The Herd with Colin Cowherd THE HERD - Hour 3 - NFL playoff picture, HC Sean Payton is doing the unthinkable for the Broncos
Dec 15, 2025
Mike DeFabo, beat writer for the Pittsburgh Steelers at The Athletic, joins to discuss the NFL playoff landscape. They dive into the rising Denver Broncos under Sean Payton, emphasizing his transformative coaching style. The conversation shifts to Mike Tomlin's job security amid mixed approval ratings, exploring the relationship with ownership. Aaron Rodgers' struggles in Pittsburgh and the implications for T.J. Watt's future with the team are also highlighted. DeFabo previews the Steelers vs. Dolphins matchup, focusing on key defensive challenges.
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Payton's Roster Turnaround Is Historic
- Colin highlights Sean Payton's coaching excellence in turning Denver into a complete roster despite Russell Wilson on the cap.
- He calls Payton a first-ballot Hall of Fame coach for that accomplishment.
Red Zone Woes Foreshadow Playoff Risks
- Mike DeFabo notes Buffalo excels in second-half adjustments and red-zone offense.
- He warns New England's poor red-zone defense won't translate well into playoff success.
Bills' Second-Half Turnaround
- Buffalo rallied from a 21-0 deficit to win 35-31 by turning up pressure on Drake Maye.
- Colin credits Buffalo's second-half dominance and scheming adjustments for the comeback.