It’s Crazy Down South
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by user The Beast
There is no testament to the South’s obsession with football anymore than the Joe McKnight situation. In February, McKnight, the nation’s top running back prospect, signed a letter of intent to play football at the University of Southern California. The signing was a shock to the LSU fans who expected the Louisiana native to sign with the home state Tigers.
McKnight may have just committed robbery. J.T. Curtis, McKnight’s high school football, coach says that Joe is “the most hated man in the LSU community.” Even his high school band got jeered during a Mardi Grass parade.
This whole thing makes me sick. This is one of many reasons why I can’t stand the SEC. I respect the fact that they have such great interest in their football teams, but give me a break. This is an eighteen year old high school kid who picked simply his college. His athletic achievements and dedication should be celebrated in the local community, not booed.
Common, Tiger fans, what is the big deal? So, he wants to leave the South and see the rest of America. Who wants to stay in the same place forever? He wants to experience the diversity of California. With over 36 million people, California is one of the most diverse states. He wants to be warm. Yes, Los Angeles is warm year round; the cold is in the 50s and 60s. He wants the opportunity to play or even start as a freshman. Nobody has a better track record at playing freshman than USC. He chose to go to a top 5 program. The Trojans are expected to be one of the contenders for the national championship in 2007. He chose to go to a school that has an excellent communications program in order to become a broadcaster after football. USC’s Annenberg School of Communications School is one of the nation’s best. Oh, and he wants to play for a program that has an energetic coach where he will be in a position to play in the NFL.
Is there any harm in doing any of these things? Wouldn’t you do the same?
So, LSU fans stop being selfish. I know you want him on your team but leave him alone. Do not boo or jeer him just because he didn’t pick your school. Wish him the best of luck and cheer for your LSU Tigers.
