Two Penn State legends sit down as LaVar Arrington and Todd Blackledge chat about how the game of football has helped shape their lives, the College Football Playoff, Penn State in the 80s and being coached by Joe Paterno.

Takeaways

• Todd Blackledge is a Penn State legend and national champion.
• His journey from Ohio to Penn State was influenced by family and academics.
• Football teaches valuable life lessons such as teamwork and perseverance.
• Preparation for broadcasting mirrors the preparation for playing quarterback.
• Joe Paterno had a significant impact on Blackledge's life and career.
• The National Football Foundation fosters community and connection among players.
• The expanded college football playoff system increases access for more teams.
• Blackledge emphasizes the importance of attention to detail in both sports and academics.
• Longevity in broadcasting requires continuous improvement and adaptation.
• Blackledge values the relationships built through football and broadcasting.

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LaVar Arrington sits down with the College Football Hall of Famer Lincoln Kennedy from the class of 2015 to discuss what the game has meant to his life, how he got on one of the most talented teams in college football history, and where life has taken him after stepping away from football. Kennedy discusses the profound impact football has had on his life, particularly in terms of education and opportunities. He reflects on his journey from a military family in San Diego to becoming a standout player at the University of Washington and later in the NFL. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of communication and personal development, sharing insights on his connection with the National Football Foundation and his transition into media after football. He also highlights the significance of community engagement and the challenges athletes face post-career.

Takeaways

• Football provided me with an opportunity for higher education.
• Education is a rare opportunity that should be cherished.
• Communication skills are essential for personal development.
• I never wanted to be just a football player; I wanted to be well-rounded.
• The National Football Foundation plays a crucial role in promoting education.
• Success in football is measured by longevity and teamwork.
• Transitioning to the professional level is a significant challenge.
• Life after football requires adapting to a new identity.
• Community service is vital for personal fulfillment.
• Food is a way to bring people together and foster connections.

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LaVar is joined this week by two finalist for the Campbell Trophy, Notre Dame linebacker Jack Kiser and UNLV linebacker Jackson Woodard. LaVar chats with each about their play on the field, the achievements in the classroom and what the Campbell Trophy means to them.

Named in honor of the late William V. Campbell, the former chairman of Intuit, former player and head coach at Columbia University and the 2004 recipient of the NFF's Gold Medal, The William V. Campbell Trophy® has become the most prestigious and desirable "academic" award in college football. The trophy recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the country for his academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.

Takeaways:

• Playing at Notre Dame is a prestigious honor.
• The Campbell Trophy recognizes academic and athletic excellence.
• Handling success is crucial for team growth.
• Academic performance directly impacts athletic performance.
• Identity beyond football is essential for personal development.
• Football provides unique life experiences and opportunities.
• Community service is a vital part of being a student-athlete.
• Education is key for future aspirations beyond football.
• The evolution of linebacker play requires adaptability and skill.
• Football represents a way of life and personal fulfillment.

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LaVar Arrington is joined by iconic broadcaster Charles Davis who discusses his career, his influences and what the game of football has meant to him on and off the field. Davis also hits on his time at the University of Tennessee, transitioning to the broadcast booth and how through hard work and determination, Davis has earned his title as one of the best in the business.

Takeaways:

• Never outworked and rarely out coached is a mantra to live by.
• Influences from family and community shape our paths.
• Transitioning from player to broadcaster requires hard work and adaptability.
• Preparation is key to success in any field.
• Representation in media is crucial for aspiring athletes.
• Life lessons from football extend beyond the field.
• Perseverance is essential in the face of setbacks.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and professional growth.
• Believe in yourself and your potential to succeed.
• Success is a journey that requires continuous effort and learning.

#upongame #fsrweekends #2Pros

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It's the debut episode of the Good in the Game podcast! 2022 College Football Hall of Famer LaVar Arrington hosts and is joined by the MAN at Ohio State still to this day, Archie Griffin. The guys dive into Archie career, who his influences were as a kid, fumbling on his first career carry at OSU, playing for Woody Hayes and what the game of football has meant to him on and off the field.

• The game of football teaches valuable life lessons.
• Getting knocked down and getting back up is crucial.
• Archie Griffin's journey was influenced by his family and mentors.
• Football provided a pathway to education for Griffin and his siblings.
• The importance of teamwork and appreciation for all positions.
• Griffin's freshman year was filled with challenges and learning opportunities.
• Winning the Heisman was a culmination of hard work and dedication.
• Griffin emphasizes the importance of community involvement post-career.
• The golden rule of treating others as you wish to be treated is vital.
• Desire, dedication, and determination are essential for success.

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Up On Game Presents Conversations With A Legend With LaVar Arrington. In this conversation, Jeff Saturday shares his experiences as an interim coach in the NFL, discussing the challenges and chaos of stepping into a leadership role during a tumultuous time. He reflects on the dynamics of coaching staff relationships and the pressures of performance. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of health and wellness initiatives for former players, highlighting the NFL's efforts to address obesity and promote healthier lifestyles post-retirement. -It was chaos at its highest level during my interim coaching.

-Building relationships with coaches is crucial, especially when they know they might lose their jobs.

-The experience of coaching is rewarding but comes with significant challenges.

-Health and wellness are critical for former players after retirement.

-Having a plan and support system is essential for weight management.

-The NFL is actively working on health initiatives for its alumni.

-You can't control everything as a coach; focus on what you can influence.

-Success in coaching takes time and patience.

-The opinions of others shouldn't deter you from taking opportunities. It's important to have a consistent plan for health and wellness.

 

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In this engaging Conversations With A Legend, LaVar Arrington speaks with NFL legend Marshall Faulk about his impact on football, his role in drug awareness education, and his connection with Peyton Manning. Faulk emphasizes the importance of education in combating drug issues and reflects on his influences in football, including his high school coach and his relationship with Manning, highlighting their shared understanding of the game.

Takeaways

-Drugs are a rampant issue globally, requiring education.

-Marshall Faulk's organization provides free educational resources.

-Influence in sports can shape future generations of players.

 -Understanding the game is crucial for success in football.

-Peyton Manning's growth was aided by communication with Faulk. -

Faulk's high school coach played a pivotal role in his career.

-Education about drugs can lead to better decision-making.

 -Faulk's playing style was influenced by his desire to be shifty.

 -The bond between players can enhance on-field performance.

-Marshall Faulk is recognized as one of the greatest running backs.

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DisruptU PSU Presents Quite Franklin With LaVar Arrington And Penn State Football Coach James Franklin. In this engaging conversation, LaVar and Coach Franklin discuss the historical significance of the Sugar Bowl, the current state of SMU's football program, the implications of the transfer portal, and the structure of the college football playoffs. They also celebrate the achievements of All-American players and share insights on preparing for cold weather practices, all while reflecting on the rich history of Penn State football.

Takeaways

•It's important to educate people on the history of Penn State.

•SMU has a strong football history and a successful alumni base.

•The transfer portal has complicated athlete transitions.

•A football commissioner could help streamline college football decisions.

•Starting the season earlier could alleviate end-of-season pressures.

•The playoff structure needs to be more consistent and fair.

•Celebrating All-Americans reflects the program's success.

•Cold weather practices require a balance of old and new school methods.

•Maintaining player health during cold practices is crucial.

•The atmosphere at home games can be intimidating for opponents.

 

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LaVar Arrington Chats with Byrna CMO & CRO Luan Pham.

The Best OFFENSE is a good DEFENSE. How are you preparing to protect yourself and your family from outside threats and the increase in crime?

Having a BYRNA is a great complement to owning firearms – If you or your family is in a situation where you feel threatened, you need to start with less lethal.

What if there was a way to effectively defend yourself and deescalate a situation without the irreversible consequences of deadly force? Do you really want to pull the trigger and deal with the financial and mental repercussions of using a firearm?

Byrna is legal in all 50 states, and no permits or background checks are needed. 

The Byrna Launcher has powerful deterrents like tear gas and kinetic rounds with a 60 foot range.

One shot can incapacitate attackers for up to forty minutes.  A Byrna can save two lives.

Byrna is trusted by over 500 government agencies, police departments, and private security firms and has 14,000 4 and a half star reviews  

******Visit Byrna.com/LaVar for 10% off your purchase! *****

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DisruptU PSU Presents Quite Franklin With LaVar Arrington And Coach James Franklin deliver an engaging conversation, as they reflect on Thanksgiving, family values, and the importance of gratitude. They discuss the dynamics of the coaching staff and the significance of building trust and communication within the team. The conversation also touches on the health challenges faced by the team and the resilience required to navigate them. As they prepare for the final game of the season, they highlight the achievements of the team and the importance of consistency in performance.

Takeaways

•Thankfulness for family and the Penn State community is paramount.
•The coaching staff plays a crucial role in team dynamics.
•Building trust and communication is essential for success.
•Health challenges are common in football, especially late in the season.
•Resilience is key to overcoming injuries and setbacks.
•The team's ability to win close games is a valuable asset.
•Consistency in performance is a significant achievement for the program.
•The importance of supporting the team and the school is emphasized.
•The conversation reflects a deep appreciation for the sport and its community.

 

#upongame #fsrweekends #2Pros

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