonzaga, so it's a. Spokane's really a beautiful place. Even the winter, it's cold. So what? You're indoors playing basketball. If it was too nice, you'd want to be outside. All right, J. Mac with the news.

Mark Few (19:16)

No, no, no.

J. Mac (19:17)

Heard on the news.

Mark Few (19:19)

This is the Herd line news.

J. Mac (19:21)

All right, I'm struggling with how to frame this first item here, but something's going on with Aaron Rodgers. Colin. Diana Rossini just posted this on social media. The Vikings are having discussions about what they want to do at quarterback and if they want Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers is giving them time and waiting to hear from them.

Colin Cowherd (19:40)

I don't get that.

J. Mac (19:41)

The Vikings have yet to make a decision.

Colin Cowherd (19:42)

I don't get it.

J. Mac (19:43)

We all wait. So I don't know what to make of this. And there's basically three lines of logic here that we're trying to connect. Number one, if the Vikings know something about McCarthy's injury. Why didn't they just keep Sam Darnold?

Colin Cowherd (19:57)

Right.

J. Mac (19:58)

Why would you kick the tires on Aaron Rodgers? Right. Number two. Like, is something wrong with McCarthy? Colin? Well, JJ McCarthy, they drafted him, he had two surgeries and now they're like, maybe we bring over.

Colin Cowherd (20:09)

Why wouldn't you keep Daniel Jones?

J. Mac (20:11)

That's another. Yeah, that's another one. And then the other one is you can see why the Steelers and Giants are ticked off because Rogers wants the contender as opposed to the pretenders. I mean, if you could go to the vikings with Kevin O'Connell, Justin Jefferson, you take that over the Giants and Steelers in a heartbeat. Right.

Colin Cowherd (20:26)

It is odd because they gave up picks to get J.J. mcCarthy. He had a second surgery.

J. Mac (20:31)

But that was like seven months ago. He had it.

Colin Cowherd (20:34)

No, no longer. Like six months now, wasn't it? Wasn't it longer than that?

J. Mac (20:38)

Yeah, because in August he was ruled out, I think. Right? Yeah. And that's when he had the initial surgery, then needed a follow up. But like something's going on in Minnesota. I, I don't. I don't get this at all.

Colin Cowherd (20:49)

I don't either.

J. Mac (20:50)

Don't you think Darnold would have been a better fit in Minnesota than Aaron Rodgers? He was just there last year. They won 14 games.

Colin Cowherd (20:57)

Yeah, I do. He's also in his prime. He's 10 years more.

J. Mac (21:01)

Less of a headache.

Colin Cowherd (21:02)

Well, he's just younger and more athletic and willing to move the pocket.

J. Mac (21:06)

Maybe they didn't want to give him the 30 mil or whatever. And Aaron Rodgers.

Colin Cowherd (21:09)

Yeah, but Darnold signed an incredibly team friendly deal.

J. Mac (21:13)

Nothing's more team friendly than playing for the league minimum. But would Rodgers do that the way Russell Wilson did in Pittsburgh?

Colin Cowherd (21:20)

Okay, so the second surgery was reported on November 13th. So let's go November, December, January. So it's only four months since the second surgery.

J. Mac (21:29)

Yeah, but it's still like four months to the NFL.

Colin Cowherd (21:31)

I mean, it just feels like to me, did the surgery not quite stick or something? Take.

J. Mac (21:36)

Maybe they found other stuff. I don't. It's a big mystery, but it is holding well.

Colin Cowherd (21:41)

Listen, if you could go to Kevin O'Connell and Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison and Aaron Jones and their left tackle who's coming off back off injury, you would take that. Plus he knows the division kind of.

J. Mac (21:53)

The fact that you're right, that they said no to Daniel Jones, no to Sam Darnold means they must be entertaining this.

Colin Cowherd (22:00)

They are. I mean, it keeps getting leaked by legitimate sources. That's wild.

J. Mac (22:07)

I mean, if I'M Rodgers. I guess I get it. Forget about the following Brett Favre narrative. I get one of the best young coaches in the league and an elite wide receiver, a great tight end in Hawkinson. Jordan Addison's a great receiver. Aaron Jones is a back. He knows him from Green Bay. I don't know wacky stuff. All right, let's move on to the next story, and that's the Colts. They brought in Daniel Jones to set up a QB competition between him and Anthony Richardson. Jones was introduced to Indy yesterday and discussed his opportunity to fight for the job.

Mark Few (22:37)

That's been the communication. It's, yeah, an opportunity to come in and compete and, yeah, I'm looking forward to that.

Colin Cowherd (22:46)

I think, you know, I've had a lot of fun, you know, a lot of respect for Anthony, watching him.

Mark Few (22:51)

I think he's, he's certainly a talented young player and I think, you know.

Colin Cowherd (22:56)

The competition aspect of it brings out the best in everybody.

Mark Few (23:00)

And, you know, I just, I think we're, we're both interested in helping this team win games and whatever, whatever we can do to help that happen.

J. Mac (23:11)

Daniel Jones versus Anthony Richardson. Our staff put together a great stat. Colts starting quarterback since 2019. They've had 10 since 2019. Colin 10 second most to the AFC if we have the list on the screen. Yeah, Sam Ellinger there, remember that experience? I think he's selling insurance at Topeka right now. Come on. This is ineptitude at quarterback since 2019. This many guys.

Colin Cowherd (23:35)

Well, remember Carson Wentz had a very good year and the owner forced them to get rid of him. So then they were trapped and Philip Rivers went 11, 5 and he had a good year. Anthony Richardson has been, you know, you get about 50% of the time he's been a miss.

J. Mac (23:50)

I saw he's working out with Josh Allen's guy, his quarterback guru. Anthony Richardson locked in. I don't know.

Colin Cowherd (23:57)

That's a. I think Daniel Jones is going to win this job. I really do. I don't think it's going to take that long to figure it out.

J. Mac (24:03)

I would bet a steak dinner on that, but I can't back Anthony Richardson with actual after tax dollars. Final STORY Colin Major League Baseball Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers have arrived in Japan for the Tokyo series, which is going to kick off the regular season Tuesday and Wednesday. Ohtani is coming off an MVP award and he's making his way back from Tommy John surgery. He's excited to pitch. However, a guy by the name of Barry Bonds. You heard of him? I'm sure he believes Ohtani should give up pitching and focus on hitting.

Colin Cowherd (24:35)

Ohtani boy can play. There's no question about who he is. I just my opinion, I just hope he just stays at the hitting category because his hitting ability is off the chart. Pitching I just think might tire him out. I think he should come out of the bullpen here and there. Like he has these because he's DHing. He can come out of the bullpen and throw an inning or two here just because he's so good as a reliever too. Like he could be one of the dominant relievers and dominant starters. I think as a starter man, I think it might get wear and tear a little bit and tire him out. Why fix something that isn't broken? Yeah, I mean I look at the Dodgers staff and they don't need him to pitch. Could he be a 12 to 15 start pitcher? He doesn't. He starts the year not pitching, ends the year spot duty. I mean it just. They are so rich because Glasnow will be healthy. They're getting a lot of their arms back.

J. Mac (25:27)

Well, he made a good point. About what? About as a relief pitcher and we've talked about this with Travis Hunter. Instead of being a full two weight player, you're situational third and 15, fourth quarter. Travis get on the field, make a play as a defensive back. Right. Maybe that's Ohtani. Listen, we're not going to burn you like you said in June, July, dog days of August. But come September we might need you in a pinch in the eighth inning to get out of a basis loaded jam. Can you pitch for us? Right, that's what Bonds. It sounds like he.

Colin Cowherd (25:54)

Yeah, it does.

J. Mac (25:55)

I think that's smart, smart baseball.

Colin Cowherd (25:57)

You could, you could get. Dodgers could have a six man rotation. They have enough arms and give them extra rest and that, that literally that's how deep they are.

J. Mac (26:05)

It's good to have options like that, isn't it?

Colin Cowherd (26:08)

I mean I don't know what the weakness on that team is. It's the most talent I've ever seen in a baseball team ever. Most high end talent like eight guys who are all star level players.

J. Mac (26:18)

You know I heard they're saying that about this show.

Colin Cowherd (26:20)

Yeah, right now.

J. Mac (26:21)

The exact same words you just said.

Colin Cowherd (26:22)

Yeah, sure. J. Mac with the news. Well, that's the news and thanks for.

Mark Few (26:27)

Stopping by the herd.

Colin Cowherd (26:29)

All right, tomorrow's headlines today. Can't wait. Next. Hey, it's 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 call, 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 Enriched 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 kobenonrich wherever you get your podcast. And of course, on social media, That's Covino and Rich. This podcast is brought to you by Pfizer. Let's talk health. You may not know about pneumococcal disease, but if you're 50 or older or 19 or older with certain medical conditions like diabetes, you're at risk. And it could turn your plans, big or small, into a hospital visit. So get vaccinated. It's one action you can take to help protect against pneumococcal pneumonia, an invasive pneumococcal disease. Keep enjoying everything you're looking forward to, even if it's just a podcast. Schedule a shot@vaxassist.com welcome to a day.

Jonas Knox (28:04)

In the life of an amex Gold Card Member. 7:00am Iced coffee with up to $84 back annually at Dunkin locations 12:00 pesto zoodles with four times Membership Rewards points on purchases at US restaurants up to $50,000.

Colin Cowherd (28:18)

This is so good.

Jonas Knox (28:19)

And to finish strong, the freshest sushi spot with up to 100 back annually on eligible purchases at US resident restaurants. What a day. That's the powerful backing of American Express. Terms apply. Cap applies. Learn more@american express.com With Amex, you can.

Colin Cowherd (28:34)

Count on T Mobile to help keep you connected from big cities to small towns on America's largest 5G network. Switch the T Mobile. Keep your phone and they'll pay it off up to 800 bucks per line via prepaid card. Learn more@t mobile.com Keep and switch up to four lines via virtual prepaid card. Allow 15 days qualifying unlock device, credit service port in 90 plus days with device and eligible carrier and timely redemption required. Card has no cash access and expires in six months. This is Jonas Knox from Two Pros and a Cup of Joan. Today's podcast is brought to you by Ferguson Home. Whether you're a homeowner working on a remodel or a pro managing multiple projects, Ferguson Home is where great ideas become stunning spaces. It's designed for the way you want to shop. Explore the best selection of kitchen, bath and lighting products online or visit a local Ferguson Home showroom and get one on one support from an expert consultant. Go to FergusonHome.com to shop the latest styles from top brands like Kohler or find a showroom location near you. So mine or yours?

J. Mac (29:44)

Mine.

Colin Cowherd (29:45)

So you're gonna, you're, there's gonna be.

J. Mac (29:47)

I don't have as spicy ones as you because it's tough, man, to find four new playoff teams. It's not easy.

Colin Cowherd (29:52)

So we have four new playoff teams in the NFL, but we're doing it before the draft.

J. Mac (29:56)

Yeah, before the draft, before the schedule. And the schedule matters, man. That's significant.

Colin Cowherd (30:00)

All right, we call it tomorrow's headlines today. So what will be the headline for the first new playoff team?

J. Mac (30:08)

All right, well, I've alluded to this and you seem to be close but you're not quite there. The headline will be Titans open a Cam of Whoop ass. I just wanted to just say that word on TV because it's been a minute. I, I, I am a believer in Cam Ward and I like what's going I like Callahan, man. I like him a lot as a coach. The offensive line started to gel late in the season and if you look again game by game, it's ugly. Will Levis just kept screwing things up and I think Cam Ward can have not quite a Jaden or CJ Stroud impact. But in a division where there's a lot of uncertainty, the Colts don't know who their quarterback is. You're not a believer in Trevor Lawrence anymore. The Texans for some reason like have uplifted their offensive line. The wide receivers have some questions. After Nico Collins, I'm not as high on Christian Kirk. I think the Tennessee Titans can sneak in there and do some damage. I think nine wins could get it done in this division. Colin, right? This is not there's no overwhelming good team in here.

Colin Cowherd (31:04)

Not bad. Take not bad. I have him as a wild card competitor. Tomorrow's headlines today. What about your Second new playoff team.

J. Mac (31:12)

Okay. This one should probably have an asterisk by it because, you know, they. They've been in the playoffs before. They're really, really good. The headline will be, since you've been gone, Bengals back to being American Idols. Listen, it's tough not to love Joe Burrow getting back to the playoffs.

Colin Cowherd (31:28)

I agree.

J. Mac (31:28)

Listen, the defense has some questions. We don't know what's up with Hendrickson. I personally would move off of him. Sorry, Max Crosby. I know you love all defensive ends. I would, I would let go. I would let Hendrickson go. He led you in sacks and you couldn't stop anybody. I think they gave up over 35 points six times. But I'm a believer in Burrow and Colin. We know the last like four or five years, they've come out of the gates very slow. They've been behind the eight ball. I guarantee you that's not going to happen this year. Joe Burrow is going to be ready. Chase is going to get his deal. I think they're going to keep Higgins. I like the Bengals to get back to the playoffs, maybe win the division. I'm not as high on the Ravens again, but you've got the Bengals as well going to the playoffs.

Colin Cowherd (32:05)

Yeah, it's just, it's hard to bet against, you know, that receiving core. Joe Burrow and an offensive coach who at least sort of gets that side of the ball. Tomorrow's headlines today. Now, how about a third new playoff team?

J. Mac (32:18)

This is your favorite news city in America. You could see this coming a mile away. The headline will be bear market Playoff stock soars after off season investment.

Colin Cowherd (32:29)

I didn't think you liked them.

J. Mac (32:30)

I mean, I do like the moves. The division's hard, though. So if you elevate the Bears, I've got the Vikings winning the division. Who's fallen down. I think it's probably going to be the Lions. Sorry, Detroit fans, but this Bears team, man, there's a lot to love. I wasn't feeling the genty stuff in the draft. If they do get him, I think you might have to get a Bears super bowl ticket at that point because the offensive line looks like it's going to be improved. I think one of the biggest talking points. Let's just file this away. Is going to be Caleb Williams. Can he get rid of the football instead of Pat? Pat looking around and trying to do the backyard football. It was a problem at USC and I think I saw some numbers. He held the ball longer than I think, like 97% of quarterbacks last year.

Colin Cowherd (33:08)

Fair.

J. Mac (33:08)

That's got to stop. And he's got weapons. You like the tight end. I like the head coach. I get the Bears going to the playoffs.

Colin Cowherd (33:15)

So you got the Titans in there, the Bengals, the Bears. What is your fourth new playoff team? Tomorrow's headlines today. Let's see. Number four.

J. Mac (33:25)

I had to dig deep on this one. I couldn't go to my Jets. Remember last year I was bullish and that ended badly. The fourth new playoff team. It's in the nfc. The headline will be There's a P in playoffs Panthers mark their territory. Listen man, I, I know we've been focusing on.

Colin Cowherd (33:42)

Weren't you big on them last year?

J. Mac (33:43)

I was. They hit their overwind total. It took them into week 18. They had to pull it off. K I, I know you're very excited about the Patriots and how they've spent. Have you taken a look at the Panthers?

Colin Cowherd (33:54)

No.

J. Mac (33:54)

They secured five new defensive starters. This was a defense that could not stop any. I couldn't stop like college football teams probably hahaha. But they have invested heavily on defense. The, the wide receiver grouping leaves something to be desired but we think they're probably going T.A.C. at 8 in the draft. I like the Rico Dowdle pickup. Quietly. He was kind of good last year. He was.

Colin Cowherd (34:16)

He was pretty.

J. Mac (34:16)

He's tough and behind a decent offensive line that showed a lot of improvement. The left tackle, Aquanu, the kid from NC State, he really improved in year two. I think that division could be had. I'm taking the Titans in the AFC in a weak division and I think the Panthers make a leap in a bad division. I know you like Pennocks and you like the Bucs, but I don't think either of those are unbelievable.

Colin Cowherd (34:40)

I mean it's. I mean the Bucs won the divisions. The Falcons beat them twice. It's a very terrible.

J. Mac (34:46)

We know the Saints are probably like a four or five win team. They'll be in the mix for Arch Manning who I think played high school football in New Orleans. But I think the Panthers can really rise up and it's only going to take nine, maybe 10 victories. And Bryce Young, who we're now bullish on because he was on our flight to the super bowl and he's probably coming in the studio soon. So I'm buying Bryce Young and the Carolina Panthers.

Colin Cowherd (35:05)

Finally, tomorrow's headlines today, what's going to be the headline for one Aaron Rodgers?

J. Mac (35:13)

So I couldn't find a fifth playoff team and you know I'm talking to the guys and we're like, let's do Aaron Rodgers. After those photos came out, we got something good. The headline will be Local man wanders blitzed on audibles. I mean, I'm sorry, the photos on the beach, I just couldn't stop laughing. I, I, I'm just glad he's done in New York. That's all I'll say, like, hey, man, check out Minnesota. Maybe they want you. If they don't settle for the Giants and you'll go six or seven wins Steelers. Good luck in that division. You're probably the third best quarterback in that division. The Browns don't have anybody yet. I just, I'm done with Aaron Rodgers. This, it's weird. We're seeing LeBron and Curry well into their 30s, still at the top of their game, dominating the sport contenders. And with Aaron Rodgers since he left Green Bay, Colin, it's just not happening. It's over. Tom Brady goes to Tampa, wins the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers goes to the Jets. It's a disaster.

Colin Cowherd (36:15)

And now, well, Stafford goes to the Rams and wins a Super Bowl. So I think, I think the reason he's waiting is Minnesota. And so my take is they are, they don't have clarity on the JJ McCarthy second surgery. And they wanted Darnold to stay, but the number wasn't right. And they think, you know what, we can get Aaron for a little cheaper. And if they signed Darnold, Darnold wanted security. He wanted three or four years. Okay. And Aaron, you may be able to get him for a year and say, listen, this is way better than Pittsburgh and the Giants, which it is offensively. Come here for one year, you'll have a great last year. You'll get on tv, you'll make a lot of money, you'll have a lot of fun. So I think, I think Darnold was their choice, but Sam had a market. Aaron doesn't have a huge market.

J. Mac (37:06)

Is it almost like when you're in high school and these two girls want to go to the dance with you, you know, the prom, and you're like, I want that hot chick over there. That's got to be the girl I want. And that's Rogers looking at the Vikings. I want to go there. I want Kevin O'Connell.

Colin Cowherd (37:18)

If I could get Kevin O'Connell.

J. Mac (37:20)

Yeah.

Colin Cowherd (37:21)

Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and a division that doesn't really have a great defense. That's where I would go indoors and.

J. Mac (37:28)

Just know is not always greener.

Colin Cowherd (37:30)

Well, it's greener than the Jets.

J. Mac (37:33)

That's not saying much.

Colin Cowherd (37:34)

The Vikings are absolutely Greener than the Jets. Well, what a week. I was from magnesium to a neurogum. I've kind of changed as I've gotten older. I'm starting to take stuff.

J. Mac (37:46)

I like Mark Few.

Colin Cowherd (37:48)

He was great.

J. Mac (37:48)

He was watching your magnesium take earlier this year. I think a lot of people were.

Colin Cowherd (37:53)

He, he, he said it was one of my best shows.

J. Mac (37:56)

And we're gonna get after it tonight, right?

Colin Cowherd (37:58)

Oh, we are. That's right.

J. Mac (38:00)

You forgot.

Colin Cowherd (38:01)

No, no, no.

J. Mac (38:01)

I'm so excited now. You forgot.

Colin Cowherd (38:03)

Are we going there?

J. Mac (38:04)

I'm in.

Colin Cowherd (38:04)

Okay.

J. Mac (38:05)

I got the hall pass.

Colin Cowherd (38:06)

How about 6:30?

J. Mac (38:08)

Yeah, let's do it.

Colin Cowherd (38:09)

Okay. I'm excited.

J. Mac (38:11)

You're gonna get after. We're a nice outfit this time. Class it up.

Colin Cowherd (38:13)

All right, class. This podcast is brought to you by Pfizer. Let's talk health. You may not know about pneumococcal disease, but if you're 50 or older or 19 or older with certain medical conditions like diabetes, you're at risk. And it could turn your plans, big or small, into a hospital visit. So get vaccinated. It's one action you can take to help protect against pneumococcal pneumonia, an invasive pneumococcal disease. Keep enjoying everything you're looking forward to, even if it's just a podcast. Schedule a shot@vax assist.com. this is Nikki Glaser from the Nikki Glaser Podcast. On a more serious note, I'm still thinking about that commercial with Tom Brady and Snoop Dogg hating on each other. Because when you listen to the reasons for hating someone or something, you realize just how stupid they really are. There is too much hate in this country and it's gotta stop. So join us at iHeart in standing up to it. If you see hate, speak up, call it out and you can learn more by following at. What's up with Hate? Famous Smoke's been offering the best selection of premium cigars at the best prices for 85 years. And somehow they're still the best kept secret, family owned and stocked with millions of cigars, all delivered fast and fresh to your door. Go online to famous smoke.com and use code CLAY. For 20 bucks off your order of $99 or more, get your favorite brands like Fuente, Romeo, Monte Cristo and Cohiba. Or try something new. Get the best cigars at better prices than your famous smoke.com promo code clay. Hi, everybody. This message is brought to you by the official Whiskey of the Herd with Colin Coward podcast, Green River Whiskey. As you know, we've been having some fun getting to know Green River Whiskey, and we just learned they've launched their first advertising campaign in more than 100 years. You see, it seems the team from Green river in reviving the whiskey have accidentally also revived its resident ghost. So if you want to see the ghost of Green river come to Life, check out greenriverwhiskey on their YouTube channel or head on over to greenriverwhiskey.com here's to green River Whiskey. Raise your spirits. Product of Green River Distilling Company, Owensboro, Kentucky. Alcohol by volume varies by product. Greenriverwhiskey.com Please drink responsibly.