The kickoff for the Georgia – Clemson game has already begun

Jun 18, 2013, 1:49 PM

Most people believe there are four quarters in a football game that begins when the players line up and start knockin’ heads. I personally believe there are five quarters with all having equal importance in deciding the outcome of a game. I honestly feel that when a major game is first on the schedule in the upcoming, the initial phase (or quarter) begins immediately following Spring Practice. Many a game has probably been already been won or lost in the four months prior to the actual kickoff of the game. A primary example is the Clemson-Alabama game several years back where we came in 9th raked an Alabama 17th or so. It was obvious who the better physically and mentally prepared team was. You can also argue Alabama had a more talented team as well. You can list many different aspects of this initial quarter and here are some of mine:

Strength and Conditioning: Every team has this phase, but who puts in that little extra rep or work to maximize his potential. This also includes proper dieting and nutrition of all players to prepare their bodies.

Volunteer Team Workout: This is where the team can learn to work together, learn playbook and assignments, build teamwork and camaraderie, and timing.

Playbook Study and Indoctrination: Self explanatory. It is exceedingly important especially for the “newbies” who will play an important role in this game.

Game Plan Preparation: Coaches review films and prepare a game plan and game philosophy. Players review films to help improve their technique.

Psychological Preparation (Team & Individual): The mental preparation is a careful and planned process and if you are not too careful you can actually be emotionally drained before the game starts. Danny Ford was the master of this aspect of before game preparation.

Even though my initial “kick off” segment is highly subjective in nature as compared to the totally objective character of the actual game quarters, its importance is paramount in setting the stage for the winning of such a crucial game. All of the other teams go through these same phases, but the team that best utilizes this segment to its fullest potential will probably win this game.

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The kickoff for the Georgia – Clemson game has already begun

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