Football Leaderhip

In the midst of college football bowl games, there will be incredible plays that will change the direction, momentum and ultimate results of the games. The fake punt, the halfback pass to the wide receiver (or maybe even to the quarterback), the double reverse, the blocked field goal attempt, or the Hail Mary desperation bomb - these are the kind of highlights that are played over and over in order to relive the excitement of the bowls. And who makes these plays happen? The head coach, the offensive coordinator, the quarterback, the defensive line could all be the correct answer depending on the situation. In the final analysis, however, the leader makes it happen.

When I sit back in my armchair and watch the big game on TV, those game-changing plays just scream leadership. I see four particular aspects of leadership that jump out out me when I sit in front of my Panasonic. First, on the gridiron, leadership might be seen in the form of the idea maker. Someone on the sideline or in the booth sees a crack in the opposing team's armor. A strategic plan develops to take advantage of the opponent's weakness. The play is called and communicated to the quarterback who directs the team in the huddle. The ball is snapped and momentum is about to change!

A second form of leadership come in the form of the executor of the details. The quarterback is the CEO on the field. The exchange of the ball from the center to the quarterback begins a change reaction that, if executed cleanly and precisely, can change the outcome of the entire game. Talented players are important; but the execution of the details transforms talent into victory. Talent without execution is only talent.

Third, leadership on the field can be seen in the skill of the expert. Some running backs have extraordinary expertise. When number 23 is out of the game, his back up (#34) enters the game. The same play, on which number 23 gained 43 yards, nets on two yards for #34. The offensive line made similar blocks, the hole opened up in identical ways, but the expertise of #23 allowed him to hit the hole with greater speed, better balance, and superior agility. The leadership of the expert cannot be underestimated.

Finally, the leader is often the one who seizes the opportunity. Being the right person and the right place at the right time can completely change the course of the game. The tipped pass that falls in the hands of a secondary receiver for a touchdown... the interception that ends a drive to take the lead.... the fumble recovery on the two yard line... not only was the player at the right place and the right time, but he seized the opportunity, stepped into the spotlight and responded with greatness.

In football, or in the office, leadership can often be seen in the form of the idea maker, the skillful executive of the idea, the expert skill of the superstar, and the one who sees the opportunities to serve the team and seizes the moment. Innovation and ideation, creative application and attention to detail, dedication toward perfection, and a passionate drive with intentionality are all essential elements to effective leadership. Watch for these elements on the sideline, in the huddle, in the workplace, in your life.

OSU picture found at http://www.sinclairclarion.com/home/tag/state/