Purple Reign

(In the Vizio Rose Bowl 2011 Game, Texas Christian University vs. Wisconsin of University.   Head Coach Gary Patterson is finishing up his pre-game speech, in the locker room, to the Horned Frogs.)

Coach Gary Patterson: When that clock ticks off the final seconds of the game, there’s going to be history created for N.C.A.A. football.  Where you fall into that story is up to y’all.  If you come out playing the way you know you can, then we will become what some of you have dreamed about your entire lives, champions.  Now, I don’t have to tell y’all that it’s going to be one of the toughest games you’ve ever played.  The nation thinks you can’t do it, but the 35,000 fans out in that stadium know that you can, that’s why their here.  Go out there and make the rest of the nation believers!  Andy break us out.

(Cheers start roaring from around the locker room as they circle around the Quarterback.)

Andy Dalton: Frogs on three, frogs on three.  One, two, three, Frogs!

(After the cheer, the players head for the door.  Gary Patterson grabs Dalton to share a few words with him as they walk to the tunnel.)

Gary Patterson: You ready?

Andy Dalton: Yes Coach.

Gary Patterson: Things are going to be different this year; you’re more prepared than ever for this game.

Andy Dalton (keeping a serious face, staring straight towards the end of the tunnel): I got it Coach, we’re not going to have a repeat of last year.  I can promise you that.

Gary Patterson: Don’t get to head strong Andy, its not going to be easy.  Watch for dropping Safeties…

Andy Dalton: … And blitzing Cornerbacks.  Got it.

Gary Patterson: Come out firing, I know you can handle the pressure.  Were going to be throwing the ball: screens, outs, and fly’s. Stay concentrated.

Andy Dalton: No more forced passes, open routes.

And when the time is right, there will be many; you’re going to make a run for it to grab a few extra yards.

Andy Dalton: And I’ll get it Coach.

Gary Patterson:  I know you will.  I believe in you.

(They arrive at the front of the tunnel, leading the Frogs)

Gary Patterson(turns around to confront the rest of the group): Let’s get out there and show those Badgers what purple reign feels like!