The Herd with Colin Cowherd - The Herd - Hour 2 - Where Colin was right & wrong

Episode Date: November 27, 2023

Where Colin was right and wrong Fox Sports NFL analyst Michael Vick joins the show in studio to talk about Jalen Hurts establishing himself as one of the top QBs in the league right nowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is an I-Heart podcast. Guaranteed Human. Another podcast from some SNL, late-night comedy guy, not quite. Unhumor me with Robert Smygel and friends. Me and hilarious guests from Bob Odenkirk to David Letterman help make you funnier. This week, my guest, SNL's Mikey Day and head writer, Streeter Seidel, help an a cappella band with their between songs banter.

Where does your group perform? We do some retirement homes. Those people are starving for banter. Listen to humor me with Robert Smigel and friends on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. On The Look Back at it podcast. From 1979, that was a big moment for me. 84 was big to me.

I'm Sam Jay. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick a year, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it. With our friends, fellow comedians, and favorite authors. Like Mark Lamont Hill on the 80s. 84 was a wild year. It was a wild year. I don't think there's a more important year for black people.

Listen to look back at it on the IHeart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. A win is a win. A win is a win. I don't care what I'm saying. Yep, that's me, Clifford Taylor the 4th. You might have seen the skits, my basketball and college football journey, or my career in sports media. Well, now I'm bringing all of that excitement to my brand new podcast, The Clifers Show. This is a place for raw, unfilled conversations with athletes, creators, and voices that not only deserve to be heard,

but celebrated. So let's get to it. Listen to the Clifford show on the IHeard Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. And for more behind the scenes, follow at Clifford and at TikTok Podcast Network on TikTok. Thanks for listening to The Heard podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox Sports Radio

in noon to 3 Eastern, 9 a.m. to noon Pacific. Find your local station for the herd at Fox SportsRadio.com or stream us live every day on the IHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR. You're listening to Fox Sports Radio. Oh, here we go. It's our two. We're just starting live in Los Angeles.

It's the herd. Wherever you may be, and however you may be watching or listening, thanks for making us part of your day. What a weekend. What a four-game stretch. What a four-day stretch where J-MAC, I did everything over four days. On planes.

almost went skiing, hockey, college football, underdog weekend. Alabama is so lucky to have won. Washington got some breaks to win. They were in trouble. Those weekend rivalries, watch out. You see the line on Oregon, Washington? Well, Oregon's nine and a half-point favorite.

I mean, we talked about it being seven and a half, and now it's not, like nobody's back in Washington. I think Oregon, and I'm dead serious about this, I think Oregon's the best team in the country. I don't say that. I'm from the Pacific Northwest. Michigan's great. There's a lot of really good teams.

I think Oregon's the best team in the country. Michigan doesn't have to face them in the semifinal. That would stink. That's a tough matchup for Michigan. All right. Where Colin was right. Where Colin was wrong. As is customary on a Monday.

Plenty of both. Here we go. Where Colin was right. I predicted Michigan would be more committed to the run game and therefore win. They had a hundred and 22-yard rushing in just the second half. half, that's more than Ohio State had in the game. I said the team that runs the football the last 21 years, more committed to it, more productive wins, it's now 22 straight years, as good as the

Ohio State defense is, and it's special, Michigan controlled the game, scoring every, almost every time they got opportunities in the second half field goal or touchdowns. And again, we said, Whoever runs the ball with greater commitment and conviction will win, and that was Michigan. Where Colin was raw. I had the bills winning their division, and frankly, they shoot themselves in the foot, maybe more than any good team in this league. Ten penalties in the first half. They had opportunities.

It's like the Eagles came out flat and wanted to hand the bills a W, and they couldn't get it done. So the bills are not going to be unless they turn it around, quickly, very quickly a playoff team, and I was wrong. Where Colin was right? The Broncos. I said Russell Wilson, come on, washed. He got something left in the tank, washed. And I also felt that Sean Payton is one of the smartest coaches I've ever discussed, talked to at dinner with.

Sean would figure it out, but it was a big lift, probably bigger than he imagined. But their defense now is young, talented, and aggressive. They are tied for the NFL's longest winning streak. And frankly, their defense, which was an issue earlier, that's been coached up. They pushed Cleveland, a physical team around. We got that one right. Where Colin was wrong. Carolina fired their coach, Frank Wright, today.

I like the hire. I still do. Fire the GM. They've got no offensive pieces at all. I still think Bryce Young has talent, though he doesn't look as good as C.J. Stroud. I do not think this is the answer. How many coaches have they had if you count interim guys in the last six, seven years?

Seven? It's ridiculous. But I thought it would work. I thought they'd be more competitive. I talked myself out of giving them the division. In the summer, I talked myself, I said, they're going to make the playoffs. I talked myself out of that by August. But in the end, I didn't think it would be this bad. Where Colin was right?

Remember this summer, J. Mack, when everybody said the Rams are going to be terrible, and I said, they're going to be in the 7-8-9 area. They have too many good weapons. They have too good of a coat. Cooper Cup, Aaron Donald. They've got too many guys, maybe not in their prime, but McVeigh is one of the smartest coaches. He'll manufacture offense, and they've done a remarkable job with duct tape getting their offensive line right. They finally got healthy yesterday. Williams, the running back was back. Currently five and six. The over under in Vegas was only six. But if you watch them play, they have a life because their best players, their tight end, their right tackle, their quarterback, they draft well, they were never going to be abysmal with Sean McVeigh. Where Colin was wrong.

I had Detroit in and Dallas out in the Super Bowl bubble, but you know what? I got to say this for Dallas. At least they trounce the teams they're supposed to. I mean, what happened to Detroit against Green Bay? You can't go in at home short week against Jordan Love and make him look like Dan Marino. I was wrong. Dallas does something that great teams or good teams do. They beat the teams convincingly they're supposed to. Lions can't even at home?

I mean, that game wasn't even close. Green Bay moved up and down the field on him. I was wrong. Where Colin was right? Alan Lazard Jets, a healthy scratch yesterday against the Dolphins. That was Friday. I said it when they sign him. You're just trying to appeal to Aaron Rogers.

This is a reach. He's a four, can struggle with consistency. I said you can't just blame Zach Wilson. Who is he throwing to besides Garrett Wilson? This was obviously to appeal to Aaron Rogers. I like Alan Lazzard, not at that price, and not committed to be like a number two receiver. He's not, that's okay, but we were right.

Where Colin was wrong. In the last four games, Jordan Love is showing growth. Now, we had said Matt LaFleur, young receivers and tight ends, Green Bay does a really good job to draft and develop offensive players, rarely going to the first round. But I will say this for Jordan Love. He looks much more confident. He's got a nice relationship with these young receivers.

He moves very well. I don't see a lot of growth with Kenny Pickett and some of these young quarterbacks, certainly not Mack Jones, Zach Wilson. You can see coaching, confidence. He clearly sees the field better than he does. did two months ago, I was wrong. Where Colin was right? I love Shane Steichen hiring by the Colts.

Colts are 6 and 5 with Gardner Minchew, baby. And again, he's had to deal with the Leonard, the linebacker they let go of. He's gotten impulsive at times crazy owner. They lost their starting quarterback. It's in the tougher AFC. But, you know, the Chargers general manager told me years ago when Stuyken was in the building, this kid's going to be special. He is a difference maker.

Shane Steichen, we love the higher. And the Colts, inexplicably, hard to explain. Right in the smack dab in the middle of the playoff race with Gardner Minshue. Where Colin was right, where Colin was wrong, on a Monday. Feels very right to have Michael Vick on, four-time pro bowler, 13 years in the NFL. Most career rush yards by a quarterback in league history,

over 6,000 Fox Sports NFL. analyst. So I said this last week, and I used to get crap for saying this, that I would say, I want my quarterback on that Wednesday press conference, Michael. I want the hat on straight. You got the big bank sponsor. You are the face of the franchise. Definitely. Shave, play the part. Yeah. And I watched Jalen Hertz on that thing. Dude looks like a senator. In fact, he looks better than our senators. And there is something about his maturity and, um, I know I got crap for this, but it does matter. I think the team feeds off as maturity and his resilience.

What do you make of what we're seeing? I mean, on and off the field, Jalen Hurst look apart. If I can go back and do it all over 20 years ago, I would certainly make sure that I looked apart. I was polished when I stepped on the podium. You know, that comes with just leadership and understanding your position. And I think Jaila Hertz really understands the position that he's in, you know, being a quarterback of a flagship organization like the Philadelphia.

if you Eagles really means a lot. He takes it serious and so, you know, that team is maturing and as good as it is because of Jaylor Hertz. Is he healthy when you watch? And everybody else, but. Is he healthy? From the looks of it, it don't look, you know,

nobody's really healthy this time of the year. And especially the way he play, you know, taking some hits, a lot of sacrifice. But, you know, he's not out there. He's not hurt. He wouldn't be out there if he couldn't be out there. He's not. For sure. Yeah. Yeah. And so, you know,

Sometimes accountability and everything matters when you're a competitor. You know, you just want to be there for your teammates and you want to show them that I'm willing to go to extra play hurt. Because you gain respect. It's another form of leadership. You know, Michael, I remember watching Aaron Rogers at Cal and then three years later, I'm like he's got a way better arm. Is that when Jalen Hertz was at Alabama, it was like he runs. People do improve in life. I can, a politician can't, anybody can.

I think throwing the football, he looks different than three years ago. Take me to your progression. Is it because he sees the field? Is it because the receivers are better? Is it coaching? Remember, he's got a new OC this year. He looks so much more comfortable throwing the ball deep. Yeah.

You become a better pass than when you learn to anticipate. And so, I mean, anybody can hit a 10-yard hits. My son can throw a 10-yard out. You can throw a 10. J-Mack, you know, we can all throw those in there with a little practice and repetition. But when you started to throw them down the field throws, them in-custom out routes and routes that, you know, you get certain coverage, you got to anticipate it. There might be a small window that you got to put the ball. But if you understand pre-snap, look, this was coming, anticipated.

Now you're a little more accurate because you know where you, you know, you get there before, you get to the spot first and help your receiver get to the spot. So I think that's truly important as far as progression for a passer, understanding pre-snap, what's going to be there, and then seeing it, and then hitting it with accuracy. Yeah, your mind's not racing. You know what's coming. Yeah, you calm. It's a sense of calm.

Yeah. In order to make those throws, other than that, you get wiry, erratic. Yeah. So you ran. Now, Cam Newton, Big Ben, Josh Allen, because of their size, are a little more durable. And so Josh Allen, much like a Ben and a Cam, he can take a lot of these hits. But I do feel like, okay, we're six years in now.

And when this team gets in the red zone, their offense is, hey, Josh, it's like high school. Just go make a play. Are they wasting his talent? I don't think they're wasting his talent. I think, you know, just where every quarterback is levels, it's progression. You know, I think you're only going to be as good as your all. offensive coordinator. You know, and I think it's just so true.

Sometimes the coach can't win you the game, but they can lose you the game. Us as players got to take the onus of, you know, when the players call, we got to dissect it. We really got to break it all down really, really quick. And, you know, sometimes I used to pride of myself a lot on, you know, if I heard a play call come in and I did something outside of the box within the play, the long as I can explain it, you know. And Andy. You go to Andy Reed and explain it.

Andy, I'd rather him say, good job. I don't want to explain it. You know, complete the pass or whatever the check is, you know, make it happen, keep it moving. You know, sometimes, you know, you get into the red zone and, you know, get it a little tighter. It's a little more anxiety. And then play calls, it's got to be spot on. And it don't always got to be down the field throws. You know, it's still ways to move the ball.

You know, in the red zone, screens and quick pad dumps, you know, like, it's ways to move the ball quick. I want to ask you, so there was a play last night. where Gabe Davis broke free. And Gabe turns to the corner. I know exactly what you said. Instead of in. Now, Josh Allen's reaction was almost, hey, Gabe, you turn the wrong way. So a lot of times in the NFL, you know this.

You throw the ball before the cuts made. Yeah. On that play, what is the rule? For instance, Gabe maybe beats his man more quickly than he anticipated. Right. Is there a rule in this league? because Josh threw it before Gabe had perfectly turned. Josh reacted in a cover zero situation.

I mean, it's all out blitz. Everybody's coming. And unless Gabe just ran his route that was designed, the route that was in the play call. May have been to the corner. I think Josh anticipated him just, it's cover zero. We've seen this look plenty of times. You know what that mean.

I mean, all hell about to break loose. Just run. That's why he lobbed. it to a spot. It was a perfect pass. I think Gabe just ran his route. And so if Gabe ran the route that was designed in the play call, he did the right thing. Right. But Josh anticipated

us being on the same page years of experience. I could be wrong. But when we see cover zero, it's red. By the way, Justin Herbert saw one last night and he doesn't have a deep threat. Yeah. And, you know, same reaction. Right. Okay, I want to ask you about Russell Wilson.

So, listen, In Seattle, we all knew what he was. Twitchy moved. He didn't move like you, but the rain drop throws. And then last year, it plummets. So my takeaway was, is he washed? How? He's never been hurt.

So now if you look at the last five, six games, he's back to Russell and Seattle. I think in Seattle he had better receivers, but he didn't have a title locket, but he still got a... So when you watch this Denver offense, what are they doing now, in your opinion, that maybe they weren't a month ago? I think it's predicated on better field position, one. You know, the defense is playing really well. Yes.

And so they're giving them opportunities to, you know, have short fields, cross the 50, you know, punt returns and get into a good field position, which allows the play calling to be different. It's so much easier to call the game when you cross the 50 as opposed before you get to the field. Right, right. And so everything changes, the end zone, a lot closer. It's more opportunity

and so it opens up the playbook, you know, especially when you get into that big red. So, I think the play calling is different. Russell is definitely getting on the same page with Sean. I like the running back. Yeah, I like the run. And I like the fact that coach don't him shot away from the run game, even if

it's not working. It can be two yards here, three yards there, you pop one for six. And he just, consistency in the run game keeps the defense honest and allow him the play call the way he wants to. So I want to go, C.J. Stroud this weekend lost,

but there is something, and we're going to see Justin Fields tonight. And so there's an, you know, the old saying is, you know, winning's not a quarterback stat. And, you know, obviously it's a team game. But I don't think if Davis Mills was starting, they'd be nearly as good as with C.J. Stroud

with all the same dudes. Are you surprised? Because the one thing I think I can tell, I think I can from watching it on television, is that he sees the field, so quickly. Now I watch you all through college. You didn't have to worry too much about that.

And you also in college sometimes have stuff schemed. You got a first, second, read, and then run. And the NFL, it's not that easy. So when I watch him, I think, oh, he just sees it quickly. Did you see it quickly? Did it take time? What do you make of what you're saying? Yeah, it's a time.

I certainly was as good as C.J. Shrout was when I was a rookie, as good as he is. now, especially so early, I couldn't have handled at all starting as a rookie, one. And being honest, it was just, you know, trying to create an understanding of Dan Reeves' offense, it was super complex. Sure. We even had to call two plays in the huddle sometimes, and, you know, so it's different. But I don't know what the terminology of verbiage is for CJ Stroud, but whatever it is,

he got it, he's comfortable. Like you say, he sees it really quickly, and it's the anticipation. part, knowing how to anticipate and get there before the defender can get there. And it just works every time. If they're teaching that and he's grasping that, now you've got offense. So next week it's Philadelphia, San Francisco. And there's like Hall of Fame level dudes. And I know we're early on this.

We still have a Monday night game. But I want you to go back to your career in your biggest games against your best teams. And this is going to be one of these games. for Brock Purdy. Now he faces an equal roster. These are the two best teams, I think, in the NFC. Yeah, in this game. Is there a lean for you?

This is certainly a good indication of what we're going to see down the road, you know, in the playoffs at some point, depending on how everything shapes out and how it's configured. But we'll get a chance to see Brock Purdy versus, you know, what he's going to see. down the road. And that's a tough Philadelphia Eagles defense is, you know, led by guys who future Hall of Fame was pro bowlers and know how to win, you know, mentally. Do you buy Brock Purdy? I mean, against Seattle. Yeah, about any

quarterback who's consistent, consistently good, you know, more wins than losses. You know, we are judged by that and, you know, he understands exactly what has to happen within our offense in order to move to change. And so he know how to get Debo involved. He know how to get George Kittle involved. He knows how to move to change. And that's important. That's why he's on the field and nobody else.

When you have as much talent as Philadelphia and specifically San Francisco as a quarterback, did you ever feel pressure? Okay, I got to give George Kittle a look. Are he not going to be happy at halftime? Did you sense that? You feel it. Yeah, that's a real thing. You know, some guys different from others,

but you always want to keep guys in a rhythm and keep them happy. and, you know, they spend a lot of time in practice running routes, and sometimes the ball don't come their way, and, you know, they might go two or three periods in practice where they don't touch the ball. And so you want to keep everybody satisfied, want to keep them into the game, and, you know, just want them to keep leading

and blocking for you and fighting for you, you know, when, you know, when you got to handle business the other way or when we got to go run-centric. You know, just stay involved. The best leaders and the best, players are the guys who are unselfish, the guys that I've been around, who don't really care about stats. They'll get theirs when they get theirs. And, you know, it's more team-oriented than anything else.

But occasionally, you'll get an A.J. Brown, somebody wants to get a year. Which is good, too. So, so when it happened, when somebody came to you on the sidelines, it'll make you better. It may make you better. It just heightens your focus. You know, these one of our premier players, he got to touch it. I was watching the game last night. I felt, you know, I just said to myself,

good things happen when AJ Brown touched the ball. And so you can't get him the ball all the time. You got to spread it around. You got Swift. You got Devonthe. You got to spread it around. But, you know, that guy can be the reason why they win it all. Yeah.

Michael Vic is joining us. So you're friends with Lamar Jackson. Yeah. He's having a great year. I just love watching him play. There's another guy that's grown. He is the last couple of years he's gotten banged up. it does look like they have the best receiving talent they've had.

Give me your thoughts on Baltimore going forward. Now, Burroughs out, Buffalo's not going to make the playoffs. I think they match up with Kansas City well. Give me your thoughts. You know Lamar about the contract, the off-season. He finally has playmakers. What do you see when you watch your friend? It just looked dangerous.

It just looks like the game is coming so easy to him. in total control, I think I said this before. And just when you understand the offense and you come to work every day and now you know you can get better, I can get better tomorrow because, you know, when I get the play sheet is faxed over to me at night, I can look at all these calls and I can see the touchdowns. Like if you can see the success in the play sheet and the play calls, that's when you thrive.

You sleep well. Yeah, and I think Lamar just comes into a game where he knows, I'm coming to get it done with my arm, but I can get it done with my legs too. But, you know, to spread the ball around the Zay and Odell, and I don't have to do it on my own, it just makes the game so much easier. So it's a big credit to Lamar.

It's even bigger credit to John Harbaugh, who's, you know, surrounding him with the talent and the organization who will make sure that, you know, we ain't going to leave no excuses when it comes down to this AFC championship game. You know, if we get there, we're going to be well equipped. For the record, when players get paid, they often change. Lamar's different. Jalen Hurts, Lamar got paid.

He's feistyer. You know, some guys get paid, and I've heard this before from GMs, some guys get paid and it's just, they're not the same guy. he almost is more intense and feistyer the money didn't change him at all yeah these dudes just want to they want to be great they want to be great they they never want to be the reason why their team don't win the game when you take on that type of attitude i never wanted to be the reason i never wanted to cut the film on and man if i'd have made a better throw i went to throw on the interceptioner and there was times i had my moments yeah but you know more good than bad and you know if

They continue to progress and continue to take that presidential attitude on and off the field, man. When did you get it? Your four, your phone, when you said, wait, wait, wait, did somebody have a conversation with you and said Michael? It was like year six or seven when I started to realize the impact I had on the game, what I was doing for the game and for the position, how I could grow and get better. Once I got a bite Bertrino was introduced to a different offense, a different system, I started to see my potential. Now it went from just making Pro Bowls to now, you know, chasing greatness.

Now the Super Bowl, in the aspect of, you know, what that would do for my legacy, started to creep in. It was a little too late, but I got it. And so when I got to Philadelphia, I took on the same attitude and was able to bring the younger guys with me and help them, you know, in the leadership role. So they can understand when I leave, what they can understand. when I leave what they got to do to the next generation.

So I knew I had to pass on that goodwill. And so I was just extremely focused on that, but it made me a better football player. Great seeing you as always. You're flying back to Florida here? Yeah, back to Florida. Right. Hope you had a good Thanksgiving with your family.

Yeah, I did. Michael Vic, Fox Sports. One more herd? The herd streams 24 hours a day, seven days a week within the IHeard radio app. Search Herd to listen live or on demand whenever you'd like. Imagine an Olympics where doping is not only legal, but encouraged.

It's the enhanced games. Some call it grotesque. Others say it's unleashing human potential. Either way, the podcast's Superhuman documented it all, embedded in the games and with the athletes for a full year. Within probably 10 days, I'd put on 10 pounds. I was having trouble stopping the muscle growth. Listen to Superhuman on the I-Hard Radio app,

Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. A win is a win. A win is a win. I don't care what you'll say. Yep, that's me, Cliver Taylor the 4th. You might have seen the skits, the reactions, my journey from basketball to college football, or my career in sports media. Well, somewhere along the way, this platform became bigger than I ever imagined. And now I'm bringing all of that excitement to my brand new podcast, The Clifford Show.

This is a place for raw, unfiltered conversations with some of your favorite athletes, creators, and voices that not only deserve to be heard, but celebrated. One week, I'll take you behind the scenes of the biggest moments in sports and entertainment. and the next we'll talk about life, mental health, purpose, and even music. The Clifford Show isn't just a podcast, it's a space for honest conversations, stories that don't always get told, and for people who are chasing something bigger. So if you've ever supported me or you're just chasing down a dream, this is right where you need to be. Listen to the Clifford show on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast. And for more behind the scenes, follow at Clifford and at TikTok Podcast Network on TikTok. Do you remember when Diana Ross double-tapped Little Kim's boobs at the VMAs?

Or when Kanye said that George Bush didn't like black people. I know what you're thinking. What the hell does George Bush got to do with Little Kim? Well, you can find out on the Look Back at it podcast. I'm Sam Jay. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick a here, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it. Including a recent episode with Mark Lamont Hill, waxing all about crack in the 80s.

To be clear, 84 is big to me, not just because. of crack. I'm down to talk about crack on day, but just so y'all know. I mean, at this point, Mark, this is the second episode where we've discussed crack. So I'm starting to see that there's a through line. We also have AIDS on the table right now. Thank you finishing that sentence. I don't think there's a more important year for black people.

Really? Yeah. For me, it's one of the most important years for black people in American history. Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your A lot of show left don't go anywhere. We are on a Monday. Let's not waste any time with further ado. Without further ado or without, who knows?

J. Mack for the news. No, no, no, no, no. Turn on the news. This is the herd line news. All right, let's go to college football, Colin. We talked about this over the weekend. This Alabama finish against Auburn was absolutely wild. Fourth down and goal from the 31-yard line.

and Jalen Milrow, who by the way, has not been great all season, but he's improving. Yeah. Unquarks this unbelievable pass into the back of the end zone. Just unreal finish. Here is a listen to the audio of Alabama beating Auburn. Fourth and goal from the 31-yard line. Here's the snap. Milro stands in.

Let's everybody get downfield. Still standing. He throws into the end zone. He caught. It's caught. It's caught. Isaiah Bond, caught by Isaiah Bond in the

corner in the end zone. Touchdown! Alabama! So Auburn Rush 3, had eight guys in the end zone, and then left one dude in man coverage in the corner. Like, what's going on? That's bad. By the way, Alabama's not a good football team. Can we agree? They're not. They're not. I think Ohio State's better.

I think Texas has proven they're better. People say Alabama's improved. Yeah, I mean, because they weren't very good literally. So I, to me, the best team, I honestly, now I would put Michigan number one because they've won six games without their coach on the sidelines. And Ohio State's excellent. And they physically in the second half ran for 122 yards. I'd put Oregon 2, Georgia 3. Those three feel unique, different, better than everybody. The fourth team, I mean, I, Florida State, even though there were the backup, probably makes it. But I think, no, no, no. I think Ohio,

state's the fourth best team. I really do. I think they'd beat Texas. I think they'd beat Bama. I think they'd beat Florida State. I think they'd beat Washington. I think Ohio State's the fourth best team, but I don't think they'll get in. Yeah, no, no, no. Florida State, they're not in the discussion, by the way. They're out. They're out.

They're out. Forget them. This Alabama story is interesting. So Georgia favored by five and a half in the SEC title game, do you give them a chance to be plucky against Georgia? Yes. You love the Georgia quarterback. But I think Georgia's has a huge advantage at quarterback.

I think Carson Beck... What are not just talent? They've got... They've got vastly at the highest level. But I think Georgia, to me, is the side in that game. Yeah. I think Georgia by a touchdown. And again, I think there's three really, really exceptional college teams.

Oregon's going to beat Washington Friday. I think I'm going to that game. And I think Oregon matches up very well with Georgia. I would take Oregon over Georgia. I think I may take Oregon over Michigan. I think they're that good. Do we need to start the campaign for Michigan? Michigan to be number one?

Well, they should be. Honestly, they should. And let's ask you this. Who's got the best win? Michigan, not Georgia. Yeah. Who has a more impressive resume, six wins without their coach?

Is Georgia undefeated without Kirby Smart? I want to see, I think Michigan, Texas gets a massive number in one playoff semifinal, and then Georgia, Oregon is going to be a great, great game. That's a robust semifinal. All you, Buckeye fans, and I'm not asking you to be grown-ups,

because I know you're incapable of, a rational thought today. But before you just say Florida State should be out because they don't have a starting quarterback, what if your quarterback was out? So I don't think Florida State should be in. But I don't believe if you lose a star quarterback, you're the same

football team. I don't care what you're They were getting buried by Florida before a comeback. But I think the four vote, I is, what if Washington loses is overtime to Oregon? I don't. Oh, what? When's the last regular season game

lost. I don't have an argument. Texas is a huge favorite over Oklahoma. Well, yeah, they're going to. You sure? I just like to hear you bash Oklahoma's funny. No, I mean, I think, what is the line on that game? I saw 14.

Yeah, I think Texas is going to beat Oklahoma soundly, and I think George is going to beat Alabama less soundly, but beat them. All right, let's get to the NFL. Time out, time out, time out. Texas is a favorite over Oklahoma State. Oklahoma State. Yeah, that's different. Wow. Yeah, it's different.

I mean, the line's not. different. It's massive. Yeah. So, Texas, yeah. Okay. Let's get to the NFL. Jordan Love had one of his best career performances on Thanksgiving. Colin, three passing touchdowns, pass a rating of 125.

Jordan Love, shockingly, in the last two weeks, five touchdowns, no interceptions, 67% completions. He's turning a corner. We've had the Packers ticketed for a quarterback. Well, I have. In the draft. And all of a sudden, now is Jordan Love maybe their guy?

you know they're going to let him. So let's just, whether he's great or not, you know Green Bay, he's going to, they said this year they wanted to watch the growth. I think you're seeing a more confident kid who clearly sees the field more. But can I take a right on this? Everybody thinks I hated Jordan Love.

I said, I don't see it. But at least Green Bay has a history, unlike the Bears, of being an offensive culture those young receivers are excellent. Musgrave is going to be fantastic at Tide End. Green Bay gives Jordan Love a much better chance to succeed than New England does Mack Jones, Pittsburgh does Kenny Pickett,

or Chicago does Justin Fields, because they're history in Green Bay. They draft offense well, they develop it well, they've had three straight offensive coaches. So whether or not Jordan Love is great, when you start getting to all these young quarterback, Zach Wilson, defensive coach. Kenny Pickett, defensive coach.

That's my takeaway is. Green Bay will do, Chicago, defensive culture, defensive coach. Green Bay does the best job at giving young quarterbacks a chance to succeed of all these teams with a young quarterback now. I will push back a little. I know I sounded effusive in the praise of love. I mean, Jared Goff gave the game away, like three. I mean, he was just a turnover machine, like literally handed the. the game to them. And then Jordan Love doesn't have to do much. It's different when you're

playing with the lead. Like, you can be a little... Let me see, Jordan Love had to come back. Again, the Chargers the week before. Echler fumbles on like the five-yard line, you know? Well, you also, it should be noted, Russell Wilson and Denver winning the turnover battle, giving them a short field. So you can't knock Jordan Love for taking advantage of breaks. Those things happen. A lot of fumbles in the league. But I don't think we can make a decision on him being a franchise quarterback because he had two good weeks in the middle of what's been a mediocre at best season. I think we'll look at the season

when it's done, and our takeaway will be Jordan Love did get better, he did grow, unlike Aaron who didn't want to connect with the young players. Generationally, he connects with these guys, same music, same hang, it matters. Okay, listening to you, I'm going to ask.

Okay, but I also think we'll be able to make a statement is great, probably not. Franchise quarterback at some level, probably. So pay him? Franchise tag? What are we doing here? Well, they've already got him paid this year and next.

Yes. So you don't have to make, when do you have to make your next? He doesn't want to be a lay. I don't think he would want to be a lame duck quarterback. I got news for you. There's not a big Jordan love market. So he's going to take what they pay him. It's fair. There's not a huge market for him right now. But hey, listen, the truth is he's looked better. That's what coaching and culture can do. I think you have to be totally excited as a Packer fan. I love their young receivers. I think they haven't. Yeah.

They have all this young receiver tight-end talent. They don't have to pay any of it for three years. You've got to keep Watson healthy. He looks good when he's on the field, but he's never healthy. All right, let's get to final story. One of your favorite quarterbacks, Trevor Lawrence and the Jags. Nice win over the Texans, led by 10 in the fourth. Tried to blow that one.

Trevor Lawrence is excited about his budding rivalry with C.J. Stroud. Here's what he had to say. I want the teams in our division to be as bad as possible. So, no, I'm not. That's how I see it. And the way they're playing, it's exciting. Yes, there's going to be some, I'm sure, some great matchups down the road, and CJ's playing.

He's playing lights out. He's doing a great job. I mean, to be a rookie and to play how he is. I got a lot of respect for him. I know that. I know how hard it is. You know, I've been in that position. So he's doing a great job, and it's going to be fun for years to come, hopefully.

So, but no, I mean, I wouldn't prefer that. I'd prefer if, you know, the guys in our division didn't have good quarterbacks and be better for us, but he's doing a heck of a job. finally somebody that's honest the worst the quarterbacks the greater chance you host a playoff game uh no question no i mean this is uh

CJ and Trevor both were too good fun to watch them play that game was really good that was a you can't lose too much sleep if you're the texans they had that game was back and forth that was a go either way game Ridley Calvin Ridley boy is he good I got him on my fantasy team he did nothing in the first half

literally no catches second half they couldn't guard him could not cover him So Trevor Lawrence, you watch this game closely, Colin. I like him a lot. Well, yeah, we like him. He wasn't great. I know the numbers say 364 yards. Okay, but Demico Ryan's is a brilliant defensive mind.

He's made a lot of quarterbacks this year look average. Lawrence isn't playing the way Herbert's not lifting to the top seven or whatever your elite seven quarterback. I don't know. All I see here is good throws. Well, yeah, it's a highlight reel, man. Come on. They're not going to show the terrible stuff. I'm just saying.

Look at that throw. I like Trevor Lawrence a lot. Here's the thing. I don't understand this. When people say this, this quarterback is overrated. You think they're going to move off Trevor Lawrence? You think the Chargers are going to move off Justin Herbert? But I'll tell you right now, they're going to be like the number two or three seed,

and I don't know that they're a slam dunk to win their first playoff game. Well, who is outside of Philadelphia? I mean, there's like three teams that are. As a two seed with home field? They're right behind both. Tennessee lost as a one seed a couple years ago. They were never real. Jacksonville, Pittsburgh. in a rematch.

How about that? How about rematch? You know, I can't resist Kenny Pickett and Mike Tomlin. I can't quit those guys. I just love that team. Oh, dear. Shay Mack with the news. Well, that's the news.

And thanks for stopping by. The Herd line. Be sure to catch live editions of The Herd weekdays in noon Eastern, 9 a.m. Pacific. On Fox Sports Radio, FS1, and the I-Hard Radio app. I'm the King. What's good, darling? man Michael Smith, esteemed NFL analyst, and certified fantasy football legend. Allow me to present to you your new favorite fantasy football podcast, the Dynasty Exchange,

hosted by my first round rookie picks, Davis, Dylan, and Josh, three guys who most definitely know their stuff. They're the co-commissioners of the coolest and most cutthroat dynasty league you'll ever come across, the Yacht Club. And now they're the co-hosts of the. the most elite. Now make that the definitive dynasty program in the game. It's dedicated to

only the most devoted of diehards. The guys like me who can't stay off sleeper in KTC. And trust me, you won't regret making the choice to follow their dynasty advice. Listen to Michael Smith presents the Dynasty Exchange on the IHeart Radio app,

Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts. Imagine an Olympics where doping is not only legal but encouraged. It's the enhanced games. Some call it grotesque. Others say it's unleashing human potential. Either way, the podcast's Superhuman documented it all,

embedded in the games and with the athletes for a full year. Within probably 10 days, I'd put on 10 pounds. I was having trouble stopping the muscle growth. Listen to Superhuman on the I-Hard Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. A win is a win. A win is a win. I don't care what you're saying.

Yep. That's me, Cliver Taylor the 4th. You might have seen the skits, the reactions, my journey from basketball to college football, or my career in sports media. Well, somewhere along the way, this platform became bigger than I ever imagined. And now I'm bringing all of that excitement to my brand new podcast, The Clifford Show. This is a place for raw, unfiltered conversations with some of your favorite athletes, creators, and voices that not only deserve to be heard, but celebrated.

One week, I'll take you behind the scenes of the biggest moments in sports and entertainment, and the next we'll talk about life, mental health, purpose, and even music. The Clifford Show isn't just a podcast, it's a space for honest conversations, stories that don't always get told, and for people who are chasing something bigger. So if you've ever supported me or you're just chasing down a dream, this is right where you need to be. Listen to the Clifford Show on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast. And for more behind the scenes, follow at Clifford and at TikTok Podcast Network on TikTok.

Do you remember when Diana Ross double-tapped Little Kim's boobs at the VMAs? Or when Kanye said that George Bush didn't like black people. I know what you're thinking. What the hell does George Bush got to do with Little Kim? Well, you can find out on the Look Back at it podcast. I'm Sam J. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick a here, unpack what went down,

and try to make sense of how we survived it. Including a recent episode with Mark Lamont Hill, waxing all about crack in the 80s. To be clear, 84 is big to me, not just because, of crack. I'm down to talk about crack on day, but just so you all know. I mean, at this point, Mark, this is the second episode where we've discussed crack. So I'm starting to see that there's a through line.

We also have AIDS on the table right now. Thank you for finishing that sentence. I don't think there's a more important year for black people. Really? Yeah. For me, it's one of the most important years for black people in American history. Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your Podcasts.

J.J. McCarthy and third-ranked Michigan take on number 17, Iowa. Coverage begins Saturday at 6.30 Eastern on Fox. Low scoring games. Low scoring. All Iowa games are ugly. There's only one version of Iowa. Michigan rolls. Okay.

Lay it. So, how about this? The Steelers now 7 and 4. They were able to break the 400-yard barrier. That's a big deal in Pittsburgh. They're very excited. they beat Jake Browning 16 to 10. So that sounds like great news.

16 points is below their season average. You know, the Ravens dropped 34 last week on the Bengals. The Texans dropped 30. This team has a lot of talent. I don't think Kenny Pickett is it. But I think when I watch a Kansas City, Dallas, Philadelphia, Jags, Baltimore, San Francisco, they're operating with higher standards. I think the Steelers are going to make

the playoffs, that is okay. It speaks to their culture and their coach and their defense. They're seven and four. You can look at their schedule. Here it is. They're going to roll this Steeler defense against average quarterbacks. They're going to face a Bailey Zapier, a Mack Jones in a couple of weeks, a backup Gardner, Minshue.

They'll face Jake Browning again, Gino Smith. You know, Baltimore by the end of the year, maybe resting Lamar Jackson. They don't want him hurt for the playoffs if he gets in. So Kyler Murray, I think, is a little bit of a pushback. I think he's really special. But that team's completely limited. So this is going to be a playoff team. I don't think they're operating under the same premise of your jags and your cowboys and your eagles.

I think there's a lower standard right now. But Mike Tomlin, it should be noted, is realistic. I'm not trying to paint with a broad brutch and act like Eureka. You know, we did what we needed to do to win today, and we'll keep pushing. Guys like myself and Kenny, man, we're judged based on winning and losing, and we don't run from that. We run to that. So, he and I are winners today. So ask yourself this, J-Mack.

So let's say they get to the playoffs, and it looks like they're going to get in. The schedule with that defense, there's just a lot of Ws here. And so Joe Burrell is going to come back. Lamar's probably going to win the division. Deshawn Watson will come back. would you, if you ran the Steelers, at least consider drafting a quarterback in like the third or fourth round? Because if you look at their roster, they don't have a lot of holes. Would you go third, fourth round, and draft another quarterback so can he picket?

Because that's what got them in trouble with Big Ben. They were always cautious. They didn't want to upset Big Ben. Would you draft a quarterback fairly higher? Would you go with Pickett going forward? I think that's fair third round. But I'm of the belief you should draft a quarterback every year. A developmental guy, you need backups.

We're seeing, look at the Bengals. Spent 275 mil on Burrow. They have to turn to their backup, Jake Browning, who can't do anything. They couldn't move the football. I'll say this about the Steelers. I know you're not a total believer yet. Yesterday, one for four in the red zone, right? So they're moving the ball, getting to the red zone, just couldn't finish with touchdowns.

When the new OC turns those field goals into touchdowns, and we're seeing a new Najee Harris, who's upset that Jalen Warren, like, stole his thunder. Harris running tough yesterday. I think this is a quasi-dangerous team. Friermouth, the tight ends back. Yeah. Mick Fitzpatrick's going to be coming back here shortly. Like, they're looking a little spicy for me in what looks like a watered down AFC, no

Burrow, no Rogers, no Herbert in the playoffs. Deshawn Watson's out. So if they face the Steeler, Miami. That's a team I like also. I can't say that out loud. Okay. First round, they would probably face the Jags. Who would you take?

I need to see a line. But I think Pittsburgh can win that game. In Jacksonville. I mean, it was competitive earlier this year, and Pittsburgh was with Matt Canada. Okay, so let's just look at. They're going to be a wildcard team. If they went to Baltimore, could they beat the Ravens? Could they go to Kansas City and beat Mahomes?

Could they go? I mean, it's football. Anything can happen. I don't think anything can happen in January. I don't buy that. Really? I think anything can happen. The thing went to Buffalo last year with no offensive line and smoke.

the bills. Okay. The Bengals. I got a Joe Burrow. Oh, that's fair. I don't have Kenny Pickett. Bengles went to KC. and beat Mahomes. Like, I know Joe Burrow again, but. Yeah, yeah, yeah. That's the whole story. You can't give me a comp with the Bengals and leave out

the Joe Burrow part. Yes. I just don't think. Anything's possible in the treadmill of the regular season. When it's a one-game season, anything's not possible. I trust Tomlin to muck it up and keep it close. He's good at that. He's a good underdog coach. Our three and a Monday, lots to talk about next.

Another podcast from some SNL late night comedy guy, not quite. Unhumor me with Robert Smygel and friends, me and hilarious guests from Bob Odenkirk to David Letterman help make you funnier. This week, my guest, SNL's Mikey Day and head writer Streeter Seidel, help an a cappella band with their between songs banter. Where does your group perform? We do some retirement homes. Those people are starving for banter. Listen to humor me with Robert smigel and friends on the IHeart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. A win is a win. A win is a win.

I don't care what you're saying. Yep, that's me, Clifford Taylor the 4th. You might have seen the skits, my basketball and college football journey, or my career in sports media. Well, now I'm bringing all of that excitement to my brand new podcast, The Clifers Show. This is a place for raw, unfilled conversations with athletes, creators, and voices that not only deserve to be heard, but celebrated. So let's get to it.

Listen to the Clifford show on the IHard Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. And for more behind the scenes, follow at Clifford and at TikTok Podcast Network on TikTok. On the Look Back at it podcast. From 1979, that was a big moment for me. 84 is big to me. I'm Sam J. And I'm Alex English. Each episode, we pick a year, unpack what went down, and try to make sense of how we survived it.

With our friends, fellow comedians, and favorite authors. Like Mark Lamont Hill on the 80s. 84 was a wild. It was a wild year. I don't think there's a more important year for black people. Listen to look back at it on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This is an IHeart podcast. Guaranteed human.