Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 2 Episode Title: Breaking down rookie QB performances, the Miami Dolphins issues, thoughts on the 2024 QB class, Greg Cosell
Release Date: August 14, 2025
Host/Authors: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosts Devin and Noah delve deep into the current landscape of rookie quarterback (QB) performances, examine the ongoing issues surrounding the Miami Dolphins, explore prospects for the 2024 QB class, and feature insights from renowned NFL analyst Greg Cosell. The discussion is rich with expert analysis, notable quotes, and comprehensive evaluations, making it a must-listen for football enthusiasts.

1. Rookie Quarterback Performances

The episode kicks off with Devin and Noah assessing the performances of several rookie quarterbacks, highlighting their strengths, areas for improvement, and potential impact on their respective teams.

Shador Sanders' Impressive Showing (06:01)

Devin kicks off the discussion by praising Shador Sanders' performance, emphasizing his pocket movement and decision-making under pressure.

Devin (06:01): "I thought he did more good things than bad things. To me, the movement was more critical when it came to pocket movement. That second touchdown he threw, I thought it was a really good example where he moved to his right in reaction to the blitz pressure."

He further commends Sanders' ability to reset his throwing platform, leading to effective plays in critical game moments.

Greg Cosell Joins the Conversation (23:06)

NFL legend Greg Cosell joins Devin and Noah to provide his expert analysis on the rookie QB landscape. His insights add depth to the discussion, particularly regarding quarterbacks like Bo Nix and their development under specific coaching regimes.

Greg Cosell (23:06): "Brock Purdy's talent is no different than it was a year, a year and a half ago. With 99.9% of quarterbacks, those other factors often dictate, you know, how a quarterback plays or certainly how he's perceived."

Cosell underscores the importance of coaching and system design in shaping a quarterback's performance, drawing parallels with established NFL stars and emphasizing that a quarterback's success is not solely based on their innate talent but also on the environment and support they receive.

2. Bo Nix and Coaching Influence

One of the central topics is the performance and potential of Bo Nix, a promising rookie QB whose progress has been closely watched.

Bo Nix's Development Under Lane Kiffin (07:14)

Noah expresses confidence in Bo Nix's abilities, crediting coach Lane Kiffin for his development.

Noah (07:14): "If Jackson Dart can play, I think they're an interesting team. Here's my argument why he should. Three years with Lane Kiffin, 41 college starts in the toughest defensive conference Lane could coach in the NFL today."

Devin agrees, highlighting Nix's impressive throws and arm strength, attributing much of his success to Kiffin's offensive schemes.

Devin (48:19): "Bo Nix showed a lot last year with the kinds of throws that he made. I mean, he made a lot of big time throws between the numbers. He showed more arm strength, quite honestly, than I thought he had coming out of Oregon."

The hosts discuss how Lane Kiffin's system specifically aids Nix in making significant plays, arguing that the success seen in his rookie season is a testament to both his talent and the coaching he's received.

3. Cam Ward's Quarterback Potential

Cam Ward emerges as a focal point in the analysis of the upcoming QB class, with Devin and Noah evaluating his readiness and potential impact.

Evaluating Cam Ward's Skills (09:03)

Noah presents Cam Ward as a quiet yet effective QB with the potential to lead his team effectively.

Noah (09:03): "Cam Ward may be the quietest number one quarterback pick in the last 20 years. Part of that is the Titans are not a big brand. He's a quiet kid. He's really easy to root for, like Lamar Jackson."

Devin adds his observations from training camp, emphasizing Ward's impressive attributes and his proactive approach to improvement.

Devin (09:40): "He is a very impressive kid. And one thing that really stood out to me, just to tell a quick anecdote, when I met him, he said to me, 'Okay, so what do I need to work on?' I thought that was really impressive."

The discussion highlights Ward's technical skills, mental acuity, and the strong support system around him, suggesting he is well-prepared to face the challenges of the NFL.

4. Anticipatory Skills and Quarterback Challenges (13:23)

The conversation shifts to the importance of anticipatory skills in quarterbacks, using Caleb Williams as a case study.

Noah (13:23): "Those who lack expertise lack the expertise they need to recognize that they lack expertise."

Devin explains the complexities of reading the game and processing information quickly, stressing that quarterbacks like Williams need to enhance their ability to anticipate and react swiftly to avoid inconsistencies in high-pressure scenarios.

Devin (15:10): "He's not seeing that particularly clearly at all. So throws that are there where the ball should be released, he's just not seeing it the right way."

The hosts debate whether these skills are inherently fixable or if they represent a significant hurdle for certain quarterbacks, concluding that continuous development and coaching will be crucial.

5. Analysis of Patrick Mahomes' Performance (15:40)

Devin and Noah examine the performance dip observed in star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, analyzing possible causes and implications.

Devin (17:41): "Every year, and I've had this conversation with people in Kansas City, every year he does go through that where he starts to lose his mechanics because that's sort of the way he naturally plays."

The discussion points to factors such as offensive line issues and confidence lapses as contributors to Mahomes' temporary regression, emphasizing that these are not indicative of a decline in his overall talent but rather situational challenges he faces.

6. J.J. McCarthy's Readiness for the NFL (18:48)

The hosts evaluate J.J. McCarthy's transition from college to the NFL, contemplating his preparedness and the support system around him.

Devin (20:26): "He's got a good arm, plus mobility, he's a good sized kid. So there are traits that are there."

Noah adds that while McCarthy possesses the physical attributes necessary, his success will largely depend on his ability to handle in-game pressure and the effectiveness of the revamped offensive line.

Noah (21:54): "He may have the best defensive coordinator in the sport. So before the season starts, he got the keys to a really nice car. He's not going to have to win by shootout."

The consensus is that McCarthy has the potential to perform well, provided the team dynamics and coaching continue to support his development.

7. Characteristics of Successful Young QBs (32:05)

A broader analysis is conducted on the intangible qualities that define successful young quarterbacks in the modern NFL.

Noah (32:05): "Football focused and humble – these are the two qualities you've got to check. You gotta get buy-in from coaches and players."

The discussion highlights the importance of humility and obsession with the game, drawing parallels between current young quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Jalen Hurts, and contrasting them with personalities from the past who may have exhibited more bravado but less effectiveness.

Noah (38:18): "There's almost two qualities you see with all of these young men – they're not always the biggest, but they're football focused and humble."

Devin reinforces these points, suggesting that these traits are essential for team cohesion and long-term success.

8. NFL Team Valuations and Market Analysis (39:53)

Shifting from individual performances, the hosts delve into the perplexing world of NFL team valuations, questioning the rankings provided by Sportico compared to their market realities.

Noah (39:53): "I can charge six times as much in Minneapolis, you know, or Atlanta as I could maybe a Carolina. Although Carolina is a banking hub."

The conversation critiques the current valuations, particularly focusing on teams like the Miami Dolphins and Minnesota Vikings, questioning why certain teams are undervalued despite strong corporate support and market potential.

Noah (51:08): "Minnesota can go to its corporations and sell tens of thousands of tickets and suites. You're not doing that in Tampa."

The hosts express confusion over why market fundamentals do not always align with valuation rankings, suggesting that factors like local economy, corporate presence, and fan engagement metrics should play a more significant role in assessing a team's worth.

9. Final Thoughts and Predictions (50:12 onward)

As the episode wraps up, Devin and Noah share their predictions for the future of the QB class and the potential breakout players who could solidify their positions as franchise quarterbacks.

Noah (50:12): "Caleb Williams can play a five for five or a six for six class. Cam Ward's going to work."

The hosts remain optimistic about the depth of talent entering the NFL, foreseeing a robust lineup of quarterbacks who can lead their teams effectively, provided they receive the necessary support and coaching.

Notable Quotes

• Devin (06:01): "He did more good things than bad things... that's something he'll have to improve if he's to become a quality NFL starting quarterback."
• Noah (07:14): "If Jackson Dart can play, I think they're an interesting team."
• Devin (09:40): "He said to me, 'Okay, so what do I need to work on?' I thought that was really impressive."
• Noah (13:23): "Those who lack expertise lack the expertise they need to recognize that they lack expertise."
• Devin (15:10): "He's not seeing that particularly clearly at all."
• Noah (32:05): "Football focused and humble – these are the two qualities you've got to check."
• Noah (39:53): "Minnesota can go to its corporations and sell tens of thousands of tickets and suites."

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of rookie quarterbacks, the dynamics within specific NFL teams like the Miami Dolphins, and the broader implications for the 2024 QB class. With expert insights from Greg Cosell and in-depth discussions between Devin and Noah, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing quarterback performance and team valuations. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of the NFL.

Listen to the full episode on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.