Go Team!

So I watched some of that (American) football this weekend...wow! For years I had heard talk around the office and at the bars about this exciting sport, but had never really had a chance to sit down and observe one of the competitions for myself.

A lot of the talk around my town is of the (The) Ohio State University Buckeyes. And it just so happened to be that their battle with the University of Miami Hurricanes was shown on television Saturday afternoon. It took me a while to get over the initial giddiness caused by the thought of a tree nut swirling around in 70+ mph winds, but I just had to remind myself that these are simply mascots and have no bearing on the actual outcome of the game.

The game begins with one team kicking the football to the other team. I assume the odd shape of the ball produces a bit of uncertainty is this exchange, making for a far more interesting start than simply handing the ball to the opposing players. Well, what happened next almost knocked me out of my seat. The athlete who catches this "kick-off" proceeds to run as fast as he can to the other end of the field while those on the other team try to stop him. Far beyond a polite "halt!", these gladiators grab and bump and jump on top of this poor guy until he can no longer continue his forward momentum! I soon began to understand the elaborate costumes of helmets and pads...this was going to be a very physical competition...

The next several minutes were a blur to me. The game would start and stop at odd intervals. Teams would throw, kick, and carry the ball in attempts to reach the other side of the field. All the while, whistles were blown, flags were tossed, and strange colored lines would appear and disappear on the field. It was confusing, yet hypnotizing at the same time. I can see now the draw to this sport.

Although I did not understand any of the rules, references to games in the past, or even basic scoring methods, football could be something I watch again at some point. In fact, I think I may head over to the bookstore today to see what I can find in reference to sport. Football, you've found a fan in me! And even though my knowledge is limited, and I have no idea what I am talking about, I can say with conviction that the Buckeyes are the best team in the world, ever!