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April 26, 2009 My good friend David Kramer, a prominent Novi-based attorney, hit the nail right on the head the other day when he was talking about the importance of team chemistry in sports. And that is exactly why the NY Jets drafted USC’s Mark Sanchez with the 5th overall pick. They are counting on him to be their franchise QB. Mark attended Mission Viejo HS in Orange County, CA, and I’m very familiar with his upbringing because Mission Viejo was in our league while I was in HS. Their head coach, Bob Johnson, is a legend for developing QB’s and his son, Rob Johnson spent 10-years as a QB in the NFL, while his younger brother Brett was a 3-year starter at UCLA. What David Kramer was alluding to, is an intangible that Mark Sanchez possesses in spades. Commonly referred to as the ‘it’ factor, Sanchez’ ability to connect with people, carry out his assignments in a workmanlike manner, and truly understand his role are the true ingredients for team success. Of course his significant physical skills are a great asset, but they are not the be-all/end-all. The landscape is littered with strong armed QB’s that could run fast. Some were Heisman Trophy winners, All-Americans and sure-fire can’t-miss prospects. But they couldn’t adapt, they weren’t flexible, and in many cases they saw themselves as special. As such, they might not have worked as hard, they might not have gone the extra mile when it came to meshing with their coaches, their teammates and other key members of the organization. Once a year I right a column I entitled, “A star might win you one game, but a team might win them all.” The right collection of individuals (like the New England Patriots) have shown repeatedly that an unselfish group of athletes who understand their roles, have checked their ego at the door, and are willing to sacrifice for the greater good, are the ingredients that lead to success on every level. Last year the NY Jets were on the short list for the Super Bowl with a 9-3 record, but ironically, their Hall-of-fame QB, Brett Favre was distant, and seemed to isolate himself from the rest of the team. When the going got rough down the stretch in December, the Jets folded like a cheap chair, and didn’t even make the playoffs. “Mark” my words, within three years the Jets decision to have drafted the charismatic Sanchez will be proven right. As attorney Kramer might say…Case closed. (c) 2009 Novi
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