Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Episode: Hour 3 - Will Blackmon
Release Date: April 9, 2025
Host: Jason McIntyre (interim host)
Guest: Will Blackman, former NFL star and coach

1. Lakers as the New NBA Villains

The episode kicks off with a heated discussion about the Los Angeles Lakers' recent performance and their evolving reputation within the NBA. Jason McIntyre expresses strong opinions on how the Lakers, led by LeBron James and Luka Doncic, have become the "new villains" of the league.

• Jason McIntyre [03:16]: "Around the league, the vibe is we don't like these guys. The Lakers are public enemy number one. They are as hated as the Curry Durant Warriors were."

McIntyre highlights the Lakers' aggressive playstyle and frequent complaints as factors contributing to their unpopularity. The comparison to the Golden State Warriors during the Curry-KD era underscores the pattern of dominant teams garnering widespread antagonism.

Luka Doncic’s Ejection Incident

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Luka Doncic’s controversial ejection during a game against Oklahoma City. McIntyre criticizes the refereeing decisions that led to Doncic’s removal from the game, suggesting bias against the Lakers.

• Jason McIntyre [06:25]: "LeBron choosing his words carefully so he doesn't get fined... The refs were out to get the Lakers last night."

LeBron James is quoted reflecting on the incident, attempting to downplay the severity of the ejection while acknowledging the unusual circumstances.

• LeBron James [06:25]: "That was a weird... The referee was taking it personal."

McIntyre argues that such decisions rob fans of thrilling game conclusions and further entrench the Lakers' status as disfavored figures in the NBA.

2. Introduction of Guest: Will Blackman

Transitioning from NBA topics, host Jason McIntyre introduces Will Blackman, a former NFL player with coaching experience at the Dallas Cowboys.

• Jason McIntyre [07:57]: "We are going to start obviously with the Lakers... Let's get to our guest, Will Blackman, former NFL star in the secondary."

3. NFL Analysis with Will Blackman

Dallas Cowboys’ Season Prospects

Blackman shares his insights on the Dallas Cowboys' outlook for the upcoming season, addressing both strengths and areas needing improvement.

• Will Blackman [10:56]: "Year in and year out, they usually are in position to have a good season. It's just a matter of health."

Blackman emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong defensive lineup, particularly at the linebacker position, which has been plagued by injuries.

Offensive Strategy and Draft Insights

The conversation shifts to the Cowboys' offensive strategies, including the integration of new wide receivers like Brandon Cooks and CD Lamb.

• Will Blackman [12:20]: "It's a matter of just finding weapons and then finding another star running back."

Blackman discusses the historical significance of star running backs for the Cowboys and the challenges faced since Ezekiel Elliott's departure.

Travis Hunter and the Cleveland Browns

A focal point of the discussion is Travis Hunter’s potential impact on the Cleveland Browns. Blackman analyses whether Hunter can sustain a dual role playing both offense and defense.

• Will Blackman [13:18]: "I believe he can play both sides of the football, but to start on both sides, play every snap... I don't think he can."

Blackman expresses skepticism about Hunter's ability to maintain durability and effectiveness in such a demanding role but remains optimistic about his versatility.

Quarterback Strategy and Team Building

Blackman shares his perspective on quarterback acquisition strategies, particularly criticizing the Browns' front office for potentially missing the mark in securing a franchise quarterback.

• Will Blackman [15:08]: "If you truly miss on the quarterback again, then you missed out on getting players to build a team."

He advocates for a balanced approach to team building, emphasizing the need to develop a robust roster while remaining flexible with future quarterback options.

4. Additional NFL Insights

Green Room Invitations and Player Prospects

The discussion touches on the significance of Green Room invitations during drafts, with Blackman advocating for players to seize such opportunities despite draft uncertainties.

• Will Blackman [25:50]: "Take the chance and if you don't get picked, then you know what? More fuel to the fire."

Blackman encourages players to attend these events for the experience, even if it means enduring the disappointment of not being selected.

Will Blackman’s NFL Journey

Blackman reflects on his own NFL career, noting his multi-faceted role at Boston College and the importance of versatility as an athlete.

• Will Blackman [26:52]: "I trained for a week in Florida... I was living with Devin Hester... Most of these guys leave to go train and then they have to still have credits."

His anecdotes underscore the dedication required to excel both on and off the field.

5. Super Bowl and Team Projections

The episode concludes with projections for the upcoming NFL season, including potential Super Bowl contenders.

• Alex Curry [47:03]: "It's an easy decision for me. It's Buffalo... And the LA Rams... Bill's Rams Super Bowl."

Curry predicts the Buffalo Bills and LA Rams as frontrunners, citing the Bills' favorable schedule and the Rams' defensive improvements as key factors.

6. Final Thoughts

The host and guest wrap up the episode with a recap of major points discussed, reaffirming the Lakers' contentious position in the NBA and the Cowboys' strategic challenges in the NFL.

• Jason McIntyre [49:20]: "Great show, powerful stuff, a lot of fun. Thanks to Adam. Will our other guest, Eddie House, see you tomorrow?"

Notable Quotes:

• Jason McIntyre [03:16]: "The Lakers are public enemy number one. They are as hated as the Curry Durant Warriors were."

• LeBron James [06:25]: "That was a weird... The referee was taking it personal."

• Will Blackman [10:56]: "Year in and year out, they usually are in position to have a good season. It's just a matter of health."

• Will Blackman [13:18]: "I believe he can play both sides of the football, but to start on both sides, play every snap... I don't think he can."

• Will Blackman [15:08]: "If you truly miss on the quarterback again, then you missed out on getting players to build a team."

• Alex Curry [47:03]: "It's an easy decision for me. It's Buffalo... And the LA Rams... Bill's Rams Super Bowl."

This episode of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" offers deep dives into both NBA and NFL narratives, providing listeners with expert opinions and in-depth analysis from host Jason McIntyre and guest Will Blackman. From the Lakers' unpopularity to strategic evaluations of NFL teams like the Cowboys and Browns, the conversation is rich with insights and forward-looking projections relevant to sports enthusiasts.