Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 3: Mark Sanchez in Studio

Release Date: December 11, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, Colin engages in a dynamic discussion with guest Mark Sanchez, delving into pressing topics across the NFL, college football, and the NBA. The conversation is enriched with expert insights, spirited debates, and in-depth analyses, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the current sports landscape.

1. NFL vs. College Coaching: Changing Dynamics

Colin kicks off the discussion by exploring the evolving landscape of NFL and college football coaching. He notes a significant shift where advanced concepts and schemes traditionally seen in the NFL are now prevalent in college football. This cross-pollination has elevated the quality of play in both arenas.

Colin Cowherd [05:00]: "On any given Saturday, you start watching some of these pro offenses in college football and you're like that receiving corps at LSU a couple of years ago—is better than 90% of the NFL."

Colin emphasizes the importance of charisma and personality in college coaches, contrasting it with the more strategic player selection seen in the NFL.

Colin Cowherd [06:45]: "To be a college coach, the players choose you. To be an NFL coach, you choose the players. So charisma and personality matter a lot."

2. Bill Belichick's Potential Move to College Football

A major highlight of the episode is the speculation surrounding Bill Belichick's rumored interest in transitioning from the NFL to a college coaching position, specifically at the University of North Carolina (UNC).

Jason Demers [05:46]: "We heard this week that Bill Belichick is actually interviewing for college jobs. Can you imagine him coaching college?"

Mark Sanchez [06:00]: "I think there's a lot he could do, but handling recruiting and dealing with all these college... it might not be the best fit."

Colin debates the feasibility of such a move, questioning whether Belichick's traditional, disciplined coaching style would translate effectively in the college environment, where recruiting and player relations are pivotal.

Colin Cowherd [06:18]: "It's a different world. He wants control of everything. That's why you don't have to be accountable to them. That's a rough start to any relationship."

John Middlekoff adds to the conversation, highlighting the financial aspects involved in college coaching, especially with the advent of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals.

John Middlekoff [40:37]: "How much do we have in the NIL slush fund? Then I'll say yes or no."

The discussion underscores the complexities Belichick would face in the college realm, balancing his authoritative approach with the relational dynamics of collegiate athletes and the financial implications of modern college sports.

3. Rams' Quarterback Matt Stafford and Team Performance

Shifting focus to the NFL, the podcast delves into the Los Angeles Rams' performance, particularly spotlighting quarterback Matt Stafford's impressive streak.

Mark Sanchez [14:46]: "Stu Stafford is cooking once again. 10 touchdowns in his last four games. Hasn't thrown a pick in a month."

John Middlekoff analyzes Stafford's discipline on the field, commending his ability to protect the football while still being aggressive in playmaking.

John Middlekoff [15:25]: "Every interception has its own story. He’s done these plays before. I've seen him execute it on film."

Colin contrasts Stafford's performance with other quarterbacks, acknowledging his growth and the Rams' strategic strengths, such as their offensive line and key positions.

Colin Cowherd [16:21]: "If I said to you, head coach, quarterback, top two weapons, running back, I would put the Rams in a very, very Philadelphia Eagles elite group."

4. College Football Recruiting Challenges

The conversation pivots to the challenges faced by Southern California (SoCal) colleges in recruiting top-tier talent amidst fierce competition from powerhouse programs.

Colin Cowherd [26:14]: "I think if you're going to be a powerhouse in Southern California, you've got to own California when it comes to recruiting."

John Middlekoff underscores the strategic importance of dominating local recruiting to maintain competitiveness.

John Middlekoff [28:27]: "If you're going to be a powerhouse in Southern California, you've got to own California when it comes to recruiting."

They discuss the declining influx of SoCal players committing to certain schools, emphasizing the need for increased investment and strategic recruitment to reclaim dominance.

John Middlekoff [29:05]: "You got to find the best players in California. You got to make them commit to making this school what it can be."

5. NBA Insights: Jimmy Butler's Potential Team Move

Transitioning to the NBA, Colin and Mark discuss the rumor mill surrounding Jimmy Butler’s possible transfer to teams like the Dallas Mavericks, Warriors, or Rockets.

J. Mac [17:12]: "The Warriors, Mavericks, or Rockets. And if you're watching Jimmy Butler dominate, he took the Heat to the finals twice."

Colin advocates for Butler joining the Mavericks, highlighting the strategic fit and potential championship implications.

Colin Cowherd [17:48]: "He fits the Warriors, but I think where he fits, actually, if you're asking me where he fits, it's Dallas by a mile."

Mark concurs, noting the Mavericks' championship aspirations and Butler's defensive prowess.

John Middlekoff [18:02]: "Because in the playoffs it's basically your top seven or eight guys play. That's it."

6. In-Depth Football Play Analysis: Jalen Hurts and AJ Brown

One of the episode's most technical segments involves a detailed analysis of quarterback Jalen Hurts' throws to receiver AJ Brown. Colin collaborates with John Middlekoff to dissect specific plays, scrutinizing the decision-making and execution involved.

Colin Cowherd [33:54]: "Is the ball in Belichick's court? Carolina is working to close the deal on him."

John breaks down Hurts' progression reads, highlighting where mistakes occur despite executing the reads correctly.

John Middlekoff [38:51]: "I don't understand. He's done these plays before. I've seen him execute it on film. I could show you 20 clips so he's doing it right."

They explore potential reasons for Hurts' mishandling, attributing it to possible confidence issues or mental lapses under pressure.

John Middlekoff [39:09]: "There's guys open. The ball should have gone to Saquon Barkley. The ball could have gone to Devonte Smith inside."

The analysis underscores the necessity for Hurts to maintain composure and trust in his decision-making to capitalize on open receivers.

7. Conclusion: Belichick's Future and Team Dynamics

As the episode wraps up, Colin and John revisit the speculation around Bill Belichick's move to Carolina, contemplating the financial requirements and potential impact on the college program.

Colin Cowherd [33:18]: "Belichick looks like the ball is in his court. If Bill Belichick wants it and signs it, it's Belichick to Carolina. Not sure it's going to work, but I think it's going to be fascinating."

John concludes with a critical perspective on the financial sustainability and the necessity for substantial investment to make Belichick's tenure successful.

John Middlekoff [41:06]: "I'm gimme the number and I'll tell you yes or no. Carolina."

The episode concludes with anticipation for Belichick's decision and its ripple effects across the college football landscape.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd [05:00]: "On any given Saturday, you start watching some of these pro offenses in college football and you're like that receiving corps at LSU a couple of years ago—is better than 90% of the NFL."

• Mark Sanchez [06:00]: "I think there's a lot he could do, but handling recruiting and dealing with all these college... it might not be the best fit."

• John Middlekoff [28:27]: "If you're going to be a powerhouse in Southern California, you've got to own California when it comes to recruiting."

• Colin Cowherd [17:48]: "He fits the Warriors, but I think where he fits, actually, if you're asking me where he fits, it's Dallas by a mile."

• John Middlekoff [39:09]: "There's guys open. The ball should have gone to Saquon Barkley. The ball could have gone to Devonte Smith inside."

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a robust exploration of contemporary issues in football and basketball, blending strategic analysis with speculative discussions on coaching careers and player movements. Colin and his guests provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the sports' evolving dynamics, making it a must-listen for avid sports enthusiasts seeking depth and insight.