
3 and Out with John Middlekauff Colin Cowherd Podcast - Darnold Is Super Bowl Bound, Sean Payton’s Huge Mistake, NFC Is The Superior Conference, Mike McCarthy Lands Steelers Job
Jan 26, 2026
John Middlekauff, former NFL scout and host of 3 and Out, offers sharp scouting perspective. They digest Seattle’s win and Sam Darnold’s sudden resurgence. They debate Sean Payton’s critical coaching choice in a blizzard and whether Bo Nix would have flipped the outcome. They close by dissecting Mike McCarthy’s fit as the new Steelers head coach.
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Darnold’s Redemption Turns Into Winning Streak
- Sam Darnold has become the winningest quarterback since reclaiming a starting job and now projects as a Super Bowl-level leader.
- Colin Cowherd and John Middlekauff credit Darnold's smart, explosive play and situational patience for Seattle's postseason run.
Seahawks’ Raw Energy Is A Competitive Edge
- Seattle's identity blends youthful aggression, speed, and a dominant defensive front that creates matchup problems.
- Colin says that combination makes Seattle a stronger Super Bowl favorite than New England despite specific weaknesses.
Special Teams Can Decide Elite Games
- The Rams lost despite a star-studded roster because of recurring special-teams mistakes and one pivotal fumble.
- Cowherd argues special teams depth and emphasis differentiate championship-level clubs.

