THE HERD - Hour 3 - Urban Meyer joins The Herd

Summary

---

THE HERD with Colin Cowherd – Hour 3: Urban Meyer Joins The Herd

Date: September 18, 2025
Podcast: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Host: Colin Cowherd (with Jason McIntyre)
Guests: Urban Meyer (College Football Coach)

---

Overview

This episode spotlights a dynamic, football-centric conversation between Colin Cowherd and renowned college football coach Urban Meyer. They reflect on college football trends—player development, confidence, NIL and transfer portal realities—while connecting the conversation to NFL quarterback struggles, coaching rivalries, and rebuilding programs. The latter half of the episode pivots to NFL commentary, tackling topics like new quarterbacks, the future of Daniel Jones, and team outlooks.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Urban Meyer Reminisces: Alex Smith, Aaron Rodgers & QB Confidence

[03:11–05:35]

• Meyer recalls his time at Utah: He shares a humorous anecdote about starting a “skinny” Alex Smith against Cal, who out-dueled Aaron Rodgers.
  • “Every time I see Aaron Rodgers, I remind him I’m one and oh against him. And Alex Smith beat him, and he gets a little upset, but we move on.” — Urban Meyer [03:27]
• On quarterback confidence: Coaches must help QBs find comfort and confidence. Meyer admits Chris Leak at Florida initially struggled and lost confidence because the system didn’t fit; once they adjusted, the team thrived.
  • “He lost some confidence our first year. But once he got going…he became a national champion. So…we had to adapt our system.” — Urban Meyer [04:49]

2. College Football in the NIL & Transfer Portal Era

[06:30–13:19]

• Shifting recruiting power:
  • Colin and Urban discuss how top west coast teams (USC, Oregon, Washington) now "buy players" out of region, especially line talent, through NIL—reshaping rosters with out-of-state talent.
  • “USC…they’re balanced. They’re punching you right in the face on both sides of the ball. This is a completely different looking team.” — Urban Meyer [07:35]
• Brian Kelly & coaching emotions:
  • They defend Brian Kelly after a feisty exchange with the media, explaining coaches’ post-game emotions.
  • “I wish I was that smart. I was too emotional… You leave the locker room, you’re pissed off…But he did the right thing. The next day he said, ‘Yeah, I gotta work, we gotta work together.’” — Urban Meyer [08:20–09:09]
• QB development in college vs. NFL:
  • Discussion about J.J. McCarthy: Meyer and Colin agree he was not a ready-made NFL starter, needing reps and adversity. In college, he was protected by a run-heavy offense and defense.
  • “I agreed with you that he never had to win a game. Every game…he managed the game…was going to be bumpy…But can he be that franchise guy? That remains to be seen.” — Urban Meyer [10:11–11:12]

3. Transfer Portal Resistance—Will Dabo Swinney Adapt?

[11:12–13:19]

• Comparison to Coach K's evolution with 'one-and-done':
  • Colin draws a parallel between Dabo’s reluctance toward the transfer portal and Mike Krzyzewski's initial resistance to the NBA ‘one-and-done’ era.
• Urban’s take:
  • He expects Dabo to adapt as the game demands it, already noticing slight shifts at Clemson. He highlights the ease of shoring up roster weaknesses now through paying for transfers, as opposed to the old days.
  • “You don’t wish them [players]. You pay for them.” — Urban Meyer [12:49]

4. Jim Harbaugh Rivalry—Personal Reflections

[16:42–20:26]

• Meyer on Harbaugh:
  • Respect for Harbaugh’s program-building acumen, but no close personal relationship; their competitiveness dominated.
  • “There was…tremendous respect…but right when he got to the Big Ten, it was like they were doing all this stuff…You just kind of like, wait a minute, is there substance here...But when pedal hit the metal, you have to go play.” — Urban Meyer [17:42]
  • No lingering animosity, just a professional rivalry:
  • “We get along fine…smile and hey, how’s the family doing. Wish you well and move on.” — Urban Meyer [18:48]
• Colin on coach rivalries:
  • “I just don’t expect the president of Apple and Microsoft to be best friends…You can’t ask Buckeye Wolverine guy to dine together.” — Colin Cowherd [18:59]

---

NFL Discussion Highlights

5. Drake Maye & Aaron Rodgers Admiration

[22:49–23:21]

• Rookie QB Drake Maye talks about modeling his game after Aaron Rodgers, down to studying his grip in eighth grade.
  • “I looked up Aaron Rodgers grip, and you know, I’ve had the grip ever since.” — Drake Maye [23:12]
• Colin lauds Rodgers’ mechanics:
  • “He throws the prettiest ball since Marino… Best back shoulder ball I’ve ever seen thrown.” — Colin Cowherd [23:21]

6. Raiders, Ashton Jeanty & Offensive Struggles

[24:19–26:02]

• The Raiders’ rookie running back Ashton Jeanty wants more touches but hasn’t capitalized yet.
  • “I don’t think you draft a guy like me to not give me carries and touches. I’m ready for the responsibility.” — Ashton Jeanty [24:35]
• Colin points out the Raiders’ overall lack of offensive weapons, transition issues with new coaches and systems, and predicts patience will pay off.

7. Carson Wentz: NFL Journeyman Debate

[26:28–29:24]

• Wentz reflects on his journey from starting QB to backup, emphasizing gratitude and perspective.
  • “It’s…just the perspective of not taking this for granted. You never know when your next chance is going to be in this league.” — Carson Wentz [27:04]
• Colin asserts Wentz is still talented, noting the support he’s received from top coaches (Andy Reid, Sean McVay, Kevin O’Connell).
  • “There’s a reason he keeps finding himself…A lot of these offensive guys like Carson Wentz. I like him. I think he’s got talent.” — Colin Cowherd [27:32]
• Jason (“J. Mac”) questions this, highlighting Wentz’s continual moves and lack of recent impact.

8. Colin’s Bold Take: Wentz > J.J. McCarthy (For Now)

[28:41–29:50]

• Colin stakes a controversial claim: “Carson Wentz is better than J.J. McCarthy today.” [28:42]
• J. Mac scoffs at the hot take, but Colin insists—citing poor recent performances by McCarthy.

9. Quarterback Development: Bagent, Maye & NFL Politics

[29:32–30:45]

• Colin argues that NFL teams sometimes avoid playing the QB who gives the best chance of winning due to politics, contracts, and confidence management.
  • “There’s a lot of politics in the NFL in big markets with who you play and who you don’t…You can’t lose Caleb’s confidence. You sit him, you could lose him.” — Colin Cowherd [29:54]

---

Closing Segment: Daniel Jones—Franchise Quarterback or Not?

[34:27–37:51]

• J. Mac wonders if Daniel Jones’ struggles might parallel Baker Mayfield’s rebound or if he’s simply not a “franchise savior.”
• Colin distinguishes between being a franchise “quarterback” and a “savior,” citing Daniel Jones’ lack of elite traits compared to other reclamation projects like Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield.
  • “Daniel Jones is a good athlete and throws a decent ball. He doesn’t have a wow trait.” — Colin Cowherd [36:19]
• Both discuss the importance of surrounding talent and context, noting the Colts’ strong supporting cast.
  • “Maybe Daniel Jones is a franchise quarterback, but he’s not a franchise savior—and there is a difference.” — Colin Cowherd [37:42]

---

Notable Quotes

• Urban Meyer: “You don’t wish [players into your program]. You pay for them.” [12:49]
• Colin Cowherd: “I just don’t expect the president of Apple and Microsoft to be best friends…It’s not real.” [18:59]
• Urban Meyer: “We get along fine…the times we were together, we shook hands, smiled and hey, how’s the family doing…” [18:48]
• Colin Cowherd on QBs: “There’s a lot of politics in the NFL in big markets with who you play and who you don’t play.” [29:54]
• Ashton Jeanty: “I’m ready for the responsibility… it’s going to start with me.” [24:35]

---

Timestamps for Important Segments

• Urban Meyer on Alex Smith vs. Aaron Rodgers: [03:11–03:42]
• Quarterback confidence and adapting systems: [04:43–05:35]
• NIL, Transfer Portal & West Coast recruiting shift: [06:30–07:40]
• Brian Kelly/Media & Coach emotions: [08:20–09:16]
• J.J. McCarthy, NFL development hurdles: [10:11–11:12]
• Dabo Swinney and adjusting to portal/NIL: [11:12–13:19]
• Urban Meyer on the Harbaugh rivalry: [16:42–18:54]
• Drake Maye on Aaron Rodgers: [22:49–23:21]
• Raiders/Ashton Jeanty discussion: [24:19–26:02]
• Carson Wentz debate: [26:28–29:24]
• Hot take: Wentz currently better than McCarthy: [28:41–29:50]
• Daniel Jones vs. “franchise savior” narrative: [34:27–37:51]

---

Tone & Style

The conversation blends Urban Meyer’s thoughtful, coach-first candor with Colin Cowherd’s familiar mix of analytical rigor, hot takes, playful debate, and candid insight. Moments of nostalgia and humor are balanced with pointed commentary about the shifting realities of both college and professional football.

---

For Listeners Who Missed the Episode

This episode offers a wide-ranging, energetic look at both college football's evolving landscape and NFL quarterback questions. Urban Meyer shines light on the hidden work coaches do to restore confidence and adapt to new eras (NIL, the transfer portal). Colin brings timely, sometimes controversial takes on NFL quarterback evaluation and team-building, while keeping the conversation engaging with memorable storytelling and signature analogies.

Expect stories from the past, clear-eyed analysis of today’s headlines, and heated debates about tomorrow’s stars—all delivered with the wit and honesty that define The Herd.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[Advertisement/Promo Voice]

Balance your trading strategy by adding futures. CME Group helps you manage risk and capture opportunities in all market environments. Capitalize on around the clock access to highly liquid global futures and option markets across all major asset classes. Visit your online broker and get started. See what adding Futures can do for [e-mail] podcast Derivatives are not suitable for all investors and involve the risk of losing more than the amount originally deposited and any profit you might have made. This is not a recommendation or offer to buy, sell or retain any specific investment or service. The next time you fly, upgrade your comfort to Emirates Premium Economy. Sink into soft leather seats with raised leg rests and adjustable headrests. Elevate your dinner plans with delicious regional dining, all served with complimentary premium drinks. Enjoy endless entertainment with up to 6,500 channels, including live sports. There's no other premium economy like it. Fly Emirates fly better. What is the best and worst way to communicate with friends? Obviously, it's messaging. Messaging is great, but it can go off the rails when I speak in a group chat. I want it to be easy without any issues. WhatsApp can help. You can message privately with everyone and you can edit messages, create polls, do pin messages and send invites plus photos and videos to look better. It's time for WhatsApp message privately with Everyone. 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, but 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 [e-mail] y michelinnovation Michelin Motion for.

[Colin Cowherd]

Life thanks for listening to the Herd podcast. Be sure to catch us live every.

[Advertisement/Promo Voice]

Weekday on Fox Sports radio and noon to 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific.

[Colin Cowherd]

Find your local station for the [e-mail].

[Advertisement/Promo Voice]

Or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR.

[Urban Meyer]

Now let's get this party started.

[Colin Cowherd]

You're listening to Fox Sports Radio. He used to coach at Utah. Urban Meyer. 17 years a college football coach, three time national champion, multiple time Big Ten champ. We were just talking during I remember when you were at Utah, by the way. I remember you had Alex Smith. You beat Oregon. And you pointed out you beat somebody else that year in the PAC 12. Who was it and who was the quarterback?

[Urban Meyer]

Oh, let's see. Oh, yeah, I had this skinny kid named Alex Smith. Real skinny, about 185 pounds, 6 foot 4. His legs look like that. And got his first start against Cal Bears. And I looked later on. Obviously we didn't really know who he was at the time, but some guy by the name of Aaron Rodgers. Aaron Rodgers versus Alex Smith. And every time I see Aaron Rodgers, I remind him I'm one and oh against him. And Alex Smith beat him and he gets a little upset, but we move on. He's good.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I remember those games. All right. You've had a lot of different quarterbacks in your career in college, and a lot of different personalities. You know, I mean, I, I could go up the line. Chris Leak and a Tim Tebow and you had, you had. Joe Burrow was a backup. At some point he transferred out. You had so many different personalities. Arch Manning's different, though. None of your quarterbacks grew up with American royalty. The Manning family is American football royalty in this country. And he's struggling. And I said the other day is, I think he needs it. I think all these quarterbacks need to get beat up a little bit because he grew up in a pretty cool life. But I do look at the mechanics and I think to myself, there's a difference between struggling and losing confidence. Did you ever have a quarterback that you just thought, man, he's lost his fastball upstairs? Because I don't think it's a lack of talent, but when you lose mechanics, you're second guessing yourself. Did you ever deal that with a young quarterback?

[Urban Meyer]

I'm sure I have. You know, I'm trying to think we were really fortunate. We, we all the way through Bowling Green, Utah, Florida. You know, Chris Sleek was a guy that lost a little confidence because he was not built for our system. So we had to adapt our system. He lost some confidence our first year. But once he got going and we, and that was on us too, as coaches, we had to make sure that he was comfortable. And then he became a national champion. So the early. That's a good, that's a great point. Early part of, oh, five, you know, one of the best quarterbacks in the country is really struggling with his confidence. And we adapted. We, we basically let him get very involved in a play call, not play calling, but the, the game planning. So that's a great point. And you know, maybe now that we're on that Topic. Maybe that's what they have to do down here in Texas. Say, aren't you. Tell us what you want, we'll call it.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I mean, Drew Brees told me that Saturday night before the Saints games, he would go to Sean and say, I don't want to run this play, this play, this play. Sean would say, what are you comfortable with? What aren't you? And they. He would cross stuff out. And that's Drew Brees. Yeah. You know, I said this, I think you and I talked about this, is that the problem on the west coast is you got to leave the region mostly to get your defensive linemen and a lot of your offensive linemen. You got to, you got to go wherever it could be. Houston, Atlanta, the South, the Midwest, wherever. And I look at USC this year and their defensive line is deep and it's a bunch of kids, some from California, many not have a freshman, I think from Oklahoma that's playing out of his mind. Urban. They look different up front defensively. They got a kid from Minnesota. They got a kid from Oklahoma. They look different up front defensively.

[Urban Meyer]

Well, my last three years at Ohio State, we played USC in the Cotton bowl. We played Washington in the Washington and the Rose bowl. And then we also played Oregon for the national title. And they were so dominant with skill that if you could match your skill, you'd win the game. You didn't have to beat their skill because you were going to beat them at the line of scrimmage.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Urban Meyer]

And I remember you, you actually brought this up to me many times that just, there's no fat kids out west. You know, everybody's in good shape and all that. You need some, you need some, some of those guys from Mississippi and New Orleans and, and, you know, Wisconsin, etc. Ohio, you know, and, and I think, I don't think you look at. Or we did Oregon last week, you know, the Oregon offensive and defense lines, and we played them in the national title, were about 290 to 295 pounds. Now they're 325. You got USC. Historically, I'm not talking about the Pete Carroll arrow because the Matt Liner, Pete Carroll, Reggie Bush here, they had great linemen, but then they went on a 15 year dry spell where, yeah, you know, they just didn't have the depth. And I'm watching USC now. They're balanced. They're punching you right in the face on both sides of the ball. This is a completely different looking team.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, Nil. Oregon, Washington and USC are going buying players, especially Oregon and usc, they spent a lot of money, so they're leaving the region buying players, and it's the reality. So Brian Kelly, this week, he gets fired up. Now Brian's a fired up guy. Like, he just is a very good coach, but he's yelling at the media and he's getting feisty. Joel Klatten. I disagreed. Joel said he was sending a message to his team and I said, no, he was just ticked off. He was, it's okay. But when were there times when you would go to the podium in Gainesville or Columbus and you thought, yeah, we didn't play very well. I'm going to send a message to the team at the podium. Do you ever do that?

[Urban Meyer]

I wish I was that smart. I was too emotional. And, and Brian Kelly might be, you know, and I know Coach Kelly pretty well and that, that might be what he was doing. I don't think it was. I think he just left a locker room where we've all. I'm sure you've been there too. A night, night game at lsu. There's no tougher environment. I know it's his home team, but you lose that game and it was right on the cusp. If Florida had any offense, it would have been a, maybe a different ballgame.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Urban Meyer]

And you're, you're in the, in the locker room with your players and all of a sudden, bam, you got to step up to that podium and you're pissed off about something and someone. So, yeah, I've been there a bunch and, and I, I think coach handled it, you know, someone, you know, I would, I did some other talk with someone. I said, let him go, you know, have a little fun with us. So he got pissed off at a reporter. You're allowed to do that.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Urban Meyer]

You know, and, but he did the right thing. The next day he said, yeah, I gotta work, we gotta work together. I apologize, move on. That's great.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. So listen, in college, you get a red shirt in college, you know, you work your way up the depth chart. But if you get drafted in the first round in the NFL as a quarterback, we want you to play and we want you really early. And I, I never saw, I looked at J.J. mcCarthy, I thought he was much more of a player that needed to almost red shirt as a pro. I didn't think he was ready. I thought, I thought, I just thought he was. He never played with a trailing. It was a run offense. And I'm like, he needs reps. He needs to get knocked around a little bit. So you faced him you know, or you didn't. But Ohio State, obviously, he was very successful against the Buckeyes. And you watch film and you watched all of it and you watch those games. Tell me about your thoughts about his NFL struggles. What did you think? It would look a little ugly and a little choppy early.

[Urban Meyer]

I did. I agreed with you that he never had to win a game. Every game that we covered at Big Noon. And I was a big fan of his. I think he managed the game. I thought, you know, anytime you have a guy that can get you out of trouble with his legs, which he can. I never heard him complain. I mean, I was at the game when he.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

They.

[Urban Meyer]

Penn State against Penn State, where they ran the ball 32 straight time. And they did. Here's the thing about that game. They ran the ball 32 straight times, yet punted. It wasn't like they were blowing them off the ball. They punted two or three times. So they were just trying to kill the game. And so that tells me they don't have a lot of confidence in throwing the ball right now. So I've never heard him complain. He's a national champion, so I had a lot of respect for. But of course, it was going to be Buffy. There's no doubt that it was going to be. And I think he'd still be fine. But I question this. Can, you know, see that franchise guy that can go in a bunch of games as the quarterback? That still remains to be seen. I think he's a hell of a player. But that's a. Those are. That's a big. That's a big task.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. You know, Dabo Sweet. Years ago, Mike Krzyzewski did not like the one and done. And he was funny about it. He said, I didn't like the one and done. I wanted you to go to Duke. And then all of a sudden, I started losing to teams that had one and dones. And I said, I better. I better do the one and done thing. And he was funny about it. So Dabo doesn't like the transfer portal in the nil thing. He don't like it. And my take is, well, it's not just about paying a bunch of money for stars. That the truth is, you know, if you can get Caleb Downs, go get him. But some of it is you need depth and you need a third corner or you need a backup tight end. And so I don't think being stubborn on it makes sense. I mean, you know, used to go to the teams, used to go to the junior college route I look at the transfer portal a little like the old junior college route, like, hey, we missed on a receiver. We need a slot receiver. Let's go get him from Louisville. Do you think Dabo will come around and go, okay, like Coach K and go the world change. I got to change with it.

[Urban Meyer]

There's no doubt he will. And I, when the transfer portal era started, I was not coaching, but I remember, obviously I'm very close with Ryan Day in Ohio State and in a big noon, we cover all these teams. The, the great teams had very little to no weakness. And I was like, and I remember spending time with coach Dave, but he said, it's unbelievable. You know, if you need a right guard after spring practice in the old system, you, you still needed a right guard in August. That you don't. It wasn't. You just wish a right guard into your program. Now you do. You don't wish them. You pay for them. So I, I don't think there's any doubt that, first of all, Coach Sweeney's won a lot of games. He's a smart guy. I know him well. At some point, I do believe, I think he already did this year. He took some transfers this year. They're easing into it because the, you know, I don't. I still think they got a hell of a team. For some reason, Club Nick's not playing well. For some reason, their team just, I think they will, I think their schedule is going to lighten up here and they'll go on a run and they'll get it figured out.

[Colin Cowherd]

Be sure to catch live editions of.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

The Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific.

[Rob Parker]

Hey, it's me, Rob Parker. Check out my weekly MLB podcast, Inside the Parker for 22 minutes of piping hot baseball talk featuring the biggest names and newsmakers in the sport. Whether you believe in analytics or the eye test, we've got all the bases covered. New episodes drop every Thursday, so do yourself a favor and listen to Inside the Parker with Rob Parker on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcast.

[Advertisement/Promo Voice]

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 next time you fly, upgrade your comfort to Emirates Premium Economy. Sink into soft leather seats with raised leg rests and adjustable headrests. Elevate your dinner plans with delicious regional dining, all served with complimentary premium drinks. Enjoy endless entertainment with up to 6,500 channels, including live sports. There's no other premium economy like it. Fly Emirates fly better. Are you trading S&P 500 or NASDAQ 100 ETFs? Instead, you can trade futures from CME Group on the equity indices you already know and love. Take advantage of the benefits to futures such as controlling larger portions with less capital thanks to lower margin requirements. You typically only need to put down 5 to 10% of the notional value to get started trading. In addition, take advantage of market moving events as they happen with the ability to trade both night and day. Futures offer deep 24 hour liquidity while the ETF market slows down overnight. Find the appropriate contract for your budget. Choose from the larger E, Mini or smaller micro size contracts to tailor your position. Explore S&P 500 and NASDAQ 100 [e-mail] EquityFutures Derivatives are not suitable for all investors and involve the risk of losing more than the amount originally deposited and any profit you might have made. This is not a recommendation or offer to buy, sell or retain any specific investment or service.

[Narrator/Promo Voice]

This episode is supported by FX's the Lowdown, starring Ethan Hawke. Allow us to introduce you to Lee Raybon, a quirky journalist slash rare bookstore owner slash unofficial truth seeker who is always on the tail of his latest conspiracy. This time, his most recent expose puts him head to head with a powerful family that rules Tulsa, meaning only one thing. He must be onto something big. FX is the Lowdown premiere September 23rd on FX, stream on Hulu.

[Colin Cowherd]

You may get mad at me like Brian Kelly with one of those Louisiana reporters. Here's my final question. So this week I saw Pete Carroll coach Harbaugh and they had a lot of trouble. He was the Michigan coach or the Ohio State coach. You're not going to be buddies with him, right? Harbaugh is very unique. Like you, he took over a bunch of bad programs and they were good instantly. And then when he leaves, the teams are bad again. So you guys have the ability to architect a program very quickly. He does Feel like in the NFL. Now he's chilled out that he's lightened up. I remember the early Michigan days. He couldn't get along with Michigan people. He didn't, he didn't even like their ad. Is, is when you look at Jim and the rivalry you had with him, do you ever smile and go, oh, he's Jim. Or was it just all hammer, nail, argument? I mean, was it just all bad or was there any moment you two ever shook hands and laughed?

[Urban Meyer]

You know, there wasn't there. There was. I, I know his brother fairly well. I met his father many times. A tremendous respect for Coach Harbaugh, but right when he got to the Big Ten, it was like they were doing all this stuff. They were going to Europe, they were going to IMG to have practice. They were, they did something else that, oh, they did those mini camps all over the place and you know, just kept pushing the envelope and then signing with the stars and I mean, it was like one thing after the other. And then, you know, you just kind of like, wait a minute, is there substance here or is this all gonna, am I gonna have to deal with this non stop? Because my staff's meeting with me is saying a recruit wants to go to Rome now. And I'm like, hey, wait, wait, what, what are you talking about? So, you know, but then, you know, when pedal hit the metal, you have to go play the game. So. So I think what's happened, I think he's very comfortable in his own skin. I think he's obviously a hell of a football coach. He's absolutely made for what he's doing. So I see the same thing. But no, your question. I have no ill will at all. I mean, we get along fine. The times we were together, we shook hands, smiled and hey, how's the family doing? Wish you well and move on. But that was about it.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, he's, you know, he's, it's funny because he is.

[Urban Meyer]

It's really funny.

[Colin Cowherd]

It's just, it's just. Listen, some industries, I just don't expect the president of Apple and Microsoft to be best friends. It's not a real. You can't ask Buckeye Wolverine guy to dine together like it's okay.

[Urban Meyer]

So when the, when the Big Ten meetings would start, you know, it'd be all right. The meeting's 11 o'.

[Colin Cowherd]

Clock.

[Urban Meyer]

We both had come walking in about 11:59 and 54 seconds and you know, each sit on one side and it just, I don't know, it's just the way it is. But, you know, when Brady Hoak was there. I've known Brady forever, and we got along great. And so. But that was an interesting. That was an interesting. I think just the way he came in.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Urban Meyer]

How Pushing the envelope everywhere. And Murray went after the SEC a little bit, too.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yes, I did. Yeah. Well, it's great seeing you. That wasn't too tough a question. I just, you know, I didn't. You know, if you yelled at me, it had been okay. Like, Brian Kelly, you'd apologize tomorrow, and that would have been okay. There we go.

[Urban Meyer]

Go Utes.

[Colin Cowherd]

Go Ute. I like him in that game. By the way, they have beautiful new facilities. When you left, they. You. You were kind of doing it with Bondo and a peanut brittle. They got new facilities now. Have you seen those? Have you seen those babies?

[Urban Meyer]

I have. It's spectacular. And we were actually fortunate. I know the Olympics are coming back here. I came in right after the Olympics. So we actually. We had great dorms. We had great. No, it wasn't like it is now, but we had a little bit of advantage when I first got here.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, that's right. They built the village. I remember that. Absolutely. Urban Myers. Great seeing you, coach.

[Urban Meyer]

Good seeing you, Colin.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, J. Mack, I was at. I covered those Olympics. I was in Salt Lake. You know what I remember about those Olympics? I watched. So they were really concerned in Salt Lake about the traffic. Oh. So they were like, oh, my gosh, can we handle the Olympic traffic? And people from Utah stayed off the road. There was no traffic.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

How kind of them.

[Colin Cowherd]

Because people in Utah were so proud of the Olympics. They stayed home, and they just watched and they stayed off the road. And I can remember leaving. I covered it for a couple of weeks. I worked for an NBC affiliate in Portland, Oregon, and I got into a cab. You didn't have Uber at this time. I got into a cab and I said, well, I'm leaving. I said, oh, boy, has it been a tough week for you?

[Urban Meyer]

He goes. He goes.

[Colin Cowherd]

There were days I'd get on the freeway at night. There wasn't a car on the freeway. He goes, people in Utah, they wanted to watch it. And he goes. So there was absolutely no. And the Olympic athletes, they stay in the Village. Yeah. He said, I literally go to the airport. I'll take people to the village. He goes, there's been no traffic. The years and years ago, L.A. had a similar situation at the Olympics and Carmageddon. And it's amazing. Remember that they talk about that and communities get. When the Olympics come to your town. People are smart, they want. They're proud, they want to watch it on television. And the roads clear up.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

So it's interesting. First of all, I went to Salt Lake last year for one of my daughter's volleyball tournaments. I'd never been there. It's actually a really nice city. Very clean, people are friendly. But the other thing is, you mentioned the Olympics. You know, they're coming to LA, I think, in 28.

[Colin Cowherd]

20, 28.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Yeah. I already know people who are like, oh, I'm going to Airbnb. My house, make a lot of money in travel. I'm getting the hell out of town. Like, yeah, they don't want to be around to watch. They want to get out and make some money and rent out their house.

[Colin Cowherd]

That. That happens as well. A lot of people do that. Yeah. All right, J. Mac with the news. No, no, no, turn on the news.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

This is the Herd line news. We haven't talked a lot about Drake May and the Patriots this week. They've got a big one against the Pittsburgh Steelers. I. I'm not buying this, Roger. Steelers are good stuff. But Drake May gushed about his NFL idol, who just happened to be Aaron Rodgers.

[Drake May]

Very talented, you know, throwing the football. And, you know, I think anytime, you know, he's got some swagger to him, and I think he's, yeah, just a special, you know, how he throws the football. I remember watching it last year, you know, when I'm. When Jacoby was playing and they were playing at the jets, you know, I was watching him warm up. It's just something you don't take for granted. You know, somebody just throws football that way. And shoot, I remember in eighth grade, I, I was playing baseball and different sports and, you know, looked up, you know, grip. How to hold a football. So I looked up Aaron Rodgers grip, and, you know, I've had the grip ever since.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, well, he throws the prettiest ball since Marino. There's no question about that, Aaron. Sometimes. And his, you know, I don't. I don't always love all the stuff, but I will say, well, whatever the bottom line is, though, in terms of the aesthetic, he and Marino throw the prettiest ball ever. He had. He had a couple of great throws in the opener. I thought he had a great throw. I thought he had two great throws against the Seahawks. Like, beautiful throws. He throws the best, like, back shoulder ball. He throws probably the best back shoulder ball I've ever seen thrown.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

All right, enough gassing up, Rogers. How about, how about your. Your Guy Drake May. First of all, I was team Drake May coming out, remember? I thought he would be better than Jaden Daniels. So far that doesn't look good. That being said, he's no Will Levis. Did you see the arms on Drake May there with the sleeveless thing? I mean, he's got no definition on the biceps. Colin, what's going on there?

[Colin Cowherd]

I don't need bodybuilders. Just throw the ball down the field. Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Yes, yes, yes.

[Colin Cowherd]

I want you in the film room, not the weight room. Just, just. Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

See how I teed you up for that?

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

That's what teammates do. All right, let's go to the Raiders and Ashton Genty. Listen, I, we touched on it last hour. He has not lived up to the height. Colin, are you ready for this?

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

35 touches for 84 yards and he wants the ball more.

[Urban Meyer]

I don't think you, you draft a guy like me to not give me, you know, carries and touches and you know, I'm ready for the responsibility and you know, like I said, you know, it's going to start with me and you know, in the run game and I got to continue to get better.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I, I think he's going to be fine. I do. Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Well, after what Geno Smith did Monday night with the three picks and I mean just. He just looked lost. I expect a heavy workload for Ashton Genti this week plus short week. Right. They played Monday night. I don't. With Brock Bowers. He was not close to 100%.

[Colin Cowherd]

Right.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

He was not getting separation. They don't really have much. Jacoby Myers, Ashton Genti.

[Colin Cowherd]

I would say this too. Two things. You're right, they don't have great perimeter weapons. So safeties can cheat. There's no question safeties can cheat. You can't do that with A.J. brown and Devonte Smith. And I love to. I love Saquon, but you could cheat with Saquon. With the Giants. You can't cheat in Philadelphia, Kyron Williams, Rams Puka Devonte Adams, he's going to have a good year. You can't cheat. And the other thing is, everybody with the Raiders, your coordinators knew your head coach is new, your quarterback is new. Like they just have a bunch of new stuff. So I don't think it's fair. They. They remind me of New England. I don't feel like I can judge the Raiders today or judge the Patriots today. I just think they have two new systems, new coordinators, new coaches, new players. I think Ashton Jente is going to be Fine.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Does it matter for you picking this game?

[Colin Cowherd]

Who.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Like, if Jaden's quarterback or Marcus Mariota.

[Colin Cowherd]

It's a stay away game. Whenever a quarterback's hurt, it's like, I like San Francisco over Arizona, but that's because I watched Mac Jones excel. So it doesn't matter to me. They're both fine. I'm not. I'm not touching the commanders when I don't know if Jaden Daniels is going to play. I think the Raiders will account for themselves well. And if Jaden doesn't play, they have a chance to win. Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

All right, final story. Colin is the Minnesota Vikings. They're rolling with Carson Wentz. Classic. He's still in the league guy. Colin, I did not know this. Last six seasons, he's been on six different teams. That's insane. However, he gets Kevin o' Connell as his head coach. Wouldn't. That's probably good news. Here's Wentz talking about his record.

[Drake May]

It's definitely given me a different perspective. You know, going from being a starter. Being a starter, just traded, cut all the things than being a backup. Last two years behind some, you know, future hall of Fame quarterbacks. Getting to see it done at a very high level has given me some perspective also. Just the perspective of not taking this for granted. You know, it's. You never know when your next chance is going to be in this league.

[Colin Cowherd]

Here's an opinion you probably won't share. I think Carson Wentz is actually pretty good.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

But based on what? Based on what?

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, he had a lot of injuries. I mean, Howie Roseman signed him to a huge contract.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

That was like six years ago, man. Come on.

[Colin Cowherd]

What I'm saying is there's a reason he keeps finding himself. Have you ever noticed this? The coaches that like him. A lot of these offensive guys like Carson Wentz, I like him. I think he's got talent.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

So. Yeah, you're right. So he was with the Chiefs.

[Colin Cowherd]

No. That's interesting. So andy Reid. Yeah. McVeigh. Look at who likes him. McVeigh, Andy Reid, Kevin O' Connell and Howie Roseman. I trust those four guys.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Well, there's also no drama with Wentz. He's going to hold a clipboard and be quiet because he knows the injuries have decimated him. However, he's only been in Minnesota. I looked this up. He signed on August 24th. So it's not like he went through all of camp and everything. With this team relatively new to the system. I. I don't know how it's going to go. And I'M kind of with you. I. I don't know what to do with this game. Probably a. Stay away from me. What about you.

[Colin Cowherd]

Again? I've got a backup quarterback on both sides. Brown.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Jake Browning for the Bengals?

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. I. I don't know. I. I will tell this. Kevin o' Connell won a game with Josh Dobbs having no practices. I would probably take Minnesota and Carson Wentz. I could argue Carson Wentz is ahead of J.J. mcCarthy right now. In fact, I know he is.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Wait, wait, wait, wait.

[Colin Cowherd]

What in terms of Carson Wentz today is better than. Than J.J. mcCarthy today. In fact, I'm gonna bet this game because of that.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

I just taught myself he's better. Come on. Come on.

[Colin Cowherd]

Have you watched J.J. mcCarthy? Seven of the last eight quarters. Carson Wentz is better than that.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Carson Wentz is on his sixth team in six years.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know what a lot of talented people bounce around the world.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Oh, my God. Boy, wait till Minnesota Vikings fans hear that. You're saying Wentz is better right now than JJ Today? Wow, that is bold. You're on a hot take week that right now. Remember yesterday you said Jim Harwell was the greatest coach ever. You're. You're firing on all cylinders this week.

[Colin Cowherd]

I like it. Okay. J. Mac with a news. Well, that's the news.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

And thanks for stopping by the Herd line news.

[Colin Cowherd]

I don't think that's a crazy take today. Tyson Bagent today would run Ben Johnson's system better than Caleb today. Doesn't mean he's going to be better in six weeks. Today. Carson Wentz is better than JJ McCarthy today.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Wait, if that's true about Bajan, why don't you start him? Isn't the goal to win games?

[Colin Cowherd]

There's a lot of politics in the NFL in big markets with who you play and who you don't play. There's. I mean, you know that it's much more difficult than just, hey, let's play the guy. You got to let this thing play out. You can't lose Caleb's confidence. You know, you, you sit him, you could lose him. You can't just do that. I'm not. I'm just saying this Vikings are winning this game.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

I'm probably with you on that. I. Brian Flores at home. The defense against Browning, you know, going into hostile territory. I do wonder. Vikings are kind of beat up. Van Grinkle missed last game. They, they, they, they got some guys out. I don't know. I guess I would rock with you on that one, Vikings, but I, I can't roll with you on Carson Wentz better than jj. I mean, we're eight days removed from that Monday night fourth quarter. Come on, he was the NFC Player of the week.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, that was nonsense. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app.

[Advertisement/Promo Voice]

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 next time you fly, upgrade your comfort to Emirates Premium Economy. Sink into soft leather seats with raised leg rests and adjustable headrests. Elevate your dinner plans with delicious regional dining, all served with complimentary premium drinks. Enjoy endless entertainment with up to 6,500 channels including live sports. There's no other premium economy like it. Fly Emirates fly better. Are you trading S&P 500 or NASDAQ 100 ETFs? Instead, you can trade futures from CME Group on the equity indices you already know and love. Take advantage of the benefits to futures such as controlling larger portions with less capital thanks to lower margin requirements. You typically only need to put down 5 to 10% of the notional value to get started trading. In addition, take advantage of market moving events as they happen with the ability to trade both night and day. Futures offer deep 24 hour liquidity while the ETF market slows down overnight. Find the appropriate contract for your budget. Choose from the larger E Mini or smaller micro sized contracts to tailor your position. Explore S&P 500 and NASDAQ 100 [e-mail] EquityFutures Derivatives are not suitable for all investors and involve the risk of losing more than the amount originally deposited and any profit you might have made. This is not a recommendation or offer to buy, sell or retain any specific investment or service.

[Narrator/Promo Voice]

This episode is supported by FX's the Lowdown, starring Ethan Hawke. Allow us to introduce you to Lee Raybon, a quirky journalist, rare bookstore owner slash unofficial truth seeker who is always on the tail of his latest conspiracy. This time, his most recent expose puts him head to head with a powerful family that rules Tulsa. Meaning only one thing. He must be onto something big. FX is the lowdown. Premieres September 23rd on FX, stream on Hulu.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Sunday, a Fox NFL doubleheader starts with a rematch of last night, year's playoff classic between the Rams and Eagles or other regional action. Then it's America's game of the week as Dak and the Cowboys take on Caleb Williams and the Bears or Cardinals Niners. Check local listings for the games in your area. Only on Fox.

[Colin Cowherd]

Fox schedule is so good that the Cardinals Niners. You just said or watch Cardinals Niners. Well, that's a really good game.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Well, I'm going to get that out here in LA and I'm excited for it because I will have money.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay, so before the show today, J. Mac went so crazy he almost derailed our prep. So tell the audience the argument you want to make.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

So a lot of these quarterbacks drafted in the last six years have struggled out of the gate for whatever reason. Maybe they didn't get the college reps or there was the COVID hiccup and that the scouts did not get to dig as deep as they wanted. So we've had a lot of guys come into the draft and they flopped at the top, but then they've rebounded elsewhere. Sam Darnold now as a starter making big money. Baker Mayfield now a starter making big money. Some guys like Zach Wilson, they're never going to figure it out. That being even Geno Smith to an extent, is in that group, but he was drafted earlier. I'm wondering, is there a world where Daniel Jones, who is absolutely cooked the first two weeks, is he the next Baker Mayfield? And I say this to Colin and Colin kind of sort of like scoffs, no way. No shot. And I'm like, if you look at the numbers and it's just two weeks, we know Shane Steichen was a stud with Jalen Hurts. And now he's got Daniel Jones. Why can't he make him a reclamation project like Baker Mayfield? Okay. This Colt, by the way, the Colts faced the Broncos last week and Daniel Jones was confidently throwing at Patrick Certain.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

The reigning defensive player of the year.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay. So it's certainly possible. But I would say this quarterbacks have to have a great trait. So Sam Darnold's athletic ability. He is a live playmaking athlete. Okay. So when he was struggling, my take was there are highlights With Sam Darnold, where he is spectacular. Baker Mayfield. When Baker Mayfield can plant and throw, he throws a top eight ball in this league. He. When Baker's got time to throw now he thinks he's a better athlete than he is. And when the pocket breaks down, it's like Baker, get rid of the ball. You're not going to outrun the defensive end. But Baker is an elite thrower of the football. Sam is an elite athlete. Daniel Jones is a good athlete and throws a decent ball. He doesn't have a wow trait.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Okay, so the counter would be Daniel Jones's nickname. And it was probably half in jest with the Giants was Vanilla Vic. He's a tremendous athlete. And I'll just say this, you know, and this is a longer conversation. I think there's something interesting here. There's a world where these guys are drafted at the top and they're not built to be franchise saviors. You know, hey, Daniel Jones come and pull the Giants out of the wilderness.

[Colin Cowherd]

They can be a franchise quarterback, but they're not a franchise savior.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Right. And being drafted at the top, it's a lot of pressure, man. You know, Zach Wilson was in awe of the spotlight. Some of these guys can't handle that.

[Colin Cowherd]

How about this?

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

Go ahead.

[Colin Cowherd]

The Colts offensive personnel right now, their O line is fifth best. Pff. Their tight end is the number one tight end in football. Jonathan Taylor's a top four to five back. I said this, their online eight. Denver's D line for lunch. My take on the Colts is he's got great talent. Michael Pittman, Pierce, Warren, Taylor. I think people, because they've struggled at quarterback, don't look at the Colts and go, oh, they got good players. Watch the Denver game. Denver gets an incredible pass rush muted against the Colts O line. I think Ballard's built an excellent team, so. And they were beat up against the Colts. They were missing three starters.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

So is it possible Daniel Jones is a franchise quarterback, but he's not a franchise savior? And there is a difference, right? There's. It's some nuance.

[Colin Cowherd]

That is an interesting take. He's not Baker. That is an interesting take. Maybe you just found our lead for tomorrow.

[Jason McIntyre (J. Mac)]

No way.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, you're right. No way. Colts.

[Advertisement/Promo Voice]

Balance your trading strategy by adding futures. CME Group helps you manage risk and capture opportunities in all market environments. Capitalize on around the clock access to highly liquid global futures and option markets across all major asset classes. Visit your online broker and get started. See what adding futures can do for you at CME Group Derivatives are not suitable for all investors and involve the risk of losing more than the amount originally deposited and any profit you might have made. This is not a recommendation or offer to buy, sell or retain any specific investment or service. Make your game day legendary with MGM Rewards. From unforgettable tailgate and viewing parties to world class dining, thrilling nightlife and entertainment that keeps the energy going long after the final whistle, this is where fans come to celebrate, show off your team spirit, cheer with friends and earn rewards on every experience you love. Because every play is bigger and every moment feels unforgettable in Las Vegas. So what are you waiting for? Make your game day legendary with MGM Rewards. Visit mgmrewards.com for details.

[Colin Cowherd]

Hi, it's the herd. I've been using my JLab headphones for over a year now. They're still like brand new. The battery life, the sound quality, just great. For Travel, I use JBuds Lux over ear headphones. Super comfortable, longest playtime with active noise canceling. For hanging out in the backyard with fam, I use the JBuds party speaker splash proof with LED lights. You can even customize the sound and lights in the app. No matter your mood, there's JLab headphones for every you find the blue box at Walmart, Target, Best Buy and more. Or find them on Amazon and jlab.com today. You know that feeling when you come home late from work and the puppy dog eyes just pierce right through your soul?

[Advertisement/Promo Voice]

Yeah, we've all been there, right?

[Colin Cowherd]

Pet parent guilt is real. And you know what? It's completely normal. That's exactly why Hill's Pet Nutrition exists. They understand that being a pet parent means being human. Hill Science led nutrition helps you give more love than humanly possible, whether it's those long work days or trying to balance attention between, you know, multiple pets.

[Advertisement/Promo Voice]

Hills Pet Nutrition gets it because, hey, you're only human. There's Hills Science does more.

[Colin Cowherd]

If you're ready to let go of the guilt, find the right [e-mail] iheart hills Peter Pat com iheart this is an iheart podcast.