The Herd - HOUR 2 - Blazin' 5 Picks, Dave Wannstedt, USC is quietly resurgent and strong

Summary

The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 2 (Sept 26, 2025)

Main Theme & Purpose:
This episode covers Colin’s NFL Blazin’ 5 Picks for the week, features a deep dive with former coach Dave Wannstedt into NFL and college football storylines, and examines how teams like USC are thriving under new dynamics. Major topics include the Lakers’ coaching decisions, Denver and Minnesota’s QB situations, the evolution of USC football, and college/NFL game previews.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Lakers, JJ Redick Extension & Team Direction

• Colin opens with thoughts on the Lakers: Surprised by JJ Redick’s contract extension after a mixed playoff performance.
• Insight: The extension signals Lakers’ commitment to the future centered around Luka Doncic and JJ Redick, rather than LeBron James.
• Notable quote:

  "Ownership is sending a signal to LeBron. This is JJ Redick and Luka’s franchise 100%... LeBron, you’re our third pitch."
  — Colin Cowherd (04:23)

• Tone: Direct, slightly incredulous.

2. Blazin’ 5 NFL Picks

(Starts at 06:06)
Colin lays out his betting picks and reasoning, focusing heavily on team trends, matchups, and statistical insights.

• Vikings vs. Steelers:
  • Minnesota (-2.5), citing better staff, offense, and defense; Steelers' offense is a mess.
  • "Minnesota 27-20 covers here." (06:45)
• Panthers at Patriots:
  • Likes the over 43.5 points, expects both QBs to have time due to weak pass rushes.
  • "New England wins 26-23. Take the over." (07:40)
• Colts vs. Rams:
  • Rams (-), stronger squad, best receiving tandem, dominant D-line, Colts defense "has major holes."
  • "Rams win 30-24." (08:40)
• Bears at Raiders:
  • Takes Raiders due to Bears’ poor road record, leaky defense.
  • "Raiders to win it 27-23."
• Bengals vs. Broncos:
  • Denver favored. Key: elite D, Sean Payton’s coaching, offensive improvement coming.
  • "Denver controls the game... Broncos cover."
• Theory on Sean Payton QBs & Slow Starts:
  • Payton’s QBs (historically Brees, now Bo Nix) struggle in September due to complex playbooks and lack of preseason reps.

  • "Sean Payton never been a great September coach... but October, November, December they get it."
    — Colin (13:28)

3. Chicago Bears Analysis with Dave Wannstedt

(Begins at 20:03)

• Chicago as a football city: Dave loves Chicago’s passion, likens it to Pittsburgh.
• Bears’ road struggles and defensive injuries:
  • Secondary is banged up, notably Jalen Johnson, Kyler Gordon, and key backup out for the year.

  • "You blitz, you're going to play man. You play man, and guys can't cover, you give up touchdowns."
    — J. Mac (22:24)

4. Sam Darnold’s Career Arc

• High praise for Darnold’s character & resilience:
  • "Talent sets the floor, character sets the ceiling." — J. Mac (24:09)
  • Minnesota stint restored Darnold’s confidence.

5. Kyler Murray’s Leadership & Struggles

• Critique of Kyler’s leadership intangibles, especially in late, close games.
• Supporting cast criticized:
  • “If your tight end’s your leading receiver… you’re not going to score many points in this league.”
    — J. Mac (27:17)

6. NFL Team ‘Juice’ & Identity

• Kansas City Chiefs: Colin senses a lack of energy (“juice”), especially compared to teams like Seattle and Philly.

  "When I watch Kansas City, I don’t see any juice." (28:10)

• Baltimore Ravens: Great offense but underperforming defense.

7. College Football Big Ten / USC Resurgence

• Home field advantage in college football: Young teams often struggle on tough road trips; veteran leadership and defense are crucial.
• Oregon vs. Penn State preview:
  • Oregon has many freshman skill players facing an elite Penn State D-line (starts 30:11).

  • "Penn State starts four seniors on that defensive line; they are really good."
    — J. Mac (31:25)

• Expectation on Penn State’s QB Drew Allar: Huge pressure as a returning, draft-eligible QB.

8. USC’s ‘Quiet Resurgence’

• USC now a run-first team: 55% run calls, big, physical lines built for Big Ten adjustment.

• Investment in infrastructure, coaching, and NIL athletes:

  "Nobody’s talking about them right now, but Jen Cohen, the athletic director, they built a $300 million facility, they’re paying Lincoln 80 million. And their boosters came in hot. Their defensive line, they went and bought size."
  — Colin (33:32)

9. Big Ten & Pac-12 Merger Performance

• Pac-12’s creativity and speed complement Big Ten’s tradition and power.
• Oregon’s "speed team" success in the Big Ten discussed (34:42).

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Talent sets the floor, character sets the ceiling.”
  — J. Mac on Sam Darnold (24:09)

• “Ownership is sending a signal to LeBron. This is JJ Redick and Luka’s franchise 100%... LeBron, you’re our third pitch.”
  — Colin Cowherd (04:23)

• “When I watch Kansas City, I don’t see any juice.”
  — Colin Cowherd (28:10)

• “You blitz, you’re gonna play man. You play man, and guys can’t cover, you give up touchdowns.”
  — J. Mac on Bears’ defensive struggles (22:24)

• “Nobody’s talking about [USC] right now, but Jen Cohen, the athletic director, they built a $300 million facility, they’re paying Lincoln 80 million. And their boosters came in hot.”
  — Colin Cowherd (33:32)

---

Timestamps for Important Segments

• JJ Redick/Lakers extension: 02:40–05:32
• Blazin’ 5 NFL Picks: 06:06–15:08
• Sean Payton/Bo Nix discussion: 12:30–13:40
• Bears & Dave Wannstedt interview: 20:03–29:37
• Sam Darnold and NFL QBs: 22:50–26:47
• Kyler Murray & leadership chat: 25:43–27:33
• Chiefs/Ravens/NFL identity: 27:33–29:05
• Big Ten/College Football strategy: 29:37–34:38
• USC transformation & NIL: 32:30–34:42

---

Summarized Flow with Natural Commentary

Colin kicks off by questioning the surprising JJ Redick extension, suggesting the Lakers are pivoting to a younger core around Luka rather than staking their future on LeBron. This leads into Colin’s signature “Blazin’ 5” betting segment, where he breaks down the week’s most strategic bets, diving into injury reports, coaching history, and team tendencies.

Dave Wannstedt joins and brings candor and warmth, reminiscing about Chicago before turning a sharp eye on the Bears’ injury-riddled defense and analyzing the quarterback carousel across the NFL. The conversation naturally transitions to bigger-picture leadership questions (Kyler Murray versus Sam Darnold), and how different organizations support or subtly undermine their young QBs.

In the college football segment, Colin and Dave dissect how the Big Ten’s traditions and climate have forced incoming Pac-12 teams like USC and Oregon to “buy bigger bodies” in the NIL era, noting USC’s rapid climb back to prominence via boosters, elite facilities, and a run-first, physical style that few expected under Lincoln Riley.

The episode is rich with actionable insights and distinct opinions, all delivered in Colin's breezy, conversational tone. It is especially valuable for listeners seeking both tactical football analysis and a feel for deeper league trends.

---

For full detail, listen from [02:40] for NBA/Lakers talk, [06:06] for NFL betting, and [20:03] onward for in-depth football insights with Dave Wannstedt.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[J. Mac]

If you're waiting for your AI to turn into ROI and wondering how long you have to wait, maybe you need.

[Commercial Announcer]

To do more than wait.

[J. Mac]

Any business can use AI. IBM helps you use AI to change how you do business. Let's create smarter business IBM.

[Commercial Announcer]

The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Sales Event is here. It is packed with great surprises. Choose from a wide selection of low mileage vehicles all backed by Toyota, with warranties that begin on the date of purchase.

[Colin Cowherd]

Because when it comes to quality, the.

[Commercial Announcer]

Best new cars make the best used cars. So don't miss your chance. Find your certified Toyota today, but hurry. These Great offers end November 3rd. Toyota Certified used Vehicle Sales Event where every surprise is a great one. Inventory may vary by dealer, participating dealers only. Comprehensive and Powertrain are limited warranties. See tcuv warranty supplementtoyotacertified.com or your Toyota dealer for details.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

Stop settling for weak sound. It's time to level up your game.

[Colin Cowherd]

And bring the boom.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

Hit the town with the ultra durable LG X Boom portable speaker and enjoy vibrant sound wherever you go. Elevate your listening experience to new heights because, let's be real, your music deserves it. The future of sound is now with LG XBoom and for a limited time, save [e-mail] with code fall25. Bring the Boom XBoom.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Hey everybody, Daniel Jeremiah here and I'm Bucky Brooks on Move to six. We take you inside the game, from breaking down college prospects and NFL rookies to evaluating team building philosophies, coaching trends, and how front offices construct winning rosters. We study the tape, talk to decision makers and give you a perspective you won't find anywhere else. It's everything you need to understand the why behind what happens on Sundays. Don't miss it. Listen to the Move the Sticks podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Colin Cowherd]

Thanks for listening to the Herd podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox Sports Radio and noon to 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific. Find your local station for the [e-mail] or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR.

[J. Mac]

Now let's get this party started.

[Colin Cowherd]

You're listening to Fox Sports Radio. All right, here we go. It is a Friday. We are live in Chicago. It's the Herd. Wherever you may be and however you may be listening, thanks for making us part of your day. J. Mac I thought this was the strangest thing, I know you love the Lakers. JJ Reddick got a contract extension. Happy for him. I like him. I didn't think he had a great playoff series at all, but I did think he had a very good year. I think they, they were very intentional. Offensively, I thought he was an upgrade over Darvin Ham offensively for sure. He had the respect of LeBron James. So I think I, I thought he had a very good rookie year. I thought he had a bad playoff series. But again, you're talking about. Wasn't it Chris Finch? I mean, you're going up against one of the best coaching staffs in the league. So I, I, I didn't get it. I mean, he won. Deserves credit. But they gave him a contract extension, and I thought that was, I thought it was. He just signed. He just signed a contract. It's not like he had a massive market where the entire NBA was, like, knocking down the door to get J.J. redick. But he got an extension yesterday after kind of a. I wouldn't, I don't think even J.J. redick would acknowledge. I think he would acknowledge it was not a good playoff series for him. Remember that weird experiment where he did not. He left his starters in. Was it the entire second half? And they were gassed in the next game and it had never been done before. So he took a big swing, it backfired, and they gave him an extension. Is that not weird?

[J. Mac]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

Come on.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Let's lay off JJ Reddy. He's a good guy. He loves chat GPT, which I use a lot. I'm using a lot for NFL gambling this season. There is unbelievable info there, man. J.J. redick uses it. It's got to be good enough for us, right?

[Colin Cowherd]

I don't know. I, I just thought. Usually how a season ends dictates how ownership and front offices view you. I mean, the NBA regular season, Come on. I mean, they stole Luca in the postseason. You're like, he would admit, kind of a clunker. Like it was kind of a clunker against Minnesota. Took a big swing on a move that had never been done, and the team felt like it was gassed. And I don't know, maybe, maybe it's new ownership. Obviously, they had to give the green light. It tells you they like the new skinny Luca. They. They like Reddick. Because it seems like, my guess on why the Lakers did this, they are doubling down on Luca and JJ Redick being the future, not LeBron. They're saying all the right things. Rob Polinka's like, Oh, I hope he ends his career. Ownership is sending a signal to LeBron. This is JJ Redick and Lucas franchise 100%. They're saying the right stuff on LeBron, but what they're doing is. LeBron. You're our third pitch.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Actions over words.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yep. Yeah. And that's my guess is that new ownership is just doubling down on. Don't think for a second we're not going to send messages. It is a Luca team and I've told you, I think Luka this year ends up averaging over 30 because when he's been in shape, he takes the ball over, he doesn't give it back. And LeBron's going to be watching a lot of basketball on one end of the floor. Not. Not participating. All right. Hey, they didn't have the best week. I got some bad breaks. Undeterred. Here's our blazing five.

[J. Mac]

That's a hot one. Let's blaze it up.

[Colin Cowherd]

Fire it up. It's Collins. Blazing 5. Vikings vs Steelers favor bet on the board. I'm going to take Minnesota -two and a half. I get the better offensive staff, best, better defense. I think right now I don't know why I would like Pittsburgh. Minnesota's 111 of its last 13 regular season games and they've been very good on the road or away from home. I get Carson Wentz, Jordan Addison's back, Jordan Mason, more than capable. Justin Jefferson. I think I get a better offensive line. So I like the offense. And the defense ranks top five in the league. The Steelers offense is a mess. They can't run the ball. They can't protect Aaron Rodgers. This coaching staff can't figure out a run game. I don't know why this line is only minus two and a half. The Steelers under Tomlin have been a good underdog team. They'll play like their hair's on fire. But I think Minnesota 27 to 20 covers here. Better staff, better offense, better defense. I better road team. I'm going to take Minnesota Panthers at Patriots. I'm taking the over 43 and a half. I don't get the number. Listen, the Patriots outplayed the Steelers. They just kept coughing it up. Drake Maine the last two weeks is completing 74% of his throws. The problem for them is they don't have a pass rush. They're allowing the most big plays. So for New England to win, they got to win. They got to score some points and I think they will because Carolina's defense, they don't get to the quarterback either. I mean, they have one Sack through their first three games. So you're going to get a very comfortable Drake May who's going to have time at home to throw. The weather's not an issue. The bad weather's out of town. You have two defenses that don't get after the quarterback and two quarterbacks when they're not pressured who can complete a lot of passes and move the chains. I think it's a. I think we get points in this game. 26, 23 New England wins. Take the over. Bryce Young last week completed 67% of his throwback. If he's got time, he does that. Colts and Rams. I think it's a good spot for the Rams. Sean McVeigh off a disappointing close loss. They come back home. They have the second highest grade by PP PFF of any team in the league. Rams are a really good team that dominated Philly in Philly for a half. Puka and Devonte Adams have been outstanding. The best receiving tandem in the league. And the defense leads the NFL in sacks. So Daniel Jones and he has a good old line is gonna face real pressure. The offense last week for the Colts came back down to earth a little. They were 2 for 8 on third down. They weren't very good and their defense has major holes on the back end. This is not a great Colts defense on the back end. Puka, Tyron Williams, Matt Stafford, McVay at home, I think they look much more comfortable. They beat the Colts 34 to 24. 30. Excuse me, to 24. This is a good spot for the Rams at home against an average beaten up secondary. Take the Rams, Bears it Raiders. I like the Raiders. They're a slight favorite. I like the Raiders. Geno Smith, do you know this leads the NFL in big fast plays? Second in passing yards only behind Justin Herbert. When Geno has time to throw often this year he hasn't. He can sling it and I think it's a great opportunity to get the running game going. The bigger story here is we're concentrating on Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson. But the Bears defense has not been good and they're a terrible road team. One and eight on the road. Last nine games, Caleb has been bad on the road. The Bears have been a bad road team and their defense is allowing 6.7 yards of play. We're not talking about the fact that the Bears defense is struggling. Opposing quarterbacks are completing 75% of their throws against the Chicago Bears. Bad road team. The Raiders come back home trying to establish some offensive dominance up front against the team. I think they'll run the ball on. I do. I think Genti has a breakout game. I'm going to take the Raiders to win it. 27 to 23. Bengals and Broncos. Okay. Broncos are coming off two rough road losses. They lost both games when time expired. Denver's got the much better defense. Denver's got the better head coach. Denver's got tremendous personnel up front defensively. I mean, they have the second best red zone defense. So even when you get down into the red zone, it is hard to get touchdowns out of Denver. They lead the NFL in sacks. They also get their tight end Evan Ingram back. This is big. This is big because Bo Nicks hasn't been great throwing the ball deep this year. They've missed on big play. So Evan Ingram is in that 12 to 14 yard space. Big for Denver's offense. The Bengals worst rushing attack in the league. Putting more pressure on an average quarterback. Jake Browning. They don't do a lot well offensively. You see the screen. I think Denver is an undervalued team with a much better roster against the shaky O line. An excellent pass rush. I think Denver controls the game. Bonix, by the way, not great in September. Last year finally clicks 30, 20. They cover the spread. Take the Denver Broncos. So once again looking at our picks, I like favorites this weekend. Vikings good road team. I think they have the better staff, better weapons, better run game and playing better defensively. Minnesota to cover. Panthers, Patriots I think score points. I'm surprised at the over unders only 43 and a half. The weather's cleared. I think it's a great spot for the Rams to cover. I don't like the Bears on the road. I can't go crazy. Bears are probably the worst road team in the league and I'm going to take Denver. So I will say this. I think the one team in the league that's actually really, really good that hasn't looked like it is the Denver Broncos. So Bo Nix last year was really bad in September. Bo Nicks this year hasn't been good in September. What a coincidence. Drew Brees his worst month as a saint was September. Why? My theory has always been Sean Payton puts a lot on your plate. And in Drew Brees last three or four years in New Orleans, starters don't play in the preseason. Bo Nix didn't take a lot of snaps in the preseason. And Sean Payton puts a lot on your plate. And I think it takes October, November and December for Brees and Bo Nix to get their arms around the playbook. Sean Payton's career record in September. Sean Payton's 530 and 30 the rest of his career in October on is 50 and 17. So Sean Payton and his quarterbacks do not play well in September. Isn't that crazy? Sean Payton an All time coach. 500 in September. Drew Brees average in September. Drew Brees one of the best quarterbacks of all time. So I think as we get closer to the end, you get a very weak defensive personnel in Cincinnati. They can't run the ball third and longs. I think they pop this weekend. And here was Sean Payton on the early struggles of Bo Nixon. Just keep firing. You know he's gonna hit plenty of those. One of the things that's a gift is his off schedule throws. So you, you just want to be careful how much you tell them. And then I think part of it is when you, when you settle into certain plays, there's a rhythm to, you know, the mechanics. Yeah. So I, I, I, I, there are things that are not a coincidence. Sean Payton never been a great September coach which goes against everything. Drew Brees all timer. Worst month was September. Bo. Nick suddenly with Sean Payton really struggles in September. Now you're saying to yourself, well it's still September. I believe this is a great spot. Extra day. You know, they get the extra day of prep. They're at home. High altitude beat up defense for Cincinnati this game. I think they click and they looked apart. I think this is the last really special team in the NFL that hasn't looked special yet. For the record that that Colts game they had won, they re kicked and lost Chargers game. Couple opportunities missed on big opportunities downfield. All right, Dave Wonstadt's around the corner on the Bears, on usc, on the Cowboys. That's next.

[J. Mac]

Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am.

[Colin Cowherd]

Pacific on Fox Sports Radio. FS1 and the iHeartRadio app.

[Covino]

Hey, it's Steve Covino and I'm Rich Davis and together we're Covino and Rich on Fox Sports Radio. You can catch us weekdays from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific on Fox Sports Radio. And of course the iHeartRadio app. Why should you listen to Covino and Rich? We talk about everything. Life, sports, relationships, what's going on in the world. We have a lot of fun talking about the stories behind the stories in the world of sports and pop culture. Stories that, well, other shows don't seem to have the time to discuss and the fact that we've been friends for the last 20 years and still work together. I mean that says something, right? So check us out. We like to get you involved too. Take your phone calls, chop it up as they say. I'd say the most interactive show on Fox Sports Radio, maybe the most interactive show on planet Earth. Be sure to check out Covino and Rich live on Fox Sports radio and the iHeartradio app from 5 to 7pm Eastern, 2 to 4 Pacific. And if you miss any of the live show, just search Ko, Vino and Rich wherever you get your podcast. And of course on social media, that's Covino and rich.

[Commercial Announcer]

The best B2B marketing gets wasted on the wrong people. So when you want to reach the right professionals, use LinkedIn ads LinkedIn has grown to a network of over 1 billion professionals and that's where it stands apart from other ad buys. You can target your buyers by job title, industry role, company seniority, skills, company revenue, all the professionals you need to reach in one place. Stop wasting budget on the wrong audience. Start targeting the right professionals only on LinkedIn ads. Spend $250 on your first campaign on LinkedIn ads and get a free $250 credit for the next one. Just go to LinkedIn.com cowherd that's LinkedIn.com cowherd Terms and conditions apply. The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Sales Event is here. It is packed with great surprises. Choose from a wide selection of low mileage vehicles all backed by Toyota with warranties that begin on the date of purchase.

[Colin Cowherd]

Because when it comes to quality, the.

[Commercial Announcer]

Best new cars make the best used cars. Every certified Toyota undergoes a thorough quality assurance inspection before it even reaches the lot so you can drive away with confidence. With over 7 million sold, there's a certified Toyota for every lifestyle, from efficient commuters to family friendly SUVs. Each vehicle comes with added benefits like roadside assistance and features you expect, including Bluetooth connectivity activity. But hurry. These Great offers end November 3rd. Toyota Certified used Vehicle Sales Event where every surprise is a great one, so.

[Colin Cowherd]

Don'T miss your chance.

[Commercial Announcer]

Find your certified Toyota today. Inventory may vary by dealer, participating dealers only. Comprehensive and powertrain are limited warranties. See tcuv warranty supplementtoyotacertified.com or your Toyota dealer for details. From date of Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Purchase Program available in continental US and Canada. See TCUV Warranty Supplement for details. A compatible Bluetooth enabled phone must be paired. Phone performances depend on software coverage and carrier. The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG Incorporated. Use of such marks by Toyota is Under license see toyota.com for details. Hey, folks, this message brought to you by the one and only official whiskey of the herd with Colin Coward. Green River Whiskey. Now here's a story that'll knock your socks off.

[Colin Cowherd]

Picture this.

[Commercial Announcer]

Founded way back in 1885, Green River Whiskey is OG Kentucky Cool, the 10th oldest distillery in the state. And get this, it was so valuable back in the day that 20 barrels of the good stuff were traded for shares in a gold mine. That's liquid gold, literally. But like any great drama, tragedy struck in 1917 with a fire that almost wiped it off the map. Cue the hero music. It was rebuilt on the same hallowed grounds. Let me tell you, better than ever. So whether you're sipping their single barrel bourbon or a smooth straight rye, know you're raising a glass to history. Folks, here's to Green River Whiskey, where rich flavor meets richer stories. Hop on over to greenriverwhiskey.com, discover a legend in a bottle today.

[Colin Cowherd]

Cheers to that.

[Commercial Announcer]

A product of Green River Distilling Company, Owensboro, Kentucky. Alcohol by volume varies by product. Greenriverwhiskey.com, please drink responsibly.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

Stop settling for weak sound. It's time to level up your game.

[Colin Cowherd]

And bring the boom.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

Hit the town with the ultra durable LG X Boom portable speaker and enjoy. Enjoy vibrant sound wherever you go. Elevate your listening experience to new heights because, let's be real, your music deserves it. The future of sound is now with LG XBoom and for a limited time, save [e-mail] with code Fall25. Bring the boom X boom.

[Colin Cowherd]

Here's coaching pro in college football. Six seasons as the Bears head coach. How did that go here in Chicago? You're still beloved. How'd it go?

[J. Mac]

You know what? When you're winning, there's. There's not a city better. I mean, they're good, you know, you.

[Colin Cowherd]

Got the Dolphins to the playoffs.

[J. Mac]

Yeah, I got the Bears to the playoffs. And no, it's a great sports town. You know, it's a big Pittsburgh, so I can relate to it. Good. You know, I mean, I think that's why they like me. I smoke cigars, I drink wine, and I got a mustache. It's Chicago, it's Pittsburgh. Here we go.

[Colin Cowherd]

So I said, this weekend, I'll. I don't. They're not. They have not been a good road organization. They don't play well on the road. Caleb struggles. It is. There is something that you feel, you can tell the city is so. I mean, I Was on the train yesterday and I heard people talking about it and it was a couple guys talking about the game. They're like, I don't trust them on the road. I don't trust them against the Raiders and the Raiders are not a great team. Do you have a sense? I don't love their defense right now. I think their offense, they've gotten some stuff figured out. I just don't trust them on the road. Do you?

[J. Mac]

I trust him on the road versus the Raiders. I know you don't, but I, you know, a couple things happened last week. Number one, they were against Detroit. We had. There were guys open and Caleb threw the ball 10 yards over their head out of bonds. DJ Moore in this game when there were guys open for big plays, he made the plays. DJ Morris touched on at the end, pressure in his face, down in the red zone. And he did not try to get out. He didn't look at the rush, which some quarterbacks will do. And he did not try to escape, which he loves to do. He stayed in the pocket and hit DJ Moore for a touchdown. That's improvement. And then the third thing, which I love about Ben Johnson, which we saw at Detroit, coach, you know me, I ran Ricky Williams, I think 13 times in a row, one game, you know, so I will run the ball. He had a nine and a half play drive, 19 plays and 11 or more runs. So those three things to me said, you know, Ben Johnson, if you let him run the ball on you, he will. And he had to. I mean, the defense, as you mentioned, they're just so hurt in the secondary. You know, having been at practices watching Dennis Allen, what we saw at the end of that game where the guys were six, seven guys at the line of scrimmage and then they're bailing out and he rushed 4 rush.

[Colin Cowherd]

I thought Dennis Allen liked the blitz.

[J. Mac]

He does. But the secondary, Jalen Johnson's out. Their two best defensive backs are out. Jalen Johnson, Kyler Gordon and then their top sub who might have been a starter. Terrell was. I think it's the kid from Minnesota, second year player. He got hurt, blew his knee out. He's out for the year. So they are banged up in the secondary. You blitz, you're going to play, man. You play, man. And guys can't cover. You give up touchdowns.

[Colin Cowherd]

So I want to go and talk about Sam Darnold because I was always a huge fan, but I didn't think he came into the league. He was 21 years old and I don't think he was on multiple levels. He was not ready to carry a bad franchise. And then he goes to Carolina, that's a worse franchise. But he won in high school. He won at usc. He won at Minnesota. He won it. Seattle. He is tied for the most game winning drives with Mahomes. I always looked at him and I was just like, he's big, he's an athlete. He's got a big arm and like no ego. You get the alpha without the ego. Are you surprised he's had this two year run?

[J. Mac]

No, I think Kevin o' Connell did wonders for him at Minnesota. But I'll go back way back when he was at usc. I was doing the college football then and we were doing a game in the Coliseum, I think they played Texas or somebody. And liner Matt Leiner, SC guy was talking to him after the game. I'm standing there, we were all talking and then Matt, I know had a couple meetings with him and Matt was kind of encouraging. Take another year. And then he went out and had the big game against Penn State in a Rose Bowl.

[Colin Cowherd]

And he got hot.

[J. Mac]

And he got hot. Exactly. And I always looked at draft picks. There's an old philosophy that says talent sets the floor, character sets the ceiling.

[Colin Cowherd]

And he was 21 in New York's a big loud city and he's a small he Oceanside, California. He didn't grow up in la. He grew up in a little beach surfer town down in Southern California.

[J. Mac]

Yes. You didn't listen to what I said. Okay. Talent sets the floor, character sets the ceiling. So his character is outstanding. I mean you listen to him in the post game last night talking on tv. I mean he's talking about the team and the defense, nothing about him. The next win. I think the guy is probably good in the locker room. I bet you the guys enjoy playing with him and have miss a teammate. And he's one of those guys, you want him on your team, he's going to make you better. And the Minnesota thing just gave him a shot of confidence that obviously we saw yesterday.

[Colin Cowherd]

I always thought my comp when he came out was I said it's Andrew Luck, he's not that good. But Andrew could be a little reckless. And I think Sam is one of those guys. Coach, you have to give him a certain structure because he, he can, he can ad lib pretty well. And you probably had quarterbacks like that. I think with Sam we're going to throw 28 times, we're going to run the ball. Seattle likes to run the ball. And I think it Works with him and play defense.

[J. Mac]

And he talked about that. That's the great thing. When a quarterback comes out and says, boy, our defense really played good. And you talked about running the ball. You're right. I mean he fits into that mold. It's not going to be a drop back, you know, Joe Burrow and throw it 50 times.

[Colin Cowherd]

Not what he is.

[J. Mac]

That's not what he is. They know what he is and they really take advantage of it.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, I said I've, I've loved Kyler Murray for years. I've been a huge fan. But there is something that sometimes he feels a little detached. His body language and, and there are certain guys like Baker Mayfield where I honestly think Baker Mayfield is buying beers at halftime. He is just like. Or Lamar Jackson and feels like the soul of the Ravens. I get, I get Mahomes yelling at his teammates or Peyton Manning. Sometimes with him, I feel like he's a little detached. Yeah, he's bad in one score games. He, he has a terrible record coming from behind. And I think late in close games people don't look for talent, they look for guidance, they look for leadership.

[J. Mac]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

If you ran them, would you?

[J. Mac]

I feel that, I mean, I can't get the contract dispute, you know, so many hours in the office, I mean that, that's tough for me to get out of my mind. When I see some things, throw interceptions or something, you wonder just were you prepared enough? You know, I'm sure he is. I always thought that he would be more of a Lamar threat with his legs and running.

[Colin Cowherd]

He doesn't like running much anymore.

[J. Mac]

That's not happening anymore. And his supporting cast, I'm going to give him a little bit of help here now, God bless him. You know, I'm a pit guy. James Connor, pit guy. When he went through his cancer battle, they weren't sure he was going to come back and play at Pitt and how many years has the guy been. But he's been their star running back. They haven't stepped up there. You know, Marvin Harrison Jr. Has been.

[Colin Cowherd]

All over the map.

[J. Mac]

A real slow starter, let's be real. And who else? You know the tight end.

[Colin Cowherd]

I like McBride. I like him.

[J. Mac]

Well, if your tight end, your leading receiver and your go to guy coach, you're not going to score many points in this league, you know, really. And that's, that's kind of where they're at. So I don't think he's had the great supporting cast that some of these other quarterbacks have.

[Colin Cowherd]

Chiefs, Ravens, one of them is going to go one and three. I said a lot of times, coach, I just, I trust my eyes. Great teams usually have a juice like Seattle. Defensively, they're fast and they're Arroyo JSN the receiver like these guys are playing. You can see on the television Darnold's athletic ability. Walker, the running back from Michigan State. You watch Seattle and you're like, they got dudes in their prime. They have a lot of good young players. You watch the Eagles, their power game or you watch Herbert. When I watch Kansas City, I don't see any juice.

[J. Mac]

No, no, no, zero juice. I agree with you. You know, it's surprising because I said this last week, maybe it'll happen this week. That Eagles super bowl when they were behind by 10 at halftime and Mahomes was limping and they came out the second half and what did they do? They ran the ball with Pacheco, remember? And that's how they won the Super Bowl. They ran the football. I was, I thought that that would, Andy Reid would get back to that more. You know, when you got a one receiver not in there for whatever reason wants her to. Kelsey's, you know, up in age a little bit. What's the easiest thing to do to help your quarterback run the ball? And they just haven't really made a big, in my mind, a big commitment to running the football. I think that may help give them a little bit of juice. I don't know. But it's, they're, they're a one sided team right now. A lot like Baltimore. You mentioned Baltimore.

[Colin Cowherd]

They got a great offense and no defense.

[J. Mac]

I don't know what's going on with that defense. They put up their, you know, talent and draft picks and money. I mean these guys should be a top 10, top half in a league, minimum, minimum defense. And it's not happening. But, but at least their offense, they can win the ball. If you, if you just go to the bend. I would probably go to a Ben, but don't break defense because you know your offense is going to score points. I mean those guys talk about talent and playmakers. That Baltimore offense is unbelievable. It really is.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay, you do a ton of college football so you're, you're as good as anybody. This Big Ten building we're sitting in right now, so Oregon, Penn State, that's a long way to travel when you were coaching college football and you had to go into a harsh environment. Remember in the NFL, you know, guys are 27, 28, you got 30 year olds. Some of these kids are 19, 20, 21. In college football, I almost always say take the home team. If they're even. Take the home team. How. How would you. When you went on the road in these big road environments, is there a trick to getting the best from your team?

[J. Mac]

Well, you'd like to have. Yeah. Leadership is going to be the key because you can say what you want as a coach. Right. And you can show them all the movies and read all the books and all that stuff. But when they get out there and the crowd goes, you know, you'd like to have a veteran group on offense. Okay. Because the noise is going to be a factor. Yes. And unfortunately, Oregon's going in there. I mean, coach, when they played Northwestern, 12 guys caught passes, seven of them ran the ball. Two freshmen scored touchdowns. So Dan Lenning, who does a fabulous job, you got a new starting quarterback and you've got these young players at most of the positions because you graduated a lot. You know, he. It's. I think it's going to be a difficult challenge for him. As long as Penn State doesn't give up the big play. As long as they don't give up the. Right now, Penn State's leading the nation in sacks. I'm sorry, I'm sorry. USC was. I'm sorry. Penn State's right behind him, though. Yeah. Penn State starts four seniors on that defensive line. I mean, they are, they are really good. And so they're going to put a lot of pressure physically on this Oregon offense and quarterback.

[Colin Cowherd]

You see how the young guys respond.

[J. Mac]

Yeah. And Drew Allers, you know, here's an interesting point to think about because I kind of went through this a little bit at Miami with Vinnie Testaverde. Okay. Drew Eller, the quarterback from Penn State, he comes back for another year. Where he would have been drafted, who knows? In fact, a lot of those players did. Singleton, Allen, the two running back.

[Colin Cowherd]

No, they're backfield two off two.

[J. Mac]

They got three offensive linemen. Two of them are going to be top five picks. Okay. I'm first, second or third, five runs. My point is I want to see Drew out at our quarterback because he comes back. And now you are expected to take us and win a Big Ten championship. You are take. We're expected to win a national championship and he's playing to be a first round draft pick. That's a lot on that kid's plate.

[Colin Cowherd]

Now, to your point about Oregon, this should be noted. Oregon's road games. Dante Moore is the quarterback for Oregon. Here's the road games. He's Played in his college career. San Diego State, Oregon State, Stanford, Arizona, Northwestern. It's a whole different ball game. Whole different ball with. With the best defensive line he's ever faced.

[J. Mac]

Yes.

[Colin Cowherd]

So it's, it's a, It's a big ask. I want to ask you about usc. You know, everybody think I said this earlier, everybody thinks Lincoln Riley, it just throws the ball. Actually, this SC team, they're a run team.

[J. Mac]

You've seen them coach, they're 55% run, which shocked me until I started doing my prep work. And then I think Joe Clatter, somebody made the comment. When Lincoln Riley was at Oklahoma, they had the. They were number one in the nation in yards per rush. So he has run the football.

[Colin Cowherd]

Oh, he likes to run it.

[J. Mac]

A lot of it might be quarterback, which they can do enough out there at usc. But I'll tell you what, it's kind of interesting because when I was coaching at usc, I went there, they were coming off probation. Not. I wasn't involved in that. That's one I wasn't involved with. Okay, okay. But my point was, two years later, we're playing Ohio State and beat them in a Rose Bowl. You know, so this program, they. They've had a resurgence a lot faster. No one's talking about them.

[Colin Cowherd]

I think their boosters stepped up. Oh, like they're the. Nobody's talking about them right now, but Jen Cohen, the athletic director, they built a $300 million facility, they're paying Lincoln 80 million. And their boosters came in hot. Their defensive line, they went and bought size. They're big.

[J. Mac]

They're the ones that are leading the country in sacks, 16 sacks. And their offensive line are being talked about for the Joe Moore Award, which is, you know, best offensive line, because they got four of the five guys back. These guys have been in the program. I mean, they, they, they've got them at all levels. They really do got a nice football team.

[Colin Cowherd]

So I said this earlier. I always thought the Big Ten was a little top heavy. And I always thought the Pac12 had better quarterbacks, more creative coaching, a little more speed. I think the Pac 12 is exactly what the Big Ten needed. And I also think the Big Ten weather and style forced USC and Oregon to go buy bigger players with the nil.

[J. Mac]

Yeah, I would have.

[Colin Cowherd]

I think the meshing has been perfect.

[J. Mac]

Yeah, it has. Think about last year. Who was the Big Ten champ? Oregon.

[Colin Cowherd]

Oregon.

[J. Mac]

You know, Oregon speed.

[Colin Cowherd]

The speed team.

[J. Mac]

They come in with the speed and they win the Big Ten. There has been a little bit of transition I think with both teams, you know the style play a little bit. You look at the quarterbacks. I mean, the Big Ten's got some great young new quarterbacks coming up. Yeah, it has meshed well. But I think, you know, these fancy uniforms, Penn State's guys are wearing the black shoes.

[Colin Cowherd]

Big Ten's got better tradition.

[J. Mac]

They don't look as fast. Penn State right now, their guys take them out there and put them on a track. They'll run foot for foot with Oregon. You don't think so? You know, you're a West coast guy, but I'm telling you, you don't think they do because they got the fancy uniforms in Penn State got black socks on and shoes, you know, and they.

[Colin Cowherd]

James Franklin can recruit.

[J. Mac]

They can recruit. They got players that can run the.

[Colin Cowherd]

Best backfield in the country is Penn State. Can Washington at Husky Stadium? You've, you've coached there. Can they beat Ohio State, their quarterback? I have had two people, former NFL quarterback and a current NFL exec, said Washington's quarterback will be the best quarterback in this game.

[J. Mac]

Yeah, it's here. Here's the, here's the storyline for this game. Matt Patricia, the defensive coordinator, Ohio State, how I would agree with you, Washington is running for 250. They're throwing for 250 a game, scoring 55 points a game. They are getting it. And their quarterback, everybody says, oh, he's a dual threat. Well, dual threat for. Run for five yards or dual threat to go 90. This guy, he can go 90 yards. Okay. If you don't get him on the ground, this I want to watch is what. How's Matt Patricia going to handle it? Is he going to put Caleb Downs on him? You got to have somebody else watching this guy.

[Colin Cowherd]

You have to have a spy on the Huskies quarterback.

[J. Mac]

Absolutely. Or is he going to use one of the linebackers or drop a lineman? What's he going to do? But they're going to have to come up with a different scheme to deal with the quarterback or he can beat himself.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, but we got great college football weekend. Oh, one of the best Saturdays in a long time. The coach, Dave Wanstadt will have Herd line next.

[J. Mac]

Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific.

[Commercial Announcer]

The best B2B marketing gets wasted on the wrong people. So when you want to reach the right professionals, use LinkedIn ads. LinkedIn has grown to a network of over 1 billion professionals. And that's where it stands apart from other ad buys. You can target your buyers by job title, industry role company seniority skills, company revenue, all the professionals you need to reach in one place. Stop wasting budget on the wrong audience. Start targeting the right professionals only on LinkedIn ads. Spend $250 on your first campaign on LinkedIn ads and get a free $250 credit for the next one. Just go to LinkedIn.com cowherd that's LinkedIn.com cowherd Terms and conditions apply. The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Sales Event is here. It is packed with great surprises. Choose from a wide selection of low mileage vehicles all backed by Toyota, with warranties that begin on the date of purchase.

[Colin Cowherd]

Because when it comes to quality, the.

[Commercial Announcer]

Best new cars make the best used cars. Every certified Toyota undergoes a thorough quality assurance inspection before it even reaches the lot so you can drive away with confidence. With over 7 million sold, there's a certified Toyota for every lifestyle, from efficient commuters to family friendly SUVs. Each vehicle comes with added benefits like roadside assistance and features you expect, including Bluetooth connectivity. But hurry. These Great offers end November 3rd. Toyota Certified used Vehicle Sales Event where every surprise is a great one, so.

[Colin Cowherd]

Don'T miss your chance.

[Commercial Announcer]

Find your certified Toyota today. Inventory may vary by dealer, participating dealers only. Comprehensive and powertrain are limited. Warranties CTCUV warranty supplement ToyotaCertified.com or your Toyota dealer for details from date of Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Purchase Program available in continental US and Canada. See TCUV Warranty Supplement for details. A compatible Bluetooth enabled phone must be paired. Phone performances depend on software coverage and carrier. The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG Inc. Use of such marks by Toyota is Under license. See toyota.com for details. Hey folks, this message brought to you by the one and only official Whiskey of the herd with Colin Coward, Green River Whiskey. Now here's a story that'll knock your socks off.

[Colin Cowherd]

Picture this.

[Commercial Announcer]

Founded way back in 1885, Green River Whiskey is OG Kentucky Cool, the 10th oldest distillery in the state. And get this. It was so valuable back in the day that 20 barrels of the good stuff were traded for shares in a gold mine. That's liquid gold. Literally. But like any great drama, tragedy struck in 1917 with a fire that almost wiped it off the map. Cue the hero music. It was rebuilt on the same hallowed grounds. Let me tell you, better than ever. So whether you're sipping their single barrel bourbon or a smooth straight rye, know you're raising a glass to history. Folks, here's to Green River Whiskey, where rich flavor meets richer stories. Hop on over to greenriverwhisky.com, discover a legend in a bottle today.

[Colin Cowherd]

Cheers to that.

[Commercial Announcer]

A product of Green River Distilling Company, Owensboro, Kentucky. Alcohol by volume varies by product. Greenriverwhiskey.com, please drink responsibly.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

Stop settling for weak sound. It's time to level up your game.

[Colin Cowherd]

And bring the boom.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

Hit the town with the ultra durable LG XBoom portable speaker and enjoy vibrant sound wherever you go. Elevate your listening experience to new heights because let's be real, your music deserves it. The future of sound is now with LG XBoom and for a limited time, save [e-mail] with code first fall 25. Bring the Boom X Boom.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Play the Fox Super Six NFL Challenge. Download the Fox Sports app and enter for a free shot to win your share of $10,000. One of the questions is which player will have the most receiving yards in week four? Puka Nakua Malik neighbors Amon Ra St Brown or Nikki Nico Collins. Who you got?

[Colin Cowherd]

Cowherd Easy Puka Nukua back home with Stafford Colt secondary pretty average. That's an easy one. Take Puka.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

No Devonte Adams well yet. He may. He may play, but we know if he's out, it's gonna be out.

[Colin Cowherd]

You're right.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Heavy dose of Puka.

[Colin Cowherd]

All right, J. Mack with the news.

[J. Mac]

No, no, no. Turn on the news. This is the third line news.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

I'm gonna start with some bad news for the Washington commanders. Dan Quinn has just ruled Jaden Daniels out this week. Colin scary Terry McLaurin out this week and wouldn't you know it, Marcus Mariota will face his old team, the Falcons, who are now favored favored against Washington. Listen, I tried to tell you earlier this week, Falcons were plus three. Then it was two. Then it was one and a half. Now the Falcons are favored at home. Do you want to readjust this the your blazing five?

[Colin Cowherd]

No, I've had no historic success. This is a. This is the number one stay away from it. Game on the board. Texans Titans is another stay away from it. I don't like either of them. I think the bigger issue is Jaden Daniels got banged up last year. Jaden Daniels is bank banged up this year. It was the number one concern coming into the NFL that he was spindly, he was small. Could he withstand the punishment and the hits so you know you're, you're. If, if, if your quarterback's the $10 million chandelier, the insurance policy is the O line so they Got to get good up front because he is all time special but this is now the second injury so I think his knee.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Was banged up on a scramble.

[Colin Cowherd]

Right.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Which is why when I earlier was like why isn't Kyler Murray running? People are like that's why Kyler doesn't want to run. Listen man, I, I don't know what to tell you. Like without Jaden Daniels is a different team. Mariota can he could be like a fifth starter in Major League Baseball, right? Fifth starter will throw you in there once you're fine. But I don't know going back to him if he gets it done this week. I like the Falcons but I like him a lot unfortunately. Next story Colin is Let's go to the undefeated Colts. Wow. That game out here in LA Sunday on Fox is going to be exciting. The last time they met was 2023. The Colts were down 23 in forced overtime before Stafford had a game winning Teddy drive. Shane Steichen was on the sideline for that game and talked about how, just how good Matt Stafford is.

[Lou Amaruno]

I think he's one of the best probably to ever do it and I think there's a, he has a physicality about him. Like he's tough as it gets. I mean you see him taking shots and he gets up and he ain't coming out of the game and that's respect there. He can make all the throws. You know, I think he does a job great, great job of seeing it. I mean like I said, he makes some big plays with his arm and when you got a guy that's done.

[Colin Cowherd]

It at a high level for a.

[Lou Amaruno]

Long time, he's seen a lot of different looks and so getting them in out of the right plays is huge. He's been doing that for a long time.

[Colin Cowherd]

He actually missed. He can be not that he's a streaky, he's a little like an NBA shooter that's always pretty good to good but he can get red hot. He I thought he missed a couple of open opportunities. I also thought Puka dropped one in the end zone that could have sealed the game. So I think that game, you look at that blown loss. The Rams are a better team than the Colts. They have a better defense on all levels. I mean the Rams secondary is not great. The Colts is worse and I, I think this is the spot for the Rams. This is one of my favorite bets of the weekend. I think the Rams, this is a really good spot for them. I think Daniel Jones has been good. There's three weeks of film The Rams defensive front, it's loud. He's on the road. I, I think Daniel Jones pulls back a little.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Is Sofi that loud?

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, I don't know.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

That being said, let, let me ask you this, Colin. So we saw last night, like staff, Sam Darnold will line up in shotgun right on 4th and 1. Kyler Murray's in shotgun. Josh Allen, you can do so many more things out of that roll the pocket. You can't do a lot of that with Stafford. Is his ability to make every throw in the book, does that balance out his lack of running?

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, I mean they, they're, they've got a star back, they've got a productive tight end. Usually they've got two star receivers. And so, I mean, I think, I think in the off season one of the things they did, they, they got Terence Ferguson from Oregon, who hasn't done much. Maybe it's because they're not using as many two tight end sets. My take is, I think their offense is more than good enough to win a Super Bowl. Their defense clearly is dominant. But I mean, again, old school sit in the pocket works. Jared Goff and Matt Stafford won a lot of games last year. I think they're fine. I think, I think old school works if you got a strong run game and good perimeter weapons and the Lions do and the Rams do.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Last one at Colts DC is Lou Amaruno. He is battling the Rams. Remember they faced off in the super bowl final story. Colin is J.J. mcCarthy. You know, as he's waiting watching Carson Wentz step in. Kevin OConnell is declining to address whether or not JJ will start when he's back. Phil Sims broke down. Why he's concerned about J.J. mcCarthy, the second year quarterback.

[Phil Sims]

What really makes me think is just the throwing part of it, you know, I, he's just not throwing the ball well. When he was out there, I mean, it's a lot of work and it seems like unless he gets to throw it as hard as he can throw it, that's the only time he somewhat puts it on target, on time and everything like that. I think they got a lot of work to do if they want to turn him into what they call a franchise quarterback. And he's going to need a lot of work.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I, I think he looks overwhelmed and I thought, I thought Bryce Young early in his career looked overwhelmed. I don't think he looks overwhelmed now. He looks small. I think JJ had one great corner against the bad Bears defense on the back end. But I listen, I was told I Was. I was sent a text in the off season. You were, you were bragging up at the time. You were really bragging up J.J. mcCarthy.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

I was.

[Colin Cowherd]

And somebody in the league texted me and they said, you got to tell your boy, J. Mac, this is a bigger lift than people think. He had lost confidence. He'd been hurt. They needed more reps. So I think JJ McCarthy, this almost feels like, honestly, like his rookie year. Like, it's just he's. He's behind the eight ball. I mean, listen, Aaron Rodgers intimated this week he talked to the Vikings. We know they wanted to resign. Darnold. They like Daniel Jones. Not at the price. So the Vikings. Vikings had concerns about this and they're built to win now. So I think the J.J. mcCarthy thing, I don't think Vikings fans are surprised by it. I mean, when you're in Minnesota and talk radio and the local columnist, this has been discussed. It's not like I'm unveiling new presents on Christmas. Like people have been talking about. He's behind for a year and a half.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

So, you know, listen, I know. I get it. Jason, you're going overboard with McCarthy. You know who else struggled in their first eight quarters in the NFL? It happened last year, and it was your boy Bo Nix, who came in with 50 billion college starts. Colin. Two picks in the opener, two picks in game two. They started zero and two. And everybody's like, Bo Nicks. Game three, no touchdowns, but they beat Tampa. Game four, he threw for 60 yards against the Jets. You remember that Thursday Night Football. Oh, Nick, this guy stinks. He ended the season fine. Let's preach some patience with Mr. McCarthy.

[Colin Cowherd]

But Bo Nix had Sean Payton's unwavering 100% support. The messaging from Minnesota has been, well, he's talented, but, Sam, you want to sign again? I mean, there's been reports, multiple reports, that Kevin o' Connell was interested in other quarterbacks. Sean Payton, to a point of many, would say going overboard. Loves Bonix, loves him. He's my guy. He's gonna be great. Not good. So when you have the full support of an organization publicly, like, like almost overboard, that's what Washington did with Jaden Daniels in his first camp. They're like, oh, yeah, this guy's unbelievable. So Sean Payton, full support Washington, full support Minnesota. A lot of, hey, let's. In fact, there was this quote in the preseason. Can we slow down a little on the. I mean, this is a process. All the messaging has been their concern. J. Mac with the news.

[J. Mac]

Well, that's the news.

[Colin Cowherd]

And thanks for stopping by the Herd lie news. I mean in Denver they got Russell Wilson out of the building. They wanted Bo Nix in the building. In Minnesota they've been bringing other guys in the building. It's like. And they did want to resign Sam Darnold. Sam Darnold right now. Carson Wentz right now. You know I said this last week, Carson Wentz the second right now is better than JJ McCarthy. Doesn't mean he will be in six games or six years but he is now. And when you're going on the road to Dublin, you got you better bring your best team. So NFL schedule here it is. I actually think in both college football and in the NFL it's a favorites weekend. Seattle was the favorite last night. It was a stay away game for me. Minnesota's a favorite. I like him. Philly a favorite. I'm trying to find a dog I like to win outright.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

New York Giants.

[Colin Cowherd]

I mean Jacksonville could be interesting. Okay.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Even if Purdy starts.

[Colin Cowherd]

We don't know if he's going to start.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

It sounds like they're leaning that way.

[Colin Cowherd]

Find me a dog that you like to win outright.

[J. Mac]

Well.

[Colin Cowherd]

I mean the jets may. If Justin Fields plays, the jets may be the best.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Tampa's a 30 undefeated dog with at home with Baker Mason.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay, that's. Yeah, you're right. That's probably the best dog. That's why I stayed away. I think the jets, if Fields plays are live dog in Miami. I don't know.

[Fox Sports Analyst]

I think jets are a dog with fleas. Colin, stay away please.

[Colin Cowherd]

Jacksonville San Francisco is interesting. Are Brock Purdy and Mac Jones splitting snaps?

[Fox Sports Analyst]

Mac Jones is dinged up. It doesn't sound like he's going to go. I wouldn't be shocked if the third stringer was the backup to Purdy. They can't stay healthy.

[Colin Cowherd]

Urban Meyer J Max Picks Hour three.

[Commercial Announcer]

The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Sales event is here. It is packed with great surprises. Choose from a wide selection of low mileage vehicles all backed by Toyota with warranties that begin on the date of purchase.

[Colin Cowherd]

Because when it comes to quality, the.

[Commercial Announcer]

Best new cars make the best used cars. So don't miss your chance. Find your certified Toyota today, but hurry. These Great offers end November 3rd. Toyota Certified used Vehicle Sales event where every surprise is a great one. Inventory may vary by dealer. Participating dealers only. Comprehensive and powertrain are limited warranties. See tcuv warranty supplementtoyotacertified.com or your Toyota dealer for details.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

Stop settling for weak sound. It's time to level up your game.

[Colin Cowherd]

And Bring the Boom.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

Hit the town with The Ultra Durable LG XBoom Portable speaker and enjoy vibrant sound wherever you go. Elevate your listening experience to new heights because, let's be real, your music deserves it. The future of sound is now with LG XBoom and for a limited time, save [e-mail] with code Fall25 Bring the Boom X Boom.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Hey everybody, Daniel Jeremiah here and I'm Bucky Brooks On Move the six we take you inside the game. From breaking down college prospects, prospects and NFL rookies to evaluating team building philosophies, coaching trends, and how front offices construct winning rosters. We study the tape, talk to decision makers, and give you a perspective you won't find anywhere else. It's everything you need to understand the.

[Colin Cowherd]

Why behind what happens on Sundays.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Don't miss it. Listen to the Move the Sticks podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm Marcus Grant. And I'm Michael F. Florio and together we host the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast.

[J. Mac]

Ready to dominate your fantasy league this season?

[Colin Cowherd]

Then you need the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast, your ultimate source for player news, draft tips, and winning strategies.

[J. Mac]

Whether you're a rookie manager or a.

[Colin Cowherd]

Fantasy vet, we've got the insight to help you crush your opponents. Listen to the NFL Fantasy Football podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or.

[J. Mac]

Wherever you get your podcasts.

[Colin Cowherd]

Toyota the official automotive partner of the NFL. Visit toyota.com NFL now to learn more.

[LG XBoom Advertiser]

This is an iHeart podcast.