Hook Em Horns

I've been a very bad blogger during football season. It started off so strong, and then I started co-hosting a radio show "Longhorn Live," doing daily updates, and the next thing I knew the whole football season had gone by and the last thing I posted is now moot. Blount got his second chance with Oregon, and his combine performance will probably decide his NFL future. Tomorrow night is the national championship with Texas, the team I've been covering all season, going up against Alabama. I'm looking forward to the game and have to come up with my score for the pre-game show tomorrow. But I'm calling a defensive battle. Low scoring. Great red zone stands. Kickers ... hope you're warmed up!

Looking back on this football season, I did things I never thought I would've done this year. And I never took any of it for granted because I doubt it'll ever happen again. But God surprised me with many opportunities this year, so who knows what 2010 will hold.

My favorite memory was the Texas-UCF game during Veteran's Day weekend. Had an amazing time going to the 1969 national championship reunion with the Air Force pilots who did the flyby. My friend Cory was very gracious to allow me to tag along. I even invited myself to breakfast with the team before the game with the pilots. I honestly expected someone to say, "Uh, we invited the pilots...not you." But that never happened and the next thing I know, I was sitting with the entire team, all of the coaches, athletic directors involved with football, and was eating steak and eggs. It was an honor to sit with the pilots and hear Cory's pep talk to the team before the game...and they won so I'd say he completed that mission with flying colors.

I also had the honor of spending time with Frank Denius. Most UT football fans would recognize that the practice fields are named after him. But he is not only a great benefactor to UT, but one of the 10 most decorated World War II heroes. He got choked up every time I broached the war topic. I had such a small taste of being in a combat zone during the Invasion of Panama that I can fathom but cannot even come close to understanding the sacrifices Mr. Denius has made for everyone around the world. I don't believe enough recognition could ever occur to fully honor a man of such fortitude and bravery.

So, when I watch the game tomorrow night. I'll remember my brief, and yet animated conversation with Sergio Kindle as he plays his final college game before entering the pros. The sweet smile and wave Jordan Shipley gave my daughter and her friend Ava before a game. And the warm handshake and humility that coach Mack Brown always gave upon greeting me. This Texas team is very special, and come win or loss tomorrow they are group who can hold their heads high for completing an undefeated season with such grace.

Hook Em Horns!