Dominate the Super Bowl

"Coach, I can testify that Coach Burns didn't kidnap me, at least he didn't put a knife to my neck,"

Li Wei joked there but didn't expect Burns to look at Saban and start nodding and shaking his head proudly, muttering, "Look, Li Wei has spoken."

Saban shook his head slightly, showing a hint of helplessness, "You gasp even when called fat."

Burns silently looked down at his chubby belly.

Haha, the atmosphere lightened immediately.

Through their rambling speech, Li Wei could feel the deep concern in the voices of Saban and Burns; they genuinely had Li Wei's best interests at heart.

A couple of jokes strayed off-topic, but Saban quickly refocused their attention.

"Li Wei."

"If you're not interested in football, and you're not planning to turn professional, then you need to plan for your senior year and your future. The world doesn't only offer a career as a professional player."

"I've looked at your grades, and you could have a promising future in the journalism industry. I know some people in the newspaper and television industries, if needed, I could make a few calls, start with an internship, and then find a job. New York is good; there are more opportunities in the journalism industry there."

"However,"

"If you want to continue playing football, we also need to plan ahead."

"Although you have only been playing football for one year, you are now a junior, and the reality of when to enter the draft is a pressing issue."

"Actually, if possible, Coach Burns and I would like to keep you for another year; but we don't want to be so selfish."

Pausing his words, Burns nodded in agreement and continued seamlessly from Saban's point, "Objectively speaking, even if you stay in school for another year, the improvement will be very limited. Your talent, your brain, your abilities, everything is already prepared."

"Of course, if you enter the NFL now, I won't lie, it would probably be a bit tough, especially in terms of combating strength, you're not quite there yet; also, such a weakness will become more apparent as the season progresses, and if you're not careful, the risk of injury will increase."

"But overall, you are a player who dares to face challenges and can withstand pressure. We have seen your growth and transformation over this past half year, not just in regular training but also in your own personal studies, including offense and defense. Honestly, your understanding of football has now surpassed that of most of your team members."

"So, after discussing it for a long time, the coach and I think it would be more appropriate for you to enter the professional competition next year, there's no need to waste your youth."

"Li Wei, you should know, the career span of a running back isn't that long, transitioning into the profession, you will face many challenges from the start, and you also need to plan for the long term. We all hope to see you continue to deliver outstanding performances on the professional field. So..."

Burns looked at Saban, his expression somewhat strained—

As a running back coach, Burns disliked the current situation and trend in the league, even to the point of detestation.

He felt compassion for every running back, indignant and unyielding about the running backs' plight, but what could he, a mere coach, change?

Burns was conflicted.

On one hand, he sincerely hoped Li Wei would enter the NFL; he believed in Li Wei, and perhaps he really could bring more surprises as a running back.

On the other hand, he regretted involving Li Wei in football and training him as a running back, a prospectless running back.

The conversation, ultimately, couldn't go on.

Saban understood it all.

So, Saban continued.

"Thus, if you decide to continue playing football and choose to enter the draft next year, we also need to plan for you," he said.

"Before heading to Rookie Training Camp, Coach Burns and I think you should first participate in a training camp. Strength and confrontation are one aspect, but an understanding of certain tactics also needs to be updated, whether for the draft or future professional games. It's better to be well-prepared in advance."

Genuinely, they considered all aspects for Li Wei.Nôv(el)B\\jnn

In fact, Crimson Tide Storm had just experienced the painful transition of their main running back turning professional last year. It had not been easy for Li Wei to fill the vacancy this season. From the perspective of the coaching team and the benefits of Crimson Tide Storm, they should have persuasively encouraged Li Wei to continue playing football and to stay on the team.

That would have been the right thing to do.

However, they did not.

Indeed, the NCAA is a controversial league; they generate countless profits every year, yet they never end up in the pockets of the college players. Although these students enjoy some benefits like scholarships or tuition waivers, it pales in comparison to the NCAA's income.

Meanwhile, some selfish coaches, for their own benefit, vigorously prevent players from turning professional, trying to exploit these students as much as possible.

But at least Saban and Burns weren't like that.

It was evident that they sincerely believed Li Wei was a promising player and genuinely hoped he would have a bright and successful future.

Perhaps, in their hearts, they truly loved the sport of football.

Saban's words were not yet over.

"Today, I wanted you to come over so you can head home during the Christmas break and talk things over with your parents. There's no need to hurry your decision, just discuss the situation with your family first, then take some time to think it over quietly for yourself," he said.

"Things are slightly different from our plans, but no worries, there's still time."

"Whatever decision you make, what matters most is that it aligns with your own ideas and desires."

Heart for heart.

Looking at the two coaches before him, Li Wei felt a warmth in his heart, "Coach, if I turn professional, what about the team?"

Saban's smile slightly curled up, "Don't worry, Jacobs has grown quite a bit. Next year, he will be fit to take over as the main running back."

Burns added, "The other injured running backs have also returned."

"This season, because of your presence, Coach Saban and I were considering whether to fight for them to get redshirt status; otherwise, it would waste a year."

"Next season, they will need to put in more effort. First Derrick, then you, they need to uphold the Crimson Tide Storm's tradition of excellent running backs; effort is essential." Enjoy exclusive chapters from empire

Saban nodded in agreement, "Plus, next year we'll continue to bring in a batch of freshmen. College football won't stop moving forward; people graduate every year, and new people come in every year. We've gotten used to it; that's our job."

"Li Wei, remember, whether it's the NFL or the NCAA, team interests are always greater than individual interests. You shouldn't sacrifice your own interests for the team. It's not necessary nor worthwhile.

If the team wants you to sacrifice your own interests for the group, they should first show enough sincerity and sacrifice enough for you before they have the right to ask you to consider this matter."

"Otherwise, never trust the promises of the team manager, understand?"

"So, you need not worry about the team; just focus on thinking about your future. If you need help or have any doubts, feel free to ask me."

"Alright, we two old guys won't worry about you anymore. Go ahead and take your holiday break, and remember to give my regards to your parents."