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I am currently reading Lars Anderson’s incredible new book Chasing The Bear: How Bear Bryant And Nick Saban Made Alabama The Greatest College Program Of All Time. I learned more about the leadership of Bear Bryant in the first 24 pages than I knew previously. While he is accurately viewed for his grit and toughness, Coach Bryant was also innovative, loyal, and incredibly charming.
Later on Anderson tells the story of Coach Bryant handing a document to an incoming freshman quarterback named Joe Namath. The document was entitled “Winning Theory at Alabama.” Written 58 years ago, this could be considered the Dead Sea Scrolls of Alabama football and its culture. The following is what Coach Bryant communicated to the highly-touted recruit who turned out to be pretty good:
- Beat your opponent physically
- Better physical condition
- Be aggressive and “out-mean” them
- Consistency – 110 percent on every play
2. Genuine all-out desire for team victory
- Goal – to win them all
- Personal sacrifice instead of personal gratification
- What one can contribute, not what you can receive
- When you win there is enough glory for everyone
3. Winning Edge
- Second and third effort (Run beyond initial contact)
- No penalties, broken signals, fumbles or interceptions
- Sudden change
- Something extra when behind in the 4th quarter
- Know and play zone and field position
4. Defense
- No long runs
- No passes for touchdowns
- Force mistakes
- Score on defense
5. Offense
- Never give up the ball without a kick
- Disicpline
- Intelligent Recklessness
- It takes 11 to move the ball.
I cannot recommend Anderson’s book enough. Click HERE or on the above image to get your copy. You will not be disappointed.
To receive more leadership insights from Coach Saban, click HERE or on the image to the left for my new ebook The Leadership Of Nick Saban: Timeless Truths From The Incomparable Head Coach Of The Alabama Crimson Tide. Enjoy!