Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 3: Nick Saban Release Date: July 17, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the discussion centers around prominent sports topics, with a special focus on Nick Saban's potential transition to the NFL. Hosted by Colin Cowherd and featuring guest analyst Dan Woike from The Athletic, the conversation delves into the intricacies of coaching dynamics, player trades, and officiating standards across various sports leagues.

Nick Saban's NFL Coaching Prospects

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to exploring whether renowned college football coach Nick Saban might make a move to the NFL. Colin Cowherd initiates the conversation by referencing recent discussions and speculations about Saban’s career trajectory.

Colin Cowherd [35:02]: "The genesis of all this discussion happened a couple days ago when I saw a story that Greg McElroy... said he's hearing that Saban wouldn't mind coaching again."

Dan Woike provides his insights, emphasizing the financial and structural challenges that might deter Saban from leaving college football for the NFL.

Dan Woike [35:36]: "If Jerry was going to do this, part of it would be, are you willing to take a backseat and move away from the spotlight for a little bit to see if Nick Saban can come and do it?"

Cowherd further analyzes Saban's adaptability and compares him to other legendary coaches, suggesting that Saban's ability to pivot and evolve has been a cornerstone of his success at Alabama.

Colin Cowherd [35:02]: "Saban has always been very close with Belichick... He would call Bill in a heartbeat, asking questions. But Saban really pivoted at Alabama. He went..."

The discussion highlights Saban's exceptional recruiting skills and his strategic adaptability in response to the evolving landscape of college football, contrasting him with coaches like Bill Belichick and Lane Kiffin.

NBA Trade Rumors and the Los Angeles Lakers

Transitioning from college football, the conversation shifts to the NBA, particularly focusing on trade rumors surrounding LeBron James and the Lakers' strategic moves. Colin Cowherd and Dan Woike dissect the likelihood of the Lakers initiating a trade involving LeBron, considering his no-trade clause and the team's confidence in securing an extension with emerging talents like Luka Doncic.

Dan Woike [05:34]: "It's going to be early August here. He's extension eligible August 2nd. I think they're really confident, Colin."

Cowherd raises concerns about the Lakers' defensive lineup and the potential fit of players like DeAndre Ayton and Austin Reeves within the team's dynamic.

Colin Cowherd [07:29]: "I did say it's a Dodgers town now as much as a Laker town. There are stars everywhere... it sounds interesting."

Woike responds by analyzing the contractual and performance aspects of Ayton's role, affirming that while Ayton may have defensive limitations, his offensive prowess and affordability make him a valuable asset for the Lakers.

Dan Woike [07:29]: "DeAndre Ayton... he's super gifted offensively, he's credible defensively."

WNBA Officiating and Caitlin Clark's Absence

The episode also touches upon issues within the WNBA, specifically addressing the officiating standards that led to Caitlin Clark's inability to participate in the All-Star festivities. The hosts and guests discuss the broader implications of poor officiating on player safety and fan engagement.

Natasha Cloud [40:24]: "...the refs are having too much impact on the game... the officiating is horrible."

Colin Cowherd draws parallels between the WNBA's challenges and historical issues faced by other sports leagues, emphasizing the need for improved officiating to maintain the integrity and popularity of the league.

Colin Cowherd [40:44]: "I do believe the NFL should make officials more full time... It's a full time job."

College Football Quarterback Rankings

Shifting focus back to college football, the conversation includes an analysis of the Athletic's top 10 quarterbacks for the upcoming season. Colin Cowherd shares his perspectives on the rankings, expressing surprise at certain inclusions and offering his own evaluations of standout quarterbacks like Arch Manning and Drew Allar.

Colin Cowherd [24:00]: "Arch Manning and Drew Aller... the top two prospects will be Arch Manning and Drew Aller."

The hosts debate the merits of various quarterbacks, discussing their potential impact on the field and their prospects for professional advancement.

Impact of Sports Stars on Viewership and League Popularity

A recurring theme throughout the episode is the profound influence that star athletes have on their respective leagues. Colin Cowherd underscores the critical role that marquee players like Nick Saban, LeBron James, and Caitlin Clark play in driving viewership and fan interest.

Colin Cowherd [19:45]: "The NBA lost 50% of its viewers think about that 50% when Michael Jordan retired."

Rob Parker echoes this sentiment, highlighting how the absence of key figures diminishes the appeal of sporting events.

Rob Parker [40:24]: "Caitlin Clark is not going to play this weekend... without Caitlin Clark, there's just some things that I'm not, I just don't care about as much."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with reflections on the interconnectedness of coaching decisions, player trades, officiating standards, and the overarching impact of star athletes on sports leagues. Colin Cowherd and his guests emphasize the necessity for leagues to adapt and evolve in response to these factors to sustain and grow their fanbases.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Colin Cowherd [35:02]: "Saban has always been very close with Belichick... He would call Bill in a heartbeat, asking questions."
• Dan Woike [35:36]: "If Jerry was going to do this, part of it would be, are you willing to take a backseat and move away from the spotlight for a little bit to see if Nick Saban can come and do it?"
• Colin Cowherd [05:34]: "They're looking for defenders, right? I think that is pretty clearly."
• Dan Woike [07:29]: "DeAndre Ayton... he's super gifted offensively, he's credible defensively."
• Natasha Cloud [40:24]: "...the refs are having too much impact on the game... the officiating is horrible."
• Colin Cowherd [19:45]: "The NBA lost 50% of its viewers think about that 50% when Michael Jordan retired."

This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of key sports narratives, providing listeners with in-depth discussions on coaching careers, team strategies, officiating quality, and the significant roles that individual stars play in shaping the landscape of professional sports.