The cycle begins with emotions of excitement and uncertainty leading up to the season. Every fan has the highest expectations for their team, no matter the way the previous year ended. Some players have moved on to bigger and better things, and other players are stepping up to take their place. Newcoming players have their eye on the prize and feel like they rule the world. Coaches tell you that they are pleased with the progress their team has made throughout the spring and summer. After Week 1, 59 teams will be 1-0, and 59 will be 0-1 (1 lucky team will still be 0-0, who this is, I have no idea) So in all reality, half of the country will be celebrating and half will be mouring.
Within a few weeks, 30 (or so) groups of players, coaches and fans will still be living life on the high road. Yes there might have been a speed bump or two along the way, but the road is still paved for a successful season. The excitement and uncertainty of the pre-season is gone, and everyone has a pretty good idea of where their team sits. A different feeling of excitement is building as potential is now fairly clear. Some teams still might be on the way towards an Undefeated Season, some moving towards Conference Championships, and a handful are in the hunt for a National Championship. On the other end of the spectrum, 30 (or so) groups of players, coaches and fans are found asking themselves the question "What Happened?" or "What if?" or saying things like "If only..." and "Maybe next year".
Then there comes that fantastic week in November...Rivalry Week! Simply the best games of the year. A good season could become a great season by beating your rival. A bad season could have some of the bitterness put to rest because you won the "only game that really matters". But most of all, all of the questions will be answered. Who is on to the National Championship Game? Who is busting the BCS? And where will you be traveling for your Christmas break?
No matter the outcome, whether good or bad, the season inevitably comes to a close. Depression sets in as you deal with the dreary January and February weather. But there is that day in April when you get a glimpse of heaven, and the excitement again begins to build. Its a constant cycle that is as certain as the sun rising and setting every day.
So here's to the 2009 sunrise beginning tonight!!! I am ok with the uncertainty and excitement because the greatest day of the year has finally come...and you better believe I will be soaking it all up! See you all tonight at the best place on earth...Rice-Eccles Stadium!!!! A U-tah Man Am IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII GO UTES!!!!!