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Greg Cosell
This is an iHeart podcast.
Colin Cowherd
Fourth quarter, one point game. But the real action is at the snack table because you didn't just mash avocados, you swirled in Philadelphia cream cheese for a guac dip. So creamy, so unexpected. It's drawing double coverage. The real MVP of game day. So good it's in the bowl shaped like a sombrero. You don't follow a recipe, you Philly it whenever you Philly like it. Philadelphia cream Cheese. If you're going to go to the moon and need a specialized airless wheel for the next gen lunar rover, who'd you turn to? Well, the powers that be turned to Michelin, and for good reason. Not only are they the tire people, they're also the innovation people. You wouldn't believe everything they're into. Healthcare, energy. Yeah, aerospace. This rover wheel has to deal with temperature swings, radiation, and rough terrain on the moon. So going to the tire innovation guys makes sense, you know. Learn more@michelinman.com y michelinnovation Michelin Motion for Life Today's episode is brought to you by Toyota. The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Sales event is full of great surprises, like a wide selection of low mileage models, all backed by Toyota with warranties that start on the date of purchase. Because when it comes to quality, the 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 Vehicles 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 supplement ToyotaCertified.com or your Toyota dealer for details. Hey, this is Matt Jones and I'm Drew Franklin, and this is NFL Cover Zero. We're just here to try to give you an NFL perspective a little bit different. Did you see the Colts pretzel? That was my other big takeaway from that game. What was that? Oh, my. We think NFL coverage should be informative and entertaining. And twice a week, that is exactly what you're gonna get. Listen to NFL Cover Zero with Matt Jones and Drew Franklin on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. 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 herd@foxsportsradio.com or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR. Now let's get this party started. You're listening to Fox Sports Radio. Oh, here we go. It's hour two. It's a Thursday. NFL season opens tonight, baby. We are live. It is the Herd. J. Mac, Greg Cosell will be joining us in less than five minutes. So J. Mac, I make my final predictions on the opening Thursday. I've got one change, a new division winner and I'll explain why. But over the course of the off season, I make a prediction after coaching hires in free agency, then after the draft, then I get one kind of in the middle of preseason and then hear this one. Are you ready to go? Fire away. Okay, we start. Here's my predictions for this year. We start in the afc, an easier conference to predict because the top quarterbacks are so good. In the AFC East, I'm going Josh Allen and the Bills Patriots most improved team get in as a wild card team. Maybe not good enough to win a playoff game, but coach and roster is much better. Dolphins third. I'm going with that just because of Tua and an offensive coach. I think the jets roster is good. I don't know what Aaron Glenn is. They just lost their best or second best offensive lineman. I'm staying put with that one. AFC north again, I think it's fairly predictable. Ravens arguably best operation in the sport with Lamar. I'll go with the quarterback and Joe Burrow next. Although like J. Mack, I worry about how they start in their offensive line. Aaron and the Steelers will be around.500 or a game above or below and the Browns are in a rebuild. I love their coach and gm. I like Joe Flacco. Miles Garrett's amazing, but they're fourth. AFC South. I'm just going to go with what I know. Demico Ryan's hell of a coach and I like C.J. stroud. Rebuilding the O line worries me. C.J. stroud's a gamer. Stepped back a little last year, but it wasn't his fault he couldn't keep wide receivers healthy. Jaguar second I'm like J. Mac. I like him, but I never love him. Titans third. Colts don't know what quarterback they're going to use. That scary. They're fourth. Well, they do know what quarterback and it's not a great one. AFC West I think it's very difficult. I think you have four really good teams. I think the Broncos have the best roster. Kansas City, Reading Mahomes once again, I don't know a rookie. Left tackle Joe Tooney's gone. Worries me. Also wide receiving core. No Rasheed Rice, Travis Kelsey getting old. I think the Broncos will look very clearly early in the season like a Super bowl contender. Chargers lose Losing Rashawn Slater, the left tackle worries me greatly. Joe Alt moves over, but now they've got a right tackle issue and the Raiders will be the best, best 4th place team in the division. So Bills, Ravens, Texans, Broncos are the division winners. Patriots, Bingles, Chiefs are wild card teams. New England Bengals are both new playoff teams. NFC again I think it's pretty static. Eagles, Commanders, Giants, Cowboys I actually have said this. If the if the Giants get B to B plus quarterback play, they're going to shock some people. They're going to, they're going to go toe to toe with Washington, but I don't know if Jackson Dart's ready if Russell Wilson falters. But I do like the Giants roster. I love Abdul Carter and their defensive front. It's nothing but dogs up front. I think in the NFC north again, I'm just going to kind of roll with the quietest off season. The Green Bay packers. Young still, but I like their first pick, another wide receiver for Jordan. Love Lions have two new coordinators, but I love almost everything else about the organization. Bears, Vikings all know a lot more after Monday night. 3rd and 4th respectively. NFC south is not a very good division. The Saints will stink. I'm not sure the Bucks are as good as a lot of the NFL execs and betters think. But I trust Baker, I trust the gm, I trust the roster. Atlanta is weird. I've spent more money on the Falcons losing bets. I don't know what Atlanta is. Just wait till Thanksgiving. Panthers are better than people think. I'll put them third. Saints 4th NFC West here's my big change. Rams. I'm going to have them winning the division again. Bottom line is they won the division last year despite starting one and four. They still won their division. No team played more rookies last year and their defense the last month of the season was second best. With all those rookies. It was second best scoring defense in the NFL last month. It'll be better. It's had a great camp. Seattle the reason I moved them from first to second. They have the cheapest offense in the NFL. They don't have a number one receiver. Gray Zabel is a potential impact offensive lineman, but their own line last year stunk so I don't think they have the firepower again. I think Seahawks could win nine games, I think the Niners could win nine and Seahawks win the tiebreaker. I don't think there's a Big gap in this division between the Rams, Seahawks, Niners and Cardinals. I don't. If The Cardinals won eight and the Rams won 10, that could be the difference. I only have one new team making the playoffs in the NFC, it's the Seahawks. I only have three new playoff teams. The NFL average is closer to five. But I have argued that number has been going down in recent years. Why? Because it's becoming a more quarterback dependent league. And if you've got a great quarterback or a very good one, you are more predictably a playoff team. So it used to be there were six new playoff teams, then five new playoff teams. It's getting down to four and I think this year it's three. So as the quarterback becomes more important and offensive coaches have a better relationship with that quarterback, the league is getting at least not on a week to week basis, but on a macro level, a little easier to predict. And with that, Greg Cosell, 46 years NFL Films all right, let's start. Tonight's the big one, Philadelphia and Dallas.
Greg Cosell
Sure.
Colin Cowherd
Okay. Brian Schottenheimer's offense, you've seen a lot of it in your 46 years, especially the last 15 years. Does it match with Dak Prescott's skill set?
Greg Cosell
Well, I think they're going to have to have some kind of meaningful, viable, sustaining run game. You know, I spent earlier this week watching literally all of Dak Prescott's throws from last year before he got hurt. And I was kind of disappointed. There's something wrong with his lower body, Colin, you know, and this was before he got hurt. He was very tight hipped, he was very heavy footed. He threw the ball much better to his left than to his right. He really, he was lifting his feet off the ground, making a lot of throws. He did not look very good last year. Now with Pickens there, they have a true boundary X receiver, that single receiver to the short side of the field, which allows CD Lamb, who's a terrific player, to be what he's best at, which is kind of a movement motion receiver that can line up in multiple positions. But you know, I don't know. I think their defense has some significant questions versus this Eagles offense which is really, really efficient. It would not surprise me at all tonight if you saw the Eagles come out, no huddle, tempo and throw the football because there's a lot of changes on that Cowboys defense, including the decoordinator.
Colin Cowherd
So I want to ask you about Philly last year. Eagles 36 plus carries per game. After the buy they ran more and threw less. You said you think they'll run? I think their personnel, I think they could do anything. I mean, I like their tight ends. I like everything does their personnel. When you watch Jalen Hurts, they as a staff on the bye week said we're going to run more, throw less. You probably agree with that decision.
Greg Cosell
I mean, I think it fits who they are and what they are. They've got the best O line in the league. They have basically the same offense back. The only true change is at right guard where Steen played meaningful snaps last year anyway, so they've got the same group back. They are a run first football team. I think the fact that they are so good on fourth down and they go for it on fourth down, literally when they get to the 50 yard line, they go for it. If it's fourth and fourth or less, I think that impacts what they do on third down, which is run the ball more than any team in the league on third down between four and eight yards, that really impacts the way defenses have to play them. And I think that within the context of how they play offense, Jalen Hurts is highly efficient. You know, they do not turn the football over and hurts. The running element that hurts springs both by design within the context of their run game and as a scrambler is, you cannot overlook that that is so much a part of their offense and who they are. They're very, very difficult to defend.
Colin Cowherd
So I want to go to another game this weekend. It may be the marquee game. Baltimore and Buffalo. I think Baltimore's got the second best roster in the league. That's just what my eyes tell me. After Philadelphia, we always think of Baltimore. Well, they're run heavy. It's Derrick Henry, it's Lamar. But I think we would both admit Lamar's gotten better in the pocket. But do you think, especially when they go on, you know, when they play Buffalo and these big teams, they've gotten a little. They've gotten a little tight at times with Kansas City. Do you think the essence of the Ravens is like the Eagles, they are a run team first or do you feel differently about. Because really, if you took a. Baltimore and Philadelphia have a lot in common. But do you see a lot of things in common?
Greg Cosell
You know, it's funny, I watched a lot of Lamar this summer and I thought that their offense, he threw the ball well. I thought Monkin did a really good job with their route concepts and combinations to present really clean throws for Lamar. You know, they played in the divisional playoffs last year, these two teams, and it was a Very odd game. As you may remember, Josh Allen threw for less than 130 yards. And in that game, the Bills dominated on the ground. They controlled the game running the football, which you would not expect against the Ravens defense, which is very. And actually what we saw a lot in that game was the Bills be very aggressive with pressure against the Ravens offense. Usually games don't work out exactly the same way when teams meet so close together like that. But the Ravens, I mean, they're a really good football team, you know. You know, people get wrapped up in who makes the super bowl, and obviously they haven't. And they haven't won an AFC championship game, obviously, but there's. It's not a team with many weaknesses at all.
Colin Cowherd
You know, last year Josh Allen only completed about 63% of his throws, which was 24th in the league. I don't. It doesn't. I've always said the line's like 62%. He also adds a dynamic physically, so I don't worry a ton about it. And now he has James Cook. But, but let me ask you, when you look at that number, for all his talent, was it mechanics, footwork, or was it just lack of dependable receiving targets?
Greg Cosell
Well, I think the one thing they were lacking last year, which they're hoping they rectified this year with the development of Keon Coleman and Josh Palmer now being there, coming over from the Chargers, is they really didn't have one on one winners last year. And I think that that impacts a quarterback, obviously, because when you get man coverage, you know, I remember having this conversation years ago with Troy Aikman and he said, when it's one on one on the outside, your receivers have to win. And they did not really have that guy. Shakir is an excellent slot receiver. That's who he is. He's very good at it. But he can't really be your number one weapon over the course of a season. They just didn't really have receivers on the edge who could win one on one. And that absolutely impacts your quarterback. So I don't think that completion percentage number is really indicative of anything truly important about Josh Allen.
Colin Cowherd
Let's. Yeah, let's talk Green Bay, Detroit. So I think I certainly felt this way. I loved all their young receivers and tight ends, but then they go in the first round and they go after a wide receiver, a kid from Texas I like. So my take was, oh, what is that telling me? They may not like their receiving core as much when. And I maybe I overvalued all their young Guys, Christian Watson can't stay healthy, but I like their tight ends. I really like their running back. What did it tell you when they drafted a wide receiver? Am I overvaluing all their young receiving talent?
Greg Cosell
You know what, Colin? It could be that they had golden rated as a top 10 player on their board, and when he was there at whatever number they drafted, they said, we have to stick to our board. See, that's the stuff we don't know. We start reading into all this. I personally really like Matthew Golden's tape coming out of Texas. I thought he was an ascending player as the year progressed. In college, when I did him for the draft, I really, really liked him. The other player in that offense that I think really is a player to watch this year is the tight end, Kraft. Kraft is a really good player. He's pretty athletic. I mean, we're not. We don't necessarily mention him when we talk about the highly athletic tight ends in the league, but he's pretty close to that. They're a pretty good offensive team. Love is. I watched a lot of love as well this summer. You know, I still think at times his lower body mechanics can cause him some problems, but there's no question this kid can play off his back foot and drive the ball both in the middle of the field and outside the numbers. I like the fact that he's an aggressive thrower. They'll be really interesting because of their defense as well. Now we know they have Micah Parsons. Last year they had one of the highest stunt percentages with their defensive line of any team in the league. And now that they have Micah Parsons and another year with linebacker Edgar and Cooper, another player to watch. He was a great pass rusher as a blitzer at Texas A and M, and he sort of had to get his feet wet last year as a rookie. This could be a really intriguing defense as well.
Colin Cowherd
Okay, so the Lions go out and replace both coordinators. Philadelphia did that a few years ago, and by week 10 or 11, they were a mess. I. I am not a huge fan of replacing a star coordinator with somebody in the building. I think you have to make a global search. Right. Go. Go everywhere. They didn't. They were comfortable in the building.
Greg Cosell
No.
Colin Cowherd
When you watch Ben Johnson's wizardry last year, was it more about personnel or his play calling? Because it felt like, to me, in big spots, he was really top of the class.
Greg Cosell
Yeah, I find play calling to be something that's very difficult to talk about because I always feel like you'd have to be in the building all week to understand how they go about putting a game plan together. To me, when I watch that offense and Ben Johnson, to me what stands out is just the spacing of the route concepts, how it really beautifully defines the reads for the quarterback because the spacing is so good. I mean, football is still a game because we don't think of it. Unlike let's say basketball or hockey, where you can see the whole field basically, or all the ice, you can't see the entire football field. But it's still a game that's played and can confined space and therefore spacing and balance. You hear floor balance in basketball all the time. But that's critical for the passing game, particularly against zone coverage. And that's where I thought Ben Johnson was an absolute master. Now, I would imagine conceptually they're not going to change very much at all. Goff understands that offense exceptionally well. And there may be no quarterback better in football at throwing between the numbers at the intermediate level. So now it comes down to how the new coordinator calls a game. And that's impossible to know the. Until we see it. And even then we might not know because we're not there.
Colin Cowherd
I want to ask you a question. So Kansas City and the Chargers play overseas and if you. We all know how great Andy Reid is and Patrick Mahomes is and we know how good Joe Tuney was. And this team averaged 22 points the last two seasons. That's what they average with Andy Reid and Mahomes. And that leads me to believe this personnel is being elevated and it's not very good. Now, I would say they have drafted the defensive side brilliantly. They have missed like every team in the league. They've missed on wide receivers. But if you would have told me Reed and Mahomes and Travis Kelsey, Joe Tuney Average 22 points the last two years, I'd be like, what is wrong? My take is the left tackle and the receiving core. It feels like they're bailing water. What does the film say about the chief's personnel?
Greg Cosell
Well, they were very condensed as a pass game. We know Mahomes can make special plays at any point in the game. He's just a special player with maybe the best sense of spatial awareness of any quarterback we've ever seen. But their left tackle position, which is now a rookie, Josh Simmons from Ohio State. Their left guard is Sua Matea, who's not really played left guard. He was a tackle in college. And the Chargers last year caused some problems for them with their defense. I watched Both of those games, the first game they played a ton of zone because they did not have Derwin James and they caused problems. The second game they had Derwin James and played far more man because James can match up to Travis Kelce. But I would expect in this matchup they will test the left tackle and the left guard. There'll be a lot of stunt concepts. They'll put Khalil Mack on the left tackle. I mean, this is, this is an interesting matchup as far as the pass rush versus this offensive line.
Colin Cowherd
All right, Drake, Maine, New England, I think is going to be a wild card team. I think coaching upgrade 300 million in free agency and I just think Vrabel's better with personnel than Belichick was in his last six or seven years. I think they've, I think they've updated, upgraded virtually everything. What did you see? Give me something about Drake May that you really found promising Greg on film and then something that he absolutely has to work on.
Greg Cosell
I would say two things that I really noticed on film and studying him this summer was just innate toughness in the pocket. And I don't think you can teach that. I think the guys that are willing to stand and deliver when there's people around them and they know they're going to get hit. I'm not sure you can teach that. He's got that. The other thing I'm not sure that you can teach players is just a natural willingness to throw the ball into tight windows. They see those throws as viable throws and Drake May sees those throws as viable throws. The one thing I'd love to see him get a little better at is just, I thought his ball placement was at times a little erratic. Yeah, I wouldn't call him scattershot, but I thought that there were a few too many layups that he missed that he cannot miss at this level.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, yeah, it's, it's, it's such a, you know, the NFL so funny. You can do so many things wrong. But if you find a good young quarterback, it raises a lot of trouble. You know, it's like if Drake May can play like you and I think he can, they don't need to have a great receiving core. I mean, I, it's just, I mean it's just, it's so interesting in this league. I was talking about my predictions. The league has become such a quarterback dependent league. But I also, I was watching the other day, there was a list of the top offensive minds. I think the offensive coaching in my opinion throughout the league. I Think there are more smart young offensive coaches that I've ever seen. Does the film belie that? Does. Does your film think the concepts are better and smarter?
Greg Cosell
Well, here's how I'd answer that. I think that the really good. There's very few quarterbacks, even the ones we think are great, because I talk to coaches that have no flaws in their game at all. There's very few guys like that. So I think what really good offensive coaches do, besides being able to scheme well designed plays, is understand the strengths of their quarterback and how to minimize the limitations or flaws. And I think that's absolutely critical for coaches because as I said, if you speak to coaches, no coach will tell you, oh, this guy's perfect. He's got no flaws in his game. No coach talks like that. And I think that's the absolute key to getting the most, not only out of your quarterback, Colin, but out of your team. I think the Eagles are maybe the best example of that. I mean, I watched their tape this summer and I thought the way they ran their offense, allowing Jalen hurts to do what he does absolutely, really well and play to high level efficiency, was a phenomenal coaching job. Playing to the strengths of the quarterback and the overall offense and the overall team. And I think that's one reason they're so good.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah. Well, I hope you're as fired up as we are, and I know you are. 46 years. NFL Films. Can't wait for tonight. Greg, as always, great seeing you.
Greg Cosell
Thanks, Colin. Appreciate it.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, it's. I just. Football is just different. I have a smile on my face perpetually from like Labor Day until February 20th. Well, maybe that's just because I'm working with you. Oh, wow.
J. Mac
Wow. Oh, my goodness.
Colin Cowherd
Oh, yeah, I know. Listen, this is the optimistic, nice column. You know, it depends on the night. Tonight I am home, bed early, breaking down tape. This is this big night.
J. Mac
That's the beauty of being out here in California. You could be to bed at like.
Colin Cowherd
9 o' clock and watch the entire game. There you go. That's nice. One more herd. The herd streams 24 hours a day, seven days a week within the iHeartRadio app search herd to listen live or.
J. Mac
On demand whenever you'd like.
Colin Cowherd
Hey, it's Ben, host of the fifth hour with Ben Maller. Would mean a lot to have you join us on our weekly auditory journey. You're asking what in God's name is the third fifth hour? I'll tell you, it's a spin off of the Ben Mather show, a Cult hit overnights on fsr. Why should you listen?
Greg Cosell
Picture, if you will, a world where we chat with captains of industry in.
Colin Cowherd
Media, sports and more every week. Explore some amazing facts about human nature and more. Listen to the fifth hour with Ben.
Greg Cosell
Mather on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast.
Colin Cowherd
Or wherever you get your podcasts. You probably think of Michelin as a tire company. And I mean it is, but it's really an innovation company and that's why their tires are as good as they are. It started in the 1800s making brake pads for horse drawn carriages. Seriously. Later, Michelin basically invented the modern tire with the first steel belted design. That innovation has never slowed. In fact, it's only accelerated. These days though, it's Michelin in motion vision. The company is expanding into healthcare, energy and even aerospace. Seriously. For instance, they're developing an airless wheel for lunar exploration. It's gotta deal with vast temperature swings, radiation and rough terrain on the moon and maybe one day on Mars. I mean, this is more than just some sort of vanity project. It showcases Michelin's broader shift from tire manufacturing to high tech durable mobility solutions. It's about the exact same thing that led to those horse drawn carriage brake pads well over a hundred years ago. It's about innovation. Learn more at michelinman.com y-michelinnovation Michelin Motion for Life I want to talk about your home security for a minute. I used to think home security just was an alarm. Maybe goes off after a break in, scaring off the intruder, getting the neighbor's attention if you're lucky. But that's a reactive approach. By the time an intruder's in your home, it's too late. Your feeling of safety is shattered. Trust SimpliSafe. The system is designed to be proactive, not reactive. Setting up my Simplisafe system was very simple and seamless, taking less than an hour. The system itself is easy to use and fits are specific household needs. They use smart AI powered cameras identifying threats lurking outside your home and immediately alert SimpliSafe's professional monitoring agents. These agents intervene in real time before the break in even begins. They access two way audio to confront the person, trigger sirens, spotlights to scare them off and request rapid police dispatch. That's real security. Join the more than 4 million Americans who trust Simply Safe, including me. 60 day money back guarantee and no long term contracts. Visit SimpliSafe.com herd to claim 50% off a new system. SimpliSafe.com herd H E R D There's no safe like Simplisafe. Today's episode is brought to you by Toyota. The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Sales Event is here 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. Every certified Toyota undergoes a thorough quality assurance inspection before it ever 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. Inventory may vary by dealer, participating dealers only, comprehensive and powertrain or limited warranties. See TCUV warranty supplement, toyota certified.com or your Toyota dealer for details. From date of Toyota Certified Used Vehicle or TCUV purchase program available in continental US and Canada. See TCUV Warranty Supplement for details. A compatible Bluetooth enabled phone must be paired. Phone performance depends 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 more details. Hey, this is Matt Jones. I'm Drew Franklin and this is NFL Cover Zero.
Greg Cosell
We think NFL coverage should be informative.
Colin Cowherd
And entertaining and twice a week that is exactly what you're going to get. We're just here to try to give you an NFL perspective a little bit different. Did you see the Colts pretzel? That was my other big takeaway from that. What was that? Looks like something that should not be sold. Oh my. So that was my other big Colts.
Greg Cosell
They sold that? Yes.
Colin Cowherd
Might want to go back to the Colts stadium. Yeah, I want to go back to the drawing board on that. Yeah, I thought the shape we had with pretzels was working pretty well for generations. We're just here trying to enjoy it. We hope you all will join us throughout the year. And let's go. I hope I'm as youthful as Pete Carroll is at his age. He's a young 73. He is a young 73. He is spry. I wouldn't fight him. I would listen NFL Cover Zero with Matt Jones and Drew Franklin on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast. We got a lot of things going on today. Week one NFL begins after a dynamic college football weekend in which Texas and Ohio State Highest rated week one game. Was it ever. 17 million people topped at 18 and a half million. That's like a national championship rating from a couple years ago. That is. That is big boy TV ratings. J. Mac with the news. No, no, no. Turn on the news.
J. Mac
This is the Herd line news. You know, we touched on this game earlier. Bengals, Browns. There's some sharp money coming in on Cleveland, Colin. I kind of like them getting points at home. And as we talked about, the Bengals have started each of the last three seasons. 02. Joe Burrow and Zach Taylor have really struggled the first couple weeks, the last few seasons. Burrow's aware of that and he's ready for some fireworks in Cleveland.
Colin Cowherd
The narrative surrounding our team has shifted.
Greg Cosell
I'm not sure I would say most prove.
Colin Cowherd
I would say that we certainly.
Greg Cosell
Are.
Colin Cowherd
Trying to go out and win as.
Greg Cosell
Much as we can.
Colin Cowherd
We're putting in a lot of work for it.
J. Mac
It's. It's not a narrative, Joe. Like you're not winning in the first couple games. Like you look at the numbers.
Colin Cowherd
Well, it does. I mean, there's a couple of things in Cincinnati that don't make sense most of the time. Great quarterbacks with great offensive coaches. And we can't label Zach Taylor that.
J. Mac
Thank you.
Colin Cowherd
But great quarterbacks with competent offensive coaches. He did get to a Super bowl start well. They don't always end well, but they're a little ahead of schedule. Burrow, I mean, Mahomes and Allen and Lamar and Stafford and Goff and C.J. stroud. Like we. We tend to think Jalen hurts. Start quickly. Why does Joe Burrow. I. I think some of it is he's never had a fully healthy camp maybe once in four years. I think some of its health. And I don't think you like Zach Taylor. I think Zach Taylor's more than competent. I don't categorize him as special. I will always defend Zach Taylor and Joe Burrow because this is the smallest or second smallest scouting department in the league. And Cincinnati is an antiquated business in a great league.
J. Mac
So, Colin, if you came out for the opening rant tomorrow and you're fumbling your words and getting stuff wrong and it was just choppy for 10 minutes, you didn't prepare well.
Colin Cowherd
Right.
J. Mac
That's safe to say you were ill prepared. So how would you describe the Bengals the last three years? The first two weeks of the season, they came out couldn't block. No. Nobody was connecting. The defense is getting shredded. You. You noted they lost to the Patriots last year. Okay. Jarod Mayo got fired. The Patriots were awful. Like, it's it's lack of preparation. I don't know that I trust Zach Taylor to draw up fantasy football plays for my daughter's flag football league. Honestly, I just, I have not seen it. I know he went to a Super bowl, we got a big Bengals fan on staff. But show me the proof that Zach.
Colin Cowherd
Taylor's I don't know. I think some of this is we overvalue Cincinnati because we love three of their players and they all high profile pass rusher, quarterback Jamar Chase and so we just think, you know, they're really good. I don't think they have very good old line. I don't think they have the back end of their defense has been weak. I just don't think their roster is very good. And I think that's the scouting department. They don't make big moves. They don't. They're. They're the opposite of the Eagles. They do not take risk. They do not draft consistently well. But when you have a star quarterback, a star receiver and a star edge rusher, there's a sense that man, they, they got good players. They have three great players. But the drop off from those three to the, the next eight to ten best players I think is greater than anybody else in the leagues. Drop off from their top three players to their next seven or eight.
J. Mac
So they did fire their defensive coordinator. He's out. And now Al Golden's the guy.
Colin Cowherd
By the way, they love that DC two years ago. Now they don't like him. Maybe it's the personnel it could be.
J. Mac
We'll see. Listen, Joe Flacco, we know he's immobile in the pocket. We know the Steelers and the and the Ravens are going to get after him. Are the Bengals, can they get to him? I don't know. We have to see something different because whatever they've done the last few years, not working early in the season. Colin and I don't mean to be harsh to the Bengals, I know they're going to come after me, but next up, let's go to the Patriots. The Mike Vrabel era kicks off against the Raiders. This is a spicy game.
Colin Cowherd
Ashton Genty, I cannot wait to watch him.
J. Mac
Well, Vrabel's a good coach, but overvaluing him. So one of his big hires was bringing back Josh McDaniels as his OC and former Patriot Brian Hoyer now podcasting will have a huge impact on Drake May's development.
Colin Cowherd
Josh is going to give you as much information as he can. Hey, remember on this play we're thinking if it's man, we're here. If it's zone, we're here. Or hey, remember, if the front changes, we got an alert out of this. He's giving constant information and the amount of benefit that Drake will have before the ball is snapped on every single play because of not only the game plan going into it, but the information that's being repeated to him before the ball is snapped will do a lot for him. And taking that ownership to the next level. Yeah, I got him at 10 wins.
J. Mac
I kind of want to take the Raiders here in the opener. I'm looking for the absolute latest update nine minutes ago. Christian Gonzalez, the star cornerback, remember him? He is here. It doesn't look like he's taking the field today. He's got a hamstring, so he may.
Colin Cowherd
Not play the kid out of Oregon who got banged up. He's a star now.
J. Mac
Now maybe it's an injury issue because remember last year or two years ago, he was hurt. He's very, very good. Yeah, he's your elite cornerback. You know, you take him off the field. Can the Raiders Geno Smith have some success? I'm a buy on Chip Kelly. I know you guys are obviously friendly. Yeah, I like Chip Kelly a lot.
Colin Cowherd
I'm gonna stay away from this game. I think it's Raiders are passed for me.
J. Mac
If I can get three and a half, I don't want to say I'll put a year's salary. I would very much like the Raiders.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, but listen, that half point is what I'm waiting for tonight and tomorrow morning for my picks because there's two or three games. I'm telling you, if I get the Texans in three and a half, I'm taking Houston.
J. Mac
What about the over?
Colin Cowherd
Under?
J. Mac
Can you believe that's it?
Colin Cowherd
I think it's. I think it should be an under. Yeah.
J. Mac
I don't know how people aren't hitting that.
Colin Cowherd
No, no.
J. Mac
What am I missing? The Rams defense to end last season was elite. What's going to be. What's going to be different?
Colin Cowherd
What's the over? Under 42. Wow.
J. Mac
This morning I was like, wow, that seems a little high. I think that's gonna be a great game. Final story, Colin is to Denver. Where your Broncos. I can say that they, they agreed to a deal with Nick Bonito, star linebacker, four year, $120 million, 70 mil guaranteed for the young linebacker. He's making 26 and a half mil per year. 10th highest paid player in the league. That surprised me. Right behind Derek Stingley. But Benito, oh, he was phenomenal last year. Third in the NFL in sacks and the Denver defense he was like spearheading it.
Colin Cowherd
It's funny, every time I've watched him I always think he's undersized. Yet he is so athletic and so physical. He is one. I mean like you look at Miles Garrett, he doesn't look and TJ Watt, they don't look like normal human beings. Joey Bosa or Nick Bosa, I'm just there's something about the ability. Like Micah Parsons to me is a little undersized. Same with same with Benito. Like I always think he's a little slender dude gets after it.
J. Mac
You look at that chart on the screen highest paid defenders. Mama, let your kids grow up to be ed dressers. I mean they are getting paid. Seven of the top 10 are address.
Colin Cowherd
As the quarterback becomes more centric to pro football who makes the quarterback uncomfortable.
J. Mac
Which makes it crazy that the Cowboys traded Micah Parsons. I, I, I can't get over now if you want to trade him a year ago, we don't need to rehash it. But I Nick Benito got paid in Denver. Good luck to Cam Ward this weekend.
Colin Cowherd
In in altitude J. Mack with the news. Well that's the news and thanks for stopping by the herd can't wait for Urban Meyer. At the top of next hour is you know Urban's had a lot of success with quarterbacks in his coaching career at go all the way back to Alex Smith. He's had a lot of success. I I'm interested his take on Arch Manning because I it was hard. You know how something they they old saying is I can't unhear that or I can't unsee that. And that's that's kind of where I'm at with Arch Manning. I can't unsee that. That that was not good. That was jarringly bad. So we'll see Urban Myers coming up top of the hour. Julian Edelman, former Patriot great is stopping by too live in la. It's the hurdles. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd Weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio. FS1 and the iHeartRadio app. You probably think of Michelin as a tire company and I mean it is but it's really an innovation company and that's why their tires are as good as they are. It started in the 1800s making brake pads for horse drawn carriages. Seriously. Later Michelin basically invented the modern tire with the first steel belted design. That innovation has never slowed. In fact it's only accelerated. These days though, it's Michelin in Motion vision. The company is expanding into healthcare, energy, and even aerospace. Seriously. For instance, they're developing an airless wheel for lunar exploration. It's gotta deal with vast temperature swings, radiation and rough terrain on the moon and maybe one day on Mars. I mean, this is more than just some sort of vanity project. It showcases Michelin's broader shift from tire manufacturing to high tech durable mobility solutions. It's about the exact same thing that led to those horse drawn carriage brake pads well over 100 years ago. It's about innovation. Learn more at michelinman.com y Michelinnovation Michelin Motion for Life Today's episode is brought to you by Toyota. The Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Sales Event is here 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. Every certified Toyota undergoes a thorough quality assurance inspection before it ever 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. Inventory may vary by dealer, participating dealers only, comprehensive in powertrain or limited warranties. See TCUV warranty supplement ToyotaCertified.com or your Toyota dealer for details. From date of Toyota Certified Used Vehicle or TCUV purchase program available in continental US and Canada. See TCUV Warranty Supplement for details. A compatible Bluetooth enabled phone must be paired. Phone performance depends 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 more details. Hey, this is Matt Jones and I'm Drew Franklin. And this is NFL Cover Zero.
Greg Cosell
We think NFL coverage should be informative.
Colin Cowherd
And entertaining and twice a week that is exactly what you're gonna get. We're just here to try to give you an NFL perspective a little bit different. Did you see the Colts pretzel? That was my other big takeaway from that game. What was that? Looks like something that should not be sold. Oh my. So that was my other big Colts takeaway.
Greg Cosell
I sold that.
Colin Cowherd
Yes. I might want to go back at the Colt Stadium. Yeah, I might want to go back to the drawing board on that. Yeah, I thought the shape we had with Pretzels was working pretty well. It's worked for generations. We're just here trying to enjoy it. We hope you all will join us throughout the year. And let's go. I hope I'm as youthful as Pete Carroll is at his age. He's a young 73. He is a young 73. He is spry. I wouldn't fight him. I would listen to NFL Cover Zero with Matt Jones and Drew Franklin on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Greg Cosell
Who cares about truth when the lies more entertaining.
Colin Cowherd
Hey everybody, I'm Angela Rai, co host of Native Lampa with Tiffany Cross and Andrew Gillum. Through the lens of politics and culture, we talk with you every week to make sense of this madness. I've been telling Angela I don't even know how to fight back right now. So what I'm focused on is just looking out for ourselves.
J. Mac
That's the truth.
Colin Cowherd
We're having the same debates that American households are having all over the country. Rest is certainly a form of self care, but if you are watching your full neighbors starve, not be able to pay bills, your rest is selfish. But the thing is, Angela, this is not the mess we created. So I do understand black folks feeling like, you know what, y' all got it.
J. Mac
We're like family, but we disagree all the time.
Colin Cowherd
All the time.
J. Mac
And we love when our listeners chime.
Colin Cowherd
In what would happen if we built our own little Wakandan communities in the rural South. Tiffany, do not run to no rural South. I don't know what you're on. What our audience is asking is. Okay, fine. You want me to stop resting? What specifically are you asking me to do? Stay informed and take action. Listen to Nativeland pod on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast. Podcast.
J. Mac
Saturday on Baseball Night in America, Jose Altuve and the Astros fight for the AL west crown against the Rangers. Or the Giants take on the Cardinals. Or it's Twins Royals. Check local listings for the game in your area. Saturday, 7 Eastern on Fox.
Colin Cowherd
There's so many things we don't know about week one. We don't know if J.J. mcCarthy can play. We don't know what Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams is going to look like. We don't know if Trevor Lawrence is finally going to give us the season because he's got real pieces now. Brian Thomas, Travis Hunter, Liam Cohen. Is Travis, Trevor Lawrence going to finally deliver what we expect? We don't know. I mean, losing your star left tackle is Jim Harbaugh's team take a step back or they do. They remain a playoff team. Is Denver as good as we think? I think just Chicago because of the brand, the bigness of it is a fascinating, you know, football team. Ben Johnson's the new coach. Caleb Williams is going in the year too. And Greg Cosell talked about what Ben Johnson does that is different on film and that could help Caleb Williams.
Greg Cosell
When I watch that offense and Ben Johnson, to me what stands out is just the spacing of the route concepts, how it really beautifully defines the reads for the quarterback because the spacing is so good. Spacing and balance. You hear floor balance in basketball all the time, but that's critical for the passing game, particularly against zone coverage. And that's where I thought Ben Johnson was an absolute master.
Colin Cowherd
That's Monday night at home. One and a half point dogs to the Vikings. I mean, you talk about two offenses, we don't know what we're going to get. It's Bears, Vikings on Monday. It's, it's the Enigma game. It's the, the, it's the question mark game. We love the offensive brain power of the coaches. We like upgrades on the offensive line for both. We just don't know what we're going to get from the quarterback. The other thing Cosell talked about, and you know Greg in the off season will watch every snap. He, he really said there's something wrong with Dak Prescott. That really jumped out to me. He said there's something wrong with Dak Prescott's lower body. So he just had his second lower body surgery. So that was really alarming if you're a Cowboy fan, because Greg's not going to just wing it. He said something on the film doesn't look right. Dak looks rigid and stiff. And then he talked about Jalen Hurts and the Eagles offense.
Greg Cosell
It fits who they are and what they are. They've got the best O line in the league. They have basically the same offense back. The only true change is at right guard within the context of how they play offense. Jalen Hurts is highly efficient. You know, they do not turn the football over. And Hertz, the running element that Hurts brings both by design within the context of their run game and as a scrambler is you cannot overlook that.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, the. Didn't it, didn't it strike you when he said, listen, I watched every snap of Dak and he didn't look the same. You go back to last year, Dak had eight picks in eight games. So one of the things we liked about Dak early. We liked the intangibles. He was a leader and we liked that he, you know, he didn't make big mistakes. He didn't have a huge upside. Intangibles great. Didn't make a lot of mistakes. Increasingly, Dak is pressing. Dak is making more mistakes and you still get that lower ceiling than other elite quarterbacks. So that's something to think about tonight and why most people like Philadelphia big so I made my NFL final NFL predictions about 30 minutes ago. Let's put them up starting with the AFC. I do have two new playoff teams in the AFC. Joe Burrow and the Bengals, I think sneak in as a wild card team and I don't think that's a revelation. And I think New England spent so much money in coaching upgrades, I think the Patriots are a playoff team. I don't think they're a great team and I don't think the Bengals are a great team because I don't think either roster has enough juice or they don't have enough elite players. But I think most of the divisions are fairly predictable in the AFC where your Josh Allens, your Lamar Jacksons, your CJ Strouds, you know, your, your, your Bo Nicks or Herbert Mahomes feel like playoff teams in the nfc. I've only got one new playoff team. I, I just think the NFC west is wildcard. I think the Seahawks get in. J. Mac believes the easiest bet on the board due to schedule and the greatness of Brock Purdy is San Francisco makes it my only problem and this is why I think this division again I went with Eagles, Packers, Bucks and Rams. I went with the quarterbacks. I think on Sunday I get big plays from commanders would win most divisions. They won't beat Philly. Jared Goff I like a lot Seahawks. The reason the NFC west is tough because I will acknowledge San Francisco's got the easiest schedule and Brock Purdy is very much a B plus quarterback. A minus on certain games. Absolutely. But McCaffrey's coming off injuries, Trent Williams coming off injuries. George Kittle's getting older and they're walking in at wide receiver with fingers crossed, so. And it also hurts. Their opener is at a younger team in Seattle on the road. And I was talking now who was? Oh, it was interesting. This is why I like Seattle in the game. I was vacationing and I had, you know, a couple days to hang out with Steve Keim, the former Arizona gm and we were, you know, just randomly talking about different things. I said what's the, what was the Toughest place to play in all your years in Arizona. And he goes, seattle is a nightmare. He said, it's always windier than you think. It's wetter than you think. And he goes, the way they built that stadium, it is loud. It is a rough place to play. So for years, they call, you know, they call it the 12th man in Seattle. So he said, the fans, you know, they like their craft beer in Seattle. They are liquored up, ready to go, and it's loud. So I guess that's the one game that you and I are on opposite sides. I Lee, I like Seattle to hold serve at home and beat San Francisco, and you like the Niners to win comfortably.
J. Mac
It just. I know Kyle Shanahan has historically owned Seattle, so they did lose last year, 20 to 17. Before that, Shanahan had won six straight against the Seahawks. Now, I know there's been, you know, obviously a lot of upheaval there, but he usually dominates these guys. I love Shanahan. He'll scheme up stuff. Even with Piersol and Jennings as his top two receivers, they would have been 3, 4 last year in week one, because I. You can. Debo would have been there. I don't have a lot of concern for. For San Fran in the spot.
Colin Cowherd
Okay, I forget the lines for a second. I'll give you the teams and just pop the winner. Don't get it. Get out of the line. Space. Dallas at Philly.
J. Mac
Eagles, Casey.
Colin Cowherd
Chargers overseas.
J. Mac
I would go Casey.
Colin Cowherd
Giants at Washington.
J. Mac
So the hesitation, I mean, you got you no lines with Giants. I'll say Washington wins. Are closer. They won, I think both games by less than 7 last year. Both were close. And the Giants, we would argue, are better.
Colin Cowherd
Carter.
J. Mac
Russell Wilson's an upgrade, right? They're better than they were last year.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah. So you're saying Washington.
J. Mac
I'll say Washington. And close one.
Colin Cowherd
That's a tough one. Tampa and Atlanta.
J. Mac
Atlanta. I'm pot committed to Atlanta.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah. Cynthia Cleveland.
J. Mac
Again, the hesitation. I mean, it's tough for me to envision Joe Flacco beating Burrow. I think too many people are mentioning Burrows early season struggles. So I'll go Bengals 1917 or some crazy score.
Colin Cowherd
Okay. 79% of the fans think the bet of the week is Jacksonville. So Carolina at Jacksonville.
J. Mac
Yeah. I got Jackson, I got Jags. I think comfortably. I think Liam Cohen is going to surprise you. I know you won't ever talk Jacksonville early in the show, but I think Monday you're going to be like, take a look at Trevor Lawrence and Travis Hunter. I like Jags, Steelers at the Jets, Jets.
Colin Cowherd
By the way, if for no other re I have one of my rules of betting is in a low scoring game, take points. This thing has like 17, 13, 27. See the over under on this thing? Yeah, I think it's. What is the over under on this thing? I think it's 38 or 39.
J. Mac
Yeah. So tonight Dak and Jalen Hurts combined preseason snaps zero. I'm surprised for Dak coming off last year but Aaron Rodgers hasn't sniffed the field and all of a sudden Aaron Glenn blitz happy. Look at his Detroit numbers. Blitzed a ton if he does that's with the Jets. I think Rogers could be in real trouble.
Colin Cowherd
Yeah, I, I, I like the Jets. Miami at the Colts.
J. Mac
4140 shootout. Flip a coin on who wins it.
Colin Cowherd
I don't know. You know, we haven't mentioned this. Let's just stop here. Shane. I like the Colts roster. We don't like quarterback. Is it shocking if the Colts at home hold. You know I never trust now Miami. I don't trust in cold weather. It's a dome. Would you be shocked? You know they're going to honor perhaps Jim Ursay. It'll be very, very emotional. Shane Steichen, a great offensive coach. Off season, noisy off season. Tyree kills, not a captain. How about this for an upset? I don't know what the point spread is now prime.
J. Mac
Bolts are favored.
Colin Cowherd
Colts are favored.
J. Mac
This feels like the kind of game where the narrative will be, hey man, how did you lose this game? He's on the hot seat. McDaniel, they're going to look to fire him.
Colin Cowherd
I didn't, I never looked at this game. I don't know what I'm getting with either. I didn't even this is a game that I, yeah, you, you guys just certain games I just take. I'm not betting them. I don't know enough. That's interesting. Okay, one more I'm telling you Houston at the Rams.
J. Mac
So who do you like sidewise in that one?
Colin Cowherd
I think it's an under. I generally take the offensive coach in the opener, but I got, I got real questions about Stafford and the left tackle. If it goes to three and a half, I'm taking Texans. Hmm.
J. Mac
I, I listen against your super bowl.
Colin Cowherd
Winner, I'll tell you one of my favorite bets is Texans Rams under.
J. Mac
Under. Yeah.
Colin Cowherd
I think it's a 23, 20 game low scoring game.
J. Mac
I'll be shocked.
Colin Cowherd
Texans O line has three or four new starters. Rams defensive front is nasty And I don't trust the Rams left tackle. He's good. Blood clots. Hasn't practiced much.
J. Mac
Great.
Colin Cowherd
Hey, this is Matt Jones. And I'm Drew Franklin, and this is NFL Cover Zero. We're just here to try to give you an NFL perspective a little bit different. Did you see the Colts pretzel? That was my other big takeaway from that game. What was that? Oh, my. We think NFL coverage should be informative and entertaining. And twice a week, that is exactly what you're gonna get. Listen NFL Cover Zero with Matt Jones and Drew Franklin on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast Next.
Greg Cosell
Who cares about truth when the lies.
Colin Cowherd
More entertaining. Welcome home. I'm Angela R. Co host of the Native Lampod with Andrew Gillam and Tiffany Cross, and we want y' all to survive and thrive in this political moment. We're having the same debates that American households are having all over the country. I am terrified that in our rest, we're going to miss the moment. You want me to stop resting? What specifically are you asking me to do? Stay informed and take.
J. Mac
Take action.
Colin Cowherd
Listen to Native Land Pod on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
J. Mac
Your entire identity has been fabricated. Your beloved brother goes missing without a trace.
Colin Cowherd
You discover the depths of your mother's illness. I'm Dani Shapiro, and these are just.
J. Mac
A few of the powerful stories I'll be mining on our upcoming 12th season of Family Secrets.
Colin Cowherd
We continue to be moved and inspired.
J. Mac
By our guests and their courageously told stories.
Colin Cowherd
Listen to Family Secrets, Season 12 on.
J. Mac
The iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever.
Colin Cowherd
You get your podcasts. Hi, it's Honey German, and I'm back with season two of my podcast. Gracias.
J. Mac
Come again. We got you.
Colin Cowherd
When it comes to the latest in.
J. Mac
Music and entertainment, with interviews with some.
Colin Cowherd
Of your favorite Latin artists and celebrities. You didn't have to audition.
Greg Cosell
No, I didn't audition. I haven't auditioned in, like, over 25 years.
Colin Cowherd
Oh, wow.
Greg Cosell
That's a real G talk right there. Oh, yeah.
J. Mac
We'll talk about all that's viral and.
Colin Cowherd
Trending with a little bit of Cheeseman.
J. Mac
And a whole lot of laughs. And, of course, the great beas you've come to expect.
Colin Cowherd
Listen to the new season of Dashes. Come again on the iHeartRadio app, Apple.
J. Mac
Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast. This is an iHeart podcast.
The Herd with Colin Cowherd — Hour 2 (Sept 4, 2025) Key Themes: 2025 NFL Season Predictions, Cowboys & Dak Prescott Analysis, Greg Cosell on Opening Matchups and League Trends
In this engaging NFL kickoff episode, Colin Cowherd delivers his final 2025 season predictions, debates NFC and AFC changes, and delves deep into the Cowboys’ issues—especially Dak Prescott’s performance and fit in Schottenheimer’s offense. Senior NFL Films analyst Greg Cosell joins to break down critical opening games, discuss trends in offensive coaching, and give sharp film-driven analysis of stars like Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, and rookies such as Drake Maye. The hour is packed with tactical insights and accessible yet rigorous breakdowns, making it essential listening for NFL fans anticipating the new season.
[02:00-08:40]
AFC
NFC
NFL Trend
Notable Quote
"It used to be there were six new playoff teams, then five. It's getting down to four—and this year, it's three. As the quarterback becomes more important and offensive coaches have a better relationship with that quarterback, the league is getting... a little easier to predict." —Colin Cowherd (07:09)
[08:43-10:08]
Notable Quote
"There's something wrong with his lower body, Colin... He did not look very good last year."
—Greg Cosell (08:56)
[10:09-11:41]
Notable Quote
"The fact that they are so good on fourth down... impacts what they do on third down, which is [why] they run the ball more than any team... Jalen Hurts is highly efficient... They're very, very difficult to defend."
—Greg Cosell (10:37)
[11:42-13:27]
[13:29-14:43]
[14:43-16:45]
[16:45-18:32]
[18:32-20:21]
[20:21-21:32]
[21:32-23:27]
Notable Quote
"What really good offensive coaches do... is understand the strengths of their quarterback and how to minimize the limitations or flaws. That's the absolute key..."
—Greg Cosell (22:18)
[49:25-53:14]
This episode blends Colin’s big-picture predictions and league macro-trends with Greg Cosell’s acute film analysis, focused especially on quarterback play, coaching, and offensive innovation. The opening night anticipation is palpable, heightened by cautionary notes on Dak Prescott’s mechanical regression, excitement for Jalen Hurts’ fit in Philly, and uncertainty for retooling teams like Green Bay and New England. If you want to enter the new NFL season with a strong sense of who’s for real, what’s improved, and which issues loom, this is a can’t-miss hour.