Nov. 16, 2005

Journal Week 11

After our loss last week against Missouri our season- long goal of going to a bowl game is no longer possible. But we still have a lot to play for this weekend against Oklahoma State. First of all, we can be the first Baylor team to win two games in the Big 12 which is just another one of those monkeys we have been getting rid of all year.

For me and the other seniors this will be the last game of our college football careers and it would be nice to go out on a winning note for a change. Many of these guys have given four and five years as well as their bodies to this program. When we came to Baylor we all wanted to change the atmosphere that surrounded Baylor Football and return the program to respectability. Although we fell short of our goal of reaching a bowl this year, I do believe that we have taken some important steps this year. Coming into this year I had never won a road game, and this season we were 3-3 with two overtime losses away from home. I have seen Texas A&M and Oklahoma players rush the field after beating us in close games, which in the past would have probably just been expected. We beat a very good Iowa State game on the road, and have been in every game other than the Texas game this year.

So I do believe that we have gained some respect, but there is still the problem of the losing atmosphere around Baylor Football. To completely turn the corner Baylor Football will need the support of the people that they play for. Whether you are a student, faculty member, alumnus, or just a fan, this is your football team and the team deserves your support. I realize that in the past the product has not always been there on the field, but now the product is there- it just needs some buyers. Wear your green and gold proudly. Tell people you are a Baylor Football fan. Don't be ashamed of your team anymore. It is time to get behind the football program. It takes more than just recruits to compete in the Big 12, it takes fan and university support. Guy Morriss has brought back Baylor Football but now it's time for the Baylor family to come back as well.

Personally I would like to thank Baylor and the athletic program for the opportunity they have given me. In my five years here I have made many life-long friends and received a high quality education while playing in the best conference in the country. I will graduate this December, but my time at Baylor will always be with me. So for the last time as a student-athlete let me just say...Sic 'Em Bears!