Podcast Summary: "HR 1 - To pay Brock Purdy or not to pay, Lions don't rest starters" The Herd with Colin Cowherd Release Date: December 31, 2024

Introduction

In the season finale of 2024, Colin Cowherd and co-host Doug Gottlieb delve into pivotal NFL topics, focusing primarily on quarterback compensation and the Detroit Lions' remarkable yet tumultuous season. The episode blends in-depth analysis with candid opinions, offering listeners a comprehensive look at some of the league's most pressing issues.

Brock Purdy: To Pay or Not to Pay

Timestamp: [04:26] Colin Cowherd

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback, Brock Purdy. With one year remaining on his rookie contract, the debate intensifies: Should teams invest in Purdy early, or is his performance not warranting such commitment?

Key Points:

• Performance Analysis: Despite Purdy's impressive first-half performances under the guidance of renowned play designer Kyle Shanahan, his second-half struggles raise concerns. Purdy has recorded eight touchdowns and ten interceptions, leading to a passer rating below 75 in non-scripted game scenarios.

  "Brock Purdy has eight touchdowns and ten picks and 12 total giveaways. He's bad and trailing in the second half, he's worse." — Colin Cowherd [04:26]

• Comparison with Peers: When compared to quarterbacks like Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, Jared Goff, and Baker Mayfield, Purdy lags, especially in critical second-half performances.

  "There's a feeling that now even though he has a year left on his rookie deal, that you have to pay Brock Purdy now." — Colin Cowherd [04:26]

• Team Dynamics: The Lions' offensive prowess, bolstered by top-tier players like George Kittle and Deebo Samuel, highlights how Purdy's performance can significantly impact team success. However, his propensity for "empty calories"—easy yards after catch without significant strategic value—casts doubt on his long-term viability.

  "A big majority for all these people saying I have to pay Brock Purdy a year early, if at all. A big chunk of his yards are after the catch because Kittle is great after the catch and Debo is great after the catch." — Colin Cowherd [14:23]

Detroit Lions: Offensive Juggernaut with Defensive Vulnerabilities

Timestamp: [14:23] Doug Gottlieb

The Detroit Lions emerge as a central topic, celebrated for their unprecedented offensive achievements yet criticized for their defensive shortcomings.

Key Points:

• Historic Offensive Stats: The Lions have secured their fifth game with at least 40 points and no turnovers, a record surpassing even legendary teams like the "Greatest Show on Turf." Additionally, they are the first NFL team to have two running backs and two wide receivers each gain over 1,000 scrimmage yards.

  "Lions are the first team in NFL history to have two running backs and two wide receivers gain 1,000 scrimmage yards." — Colin Cowherd [25:41]

• Offensive Talent: With elite players such as Amon-Ra St. Brown, Puka Nacua, and a robust running back duo, the Lions' offense is unparalleled. The Centers, LaPorta and St. Brown, are top-ranked, contributing to their offensive dominance.

  "They have Amaran St. Brown and Puka Nakua are the best receivers not taken in the first couple rounds in the last decade." — Doug Gottlieb [27:21]

• Defensive Issues: Despite offensive brilliance, the team's defense is plagued by injuries, with eight starters missing in crucial games. This imbalance raises concerns about their ability to sustain success, especially in high-stakes playoff scenarios.

  "They're at home and the Lions are missing eight defensive starters." — Colin Cowherd [04:26]

• Coaching and Discipline: The hosts debate the role of coaching in maintaining team discipline. While Colin praises coaches like Dan Campbell for their motivational skills, Doug suggests that the team needs firmer discipline to harness its offensive strengths effectively.

  "The problem is their offense is so proficient they go down the field and score in like three minutes." — Doug Gottlieb [26:56]

MVP Contention: Sam Darnold vs. Josh Allen

Timestamp: [29:30] Doug Gottlieb

The conversation shifts to the MVP race, highlighting Sam Darnold's impressive statistics and debating his candidacy against established stars like Josh Allen.

Key Points:

• Sam Darnold's Performance: Darnold stands out with 14 games boasting a 100 passer rating, the first since Aaron Rodgers in 2020. His consistency and statistical prowess make a strong case for MVP consideration.

  "Sam Darnold is the only QB to finish with 14 games with a 100 passer rating, the first since Aaron Rodgers in 2020." — Doug Gottlieb [29:30]

• Josh Allen's Case: Despite similar statistics, Allen has yet to secure an MVP title. His leadership in Buffalo's top-tier offense and consistent performance make him a favorite among fans, though voters have yet to recognize his contributions officially.

  "Josh Allen has never won an MVP, has he?" — Colin Cowherd [30:42]

• Voter Perspectives: The hosts explore the disconnect between statistical leaders and MVP recognition, suggesting that the "eye test"—how impressive a player's performance appears on the field—plays a significant role in voting decisions.

  "The eye test says pretty to me. Is Josh Allen. Yes, I agree." — Doug Gottlieb [30:28]

Coaching and Front Office Structure in the NFL

Timestamp: [32:24] Doug Gottlieb

The discussion broadens to examine the evolving roles of coaches and front office personnel, using Bill Belichick as a focal point.

Key Points:

• Bill Belichick's Philosophy: Belichick emphasizes minimizing external influences in decision-making, advocating for a more centralized coaching approach reminiscent of coaching legends like Tom Landry.

  "Although I don't disagree with his premise, I would argue New England needed more cooks in the kitchen." — Colin Cowherd [34:40]

• Impact on Team Performance: The hosts debate whether Belichick's reduced involvement in personnel decisions has contributed to the current struggles of the New England Patriots, particularly in roster construction and draft choices.

  "But I think the truth is, and I understand the parcels, I have to make the dinner, I want to select some food." — Colin Cowherd [34:40]

• Modern NFL Dynamics: The shift towards analytics and specialized roles in front offices is discussed, contrasting "culture guys" who focus on team morale and motivation with "scheme guys" who concentrate on strategy and play-calling.

  "Culture guys, motivational guys. Dan Campbell, Vrabel, Pete Carroll, McVeigh. They may not win a trophy. Scheme guys bomb all the time if they don't have the right personnel." — Colin Cowherd [48:18]

LeBron James' Enduring Legacy in Basketball

Timestamp: [35:05] Colin Cowherd

While primarily focused on football, the episode also pays homage to basketball icon LeBron James on his 40th birthday, drawing parallels between his longevity and that of NFL quarterbacks like Tom Brady.

Key Points:

• LeBron's Performance: Despite approaching four decades, LeBron continues to excel, averaging 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists per game. His adaptability and high basketball IQ sustain his status as one of the league's premier players.

  "He's aged incredibly well. You know, it's very funny because the Internet is very loud and usually often very wrong." — Colin Cowherd [35:14]

• Comparative Analysis: The hosts compare LeBron's sustained excellence with that of NFL veterans, emphasizing the importance of skill development and physical conditioning in extending athletic careers.

  "He's the greatest enduring basketball player of my life." — Colin Cowherd [36:57]

Conclusion

As the year wraps up, Colin Cowherd and Doug Gottlieb offer a nuanced examination of key NFL narratives, from quarterback contracts to team dynamics and coaching philosophies. Their insights provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the factors shaping the league's current landscape, setting the stage for an exciting new year of sports action.

Notable Quotes:

• "There's a difference between guys who are literally tractors, you know, like they're pulling a franchise to wins, and guys that are trailers, they're mostly being pulled." — Colin Cowherd [14:23]
• "Culture guys squeeze the juice out of every player." — Colin Cowherd [28:18]
• "The idea that game didn't mean anything for Detroit, I completely push back on that." — Colin Cowherd [44:05]

Disclaimer: This summary encapsulates the main discussions and viewpoints presented in the podcast episode. For a more comprehensive understanding and additional context, listening to the full episode is recommended.