THE HERD – HOUR 3 – Watch Out For Steelers & Cowboys

Preseason film is a Trojan horse designed to set up week-one opponents, leading to many upsets.

Brian Flaherty's age and defensive background don't match the typical profile of a great offensive coordinator.

Age and background don't determine coordinator success, and Flaherty's hiring aligns with McDaniel's run-and-motion philosophy.

The Patriots will spread the ball around rather than force-feed A.J. Brown, trusting that great receivers get targets naturally.

Players generally dislike flexible scheduling, and coaches must message indifference to prevent it from becoming a distraction.

The Seahawks' road success stems from a "we don't care" mindset, and they are now learning to win at home.

Either arriving a week early or flying in just for the game works, but a half-measure travel plan causes disorientation.

Mahomes becomes less effective without good left tackle play, while Herbert is less affected by offensive line struggles.

Mahomes adlibs and gets impatient when out of structure, making him less effective without protection.

Scheme differences explain the quarterbacks' reactions, as the Chargers will run more to protect Herbert.

His playoff predictions prioritize teams with strong quarterbacks and include five new playoff teams.

The Steelers and Cowboys are strong playoff contenders, with Pittsburgh's McCarthy-Rodgers pairing and Dallas's offense overcoming defensive flaws.

The Broncos are being overlooked and were Super Bowl-caliber last year, while the Lions pick over the Bears is surprising.

Brian Flores' defensive scheme is extremely difficult for quarterbacks, making the Vikings a dangerous fourth-place team.

Kyler Murray has elite talent and leadership potential, comparable to prime Russell Wilson, and can change his public perception.

The Bengals are a playoff team with a high win total, and keeping Joe Burrow healthy is the organization's priority.

The Bengals will be a playoff-winning team, and failing to make the playoffs with this roster would justify firing Zac Taylor.

He is open to returning to coaching and loves the challenges of the profession.

The Chiefs would hire Mike Tomlin if Andy Reid retires, as they need a proven veteran coach for a tough division.

The Rams' charter flight is overblown, and players can adapt to long travel with proper hydration and rest.

Upgrading to lie-flat seats allows players to arrive ready to perform, and the Rams will handle the trip fine.

The Patriots have a grueling travel schedule this season, but they could still upset Seattle in the opener.

The Vikings named Kyler Murray the starter, ending the quarterback competition and reducing J.J. McCarthy's trade value.