UCLA Football: Checklist for a title run in 2017 – The Fog of Football
By Pete Kang
The UCLA Football team has to make several adjustments if they want to make some sort of title run by 2017, but they will also have to prepare for the unknown in the Fog of Football.
In the last article we discussed how overall game management is vital to a championship drive for the UCLA Football team. In this piece, we look at what will not be immediately visible.
RELATED: Checklist for a title run in 2017 – Game Management
In Part 2 of my series ‘Checklist for a title run in 2017’, I dive into the Fog of Football and how to overcome it. Hint: Do your job!
The Fog of Football
Play every down as though it may be your last, because in this game, at this level, it could be! Oh no! C’mon, you just jinxed them Pete! Uhh, I’m going to have to ask you to “shadapp” in a 1920’s gangster voice!
We should never forget, myself especially, as we casually discuss this sport we love, that football is one big random act of violence. It’s team demolition derby. — But it’s not random, PETE!! — My friends, once the whistle blows it’s all just a Fog Of War. Like real war, it’s fast and it’s everywhere – thought I was going to say Furious? Yeah, that too!
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It’s precisely the reason why teams often have coordinators in god mode, posted high up above the field next to the press box. On the field of play, the speed of the college game precludes any player or coach from seeing the big picture. That’s why everyone has to do their assigned task during the 5-10 second blur that is a college football play. Each player must remain focused, and Do Work!
But let’s go back to the point of randomness and why it’s even important. Yes, you’re right. The teams are calling designed plays with a completely intentional purpose in mind. That is not random. But like any well made plans, stuff happens. From the Punic Wars to the last Globetrotter’s game, stuff always happens.
Each play that is called when the game’s outcome is still in question, is a tropical storm on the horizon, and when the whistle blows, the result can be just another meaningless, “meh” play that fizzles out on landfall at the 35, time to punt? Or we can get The Storm!!! Most recently, I recall a storm that I know everyone remembers… Auburn vs Alabama, Iron Bowl 2013.
It’s the reason why we all watch these guys run around. I mean pay to go, or just stream the show! It’s to be able to say, “I was there, on the 35-yard line, 4th row , seat 4!” Folks, Let’s remember that in a 60-minute football game, the players are only executing plays for about 12 1/2 minutes to 15 minutes a game, which equates to about 5-10 car accidents a game. Those 12-15 minutes ain’t no joke, yo!
So, each play is a skirmish that either aids or thwarts good old Mo. If a team wins enough meaningful plays, building and maintaining momentum all along, then the game, the battle should be won. Vince Lombardi described teamwork as a “coordinated efficiency”. I mean… those two words should get married!
With the proper teaching and motivation from the coaches, an unwavering focus and consistently impressive effort on the part of the players to execute with precision and near professionalism, the UCLA Football team has a chance for a magical season and a college football National Championship!
Next: UCLA Football: The Top 10 Bruin Quarterbacks of All-Time
In Part 3, we tackle recruiting, roster depth and team chemistry as the final pieces to the championship puzzle. See you then.