The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Richard Sherman Podcast - NFL Wild Card Round Predictions

Release Date: January 9, 2025
Host: Richard Sherman
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction to the Playoffs

As the NFL playoffs commence, Richard Sherman and his guest analyst delve into the anticipated Wild Card matchups, providing insights and predictions for each game. They navigate through the NFC and AFC battles, offering expert analysis on team performances, key players, and strategic considerations.

NFC Wild Card Matchups

1. Philadelphia Eagles vs. Green Bay Packers

Richard Sherman discusses the potential clash between the Eagles and Packers, highlighting both teams' strengths and vulnerabilities.

• Packers' Defense: Sherman emphasizes the Packers' ability to stop the run, which is crucial against Saquon Barkley and the Eagles' robust offensive line.

  "The Green Bay Packers being able to stop the run is huge." [02:30]

• Eagles' Defensive Prowess: The Eagles' defense, led by Jalen Carter, has been formidable, effectively countering opponents' strategies.

  "The Philadelphia Eagles defense has played magnificently." [03:10]

• Key Concerns: Sherman expresses concern over Jalen Hurts still being in concussion protocol, which could impact the Eagles' chances.

  "Jalen Hurts is still in a concussion protocol... they will have a much harder time beating the Green Bay Packers without Jalen Hurts." [04:00]

• Prediction: While acknowledging the Packers have a pathway to victory, Sherman leans towards the Eagles edging out a win due to their balanced offense and strong defense.

  "I think there's definitely a path for the Green Bay Packers to win... but I think the Philadelphia Eagles pull it out." [05:20]

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Washington Commanders

The discussion shifts to the Buccaneers hosting the Commanders, focusing on quarterback performances and team resilience.

• Buccaneers' Strengths: Sherman praises Tampa Bay's young quarterback Jaden Daniels and their defensive strategy under Todd Bowles.

  "Jaden Daniels is running the football well. He's throwing it well." [06:20]

• Commanders' Surprises: Washington's Jaden Daniels has emerged as a reliable quarterback, adding depth to their offensive game despite injuries.

  "Jaden Daniels certainly looks like the answer for them at quarterback." [08:27]

• Game Dynamics: Sherman anticipates a close and competitive matchup, underscoring the Buccaneers' resilience and the Commanders' unexpected rise.

  "I think this is going to be the most intriguing matchup of the playoffs of this first round." [06:20]

3. LA Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings

Sherman analyzes the showdown between the Rams and Vikings, focusing on defensive schemes and quarterback performances.

• Rams' Defensive Strategy: Sherman highlights Brian Flores’ aggressive defense and Jared Verse's standout play, predicting he could contend for Defensive Rookie of the Year.

  "Jared Verse will probably be up for Defensive Rookie of the Year if... he's having a great year." [09:24]

• Vikings' Offensive Challenges: Concerns are raised about Sam Darnold's performance under pressure and the Vikings' ability to execute against the Rams' defense.

  "It's going to come down to what they can do offensively." [09:24]

• Prediction: Sherman foresees a tightly contested game where the Rams' defensive prowess may give them the edge over the Vikings.

  "Minnesota finds a way to pull it out... I think Minnesota finds a way to pull it out." [12:25]

AFC Wild Card Matchups

1. LA Chargers vs. Houston Texans

Sherman evaluates the Chargers' new identity under Jim Harbaugh versus the Texans' underperformance.

• Chargers' Transformation: Under Harbaugh, the Chargers have developed a stronger offensive identity, though Sherman notes their occasional struggles in maintaining rhythm.

  "Jim Harbaugh likes to pound the rock." [17:25]

• Texans' Underachievement: Despite talent, the Texans have underperformed, with injuries to key players like Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell affecting their playoff aspirations.

  "Houston Texans are really, in my opinion, been very, very much so underachieved this year." [17:25]

• Prediction: Sherman sees the matchup as evenly poised, with Chargers potentially leveraging their strong defense to secure a victory.

  "I don't see this being a crazy blowout game from either side." [17:25]

2. Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens

The Steelers' perennial playoff struggles are contrasted with the Ravens' resurgence under Lamar Jackson.

• Steelers' Stagnation: Despite a strong coaching legacy under Mike Tomlin, the Steelers have faltered against top-tier teams and lack a franchise quarterback.

  "He [Mike Tomlin] is a culture builder. He's a guy that has literally never had a losing season." [20:51]

• Ravens' Dominance: Lamar Jackson's historic season and a revitalized defense make the Ravens formidable contenders.

  "Lamar Jackson's had one of the most impressive seasons in National Football League history." [25:00]

• Prediction: Sherman confidently predicts a Ravens victory, citing their comprehensive team performance and Jackson's leadership.

  "I'm pretty sure... I think they're a team that can deal with the cold. They're going to have to get it done." [25:00]

3. Buffalo Bills vs. Denver Broncos

Sherman assesses the Bills' powerhouse performance against the Broncos' potential upset under Bo Nix.

• Bills' Superior Play: With Josh Allen at quarterback and a reliable run game, the Bills are favored to win comfortably against the Broncos.

  "I just don't see Josh Allen losing this football game." [27:08]

• Broncos' Upset Potential: While Denver has talented players and a dynamic rookie QB, Sherman doubts their ability to overcome the Bills' high-powered offense.

  "Sean Payton [Bills' coach]... this upset, if Denver found a way to win, I'd be really, really surprised." [27:08]

• Prediction: Sherman anticipates a decisive victory for the Bills, emphasizing their consistency and depth.

  "Josh Allen is going to will this team to a victory." [27:08]

Season Awards Discussion

MVP Race: Lamar Jackson vs. Josh Allen

Sherman passionately argues in favor of Lamar Jackson's historic season over Josh Allen, citing unprecedented statistics and team performance.

• Jackson's Historic Stats: With 4,900 passing yards, 40 touchdowns, and only five interceptions, Jackson's season is unparalleled.

  "It's Lamar Jackson's MVP. I think the numbers he put up right now are historic." [30:07]

• Allen's Narrative: While acknowledging Allen's strong performance and team leadership, Sherman believes Jackson's statistical dominance secures him the MVP.

  "These stats... something that's literally never been done in the history of the league." [30:07]

Defensive Player of the Year: Patrick Sartan

Sherman expresses strong support for Patrick Sartan, recognizing his exceptional defensive play throughout the season.

• Sartan's Excellence: Highlighting Sartan's professionalism and impactful plays, Sherman deems him highly deserving of the award.

  "Patrick Sartan has played well for so long... he deserves it." [33:44]

Coach of the Year: Kevin O'Connell vs. Dan Campbell

The debate centers on whether Kevin O'Connell or Dan Campbell should receive the accolade, with Sherman leaning towards O'Connell.

• O'Connell's Achievement: Leading Minnesota to a 14-3 record under challenging circumstances positions O'Connell as a strong candidate.

  "Kevin O'Connell will likely get it... Stefanski has multiple coaches of the year and no postseason success to really speak of." [35:22]

• Campbell's Overachievement: While Campbell exceeded expectations with the Detroit Lions, Sherman believes O'Connell's narrative carries more weight.

  "Kevin O'Connell... that's why Kevin O'Connell will likely get it." [35:22]

Power Rankings Overview

Sherman presents his NFL power rankings, placing the Kansas City Chiefs at the top, followed by the Detroit Lions, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, and Philadelphia Eagles.

"Kansas City Chiefs go one, your Detroit Lions two. Three would have to be Baltimore Ravens." [37:47]

He notes the Minnesota Vikings' recent loss to the Lions but maintains confidence in their overall strength, contingent on their performance against the Rams.

Final Thoughts and Predictions

As the podcast concludes, Sherman encapsulates his confidence in the Ravens and Bills advancing deep into the playoffs while acknowledging the unpredictability inherent in postseason games. He encourages listeners to engage with the playoffs, whether by watching, betting, or analyzing future drafts.

"We got a landscape of playoff football to look forward to next weekend." [39:10]

"Enjoy the playoffs and watch these other teams and root against your rivals. Whatever floats your boat." [39:21]

Richard Sherman's comprehensive analysis offers listeners a deep dive into the NFL's playoff scene, balancing statistical insights with narrative-driven predictions. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the playoffs, this episode provides valuable perspectives on the high-stakes games ahead.