So, today we suffered another frustrating loss at Clemson. I can't say this season has been fun to watch. Today's game brought all kinds of emotions: excitement for a new start, hope for a positive future, a fresh perspective, and a renewing of spirits. But alas, the day fell short of expectations.
I'm not gonna dwell on this 3-4 season. It is what it is, and I can do nothing to change it. But I can speak about the emotion I felt today at the game. Minutes before the game began, Clemson ran a video montage of coaches and players touching "the rock" before the game. Of course, one of the people shown was former head coach, Tommy Bowden. I can't help but say it brought a tear to my eye. 10 years we have seen this man lead our program. And for most of that time, he's done a stellar job. Yea, we didn't win an ACC championship and averaged 70% seasons. But this man did great things for Clemson's program.
I am in total agreement about the change of coaching staff. It was time. Actually, I'd like to see more of a clean slate than what we have currently. It was time for a change; it's just sad it came mid-season. On to my point: I will stand and say this: Tommy Bowden was a good man, and I have the upmost respect for him. It's not everyday you can disagree with someone's decisions (coaching-wise) and still think highly of him. But this man, I can. And the sentiment appears to be held by others as well. Whether you liked him or not, Tommy was a good man. I think this can be seen purely in the tears of James Davis, as he spoke of what Tommy Bowden meant to him, even using statements such as "father figure".
Then you have players of less character, such as QB Cullen Harper and his father with their cutting comments towards Bowden's removal. Right now Clemson's team is hurting, and pride and egos need to be pushed aside. The last thing a leader of a team needs to do is add more negativity to the plate they have already been served. Grow-up Harper, be a man, and stop pouting when things don't go your way. If you are to be a member of a team, you need to show camaraderie and togetherness consistently, not just when it benefits you.
Lastly, I leave you with a (verging on the edge of cheesy) video montage to Tommy Bowden. Again, it saddens me to see him go. And this video shows the emotions he poured into this program, and the players who loved him. Tommy, yes, you will be missed!
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