Chill Sports

Valentine’s Day came and went a couple weeks ago and I, like many others, spent the day trying to think as little of it as possible. In turn, this of course kept it at the very forefront of my mind for the entire 24 hours (granted, the bombardment of emails and advertisements for couples-themed products I received for days on end leading up to the wretched holiday were partially to blame). Still, in my newfound journey towards continual self-improvement, I’ve learned that a little introspection should always be welcome in our lives, even when it’s difficult-- for instance, regarding our personal histories of decision-making and commitment. After all, being aware of our own flaws is perhaps the most powerful tool in our arsenal to aid with our own betterment. Naturally, I concluded that the problem isn’t me and instead turned my attention towards criticizing others with commitment issues, as I am, clearly, a very emotionally healthy person. And I could think of no person, or group of pe...

Whoever came up with the phrase “good things come to those who wait” likely never watched much professional sports in their lifetime. The sports world, and particularly the ever-volatile and fast-paced NFL world, is one of the most impatient and unkind places one can find themselves in. You were a highly-rated draft prospect but you haven’t delivered much during your rookie contract? You’re a bust. You were hired as a head coach but you haven’t been able to quickly turn your team around? You’re fired. You haven’t established yourself as a starting-caliber quarterback after a few years in the league? You’re a career backup. That last question-and-response was supposed to describe Geno Smith. Once a prized quarterback talent when playing his college ball at West Virginia, Smith was drafted by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2013 draft. His elite athleticism but spotty accuracy showed up on tape throughout his four years with Gang Green, as he showed flashes of elite potent...