In 2003, Matt Mauck — not a blindingly awesome passer or dominant physical specimen — nevertheless piloted the LSU Tigers to the national title, armed with gifted skill position people who, though speedy, were also focused and mature enough to make big plays in clutch situations. After the previous year's disappointment — missing out on the SEC West title because of a numbingly devastating last-second loss to Arkansas — Nick Saban rallied his troops by convincing them to turn their greatest athletic setback into their greatest competitive triumph. And last year, both success stories — official national champ USC and deserving national champ Auburn — both showed how mental toughness, more than anything else, carries a team past its most forceful and formidable obstacles. For USC, joy was the source of an undefeated run under Dr. Feel Good, Pete Carroll, a coach who made and kept the game fun for his players all season long, especially in the laughter-filled Orange Bowl against Oklahoma. For Auburn, high self-esteem and love of coach united the Tigers, who were so thoroughly committed in their support of Tommy Tuberville that they didn't want to let down their embattled coach. Each Saturday became a chance to honor and dignify themselves as a football family, and as a result, Auburn continued to play with purpose and passion in games such as the Sugar Bowl, whereas other teams would have moped around and ultimately suffered a defeat. Though presented with numerous chances to complain and lose focus, Auburn never sulked and drove to the finish line intent on staying perfect. The positive mental attitude that permeated the team, more than Cadillac Williams' skill or even Jason Campbell's right arm, is what truly elevated Auburn to new heights last season. In college football, talent can provide the year-in, year-out 10-2 top-15 team. But only mental toughness makes champions in this ruthlessly competitive sport. Full Article
Wow BB, u scared me for a second! I didn't see that you had linked to an article and thought for a moment that you had actually said that part! I thought hell was freezing over :wink: Good article though, and the guy makes some great points about mental toughness and leadership. Man, this just makes me wish football season was here that much more, so we can find out who the next great leader is.
good post, and no doubt an apt description of Mauck. He doesn't seem to get the credit he deserved for being a smart player that never hit the panic button. :thumb:
