"For 350 years we have been taught that reading maketh a full man, conference a ready man and writing an exact man. Football's place is to add a patina of character, a deference to the rules and a respect for authority."

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Source: Red Smith (2013). “American Pastimes: The Very Best of Red Smith (The Library of America)”, p.26, Library of America

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Red Smith

Sportswriter

Red Smith was a renowned sports columnist whose insightful writing transformed sports journalism, emphasizing the emotional narratives behind the games.

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