FSwho?

FIELD GOAL SINKS RIVALRY TO NEW LOW
(The Alligator)

The textbook definition of a rivalry does highlight some sort of competitive equality. However, what Maistri ignores is the traditional context of the great UF vs. FSU. "The only rivals for the Gators during these last five years are history and greatness." Is that such a bad thing? Surely no one would dare tell you as a person to not strive for your highest potential, far above your classmates -- why do sports have to have a level playing field (pardon the pun)? If the Gators are truly a steller football team, we should play as such, unabashed by a desire to what...console the Seminoles? Seems a little hypocritical since we're touting t-shirts and buttons in which the phrase "BEAT THE NOLES" gleam down.

"Come to Florida. Shame your rivals. Win national championships. Do it all in front of an incredible fan base that treats players like family." Miastri says that dripping with sarcasm and, for the love of G-d, I don't know why. He's a Gator, he should, for all intents and purposes, be proud of that. We've done no wrong except embrace the competitive spirit in a sportsman-like way. I'll admit, a lack of stiff competition outside of the conference does make for a less-than-thrilling football watching experience, but the end of the Golden Age of the Gators very well might come to a close after the seniors depart. Who knows -- the mystery's in the game.


Link to story at alligator.org:
http://alligator.org/sports/sports_columns/article_14d7b1b8-dd5f-11de-bde9-001cc4c03286.html