Where Colin was RIGHT & WRONG: Shedeur, Giants, Rams, Raiders, Commanders | Colin Cowherd: HERD NFL

1. Fernando Mendoza's NFL Readiness

Timestamp: 00:01:03 to 00:01:41 - watch this moment on skim

Colin Cowherd believes Fernando Mendoza is a capable starting quarterback who can transition to the NFL quickly, citing his poise, accuracy, and ability to see the field. He was impressed by Mendoza's performance, noting his completion of passes outside the hash marks and his overall composure, suggesting he's ready for the league.

Significance (High): Mendoza's readiness could significantly impact the Raiders' QB situation, potentially challenging established players or providing a future cornerstone.

Sources in support: Colin Cowherd (Host)

Neutral sources: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)

2. Ty Simpson's Promising Performance

Timestamp: 00:02:18 to 00:04:52 - watch this moment on skim

Colin Cowherd argues that Ty Simpson looked like the best quarterback over the weekend, showcasing athleticism and accuracy. He credits Sean McVay's quarterback-friendly play-calling for Simpson's comfort and success, suggesting Simpson is now the Rams' solid backup and potential heir apparent.

Significance (High): Simpson's strong showing, coupled with McVay's coaching, positions him as a valuable asset for the Rams, potentially securing their future at the quarterback position.

Sources in support: Colin Cowherd (Host)

Neutral sources: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)

3. Christian McCaffrey's Workload Concerns

Timestamp: 00:05:28 to 00:06:10 - watch this moment on skim

Colin Cowherd expresses concern over the 49ers overusing Christian McCaffrey, pointing to his league-leading touches in previous seasons and subsequent injuries. He argues that at 30 years old, McCaffrey's heavy workload is unsustainable and is already impacting his availability, as evidenced by his missed practices.

Significance (High): The 49ers' reliance on McCaffrey poses a significant risk to their Super Bowl aspirations if his workload leads to further injuries, necessitating a more balanced approach.

Sources in support: Colin Cowherd (Host)

4. Curt Cignetti's Stance on Notre Dame Rivalry

Timestamp: 00:06:11 to 00:07:30 - watch this moment on skim

Colin Cowherd praises Curt Cignetti for his pragmatic approach to playing Notre Dame, advocating for a two-home-game advantage for teams like Indiana and USC. He argues that Notre Dame, as a partial ACC member seeking non-conference games, should not dictate terms and must accept road games when playing full conference schedules.

Significance (Medium): Cignetti's stance challenges traditional college football scheduling norms, pushing for fairness in scheduling for teams facing independent powerhouses like Notre Dame.

Sources in support: Colin Cowherd (Host)

5. Hasselbeck on Preseason Value

Timestamp: 00:07:46 to 00:11:23 - watch this moment on skim

Matt Hasselbeck emphasizes the crucial developmental role of preseason football, especially for late-round picks and players needing to prove themselves. He highlights its importance for coaches to work out communication kinks and for evaluating talent, noting that even top players benefit from game-like reps.

Significance (Medium): Hasselbeck's perspective underscores the often-underestimated strategic and developmental value of preseason games for both players and coaching staffs.

Sources in support: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)

Neutral sources: Colin Cowherd (Host)

6. Jaxson Dart's Durability and Body Language

Timestamp: 00:13:39 to 00:16:23 - watch this moment on skim

Matt Hasselbeck criticizes Jaxson Dart's tendency to stay on the ground after hits, suggesting it leads to him being in the 'blue tent' and projecting a negative body language. He advises Dart to get up quickly after contact, drawing parallels to players like Josh Allen and emphasizing the importance of not showing vulnerability to the defense.

Significance (Medium): Dart's durability and how he handles hits could become a significant concern for the Giants, potentially impacting his playing time and the team's offensive strategy.

Sources in support: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)

Neutral sources: Colin Cowherd (Host)

7. DJ Moore's Impact on Bills Offense

Timestamp: 00:19:18 to 00:21:08 - watch this moment on skim

Matt Hasselbeck believes DJ Moore will significantly elevate Josh Allen and the Bills' offense, citing Moore's respect among defenses and his ability to make plays. He argues that veteran receivers like Moore enhance professionalism and production, drawing parallels to Cooper Kupp's influence on the Seahawks.

Significance (High): The acquisition of DJ Moore could be a game-changer for the Bills, providing Josh Allen with a reliable, veteran weapon and boosting their offensive potential.

Sources in support: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)

Neutral sources: Colin Cowherd (Host)

8. Preseason QB Standouts

Timestamp: 00:23:05 to 00:24:53 - watch this moment on skim

Colin Cowherd highlights Tai Simpson and Fernando Mendoza as impressive performers in the preseason, suggesting their development is a positive sign for their respective teams. He notes that many young quarterbacks are understanding the value of professionalism early in their careers.

Significance (Medium): These early performances offer a glimpse into potential future starters and could influence team strategies and fan expectations.

Sources in support: Colin Cowherd (Host)

Neutral sources: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)

9. Broncos: Talent vs. Schedule

Timestamp: 00:24:53 to 00:27:43 - watch this moment on skim

While acknowledging the Denver Broncos' roster is 'stacked' with talent, Colin Cowherd expresses significant concern over their extremely difficult early-season schedule. He believes this challenging slate, combined with the competitive AFC West and other strong conference teams, makes their path to the playoffs precarious, suggesting they might miss it entirely.

Significance (High): The Broncos' tough schedule could derail their season before it truly begins, potentially leading to a coaching change or a significant roster shake-up if they falter early.

Sources in support: Colin Cowherd (Host)

Neutral sources: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)

10. College Football Rankings & Trends

Timestamp: 00:28:57 to 00:31:51 - watch this moment on skim

Colin Cowherd points out the historical trend that 20 of the last 21 preseason #1 teams in college football did not win the national championship, questioning Ohio State's ability to repeat despite their talent. He also notes the SEC receiving no first-place votes, highlighting Oregon's favorable position and the immense pressure on Ohio State as the preseason favorite. The Texas vs. Ohio State game is identified as a critical early-season matchup with significant implications.

Significance (High): This analysis challenges conventional preseason rankings and suggests that perceived powerhouses may face unexpected hurdles, opening the door for other teams to contend for the national title.

Sources in support: Colin Cowherd (Host)

Neutral sources: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)

11. Jackson Dart's 'Blue Tent' Phenomenon

Timestamp: 00:31:51 to 00:34:00 - watch this moment on skim

Matt Hasselbeck and Colin Cowherd discuss Jackson Dart's frequent trips to the 'blue tent' after hits, with Hasselbeck suggesting Dart's prolonged reactions on the ground might contribute to the attention. Cowherd agrees, noting that some quarterbacks seem more sensitive to hits or less adept at shaking them off, contrasting Dart with players like Tom Brady who could seemingly absorb punishment. Hasselbeck advises Dart to 'get up quick' to avoid appearing affected.

Significance (Medium): The discussion raises questions about Jackson Dart's durability and resilience under pressure, potentially impacting how teams and coaches view his long-term viability as a starting quarterback.

Sources in support: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst), Colin Cowherd (Host)

12. NFL Division Predictions

Timestamp: 00:34:00 to 00:38:00 - watch this moment on skim

Colin Cowherd and Matt Hasselbeck engage in a spirited debate over their NFL division winner predictions. Cowherd favors the Bengals in the AFC North and the Saints in the NFC South, while Hasselbeck expresses skepticism about the Colts and Giants. They also discuss the Bills, Chiefs, Chargers, Lions, Bears, and Packers, with both agreeing on the strength of the Bills and Chiefs but differing on the trajectory of several other teams.

Significance (Medium): These predictions offer a snapshot of expert expectations for the upcoming NFL season, highlighting potential contenders and dark horses while sparking debate among fans.

Sources in support: Colin Cowherd (Host)

Sources against: Matt Hasselbeck (Guest Analyst)