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Levar Arrington
Hey, what's up guys? Levar Arrington here from up on Game. Wanted to talk to you about a serious issue. Hate. You know, something personal that I have experienced and witnessed and watched is how the hate in our country is getting so out of control. It's at an all time high and people are facing way too much hate. A lot of people don't think it's a problem, but I do. I can recall growing up being in high school. One of my high school teammates, good dude too, just happened to wear a shirt that was a derogatory shirt towards my racial group. It depicted Malcolm X moments after he was assassinated and it just made me feel really, really sad. It made me feel upset and so many other emotions. And it's really because we're supposed to be a team, but it's going to take all of us to stop that sort of hate. As I mentioned, we are a team in this country. So let's take a break from hate so our team can regroup and regain our momentum. We need to take a time out against hate. Visit standuptoallhate.org to help and join me in calling for a time out against hate by following at what's up with Hate or posting the Blue Square emoji.
Colin Cowherd
Ah.
John Middlekoff
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We're in.
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We got the table.
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Colin Cowherd
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Colin Cowherd
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John Middlekoff
Thursday Night Football is on and it's only on Prime Video makes the catch touchdown this week the Denver Broncos visit the Los Angeles Chargers in a game with big playoff implications. This is unbelievable. Coverage begins with TNF tonight. Not a Prime member sign up for a 30 day free trial to stream the game. It's the Broncos and Chargers Thursday only on Prime Video restrictions apply. See Amazon.com Amazon prime for details.
Colin Cowherd
Thanks for listening to the Herd podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox Sports radio and noon to 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific. Find your local station for the herd@foxsportsradio.com or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR.
John Middlekoff
Now let's get this party started. You're listening to Fox Sports Radio.
Colin Cowherd
Here we go. Last hour, firing on all cylinders, baby. J. Mac watched those blazing five picks and I looked over and he looked a little jelly, if you know what I mean. He'll have his picks in 45 minutes. Eric Mangini's gonna talk about Bill Belichick. You. You know, there's funny. We both love sports, but you'll get into stuff. You'll go down the rabbit holes and it's been confirmed today those UFO New Jersey stories. Oh, what do you know. It's Our American military's got a new little toy out there they're exper. Experimenting with. And this is.
John Middlekoff
That's a big story.
Colin Cowherd
I. I've been down that rabbit hole. You know, I don't believe in.
John Middlekoff
Nobody thinks it's aliens.
Colin Cowherd
Well, no, no, no, no, no, no. The Internet thinks it's alien.
John Middlekoff
The Internet's largely stupid.
Colin Cowherd
But then we found out that we have this new little project the Air Force or Navy are working on, and it looks just like all the big drones on these drones or where the act.
John Middlekoff
Do you have a drone, by the way?
Colin Cowherd
A drone?
John Middlekoff
Y.
Colin Cowherd
No, I don't have a drone.
John Middlekoff
Why are you scoffing at that? Like it's not cool? Drones are cool. They're fine.
Colin Cowherd
I'm not anti drone. You were just like, well, I. What would I do with a drone?
John Middlekoff
Fly it. Like that's pretty basic, bro. Come on, see what's out there. It's a big world college.
Colin Cowherd
I set myself up for that one. What would you do with your steak? Eat it Pretty obvious. Eric Mangini was the head coach of two teams, jets and Browns, joining us live from New York. Eric, I. Look at that. I don't even know what you do. I mean, what do you do to a player that quits? What would be the solution?
Jared Goff
You get rid of him.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah.
Jared Goff
You move on. It's bad on so many levels, Colin, because it's not just that he quit. It's that you go into the game and you inactivate someone that could have helped you. And then this guy quits when he's supposed to go in, so you don't even have the replacement player for it. And he quits during a game that is close. And that's your last chance to really have any shot at the playoffs. I mean, it's terrible. Yeah. I think you suspend them first and then don't really give them an opportunity to go play anywhere else.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah. All right. Bill Belichick, I thought it was interesting. It was in the fine print of the contract. He can leave for virtually no penalty June 2nd. Now, he's not going to leave this year, obviously.
John Middlekoff
Right.
Colin Cowherd
Nobody's hiring a coach, but he may be entering the transfer portal much sooner than we thought. I've said this, Eric. I said this. He's a pro football coach. Ten years ago, maybe the NFL left him. Not just him leaving the NFL, he's rehabbing his image. He's on television. He's more fun who he's dating. College is younger. I feel like it's a rehab. I'm not to be cynical, but how does it land for you?
Jared Goff
Yeah. Well, in order for it to be a rehab, it's got to be successful. And I think the real edge that Bill has and his staff is going to have is going to be from. From a strategy standpoint, they're going to win some games that they shouldn't win. Okay. Because. Because he's going to be better than some. Some of the coaches that he's facing, and that's huge. But we all know that it's not always about the X's nos. It's about the Johnny's and Joes and whether or not he can get the players in. Okay. That's one component. Can you get the players in? And the nil. The money helps because it's not just recruiting. I don't think he'd have any edge whatsoever from a recruiting standpoint. And then the second part, which I think is going to be really challenging, Colin, is that's a hard program. And in New England, you're under Contract, you can't leave in college football with the transfer portal. If those guys don't like the way it's going, they can leave. So you're not just recruiting the players to get in. You got to keep recruiting them to some degree to keep them at the college. So it's layered there. And that, to me, is going to be a huge challenge for them.
Colin Cowherd
So last night it was very clear. The Niners made a point in their first 12 plays of getting the ball to Deebo to appease him. A.J. brown's complaining about his touches. And I look at it and I'm like, eric, if you go in the NFL, if you go to a game with any other plan, then win. If you're trying to prove, like Ohio State a couple weeks ago played Michigan, they were trying to prove how physical they were. Michigan was trying to win. And I look at last night with San Francisco, I think the train goes off the tracks when you're trying to get touches for somebody. Did you ever deal with that in the NFL?
Jared Goff
Oh, you'd be. You'd be shocked, Colin, how often that happens. Pretty much anywhere there is a wide receiver that has one of those personalities that's very demanding about how much they get the ball and all the things that go with it. And we've seen it a thousand times. Inevitably, in that first 15 play script, there's some place where he's going to get a touch. And the touch may not necessarily be because we think that's the best play. The touch is just so we don't have to listen to him complain on the sideline in the first quarter until the game gets going and it's disappointing. The challenging thing for San Francisco is they've got a young quarterback. So young quarterbacks are even under more pressure in the huddle by guys like that, hey, give me the ball. Get me the ball. Get me the ball. Where. When you've got an established veteran, whether it's Stafford or Brady or take your pick, those guys, those guys can actually calm the huddle down and calm guys like that down and not feel the same pressure to force the ball to them like they obviously were trying to do last night.
Colin Cowherd
So it's interesting. I think the biggest mistake you can make in this league, you have to know who to pay. But because quarterbacks are the highest paid, when you pay a B2B plus quarterback, A plus money, Dallas, you're trapped. I'll have no problem paying Lamar Jackson then, or Josh Allen Mahomes, no problem. But you can't go B Plus to a, you can overpay for a right tackle but you're not paying a right tackle 60 million bucks a year. I look at Purdy's numbers. We put these up earlier as a fourth quarter quarterback in his career. The numbers don't lie. What we first saw from Mahomes was trailing or leading. He was the best quarterback in the world late. Brock Purdy isn't what I mean. I can't give him $55 million. I would rather give franchise tag Darnold for one year and get 40 million and live for another day. What do you do with Purdy?
Jared Goff
Well, it's really hard because look at Dallas. Not only did they sign Dak the first time, but then they doubled down on it here this past offseason. And I think Jerry was trying to figure out whether or not he really wanted to make that commitment. He waited and then it cost him even more. And the problem that you run into is what are your alternatives? And San Francisco has done a good job to some degree. When they went and got Garoppolo, obviously that worked out for a little bit of time but then they tried to solve the problem in the draft and that's terrible. And that's terrible in a historic way to some degree. How bad that trade was for Tre and Brock comes in and saves him. So what's your alternative in terms of getting that quarterback and maybe Sam? A short term answer is okay, but they're trying to find a longer term answer. And the thing is they don't really have to do Brock's contract this offseason. They've got him for another year. He may not like it, but they still have them on their contract for another year.
Colin Cowherd
I have this opinion that sometimes the Green Bay packers have a coaching opening. You can go get a scheme guy. He didn't have to have a history as a culture guy because their culture is good. But if you're the Chargers and you're broken after Brandon Staley or you know, you're the, you're the Lions, you go get Harbaugh, Campbell, bigger than life physical presence. They're culture guys. They're not scheme wizards, Green Bay scheme works and Matt's great as he develops into a guy that can change a culture. I look at the Bears, Eric, Mike Vrabel a tough, he's kind of Mike Tomlin tough, no nonsense, no bs. Doesn't he feel like the fit with the Bears?
Jared Goff
Yeah, now I'm a little biased because I really love Mike Vrabel. I think not only is he One of the smartest guys that I've ever coached. From a player perspective, the type of recall that Mike Vrabel had as a player and the things that he was able to do, not just in terms of his position, but in terms of everybody else's position, helping out the defense was incredible from a coaching perspective. So now to have him as a coach bringing that same sort of intelligence and perspective, but also to have the legitimacy of being a former player, I think that helps a lot. And then he's had success as a head coach. So you're not going to go through all the learning curves that you, that you have with the new head coach. I look, I think Mike is a great fit wherever, whatever opportunity he's going to get, and people should be trying to get him in the mix. And for him, it would be a great situation because I think Caleb Williams has a great future.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, I really like him. What would you do? Similarly, I think he'd be a great fit with the Jets. But I would say, Mike, there's too much. I think actually Rex Ryan kind of, kind of works there in a way. You know, he knows Woody. Did the jets have a perfect answer? I mean, what do you, what do you do? You got Aaron, whereas the Bears have a young quarterback, need to fix the culture. They got some pieces, the jets have some pieces, but the quarterback situation is, you know, as you have detailed, is beyond high maintenance. Now, what do you do with that situation?
Jared Goff
Well, you've got to, you've got to be honest and objective in the off season and look at it, because he's going to cost you a lot of money if he's not there. So whoever you bring in, can you sit down, have a conversation with Aaron and have a strong enough head coach to say, this is the way we're going to do it. If you want to be part of that, that's great. If you don't want to be part of that, go ahead and retire so we don't have to eat all of his dead money and force him to make a decision. But you got to get a young quarterback. And I think a young quarterback with Aaron could be a positive thing in the sense that when Zach Wilson went there, he didn't have anybody to look up to from an experience standpoint. Now, you don't necessarily want some of the other traits that Aaron brings to the table, but I don't think you just throw it away without really studying it, analyzing it, and see if there's some way to get something positive out of this. A Guy that I like in New York is Aaron Glenn. Aaron Glenn played for us at the Jets. He's been part of that Detroit program. He's a former player and very successful. He's tough, so it's a nice mix. It's a new head coach, different from Vrabel, but he's a guy with experience in New York as a player, and he brings a mentality from Detroit that New York really needs.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, it's good seeing you, coach. You're in New York. You're like a coach. You're our coach at FS1, and I love having you on the show. And I'm taking your Browns to possibly upset the Chiefs this weekend.
Jared Goff
I don't think that's bad. I don't think that's bad. The Jameis Winston show is fun to watch. The Browns do a better job than you think at putting pressure on the quarterback. Mahomes has been hit a ton, and they. And look, they're excited in Cleveland with James. He's the antithesis of what they were dealing with with DeSean Watson.
Colin Cowherd
That's right.
Jared Goff
People love Jamis with all his flaws. He loves Cleveland. Cleveland loves him. It's going to be exciting one way or the other. And to go have a chance to upset Kansas City in Cleveland this time of year. I like it.
Colin Cowherd
If the Browns beat the Chiefs, I don't care what your schedule is. Get on a flight and go sit next to Nick Wright. Monday. I'll pay to watch it.
Jared Goff
Oh, my God. Yeah. There will be tears.
Colin Cowherd
Great seeing you, coach, as always.
Jared Goff
All right, we'll talk to you soon.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah. Jamis is such a unique player. Like, you get two things with Jameis. Incredible productivity and pick sixes. But it's like. It's like a film that's not a great film, but you walk out of the theater and you go, that was wildly entertaining. It was a bit of a mess. I mean, I. Every time I think this weekend, I really do think Cleveland. I think they're good. I love their coach, and I actually like Jameis. I wouldn't build around him, but the dude can spin it. One more herd. The herd streams 24 hours a day.
John Middlekoff
Seven days a week within the iHeartRadio app.
Colin Cowherd
Search herd to listen live or on.
John Middlekoff
Demand whenever you'd like.
Eric Mangini
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Levar Arrington
Hey, this is Levar Arrington here from up on Game and listen, I want to talk to you about something very serious for a minute, all right? Something personal to me and right now something that should be personal to you as well. In our country, the hate is at an all time high and it's like we're going backward. The hate is winning. We can't allow that, all right? It's out of control. So many different people, so many different groups are facing too much hate and it's enough. It's time for it to stop. We need to stop, regroup, change the momentum as a team, because that's what we are. Everyone in this country is on the same team, so let's act like it. And when a team can't get it together, what do you do? You call a timeout. And that's what we need to do. Call a time out against hate. Let's think about what we say and do. And when we see hate, when we see someone doing or saying those things we know are wrong and hateful, we need to call it out. I'ma call it out. You need to do the same thing. Visit standuptoallhate.org to help and join me and calling for a timeout against hate by following at what's up with Hate or posting the blue square emoji.
Matt Jones
This is John Middlekoff from three and out with John Mittelkoff. Picture this. You're in the garage, your favorite room in the house, and you're tuning up your engine with parts you found on ebay. Every piece is just locking perfectly into place. You step back to admire your work, hands covered in grease. And because you're committed to driving that thing further than the odometer can even handle, you start thinking to yourself, you know what? I could probably use some new brakes, some shocks and struts. This baby deserves a new air filter. So you head right back to ebay. You can find any part you need. It's unreal. From wipers and headlights to cold air intakes, exhaust systems, and even that turbo you've had on your mind. Ebay is that stock garage of your dreams. And you've got ebay guaranteed fit. Because eBay knows DIY fixes can be major, and mods are also intense. So you need to know those parts are guaranteed to fit every time before you dive in. Wrench first. And in the off chance you order a part and it doesn't fit, send it back. Simple as that. You know what you love more than the car itself is driving it. You're serious when it comes to engine maintenance and locked in when you're headed into a build. And that's exactly why you start with ebay. Minor fix or complete overhaul. You want to get your ride back on the road, and you've got ebay guaranteed fit. So ebay created my garage, where all you had to do is add your ride's info to get exact parts that fit. When you see that green check, you're a click away from that part, clicking perfectly into place. So now that you know all that, imagine standing at that open garage door, looking at the car you love more than anything, knowing that anything is possible, whether it's keeping it on the road forever or turning it into something that's never been on the road before. Because with ebay, your garage just got a whole lot bigger. Get all the parts you need at prices you'll love. Guaranteed to fit every time. Ebay things people love.
John Middlekoff
Hey, guys, this is Matt Jones. Drew Franklin from the Fade this podcast. We got a great episode coming up. Picks in all the sports. Football, basketball. We do them all. But here's a preview of this week's episode. I've seen people in the gambling community kind of make jokes about fade this, and we just goof off and don't even talk about the games. Bring your records and set them on this table right now. All you out there that are spend two hours talking about the games and will in the last seven years and.
Colin Cowherd
Night games, they've come in and haven't.
John Middlekoff
Scored 20 points and you get too detailed. Bring your records right here to fade this. We'll, we'll talk about books and cooking and Kevin Costner and still make more money betting on sports than you will. And this episode was brought to you in partnership with DraftKings. To hear more, listen and subscribe to Fade this on iheartradio or wherever you listen to podcast.
Colin Cowherd
Oh, jmac last half hour on a Friday, what has been a very engaging week. Bill Belichick going to college football. Bears still have an opening at head coach. That's big. So does Jacksonville, the Jets, Shadur Sanders going number one potentially to the Giants or the Raiders. J. Mac with the news. Lots happening.
John Middlekoff
No, no, no.
Levar Arrington
Turn on the news.
John Middlekoff
This is the Herd line news. Colin, I regret to inform you we're starting with Kurt Cousins, who I think that was one of your whiffs in the preseason. You love these fouls.
Colin Cowherd
He was very good in October.
John Middlekoff
He was, he was. He had good, good couple good games against tampa. Anyways, cousins, eight picks, no TDs last four weeks. A lot of Michael Penix Jr. Chatter, but Raheem Morris has continued to state Cousins is his guy and he gave no clarity as to when we can expect to see Michael Penix. Day one down here, the hardest draft meeting right when the unexpected thing happened. We take Michael Penix with 8th overall.
Levar Arrington
Pick and like our future is getting ready and like for our future to.
John Middlekoff
Go out there and be preparing like.
Levar Arrington
He'S preparing to be the solid human.
John Middlekoff
That he's been throughout the whole process. And to be able to, you know.
Levar Arrington
To have the respect, to be able.
John Middlekoff
To have the confidence, to be able.
Levar Arrington
To have the wherewithal to support Kurt.
John Middlekoff
And all this stuff too is like a great learning lesson for him as well. So, like when you go through all that process, you can look at different organizations that's pulled the trigger and put guys out there too early and it's gone terrible, right? And I don't want to be that guy.
Colin Cowherd
I still contend. My only question is, why aren't they playing Penix? I mean, again, he started at Indiana and Washington. He got a lot of college reps. A lot.
John Middlekoff
Well, there's only a few people who see him in practice every day.
Colin Cowherd
And here's the other thing. At Washington, Caleb DeBoer, that's a pro offense. So he got a ton of college. Like Bo Nix almost moved two places. Bo was ready to play after about two weeks. I'm just. And I like Penix a lot. I've met the kid. I really, really like him. But like if you're watching Kirk right now, Kirk's lost his fastball. Now they were tied with Minnesota fourth quarter. It's a tough place to play. It's a good team. But it's pretty clear late in that game Darnold was your athletic, younger, mobile quarterback. He's. He was the separator.
John Middlekoff
Yeah.
Colin Cowherd
It's interesting because we, I think we both like Penix.
John Middlekoff
What do you, what do you do? I mean, can you go. You don't want to be flip flopping. All right, we're putting in Penix, right. Cousins is struggling. Can you go back to Cousins after that or no?
Colin Cowherd
No, I think. Yeah. Listen, maybe I. This. Who do they play this week?
John Middlekoff
Raiders.
Colin Cowherd
Okay, so my take is this.
John Middlekoff
It's a spotlight game Monday night. So a lot of eyeballs on this game. Not. It's not buried in the.
Colin Cowherd
How about this? You know, if Cousins loses, it's panics time.
John Middlekoff
You're giving him the full game. I'm maybe giving him a half.
Colin Cowherd
Okay, maybe that. No, I think risk it. No, I agree because now, here, now. But I think Baker's gonna lose.
John Middlekoff
Well, that's the thing. If Baker loses on Sunday, a little more room for Cousins.
Colin Cowherd
Right. So if Baker loses on Sunday and Kirk Cousins beats the Raiders, you are back in the playoffs.
John Middlekoff
And remember, yeah, Falcons did sweep them.
Colin Cowherd
That's right.
John Middlekoff
In the regular season.
Colin Cowherd
So I think it's one of these. I think to your point, you got to go half to half on this. I think you're right. If Cousins, if Tampa wins and Cousins has a bad first half, I think you got to go with a kid.
John Middlekoff
The Raiders, weirdly, everybody thought that Aiden O'Connell was done when he got carted off. But now apparently it's not that severe. They haven't announced two. The starter is, as of the last 10 minutes, Aiden O'Connell, Desmond Ritter. There's no way the Falcons lose a revenge game to Desmond Ritter, is there? I mean, remember he was with the Falcons last year. They were like, get this guy out of here. No shot. Right, right.
Colin Cowherd
I agree.
John Middlekoff
I'm a little worried about Raheem Morrison.
Colin Cowherd
I am not.
Jared Goff
Okay.
Colin Cowherd
I'm more worried about Michael Penix. Get him on the field.
John Middlekoff
Let's revisit with the second story that interesting discussion we had earlier. Travis Hunter versus Ashton Genty.
Colin Cowherd
Listen.
John Middlekoff
Dominating the college football award season.
Colin Cowherd
Oh, my gosh.
John Middlekoff
He has won the AP Colle Football Player of the Year, Bed Narik award LOT award and the BNOV for best receiver. So he's got the best receiver and best defensive player award. Anyways. In a recent podcast appearance, Hunter was asked how he'd feel if an NFL GM would only draft him to play one position.
Jared Goff
Call Coach Ron. He'll let you know the answer.
John Middlekoff
Yeah.
Jared Goff
Hey, they know how I feel. I want to play both sides and there's nothing going to change my mind. You could tell me all day. Nah, you can't play both sides of the ball. I'm gonna keep telling you, yes, I can. That's what I want to do. You have not seen me not play both sides of the ball since you've been watching me, so why not do it now?
Levar Arrington
I gotta play both sides.
Jared Goff
I'm too bored on the sideline.
Levar Arrington
I don't like sitting on the sideline.
Jared Goff
I'm eager to go out there and, you know, get the ball in my.
Levar Arrington
Hands and show you what I can do.
Colin Cowherd
Listen, if Ohtani can pitch and bat, he can play both sides. I have no problem with him playing both ways. I think it's the evolution of great athletes in the country is that we're asking guys to do more and they're delivering an Otani. Can you imagine pitching and then hitting in the summer outdoors, what your body would need. And he was great at both.
John Middlekoff
He's a historically great time.
Colin Cowherd
I think this is. Kid's a historically great athlete.
John Middlekoff
Let me ask you, Travis Hunter just said on the podcast, I don't want to go somewhere where they told me I can only play one way. I want to play both ways. So now you've got this young, hotshot, immensely talented, ridiculous athlete coming in and telling you how it's going to be. Do you think that's a good way to start his pro career? Telling coaches, so you're playing the game.
Colin Cowherd
So you're telling me I'm going to be bothered by this, hey, coach, I'll come there. I want to be in every play of the game. And I'm supposed to be offended by that?
John Middlekoff
No, I like that attitude.
Colin Cowherd
I got a linebacker for the Niners that quit last night. I'll take Travis Hunter every day of the week.
John Middlekoff
Again, a 21 year old coming in telling you how he's gonna play.
Colin Cowherd
You know what? Sometimes, sometimes young employees have a lot of bluster, but they have an energy that is hard to duplicate. And sometimes those young bucks May be right and the old timers could be wrong.
John Middlekoff
I may have been setting you up for this. Oh, Travis Hunter gets to do that. Okay, well, I'm gonna start coming on the show and calling my shot and I'm gonna tell you how it's going to be.
Colin Cowherd
Well, if you ran a 4, 2 5, I'd consider I might run a 4.
John Middlekoff
No, I do not run a 4, 2 5.
Colin Cowherd
I just think the kid's an all time great player and athlete. Okay, so let's just say this. Let's do it for a year and see how it plays. But I mean ask yourself this, don't we, don't, don't we ask, don't we ask players to do this? Be a star receiver and return punts? Well, last night you had 12 punts in the first half, so you're playing two ways there.
John Middlekoff
So now you want him returning punts, catching passes?
Colin Cowherd
No, I'm saying we already have two way players. Offense, defense, special teams. Last night a punt returner was on the field as much as anybody I know. All I know is this, young people have an energy in music, entertainment, sports, tech. They have relentless energy. Why in the world would I get in the way of a 23 year old athlete? That's like by the way, what separated Michael Jordan from Carmelo Anthony. Among other things. He was great on both ends of the floor.
John Middlekoff
I like Hunter, I would take him top five.
Colin Cowherd
Travis Hunter is great. I don't think I wouldn't do it. I don't know. If I didn't need a quarterback, I could do worse than Travis Hunter. I like him.
John Middlekoff
Yeah. And he comes in with a built in fan base. I don't know if people are buying.
Colin Cowherd
Tickets, but I'll say this, unlike the excellent running back at Boise State, he's also played against NFL receivers in corners this year doing it against better competition.
John Middlekoff
It's hour three. I don't have the energy. I'm sorry. Final story is Juan Soto, this turncoat, swapped the Bronx for Queens, New York, went from the Yankees to the Mets. He recently went through his introductory press conference, had one interesting comment off camera saying it's been a Mets town for a long time. I think we just got to bring it to the top. Championships are going to tell you if it's a Yankees or a Mets town at the end of the day. What is this guy doing?
Colin Cowherd
I love this guy.
John Middlekoff
This guy.
Colin Cowherd
Hey, don't blame the Mets because they have a more committed owner. Boohoo. You know the 10 richest owners in baseball, One of Them is the Mariners. Another one's the Twins. They. This guy, Steve Cohen, loves his team. Mark. Mark Cuban came in and treated players like they deserve to be treated. And all the other owners hated him. I am so for this.
John Middlekoff
Okay, this is one interesting comment. The other I found was he was. He was asked about, hey, did you talk to any of your Yankees teammates? And he was like, yeah, after the season. No, I didn't communicate with any of them. So hold on. Time out, time out, time out. You've got a historically great talent in Juan Soto, and not one Yankee was like, bro, you. Come on, you gotta stick with us. Nobody was like, man, I hope we have you back. Not one player was like, dude, we would love to have you. Please stay. That, to me, is a bit of a red flag about what kind of guy Juan Soto is.
Colin Cowherd
No. You know, in the mob, they have the old saying, you don't mess with. You don't mess with kids, and you don't mess with another man's money. In pro sports, if you're a pro athlete, you don't mess with another guy's money. If you go to wherever the money is, all pro athletes get it. You don't. You don't. And you can say, hey, man, I just want you to know, you know, let's say I'm Aaron Judge, and I call and I say, hey, I love you, man. You got to take care of you. Yeah, okay. But that's not swaying him.
John Middlekoff
That's at least a call. He said he had no communication with any teammates.
Colin Cowherd
I'm not bothered by it.
John Middlekoff
And this is what, his third or fourth team? Yeah, I know. I'm a Yankees fan. Salty, fine. I don't care. The reality is, I wonder what kind of is he all about? Juan Soto. I know everybody's.
Colin Cowherd
You know what? Let me. Let me. Let me say this. Baseball's an individual sport anyway. You're pitching, you're hitting. It's not like football, where Mahomes is completely dependent on his left tackle, the guy running the right route. When Juan Soto's at the plate, they're not asking him to bunt or move runners over. He's protecting Juan Soto. So, I mean, my takeaway is Steve Cohen's more committed. I wish all owners cared as much as Steve Ballmer and Steve Cohen. I wish. They're all billionaires. I think this is great. I count Lindor and Soto back to back. You don't want that? Okay, let's have him go to the Reds surrounded by Triple A players. I'm sorry I'm still elite. I have no I'm not. This isn't anti pro anything. It's Steve Cohen loves his team. I am for owners taking care one.
John Middlekoff
Rich guy looking out for another. That's what this is.
Colin Cowherd
Give me a break.
John Middlekoff
Loving him some Cohen rich man money. Give me a break. Give me an underdog every day of.
Colin Cowherd
The week you go.
John Middlekoff
You and the guy making less money.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, you and the A's billionaire can hang out.
John Middlekoff
He doesn't hang with thousandaires like me.
Colin Cowherd
J Mac with the News well, that's the news.
John Middlekoff
And thanks for stopping by the Herd LIE news.
Colin Cowherd
Be sure to catch live editions of.
John Middlekoff
The Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app.
Eric Mangini
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Levar Arrington
Hey, this is LeVar Arrington here from up on Game. And listen, I want to talk to you about something very serious for a minute, all right? Something personal to me and right now something that should be personal to you as well. In our country, the hate is at an all time high and it's like we're going backward. The hate is winning. We can't allow that, all right? It's out of control. So many different people, so many different groups are facing too much hate. And it's enough. It's time for it to stop. We need to stop, regroup, change the momentum as a team, because that's what we are. Everyone in this country is on the same team, so let's act like it. And when a team can't get it together, what do you do? You call a timeout. And that's what we need to do. Call a time out against hate. Let's think about what we say and do. And when we see hate, when we see someone doing or saying those things we know are wrong and hateful, we need to call it out. I'mma call it out. You need to do the same thing. Visit standuptolhate.org to help and join me in calling for a timeout against hate by following at what's up with Hate? Or posting the blue square emoji.
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$650 via virtual prepaid card. Card typically takes 15 days. New finance device, qualifying credit and port in 90 plus days with dev and eligible carrier and timely redemption required chance to win free cash Prizes playing Fox Super Six sponsored by DraftKings. Go to the Fox Sports app to make your picks. One of the questions is Coward. Which NFL MVP will throw for 250 yards or more? Colin the choices are Lamar Jackson against the Giants, Patrick Mahomes against the Browns or Aaron Rodgers at the Jags.
Colin Cowherd
Lamar Jackson is going to have a very, very wonderful Sunday at the New York Times.
John Middlekoff
Roger or none. That's an awesome joke.
Colin Cowherd
Okay. Years ago he was a print journalist and then kicked that career to the curb. And we brought him here over to FS1 and it's my favorite segment. Here we go. Tomorrow's headlines. Today, Ravens at the Giants. Lamar is the only reason to watch it.
John Middlekoff
Why are you laughing? Raven? Giants, come on. DeVito is at quarterback. Giants had 20 guys on the inter report this week. The headline will be New York Nightmare City that never sleeps. Kept wide awake. Oh my gosh, what a disaster this has been for Brian Dabel. I know he's your guy but I mean to go to DeVito because now drew Lock is hurt. I mean college Colin. This team is really bad. Now I know this is a big number to lay. I got 14 earlier this week. It's up to 16 and a half. Oh yeah, I don't recommend doing that. However. However. John Harbaugh, you ready for this off a bye week 13 and three straight up. So we know they're winning this. The question is can they win by a lot or do they go up 28, nothing at half, which is what Tampa did recently against the Giants, and then pull back, guys. However, I circle this as a Lamar revenge spot. Remember, for the longest time, his one loss against the NFC was to Daniel Jones and the Giants. Crazy comeback. I remember the game because I had the Ravens two touchdowns in the final, like seven minutes. I. My guess is Lamar's like, I'm sick of this Josh Allen crap. I want to get back in the conversation. Would not be surprised if Lamar ran wild and passed and this was like 42 to 9.
Colin Cowherd
Ravens roll tomorrow's headlines today. Dolphins at the Texans. I'm interested to see your pick here. I almost made this game.
John Middlekoff
This is a very difficult game because I don't know what to do with the Houston Texans.
Colin Cowherd
I know.
John Middlekoff
Are they good? That's like a basic question. Are they good?
Colin Cowherd
No, because they're not consistent enough to be good.
John Middlekoff
Thank you very much. As such, the headline will be Texas to a Step. Miami gets booted from NFL's big dance. I do like Houston here. The Joe Mixon factor. Obviously, Joe Mixon's player really well. Another running back who was picked up off the quote, unquote scrap heap, and he's thriving. Nico Collins, obviously a big factor in this offense, but if you look at the schedule, Houston has a very late buy. They just are coming off. And you wonder, did they get a. Maybe a reset during the bye week? We saw the Eagles had the big reset during the buy going back to Tom Brady with Tampa. A lot of smart teams can use the buy to kind of recalibrate. I just don't know if they can fully fix the offensive line, the interior. I mean, it is a nightmare. I do think the Dolphins keep this close, but it feels like their season ends in Houston. Every Houston game is close. Look, I mean, they only beat the Cowboys badly and I think they beat New England badly, but this feels like a 21, 20. Texans pull it out late and Miami and Tua back to the drawing board.
Colin Cowherd
This one's really interesting and it's on Fox. Steelers at the Eagles. Tomorrow's headlines today. How about this heavyweight matchup?
John Middlekoff
Yeah, I've hemmed in hard over this. You know, I like the Eagles a lot. I don't love Sirianni. I've been dismissive of Pittsburgh this season. The headline will be, what can Brown do for you? AJ And Jalen deliver. Give me some. Give me some AJ Brown. Props, Colin. I know you don't want to force feed the diva.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah.
John Middlekoff
But you've got to keep this Guy happy. He is key to your super bowl chances. I don't care what you guys say. Always overrated. He's complaining if they want to win the super bowl or get to it, you need A.J. brown. They're going to have to force feed him. He has a favorable matchup against a kid Porter, the young kid from Penn State who leads the NFL in cornerbacks with penalties. You know he's had a rough year. I do think this is a Philadelphia not a Smash spot because I like everything about them in this game. But you look at like the cornerbacks are really good. No pickings. Again, it's sounding like he's doubtful. We watched Pittsburgh against Cleveland last week. You saw that offense struggle for an entire half without Pickens. They did come alive in the second half, but I wonder if they can't run the ball on the Eagles. And you know Eagles run defense is pretty damn stout. Is Russell Wilson capable of winning this game without picking? Where's he going for offense?
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, that's a. That's a question. But remember, Philadelphia never scores in the first quarter and the games are always close. So I think it's a very low scoring game. I just don't like giving Tomlin five and a half points. Yeah, that's a ton.
John Middlekoff
Plus, you got the pass rush fully formed now. You got Highsmith, Herbig and T.J. watt all healthy. Eagles offensive line's been good, but coming off the edge, that could rattle Hertz. Who? Listen, he's not. He's not Lamar Jackson with the speed. We know that.
Colin Cowherd
No.
John Middlekoff
And they face Lamar twice a year. I think Pittsburgh's gonna be ready. I'll go like 27, 20 Eagles.
Colin Cowherd
Tomorrow's Headlines today I. Colts, Broncos. I like Denver, but the Sharps like the Colts.
John Middlekoff
So the staff was asking me, so what are you getting Cowherd go back and forth on a lot and they're like, yeah, Bo Nicks. And I was like, he's not gonna like this one. The headline will be hold your horses, indie bucks. Broncos back to stalls. I like the Colts to go to altitude and pull a major upside here. Colin, this is going to be a good game. This is one of the you you mentioned. The 4pm window is awesome.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah.
John Middlekoff
And not a lot of people like the Colts here. What's the lineup to four or four? What are you seeing there?
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, four and a half. Four and a half. Yeah.
John Middlekoff
The big key for me is both teams coming off a buy. We know that Gus Bradley likes to sit in a zone defense. Well, who crushes zone defenses? Your guy, Bo Nix, he's a cerebral quarterback, knows where to nail the guys. I wonder if the Colts throw a curveball and go more man. And Bo has struggled against man throwing guys open. Not his forte yet. I just. I think the Colts have something cooked up here. They're getting healthier. Offensive line, Pittman fully healthy. Jonathan Taylor is and the big guy to watch here. Do you remember on Monday Night Football, Browns, Broncos. Riley Moss is out injured. The other good cornerback, Patrick Surtan's awesome, Levi Wallace got torched by Judy. I mean, it was bad. They kept posting his stats. He gave like 200 yards. He has really struggled back to back weeks. Go to that Raiders game. He struggled. I wonder if they target him now. Could the Broncos protect him with keeping a safety high then? The box is soft and heavy. Jonathan Taylor. I think things line up for the Colts here. I think it's gonna be a really good game. I'm going indy with the upset.
Colin Cowherd
Tomorrow's headlines today, arguably the game of the day. Buffalo Bills at the Great Detroit Lions. At least great this year, if you couldn't tell.
John Middlekoff
Combative cowherd, that's your new nickname. We have a disagree on a lot of games this week, including this one. The headline will be from wings to wins. Buffalo drums up Win as Lions fall flat. Jared Goff with a sauce on his face again. There's so much here, Colin. Josh Allen, as you see on the screen, I'm telling you, this dude, he's a superstar. We know that. But if you look at his rushing totals early in the season. Hey, Josh just went from the pocket.
Colin Cowherd
Don't run.
John Middlekoff
Look, two of his last three games, double digit carries. When they need Josh Allen. We need you against the Rams. We need you against the Chiefs. He's talking and running and he is difficult against man because the cornerbacks have their back to the quarterback. And that's what the Lions play a lot of Lions sticking in, man. Josh Allen, big run game and Kincaid's back and Coleman's back. I'm a little surprised you took the Lions. The big question for me is, you know, if you got X's and O's. This Buffalo defense, they like to live in the nickel. So they're soft up front. You mentioned it. Kyron Williams ran all over them. Does Buffalo throw a wrinkle and say, we're not letting you run the football? Detroit, we know Montgomery and Gibbs, they could kill us. They could pound us into submission. I think we see some wrinkles here. And I think Josh Allen played some hero ball. I'll go 35, 30, 31 bills in a thriller.
Colin Cowherd
I'll be a great NFL would love that. Finally, tomorrow's headlines. Today, back to school for Bill Chapel. Bill Carolina Tar Heels, new coach, what say you?
John Middlekoff
The staff, the guys, you know them, they hit me with a hey, should we do a Belichick one? And I was like, yeah, why not? I think they want to hear your Rodney Dangerfield. The headline for Bill Belichick will be Belichick in it twice. NC Gifted hoodie and Natty. Yes, I'm going over the top of North Carolina will win national championship with Belichick in the next four years. Now hopefully he sticks around that long.
Colin Cowherd
So we have a four year timeline on this being right.
John Middlekoff
I don't know if the show will be here.
Colin Cowherd
Who knows Partners.
John Middlekoff
But that being said, I do think this is going to work. I have very few concerns. And Colin, I know you track recruiting a lot. This is going to be a big weekend tracking the portal when you're at home watching football. What's going on, Belichick? Who are they signing? What's going on? I can give you Lombardi's number. I texted with him this week. Listen, they're going to be, they're going to be dialing up some stuff in North Carolina. This is going to be very interesting and I'm just curious, do you think Sweeney in Clemson reverses his stance and says, hey, Belichick's going to hit the portal. SM use coming. We got some competition here. And Clemson decides to change.
Colin Cowherd
Clemson has been the one pushback. They don't like the portal. I think, listen, I think Dabo says, I'm going to be here for 15 more years. Bill Interloper, he's here for a year parachuting in. Yeah. So I think, I don't think Dabo is going to let Carolina football dictate his plan.
John Middlekoff
Well, FSU is going to mount. They're not going to mount the comeback. They're not going to stay down forever. Right. And you saw SMU's here. I don't know if they're here to stay. Syracuse had the transfer from Ohio State and he led the country. I think there's good coaches in that conference stepping up. Belichick, this is a rising tide, lifts all boats. I think it's a really competitive acc. I think Belichick's in the playoff next year. I know nobody wants to hear that. That's fine.
Colin Cowherd
I don't think that's crazy.
John Middlekoff
Just remember Arizona State was predicted by the media to finish. Finished Dead last. Okay. In their conference. They're in the playoff.
Colin Cowherd
They have a buy and they did it with a good coach.
John Middlekoff
Good, great coach.
Colin Cowherd
I love that guy Dillingham.
John Middlekoff
Does he get on NFL radar soon? He's good, man.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, he. And really, he didn't have much to work with. They were out of players. So that guy's got some little running back they love.
John Middlekoff
That guy's tough. I want mid to late round pick.
Colin Cowherd
You always have a fascination with smaller tough guys.
John Middlekoff
Well, that guy's. I wouldn't call him small. He's like 511, 220. Rocked up, running over guys doing the Heisman celebration. That Arizona State team is feisty.
Colin Cowherd
They are. They are. It's about time they. We always thought it had a chance to be a good program. J Mac with the news. Great job. Excellent job. So Eric Mangini was money today. Peter Schrager always delivers. Carson Palmer stopped by our show. We had a good. We had a really this. We've had a three week stretch of a lot of really good guests and a lot of good topics. And we'll try to keep it going as the late window on Sunday is one of the better ones of the year. There are a lot of fascinating games and you also got the Giants and the Raiders. I think the Raiders are playing too hard not to win a game. Upset of the week, I think. Keep your eye on Cleveland hosting the Chiefs.
John Middlekoff
I like that boy. Nick Wright crying. I'll come out here with maybe some kind of dog pound joke. I'm excited. I'm just telling you this Chiefs run has been good. It's nearly over.
Colin Cowherd
I think the Bears will give the Vikings a little pushback too. I think that's a close game. See you Monday.
John Middlekoff
What's poppin Justin Jefferson here?
Jared Goff
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John Middlekoff
Also you can hear everything around you. You can be involved.
Jared Goff
To have good sound and to be so light on your ear means a lot to me. Putting that music into my ears.
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You feel good enough to go out there and play. You turn on that switch, no one can stop you. For more, check out Bose.com. this is Doug Gottlieb from All Ball with Doug Gottlieb. Listen, I'm gonna get serious for a minute. The hate in our country is getting out of control. In fact, it's sadly at an all time high. But it's gonna take all of us to stop it. I mean, we're all on the same team in this country.
Jared Goff
So let's take a break from our.
John Middlekoff
Hate so our team can regroup. We need to take a time out Against Hate.
Jared Goff
Visit standuptoallhate.org to help and join me.
John Middlekoff
In calling for timeout against hate by following hatsupwithhate or posting the blue square emoji.
Colin Cowherd
Ah.
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Colin Cowherd
Hey, what's up? I'm Jared Goff, quarterback for the Detroit Lions. The holidays get busy, but I still want to pull up to events looking put together. Abercrombie's latest drop of party looks is taking me through the season for date nights, hanging with the guys and even New Year's Eve. They have outfits for every occasion. I'm big on sweater, polos and trousers with a wool blend coat over top for those really fancy holiday events. Abercrombie has suiting options too. Shop Abercrombie for every night out.
The Herd with Colin Cowherd - Episode Summary: Hour 3 - NFL Headlines
Release Date: December 13, 2024
Host: Colin Cowherd
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
In the third hour of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," host Colin Cowherd delves deep into the latest NFL headlines, offering insightful analysis, spirited debates, and expert opinions. Joined by co-host John Middlekoff and special guest Jared Goff, the episode navigates through pressing topics such as coaching movements, quarterback valuations, emerging talents, and intriguing player transfers. The conversation is punctuated with humor, candid reflections, and strategic foresight, making it a must-listen for NFL enthusiasts.
[06:10] Colin Cowherd initiates the discussion by highlighting a surprising revelation about Bill Belichick. It was discovered that Belichick's contract contains a clause allowing him to leave with virtually no penalty by June 2nd. Although unlikely to act immediately, Cowherd speculates on the implications of Belichick potentially entering the college football arena.
"He's rehabbing his image. He's on television. He's more fun, he's dating. College is younger. I feel like it's a rehab," Cowherd remarked at [06:10], expressing his cautious optimism about the move.
Jared Goff adds depth to the conversation at [06:39], discussing the complexities Belichick would face in transitioning to college football. Goff emphasizes the strategic advantages Belichick and his staff might bring but also acknowledges the challenges in recruiting and maintaining a strong team culture at the collegiate level.
"In college football with the transfer portal... you got to keep recruiting them to some degree to keep them at the college. So it's layered there," Goff explains at [07:43], outlining the multifaceted nature of college coaching compared to the NFL.
The conversation shifts to the Chicago Bears and their search for a new head coach. Cowherd praises Mike Vrabel, noting his no-nonsense approach reminiscent of Mike Tomlin.
"Mike Vrabel is one of the smartest guys that I've ever coached," Goff enthuses at [12:13], underscoring Vrabel's strategic acumen and player rapport.
Cowherd further explores Vrabel's potential impact on the Bears, considering the team's needs for both cultural leadership and tactical expertise. The discussion highlights Vrabel's successful track record and his alignment with the Bears' organizational goals.
A significant portion of the hour is dedicated to the San Francisco 49ers' management of star wide receiver A.J. Brown. Cowherd critiques the team's strategy of appeasing Brown by allocating him substantial touches, which he believes disrupts the overall game plan.
"If you're trying to get touches for somebody, did you ever deal with that in the NFL?" Cowherd questions at [07:43], pointing out the potential pitfalls of catering too heavily to a single player.
Goff concurs, emphasizing the challenges of balancing player satisfaction with team performance. He notes that young quarterbacks are particularly vulnerable to such dynamics, lacking the experience to effectively manage demanding players.
"Young quarterbacks can actually calm the huddle down and calm guys like that down and not feel the same pressure to force the ball to them," Goff explains at [09:29].
Cowherd delves into the economics of quarterback salaries, comparing the rising costs of elite quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen to the more modest contract of Brock Purdy.
"I can't give him $55 million. I would rather give franchise tag Darnold for one year and get $40 million and live for another day," Cowherd states at [10:22], highlighting the financial constraints teams face in balancing their rosters.
Goff discusses the strategic decisions involved in such scenarios, emphasizing the importance of long-term planning and the limitations imposed by high salaries.
"You have to be honest and objective in the offseason and look at it, because he's going to cost you a lot of money if he's not there," Goff advises at [11:29].
The episode features a spirited debate about Travis Hunter's desire to play both offense and defense in the NFL. Cowherd champions Hunter's ambition, comparing it to Shohei Ohtani's exceptional dual-sport capabilities.
"If Ohtani can pitch and bat, he can play both sides. I have no problem with him playing both ways," Cowherd asserts at [28:04], advocating for Hunter's versatility.
Goff provides a counterpoint, pondering the practical implications and potential disruptions such a dual role might introduce to team dynamics.
"A 21-year-old coming in telling you how he's gonna play," Goff remarks at [28:29], highlighting the challenges of integrating a highly ambitious player into a structured team environment.
A notable segment discusses Juan Soto's unexpected move from the New York Yankees to the New York Mets. Cowherd expresses support for Soto, emphasizing the positive impact of committed team ownership.
"Baseball's an individual sport anyway... My takeaway is Steve Cohen's more committed. I wish all owners cared as much as Steve Ballmer and Steve Cohen," Cowherd opines at [32:39], praising the ownership's dedication to team success.
Middlekoff raises concerns about Soto's lack of communication with former teammates, suggesting potential red flags about his character and team dynamics.
"He said he had no communication with any teammates. And this is what, his third or fourth team?" Middlekoff questions at [31:27], indicating possible underlying issues beyond professional performance.
A recurring feature of the episode is the "Tomorrow's Headlines Today" segment, where Cowherd and Middlekoff humorously predict the outcomes and headlines of upcoming NFL games. This segment blends expert analysis with comedic elements, offering listeners both information and entertainment.
Examples of Notable Predictions:
Ravens vs. Giants: Cowherd predicts a dominant performance by Lamar Jackson.
"My guess is Lamar's like, I'm sick of this Josh Allen crap. I want to get back in the conversation," Cowherd predicts at [40:29].
Dolphins vs. Texans: Middlekoff leans towards a Texans victory, highlighting Joe Mixon's impact.
"Hold your horses, indie bucks. Broncos back to stalls," Middlekoff teases at [44:28].
Bills vs. Lions: A high-stakes game where Cowherd anticipates Josh Allen leading the Bills to a thrilling win.
"Josh just went from the pocket. Don't run," Cowherd advises at [46:53].
Steelers vs. Eagles: Both hosts discuss AJ Brown's influence and the defensive strategies of both teams.
"AJ Brown is key to your Super Bowl chances," Cowherd emphasizes at [43:28].
In Hour 3 of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," listeners are treated to a comprehensive exploration of current NFL narratives. From high-profile coaching transitions and quarterback contract debates to emerging player ambitions and unexpected team changes, Colin Cowherd and his co-hosts provide a balanced mix of analysis and entertainment. The episode effectively captures the dynamic nature of the NFL, offering valuable insights while maintaining an engaging and conversational tone.
Notable Quotes:
Colin Cowherd at [06:10]:
"He's rehabbing his image. He's on television. He's more fun, he's dating. College is younger. I feel like it's a rehab."
Jared Goff at [12:13]:
"Mike Vrabel is one of the smartest guys that I've ever coached."
Cowherd at [28:04]:
"If Ohtani can pitch and bat, he can play both sides. I have no problem with him playing both ways."
Middlekoff at [31:27]:
"He said he had no communication with any teammates. And this is what, his third or fourth team?"
Cowherd at [32:39]:
"Baseball's an individual sport anyway... My takeaway is Steve Cohen's more committed. I wish all owners cared as much as Steve Ballmer and Steve Cohen."
This detailed, structured summary captures the essence of Hour 3, ensuring that listeners who haven't tuned in can grasp the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented during the episode.