A few thoughts on some of the sporting news over the weekend:
Arnold Palmer was a class act and made golf cool. I remember my Dad being a fan — so naturally, I became one, too. Like Jack Nicklaus said, “He always tried to make himself better.” That’s something we all should try to do. And we should have the same passion for our professions. He lived a long life, yet I’m sad to see him die. I hope my Dad gets to play a round with him.
I just wish 2016 would stop taking our icons.
Jose Fernandez didn’t live a long life. He was tragically taken at the very young age of 24. But he loved living during the time he had. — some of the clips on the internet were amazing. Such passion and joy for the game. But his death was a terrible reminder that life is very fragile and that we should make the most of it. Call a loved on today. Tell them that you love them.
Dak Prescott continues to prove his critics wrong. So many people tried to create a story for him (he should switch to tight end, he can’t throw, he can’t blah blah blah.) But Dak hasn’t bought into that story. Yeah, he can run. But he also has an astronomical quarterback rating and has not thrown an interception through preseason and the season so far. His work ethic is epic and has turned down endorsements so he can focus on the game. Dak proves that success is the best revenge. And that you should never buy into someone else’s story about you.
Les Miles reminds us why coaches get such large buyouts. When you’re a big-time college coach, it isn’t if you’ll be fired, it’s when. He now joins Phil Fulmer in the “I won a National Championship but I still got canned” club. But he’ll be fine. I’m sure he’ll take his clock-management skills to another team eventually. But as a Tennessee fan, I have one bit of advice for my LSU friends: Don’t hire Lane Kiffin. If you do, you might as well plow salt into your football field. (Trust me.) But it’s a good reminder that none of us are secure in our jobs. We have to earn it every day.
Speaking of being a Tennessee fan, I’m relieved Tennessee finally got the Florida Gators off their backs and out of their heads. I tell you, I thought Florida was going to whip them once again until halftime. And then Tennessee rattled off 38 unanswered points in the second half. Neyland Stadium came alive and frustrated Florida’s office. Tennessee’s Defense did the same. But I think the lesson from the game is this: You haven’t lost until the game is over. And that goes for your life, too. You can always have a comeback. Make your adjustments and play your heart out.
People sometime question the value of sports. But it is an incredible metaphor for life. This weekend was proof.
What do you think?