Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: The Best Of Covino & Rich
Release Date: March 1, 2025
Host/Authors: Rich Davis, Steve Covino, and Danny G
Description: The Herd with Colin Cowherd is a thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven journey through the top sports stories of the day. In this special episode, hosts Rich Davis, Steve Covino, and Danny G delve into various sports topics, engage in lively discussions, and interact with their audience through engaging segments.
1. Coaching T-Ball and Big League Chew
Timestamp: [00:00] – [07:00]
The episode opens with Rich Davis enthusiastically promoting their new podcast, Goat Greatest of Their Era, where they ranked the top five shooters from the 2000s, featuring names like Steph Curry, Peja Stojaković, and Dirk Nowitzki.
Key Discussion: Rich shares a personal anecdote about coaching T-ball and his attempt to be the "cool coach" by distributing Big League Chew to his young players. This sparks a debate among the hosts about the appropriateness and reception of such gestures by parents.
Notable Quotes:
- Rich Davis [03:48]: "I'm like, let me be the cool coach. So is it crazy to give a bunch of T-ball kids like, hey, Coach Rich is here. Here's some Big League Chew?"
- Steve Covino [04:40]: "They're worried that Rich is turning their children into a bunch of Violet Beauregards, you know, but chewing gum all the time."
2. MLB Broadcasting Changes and Impact on ESPN
Timestamp: [11:00] – [20:00]
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Major League Baseball's (MLB) decision to drop ESPN as a broadcasting partner. The hosts analyze the implications of MLB seeking new partnerships with platforms like Amazon, NBC Universal, and Netflix.
Key Points:
- MLB’s Strategy: MLB is looking to diversify its broadcasting channels to reach broader audiences through streaming services.
- Impact on ESPN: This move is perceived as a substantial loss for ESPN, potentially weakening their sports broadcasting portfolio.
- Opportunities for New Partners: Platforms like Netflix and Amazon could bring innovative coverage and potentially increase baseball’s popularity.
Notable Quotes:
- Rich Davis [12:34]: "It's like baseball's on a hot streak... asking for a divorce right after your wifey got those nice ones."
- Steve Covino [13:39]: "I think it's a normal thing, but I'm not surprised. Like I said, your thoughts at 87799 on Fox at Covino and Rich."
3. MLB’s Resurgence and Excitement for Upcoming Season
Timestamp: [20:00] – [33:00]
The hosts express their excitement about the upcoming MLB season, highlighting the growing interest and competitive spirit within the league. They discuss favorite teams, key players, and the overall positive momentum baseball is experiencing.
Key Discussion:
- Team Dynamics: Rich is a Mets fan, while Steve supports the Dodgers and Yankees, sparking a friendly rivalry.
- Player Performance: Highlighting standout players like Juan Soto and the excitement around their gameplay.
- Broadcasting Shift: Optimism about how new broadcasting partners might enhance the viewing experience.
Notable Quotes:
- Steve Covino [15:32]: "I'm excited, ready to wrap up February. I'm getting way ahead of myself."
- Rich Davis [19:26]: "Your division if you're an AL East fan like Kavino. Yeah, every team in that division has some intrigue to me."
4. Engaging the Audience: "Quote Me" Game
Timestamp: [38:00] – [58:00]
In an interactive segment, the hosts play a game called "Quote Me," where they present quotes and listeners guess who said them. This segment fosters audience engagement and showcases the hosts' camaraderie and knowledge of sports personalities.
Key Points:
- Game Mechanics: Presenting quotes and multiple-choice options to the participants.
- Audience Interaction: Encouraging listeners to participate by calling in with their answers.
- Humorous Banter: The hosts engage in light-hearted teasing and banter, making the segment entertaining.
Notable Quotes:
- Rich Davis [43:22]: "Mayweather, he's a small dude. I would say this, I don't think he could hurt Jake Paul."
- Steve Covino [51:05]: "True story, true story."
5. Discussions on Upcoming Sports Events
Timestamp: [58:00] – [75:00]
The hosts shift focus to upcoming sports events, including UFC fights, boxing matches, and NFL updates. They provide analysis, share predictions, and discuss the potential impact of these events on the sports landscape.
Key Points:
- UFC and Boxing: Highlighting key matches like Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach and the possible Mayweather vs. Jake Paul bout.
- NFL Updates: Discussing Matthew Stafford’s decision to stay with the Rams and the implications for other teams.
- Fantasy Sports Insights: Sharing opinions on player performances and team strategies.
Notable Quotes:
- Steve Covino [68:27]: "There's some good box fights this weekend I'll tell you about in weekend hobnobbing."
- Rich Davis [69:05]: "LeBron playing like he's 27 years old. Defense shooting, revitalized like he found the fountain of youth."
6. Television Shows and Pop Culture
Timestamp: [57:00] – [76:00]
The hosts briefly discuss popular television shows and pop culture phenomena, offering their takes and recommendations. They mention shows like Paradise, Zero Day, Running Point, and Love is Blind, providing insights into their plotlines and personal opinions.
Key Discussion:
- Paradise and Zero Day: Comparing the intensity and storytelling of these shows.
- Running Point: Highlighting the fictional portrayal of women in sports management.
- Love is Blind: Sharing perspectives on the show's evolution and love triangles.
Notable Quotes:
- Rich Davis [73:24]: "If you think she's not crazy, then that's the problem with you."
- Steve Covino [75:09]: "The Oscars are this Sunday. 97th Academy Awards hosted by Conan."
7. Closing Remarks and Promotions
Timestamp: [76:00] – [78:36]
As the episode nears its end, the hosts wrap up their discussions, promote upcoming shows and episodes, and encourage listeners to engage with their content. They maintain a light-hearted and friendly tone, reinforcing their connection with the audience.
Key Points:
- Upcoming Episodes: Teasing future content and special segments.
- Listener Engagement: Encouraging listeners to download their podcasts and participate in interactive segments.
- Final Thoughts: Expressing enthusiasm for the next week’s discussions and events.
Notable Quotes:
- Rich Davis [76:07]: "Enjoy until Monday. Enjoy your weekend."
- Steve Covino [78:36]: "Hopefully you get that excitement from us."
Conclusion
The Best Of Covino & Rich episode offers a blend of personal anecdotes, insightful sports analysis, interactive games, and engaging banter among the hosts. Rich Davis, Steve Covino, and Danny G provide a comprehensive look into the current sports landscape, particularly focusing on baseball's resurgence and the shifting dynamics of MLB broadcasting. Their playful interactions and audience-focused segments make the episode both informative and entertaining for listeners.
For more detailed discussions and insights, tune in to The Herd with Colin Cowherd on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred podcast platform.