[Homer Alert] I am Louisville native, and U of L graduate, who is about the same age as Brian’s older brother Greg. We played against each other in multiple sports throughout grade school and high school. I was not talented enough to go into collegiate athletics, although Greg did quite well as a University of Louisville wide receiver in the late 80’s and early 90’s. I have not seen or spoken to Greg in the past two years, so I do not want to imply that I have any inside information on this current issue, but I do have some personal experience with the Brohm family attitude. [/Homer Alert]
With that disclaimer in mind, let me begin by pointing out the previous “blunder” that Brian made in his decision making process regarding his football career. When he came out of high school, he was generally considered one of the top five quarterback prospects in the nation. He received scholarship offers from Notre Dame, Tennessee, Alabama, Nebraska, Purdue, Illinois, Kentucky and others. At this time he had his choice of the SEC, Big 10, Big 12 or the media friendly Independent ND to showcase his skills.
What did he do? He chose Conference USA (soon to be Big East member though)! Yep…U of L and Conference USA was his choice. “MISTAKE”, cried the pundits…even many of our local pundits. Now the question is: why did he make this choice?
Primarily, Brian’s family has an established history in Louisville and the University of Louisville athletics. His father Oscar was a previous U of L quarterback; his brother Greg was a previous U of L wide receiver, and his brother Jeff was a previous U of L quarterback that went on to brief NFL career. In short, he inherited a strong sense of commitment to the U of L program and the Louisville community at large.
Secondly, he bought into the idea that the U of L program was on the rise and would soon become a team of national recognition that could showcase his skills nearly (or equally) as well as the other programs he passed on. At the time, this was quite a gamble that many believed would come back to haunt him and lower his potential NFL draft status. However, he wanted to be a part of the vision and growth of U of L football.
Now, this in and of itself shows a lot about his character and priorities, but it does not tell the whole story. Brian stated from the very beginning of his career at U of L that he fully believed that a BCS national title was within reach here. At the time, we had some reserved aspirations, but most were not ready to believe this. Well, whether anyone believes that it is deserved or not, U of L has entered into that conversation. I must give this one to Brian and his brain-trust! LOL
Now we must enter the present. Bobby Petrino has just left to coach the Falcons. Michael Bush has just declared his intent to enter the 2007 NFL draft. Our two top wide receivers were considering the possibilities of entering into the NFL draft. What is a team leader to do? Well, Brain decided to stay and pursue his original goal of making U of L a potential BCS champion. Do I believe it is possible or deserved in 2007? I do not know.
BUT, I do KNOW that Brian Brohm has made a commitment to the University of Louisville and the Louisville community at large that he intends to stand behind! Even at the potential risk to his own financial future, he has decided to stand by his original pledge, goals and ideals to push forward our football program. His decision does not surprise me in the least.
Is this a financial and/or professional mistake? Perhaps, for only the future will tell. But I will say this…he has endeared himself so well to our community that even if he never plays another snap of football anywhere because of injury, he and his offspring will live well to the end of their days because of the choices he has made and the role that he will play in our city until the end of his working days. He may not make the same kind of money as a Peyton Manning if this were to occur, but his well being will never be in question. Mark it down! LOL
Finally, this topic makes me reflect upon the topics of Nick Saban and our departing coach of Bobby Petrino. Many here have commented on the importance of dedication to a program and keeping one’s word. In a sea of cold hearted business decisions that is often the norm in the NCAA and the NFL, I find it a breath of fresh air to find someone willing to stand upon their word rather than flying to the biggest money and/or best opportunity.
God bless you Brian Brohm! I wish you the best in all worlds and hope that the integrity and commitment that you have displayed here will shine on to anyone who considers you for any future job in the NFL or elsewhere.
OK, I guess that is enough from a blatant Homer on this topic.
There are ways to make this work financially.
, risking his health and likely throwing money down the drain.It shouldnt have taken him 5 mins to declare himself after Petrino left.
, risking his health and likely throwing money down the drain.It shouldnt have taken him 5 mins to declare himself after Petrino left.
