Swagger Obsession

Anybody else tired of seeing positive connotations attached to “swagger” when it comes to athletes, especially football
players? Thought so.

A notable, recent example around here: the case of USF quarterback B.J. Daniels. By all indications, Daniels is a talented player and a nice person — but seemingly “swagger”-challenged. As if that’s a character flaw.

We’re now seeing references in the media that Daniels, now in his third year as a starter, needs to step up and break out of his relatively reserved demeanor. To, alas, show some “swagger.”

Do the Bulls want Daniels to play with more confidence? Yes. To be more assertive? Yes. But to strut? To manifest bluster? To pound his chest and talk trash? To look like he should be playing for Miami?

How about working hard to get better? How about leading by example? How about letting your talents and on-field accomplishments speak for themselves? How about enough of “swaggering” football players, which has even infected the high school ranks. Or is that too old school?

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