Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 3: Playoff QB Draft

Release Date: December 19, 2024

Introduction

In the third hour of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, Colin Cowherd, alongside co-hosts Jason McIntyre and Joel Klatt, delves deep into the intricacies of the upcoming football playoffs. The episode primarily focuses on a creative segment called the "Playoff Quarterback Draft," where the hosts select and analyze the top quarterbacks poised to make significant impacts in the postseason. Beyond the draft, the discussion weaves through various college football narratives, coaching strategies, and the evolving landscape of the sport.

College Football Analysis

The episode kicks off with a robust discussion on several college football teams and their prospects in the upcoming playoffs. Joel Klatt provides insights into Indiana's performance against Notre Dame, highlighting Indiana's strong run defense as a potential game-changer.

Joel Klatt [08:36]: "Indiana's got a great shot against Notre Dame. Their run defense is the number one rushing defense in the country, which is exactly what you need to stop Notre Dame's run-heavy offense."

Jason McIntyre expresses optimism about USC's future despite recent setbacks, comparing their situation to Michigan's miraculous turnaround in previous years.

Jason McIntyre [12:31]: "I'm worried for USC right now. Their roster is going to be less talented next year, and they've lost momentum. It's almost impossible to get it back once you lose it."

The hosts also touch upon coaching strategies, specifically discussing Lincoln Riley's adaptation to the modern game amidst the challenges posed by the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) regulations.

Joel Klatt [15:51]: "Bill Belichick knows what he's doing with talent evaluation. The top of college football is flatter than ever, and coaching is becoming more situationally important."

Impact of Players and Coaches

The conversation shifts to the influence of key players and coaching decisions on team performances. Colin Cowherd highlights the resilience of coaches like Ryan Day and their ability to adapt game plans under pressure.

Joel Klatt [07:01]: "When Ryan Day is put into a corner, he evaluates and comes out swinging. Ohio State has the talent to fix any conservative game plans they've implemented."

Jason McIntyre discusses the evolving role of players in college football, emphasizing the importance of versatile quarterbacks in the playoff landscape.

Jason McIntyre [13:06]: "Urban Meyer was right about Belichick's adaptability. In college football now, it's all about negotiating talent value, and coaches like Belichick excel at this."

Playoff Quarterback Draft

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the "Playoff Quarterback Draft," where Colin Cowherd and Jason McIntyre select quarterbacks they believe will lead their teams to playoff success. The segment is both analytical and competitive, showcasing each host's strategic thinking.

1. First Round Picks:

   • Jason McIntyre: Selects Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, praising his statistical performance and leadership.

     Jason McIntyre [37:36]: "Josh Allen is the ultimate chess piece. He's the number one pick, hands down."

   • Colin Cowherd: Chooses Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles, highlighting his dual-threat capability and supporting cast.

     Colin Cowherd [38:47]: "Hurts running and passing, combined with A.J. Brown's health, makes the Eagles a formidable team in the playoffs."

2. Subsequent Rounds:

   • Jason McIntyre: Selects Matt Stafford, Jordan Love, Bo Nix, and Justin Herbert, citing their offensive lines, experience, and potential for explosive performances.

     Jason McIntyre [40:48]: "Jordan Love has the best collection of young tight end receiver talent. Bo Nix is quick and athletic, making him a versatile threat."

   • Colin Cowherd: Picks Sam Darnold, CJ Stroud, Russell Wilson, and Bo Nix, focusing on their adaptability and game-winning potential.

     Colin Cowherd [43:08]: "Russell Wilson with Pickens back is a dangerous combination. They just need to invigorate the deep ball."

Throughout the draft, the hosts debate the merits of each quarterback, considering factors like team dynamics, coaching, and individual performance trends.

NBA and Other Sports Insights

Beyond football, the hosts briefly touch upon the state of the NBA, specifically discussing Magic Johnson's critique of the league's ratings and the issue of load management.

Jason McIntyre [26:27]: "Adam Silver hasn't put his foot down on load management. It's not baseball with 162 games; it's basketball where player management is crucial."

Colin Cowherd [26:09]: "NBA has made rings culture everything. Teams take days off to stay fresh for the playoffs, which is detrimental to regular season viewership."

Insights and Conclusions

The episode wraps up with a reflection on the dynamic nature of sports, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in both players and coaches. The "Playoff Quarterback Draft" serves as a testament to the unpredictable and strategic elements that define the postseason. Colin Cowherd and Jason McIntyre's competitive drafting not only highlights their insights into player performances but also sets the stage for potential future discussions on playoff outcomes.

The hosts conclude with an optimistic outlook on the playoffs, acknowledging the blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent that could lead to unexpected triumphs.

Notable Quotes

• Jason McIntyre [37:36]: "Josh Allen is the ultimate chess piece. He's the number one pick, hands down."

• Joel Klatt [08:36]: "Indiana's got a great shot against Notre Dame. Their run defense is the number one rushing defense in the country, which is exactly what you need to stop Notre Dame's run-heavy offense."

• Colin Cowherd [38:47]: "Hurts running and passing, combined with A.J. Brown's health, makes the Eagles a formidable team in the playoffs."

• Jason McIntyre [40:48]: "Jordan Love has the best collection of young tight end receiver talent. Bo Nix is quick and athletic, making him a versatile threat."

Conclusion

Hour 3 of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" offers listeners an in-depth analysis of the upcoming football playoffs, enriched by strategic discussions and the engaging "Playoff Quarterback Draft." With insightful commentary on college football dynamics and broader sports issues, the episode stands out as a comprehensive guide for sports enthusiasts eager to understand the factors shaping playoff success.