God's Coaching #292

God's Coaching #292

When 250-pound athletes hit each other at speeds around 20 miles per hour, they can cause a lot of damage. The National Football League (NFL) makes rules to protect players from major injuries. Some of those rules state that a defender cannot lead with his helmet when making a tackle. Other rules guard against helmet-to-helmet contact or hitting a defenseless player who’s vulnerable to a big collision. But football is such a fast-paced game that sometimes dangerous plays just happen.

On this day in 2010, the NFL gave fines that totaled $175,000 to three defensive players for dangerous hits. Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison was fined $75,000, while New England Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather and Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson each got $50,000 fines. All of the hits resulted in injury. And Dunta’s hit on Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson knocked both players out of the game.

What’s the Score?

Some people said the fines were unjust because everybody knows football is dangerous. The players appealed their fines, but the NFL stood strong. NFL executive vice president of football operations Ray Anderson said, “We hope we are sending a message, emphatically, that going forward, hits to the head that are illegal . . . will be dealt with at a higher level.” The NFL wanted its players to set an example for youth, high-school, and college teams by playing the right way.

Football is dangerous, but there are ways to make it safer. Life is similar. We face certain dangers, but there are ways to remain safe. The Bible says, “The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead” (Proverbs 14:16). In football it’s foolish to lead with your head in a tackle. In life, sometimes it’s foolish to barrel ahead and take stupid risks. Think before you act. Stay away from people who act recklessly. Do your best to avoid dangerous situations. Showing wisdom in how you act is not wimpy—it’s smart.

On the Ball

Has anybody ever dared you to do something dangerous or something you know you shouldn’t do? How did you respond? When dangerous situations arise be prepared to do the smart thing. Be wise and stay safe.

Coach’s Comment

The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence. Proverbs 14:16