The Herd with Colin Cowherd
--% time saved
PodcastThe Herd with Colin Cowherd
Publisher/creatoriHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Published
Shortcast updated
About this episode
On this episode of 3 & Out , John Middlekauff dives into Jalen Brunson’s incredible rise and the underdog mentality that has helped define his career. John breaks down why leadership, toughness, and mentality often matter just as much as raw talent when building winning teams. John also gives a reality check on Victor Wembanyama, discussing the sky-high expectations surrounding the young superstar and what fair expectations should actually look like. Plus, why the NBA Finals genuinely mattered this year—not just for basketball, but for the league’s broader narrative—and what made this championship run feel different. John also admits where he was wrong about Team USA Soccer and reflects on how his perspective has changed. The episode also includes a moment to remember Aldon Smith and the impact he had on football during his career. To wrap things up, John discusses whether firing a great coach ever truly works and what the Knicks’ championship meant to New Yorkers, a fan base that has waited decades for a title. From sports psychology and player evaluation to championship legacy and coaching philosophy, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out . Follow John on Twitter , and Instagram for the latest. All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen to the original episode
Loading episode data...
Episode summary
What is going on, my people—John Middlecoff here with Three and Out. Congrats to Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks, we’ll hit that underdog story, check Victor Wembanyama hype against NFL reality, talk a World Cup match that actually grabbed me, share a tough NFL loss, and close with the five fan bases whose first ring would shake the sport.
Why did this Knicks run land so hard? Because the underdog arc is human, and Brunson turned years of “you’re too small” into a clinic in skill, poise, and winning time composure.
Does college winning predict pro greatness? Not really; championships don’t travel, but drive, craft, and competitive fire do—Tebow proved the limits, while Dak and Purdy showed how overlooked traits can fuel long careers.
What do teams miss in evaluations? You can’t time heart or measure obsession, which is why the Mavs misread Brunson’s value and why moments like him being called “captain,” with his dad on staff, hit so deeply.
How does that show up in the draft? We overvalue measurables and underrate consistent big‑game impact—think Caleb Downs or Rueben Bain, guys who just pop when it matters.
What about the Wembanyama superlatives? I’m pumping the brakes—his frame is his frame, weight‑room gains won’t turn him into a bruiser, so mastering unblockable craft, like a skyhook, matters more than chasing bulk.
Why did these Finals pull me in? New York’s gravity and a resonant story make things feel big, and when it feels big, even casuals show up.
Am I in on this World Cup? I don’t live soccer, but that match had me—our guys finally looked dangerous, stacked with real firepower and players from elite clubs, which is how you hook America for a deeper run.
How did Aldon Smith’s passing hit? It’s heartbreaking; he was a rare blend of length, power, and bend who ripped off an all‑time start and had the juice to be one of the greats, but life’s demons cut it short.
Does firing a successful coach to get over the hump work? Almost never; it usually backfires, which is why stability like the Steelers value it, while Harbaugh’s exit in San Francisco is the cautionary tale and LaFleur shows you can raise the floor without sealing the deal.
Which NFL titles would feel most like the Knicks’ breakthrough? The Bills top the list after decades of pain, then the Browns and Jets for their droughts and feverish markets, with the Lions and Vikings right there for heartbreak and loyal, hungry fanbases.
That’s the show—felt big, felt personal, and I’m here for it. Have a great day.
Ready to save time?
Download Shortcast and get started today