December 2010 Glory on the Gridiron Ones to watch this season. Sam Bradford


It’s easy for athletes to claim Christ as their source of strength and point to the sky in victory, but to actively engage with Him on the field and bring Him into the game itself is another story. This month, STV talked to a group of Division-I college football players—many of whom you’ll see in bowl games—to find out how they stay focused on why they play the game. Because, at the most basic level, sports aren’t about the trophies or stats; they’re about developing deeper intimacy with Christ and revealing Him to others in the process.

So, just how do you do that when you’re in the middle of a football stadium lined up against tough opposition and surrounded by thousands of screaming fans? You ask the experts.

Start with one of the most experienced—University of Houston quarterback Case Keenum—and then scroll down the page for more. Allow the words of these Christian competitors to inspire you and reveal ways you can bring Christ into your own game and experience His true victory regardless of the score.










Case Keenum #7
College
: University of Houston
Position: Quarterback
Year: R-Sr.
Hometown: Abilene, TX


STV: As you’ve grown in your faith, what have you learned about why God gave you the ability to play football?

CK: Being a football player, you have influence. I tell kids all the time that, no matter what, somebody is watching you, especially if you are an athlete. There are people who look at you and want to be like you, and you have the ability to promote whatever it is you want to promote. You can promote yourself, you can promote your team, whatever. But, if you are a Christian, you can choose to promote Christ, and that’s been what I’ve strived to do ever since I stepped on the field.

STV: What does it mean to “do sports God’s way”?

CK: It means to not do it my way and to make sure I put Him first no matter what happens.

God calls us to use our abilities to our greatest potential for His glory, and that includes whenever we step on the field. It’s not to beat the guy next to you; it’s to recognize it as an opportunity from God to reveal His glory. It’s like the parable of the talents in Matthew 25. When you read that, you see that you’re to use all of your talents in whatever way you can.

STV: During a game, you have to focus on so many things at one time. How do you actively engage Christ in the game itself?

CK: That’s a tough deal. I spend so much time on the game of football whether it’s with weights, practice or film. Compared to how much time I spend getting to know Christ, it’s not very proportionate. So really, one




thing that I do is just to say to myself, “Hey, God doesn’t just go away when you put your cleats on. He’s still there. You gotta bring Him on the field with you.”

I want to remember that He’s always there, and there are ways to do that. Sometimes it’s just looking around and seeing a cross that reminds me that God is there. I can focus on that instead of the pain of running the 10th cross-field that I might not want to run. When I focus on Him, I can recognize it as a chance to maximize my potential for God in that moment, because He gave me the talent to glorify Him.

For me, if I can look across the street and see the cross on the church or even at the telephone wires that cross, it reminds me that it’s not about me and puts it in perspective.

STV: How do you engage God when you make a bad play?

CK: I hold on to the fact that I know God loves me no matter what I do. If I throw five touchdowns or five interceptions, God still loves me the same.

Every time I step off the field after a game, my dad tells me that he’s proud of me and that he loves me. And it’s the same with my heavenly Father. No matter what happens—even if I throw an interception and tear my ACL—God still loves me and is still proud of me. Performance doesn’t matter to Him as far as results. God still loves us and is proud of us.

3-Minute Drill
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with corresponding video.

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Ben Cochran #12
College: United States Air Force Academy
Year: Sr.
Position: Quarterback
Hometown: Dublin, GA


 
“I invite Christ into all areas of my life, asking for the strength and peace only He can provide. The living God, my God, is so big that, even while operating the universe, He still takes note of the sparrows. As His child, I rejoice in knowing He has a deep interest in my game.”






Rhett Richardson #59
College
: University of Arkansas
Position: Snapper
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Rockwall, TX



“Every time I go onto the field, I’m praying. We may be called football players who just happen to be Christians, but we really strive to be Christians who just happen to be football players.”


Dylan Breeding
# 14
College: University of Arkansas
Position: Punter
Year: So.
Hometown: Hoover, AL



 “I bring God into my game by focusing on Him and trusting in Him. However I play on the field, it’s all for His glory.”







Barrett Jones
 - #75
College
: University of Alabama
Position: Offensive Line
Year: So.
Hometown: Memphis, TN



“I pray before the game and continue to pray throughout it. Every time I step on the field I say, ‘God, I know You have given me these skills for a reason, and I pray that I can do something to give You glory through what You’ve given me.’”


Kodi Burns
#18
College
: Auburn University
Position: Wide Receiver
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Fort Smith, AR



“Before every game I ask God to let me do everything for His honor and glory. I try to be a light to everybody watching the game. It’s really not about us; it’s about helping His Kingdom grow.”



Neil Caudle
 #19
College
: Auburn University
Position: Quarterback
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Hoover, AL



“Praying with [FCA’s] Chette Williams before and after all of our games helps me remember Who we’re playing for during the game. Then, in everything I do, I try to glorify Him.”


Aairon Savage
 #2
College
: Albany, GA
Position: Defensive Back
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Auburn University



“Before the game I walk the field and pray. It’s a blessing from Him every time I get to be on the field at all. During the game, I tap my chest and point to the sky as a way of saying thank You to God.”





Terrance Ganaway
#24
College
: Baylor University
Position: Running Back
Year: Jr.
Hometown: DeKalb, TX



 “God has given me the unbelievable opportunity to play football. I am passionate about Him and have vowed to honor Him in every endeavor, especially on the football field. Everyone prays for victory and championships, but I pray for the courage to do what is necessary.”


Tommy Gallarda
#85
College
: Boise State University
Position: Tight End
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Brea, CA



“Our team prays before each game, thanking the Lord for the opportunity and asking for both teams’ safety. I also pray at my locker while others are getting ready that I can reveal God’s glory to everyone who watches me on the field.”




Brandyn Thompson #13
College
: Boise State University
Position: Cornerback
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Elk Grove, CA



“The best way I can explain it is that God and I just talk all throughout the game. I also pray on the sidelines between times on the field.”


Dustin Hopkins
#18
College
: Florida State University
Position: Kicker
Year: So.
Hometown: Houston, TX



“When I walk onto the field I know I’m not alone. Anything can happen after the ball leaves my foot, and I love that God decides whether the field goal will be good or not. I hope that my athletic achievements strictly act as an avenue to glorify Him and bring others to Jesus.”





Christian Ponder #7
College: Florida State University
Position: Quarterback
Year: R-Sr.
Hometown: Colleyville, TX


 
“I can do nothing on this earth by myself. God has given me the talents and opportunities I have, and I wouldn’t be anywhere without Him. I try to incorporate God and His Holy Spirit in everything I do, so I can do it with the power that He brings.” 


Anthony Poterfield #43
College
: Florida State University
Position: Tight End
Year: R-Fr.
Hometown: Pensacola, FL



 R-Fr./TE/School: “If you trust in where God is taking you, there is no situation you can’t handle. I find myself relying on the strength of the Lord to help push me through trying times on the field understanding that, through Christ, all things are possible.”







Orson Charles
 #7
College
: University of Georgia
Position: Tight End
Year: So.
Hometown: Tampa, FL



“When taking the field, I remind myself that I’m not going out there alone. Any success I have comes from my partnership with God.”


Fred Munzenmaier #48
College
: University of Georgia
Position: Fullback
Year: So.
Hometown: Norcross, GA



“I use focal points, like a bracelet that I wear. It reminds me to play for God’s glory. I also just thank God throughout the game and pray that I can glorify Him continually.”





Julian Vandervelde #63
College
: University of Iowa
Position: Offensive Line
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Davenport, IA



“I write 2 Timothy 1:7 and ‘AO1’ (Audience of One) on my left wrist tape. My right wrist tape has Proerbs 21:31 for home games and Psalm 3:6 for away games, both with ‘G2G’ (Glory to God). I look at my wrist tape and remember the Spirit and the gifts God’s blessed me with.”


Jason White
#3
College
:University of Iowa
Position: Defensive Back
Year: So.
Hometown: Davenport, IA



“Bringing God into your game involves living as righteously as you can and praising Him in all things. Highs and lows are promised and inevitable, but praise is a conscious decision. I think of the saying ‘control the controllable.’ We can control our praise.”






Marcus Davis
 #77
College
: University of Kentucky
Position: Offensive Line
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Union, KY



“My goal is to give God thanks through my actions on the field. That doesn’t mean I’ll always play perfectly, but I try to give all I have on every play because Christ gave His life for us.”


Craig McIntosh
#93
College
: University of Kentucky
Position: Kicker
Year: So.
Hometown: Lexington, KY



“I apply Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV) to football: ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.’”







Travis Baltz
#35
College
: University of Maryland
Position: Punter-Place Kicker
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Whitehouse, OH



“After warm-ups I take a look around the stadium and say a prayer. I find it relaxing and I think it puts things in prospective for me.”


Mark Moundros
 #44
College
: University of Michigan
Position: Fullback-Linebacker
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Farmington Hills, MI



“God is my only audience, and I try to please Him and give Him glory by using the blessings He gave me to the best of my ability.”






Joe Reynolds
 #85
College
: University of Michigan
Position: Wide Receiver
Year: R-Fr.
Hometown: Rochester, MI



“I bring God into my game by reading my Bible throughout the week, which gives me a balanced spiritual level. I give thanks in prayer for the opportunities I have to play this great game.”



Denard Robinson #16
College
: University of Michigan
Position: Quarterback
Year: So.
Hometown: Deerfield Beach, FL



 "I pray before, during and after the game—every time I step onto the field before a possession and each time I score a touchdown. That gives me such strength.”




Kirk Cousins
 #8
College: Michigan State University
Position: Quarterback
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Holland, MI



“I bring God into my game by glorifying Him with the gifts He has given me and by understanding that anything I accomplish on the field is only because of His grace. I try to use my gifts to point to Him and worship Him through playing sports.”


Sean Brauchle
#37
College: Mississippi State University
Position: Kicker
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Biloxi, MS



 “God is an intricate part of my game, even in preparing throughout the week. I try to make a positive impact on all who are watching me, and I give glory to God in all that I do and accomplish because He deserves it.”





Devin Jones
 #60
College
: Mississippi State University
Position: Defensive Line
Year: So.
Hometown: Olive Branch, MS



“Before I get down for a play, I ask the Lord to guide me and keep me from danger. Whether I make the play or not, He gets the glory.”


Charles Mitchell
 #4
College
: Mississippi State University
Position: Defensive Back
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Clarksdale, MS



“When something bad happens during the game, I tell my teammates to stay positive because we can fight through adversity. And I always try to let God know that, everything I’m doing, I’m doing in His name.”





Jimmy Costello
 #12
College: University of Missouri
Position: Quarterback
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Liberty, MO
 



"God has blessed me with the ability and opportunity to play at this level, so I try to compete solely for His glory. Nothing I do is possible without Christ, so He deserves all the credit.”


Grant Ressel
 - #95
College
: University of Missouri
Position: Kicker
Year: R-Jr.
Hometown: Jackson, MO



“I pray with the team before we leave the locker room, but I also talk to God before and after each kick. This year in FCA, we’ve been talking about serving God through our athletic ability, so my goal is to kick for a higher purpose.”







Asa Watson
#82
College
: North Carolina State University
Position: Tight End
Year: So.
Hometown: Rock Hill, SC



“As a Christian athlete, I want to bring God glory when I’m playing the game. Regardless of whether or not I play well, I try not to make it about me, but about God.”

 


Prince Amukamara #21
College
: University of Nebraska
Position: Cornerback
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Glendale, AZ



“I try to block out the crowd, the signs and all the hype and identify Who I’m really playing for. Playing corner, I’m going to get beat, so I have to constantly go back to the cross and realize that I can go all-out and have confidence on every play because of Christ’s finished work.”






Eric Hagg
 #28
College
: University of Nebraska
Position: Defensive Back
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Peoria, AZ



“With the fear we all face in competition, the Lord reminds me in Psalm 27:1 that I shouldn’t be afraid. I pray before the snap that the Lord prepares my mind, after the whistle to praise Him for what happened, and on the sidelines that He helps me get back to biblical truth.”


Roy Helu Jr. #10
College
: University of Nebraska
Position: I-Back
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Danville, CA



“God deserves everything we can offer Him on a daily basis, not just on Saturday. Through Christ’s death and resurrection, I find power to combat timidity and the courage and strength to totally offer up reps during the week. When game day comes, it is simply another great opportunity to offer my body as an act of worship.”






Chimdi Chekwa #5
College
: Ohio State University
Position: Defensive Back
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Clermont, FL



“God gave me the talent and speed to be able to play football, so I dedicate my efforts to Him. Just as Jesus sacrificed for us, I hope to sacrifice any personal attention I get and give Him glory instead.”


Cameron Heyward #97
College
: Ohio State University
Position: Defensive Line
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Suwanee, GA



“God is bigger than us or anything we do and is so much bigger than football. I just try to play through Him and use the abilities He gave me. I want to use football as a tool to bring people closer to God.”







Brian Rolle #36

College
: Ohio State University
Position: Linebacker
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Immokalee, FL



“My game is only as good as my relationship with God. My life is only as good as my relationship with God. Any impact I may make is only as powerful as my commitment to keeping God at the center.”



Landry Jones
 #12
College
: University of Oklahoma
Position: Quarterback
Year: R-So.
Hometown: Argyle, TX



“From the moment we’re on the bus driving into the stadium, I start thanking God for giving me the opportunity to play. It’s an incredible blessing.”



Ben Habern
 #75
College
: University of Oklahoma
Position: Offensive Line
Year: R-So.
Hometown: Tulsa, OK



“I am aware of the blessing I’ve been given in a strong leg. I want to use it to give glory to God. I pray to stay levelheaded knowing that Satan will attack when things don’t go well, and I count on God to make sure things don’t get me down.”

 


Tress Way
#61
College
: University of Oklahoma
Position: Kicker
Year: R-So.
Hometown: Artesia, NM



“I read my Bible before every game. During the game, I pray in the Spirit—which can be at any time—thanking Him for a good play, for strength in tense situations or for helping me forget a bad play.”







Andrew McGee
 #6
College
: Oklahoma State University
Position: Cornerback
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Magee, MS



 “I thank God and give Him the glory for everything, and, win or lose, I still praise Him. It isn’t always easy because the adrenaline is going and we’re competing, but it’s easier when we realize the main reason we’re out there.”

   


James Thomas
 #22
College
: Oklahoma State University
Position: Linbacker
Year: Jr.
Hometown: LaMarque, TX



“Every time before I go out on the field I ask God to watch over us, protect us and help us make plays for His glory.”




Zack Brent
 #61
College
: University of Mississippi
Position: Offensive Line
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Oxford, MS



"On the field we should give our all and give Him glory for the opportunity He’s given us. And, even if we are on the sidelines, we should give it our all, praying for the guys on both teams who are on the field and asking that God’s will be done.”


Reggie Hicks
#32
College
: University of Mississippi
Position: Tight End
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Madison, MS



“The ability to play football is a God-given talent, and I give all my passion, energy and fire for the Lord. It’s kind of like my worship service. My playing is the most elaborate worship I can give Him.”








Jason Jones
#53
College
: University of Mississippi
Position: Defensive End
Year: So.
Hometown: Albany, GA



“God has given us our talents and abilities, and we should worship Him every time we have the opportunity—on or off the field. In every aspect of daily life, everything we do should be worship to Him and should bring Him glory.”


Johnny Hekker
 #7
College
: Oregon State University
Position: Punter
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Bothell, WA



“I draw crosses on the heels of my shoes to show my faith. And, before every punt, I pat my heart and point up to the sky to show that God is the reason why I’m there.”







Josh LaGrone
#26
College
: Oregon State University
Position: Safety
Year: So.
Hometown: San Diego, CA



“I bring Christ into my game through prayer. I worship Him by playing every down as if He were my only fan. I play to bring glory and recognition to His Kingdom.”

 


Timi Oshinowo
 #72
College
: Oregon State University
Position: Offensive Line
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Naperville, IL



“We bring God into our game by thanking Him for the road that led us to the present moment. We thank Him for the blood, sweat and tears that He allowed in our lives to make us the men He wants us to be.”






Patrick DiMarco
 #47
College
: University of South Carolina
Position: Fullback - Tight End
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Altamonte
Springs, FL



 Sr./FB-TE/School: “My ability to play the game of football is a gift from God. When I play, I know He is watching me, and my goal is to bring a smile to His face because I’m using my gifts for His glory.”


T.J. Johnson #55
College
: University of South Carolina
Position: Offensive Line
Year: So.
Hometown: Aynor, SC



“We are all given various talents and abilities, and playing football is one of mine. I consider my performance on the field to be an act of worship and an offering to my Savior.”






Brian Maddox
#10
College
: University of South Carolina
Position: Tailback
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Anderson, SC



 “I know I’m blessed to have the opportunity to play this great game. Whether it is training or playing, I want everything I do to be for His glory.”


Kevin Beachum Jr. #70
College
: Southern Methodist University
Position: Offensive Line
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Mexia, TX



“Before and after the game I thank God for giving the team and me the opportunity to honor Him with the abilities He’s given us. Throughout the game, whatever happens, I continue to thank the Lord.”







Pete Fleps
#52
College
: Southern Methodist University
Position: Linebacker
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Southlake, TX



“As followers of Christ, we are to glorify God in all that we do. I strive to perform on the field at a level that maximizes the athletic gifts I’ve been so graciously blessed with. Before, during and after games, I call on Christ through prayer.”

 


Braden Smith
 #14
College
: Southern Methodist University
Position: Defensive Back
Year: So.
Hometown: Rockwall, TX



“Praying before, during and after games allows me to enjoy the game no matter what the outcome. I always thank the Lord for the victory His Son won more than 2,000 years ago on the cross. It makes victories on the field seem small.”







Austin Davis - #12
College
: University of Southern Mississippi
Position: Quarterback
Year: R-Jr.
Hometown: Meridian, MS



 “Everything we do as Christians is worship, so I feel like, if I am playing football, going to school, or whatever I am doing, it is a form of worship. Football, then, is how I worship God.”



Pete Boehme #39
College
: University of Southern Mississippi
Position: Kicker - Punter
Year: So.
Hometown: Birmingham, AL



“I am talking to God all day on Saturdays. He is always there with me, from when I run out onto the field and after I run off of it.”






Zeke Walters
 #88
College
: University of Southern Mississippi
Position: Tight End
Year: Fr.
Hometown: Birmingham, AL



“I bring God into my game by glorifying Him on the field through my actions and the way I play. The talents God has given me are gifts from Him. It’s not about what I have done, but about what He has done.”

  


Matt Barkley
 #7
College
: University of Southern California
Position:Quarterback
Year: So.
Hometown: Newport Beach, CA



“I understand that I am playing for an Audience of One, which helps me focus on the game and not be distracted by 90,000 screaming fans. I know everything is in God’s hands and, no matter what happens, He is watching over and protecting me.”



Robbie Boyer
 #49
College
: University of Southern California
Position: Wide Receiver
Year: R-So.
Hometown: Newport Beach, CA



 “I try my best to make the game all about worshipping Christ and praising Him for the amazing opportunities He’s blessed me with. Focusing my energy and attention on Him and His amazing power, mercy and faithfulness puts it all in perspective.”

 


Brice Butler
 #19
College
: University of Southern California
Position: Wide Receiver
Year: R-So.
Hometown: Norcross, GA



 “Without God, nothing is possible. John 15:5 says that whoever abides in the Lord bears much fruit, but without Him we can do nothing. Understanding that verse, I try to put away selfish desires regarding how I’m going to perform, and I ask the Lord to help me glorify Him.”



 
 


Delano Howell
 #26
College
: Stanford University
Position: Safety
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Newhall, CA



 “I incorporate God in my game plan by acknowledging Him and thanking Him for giving me the ability to compete. Every time I step on the field, my ultimate goal—even above winning—is to glorify my heavenly Father through effort, attitude and character.”


Taylor Skaufel #40
College
: Stanford University
Position: Safety
Year: Sr.
Hometown: The Woodlands, TX



“My relationship with God is the greatest priority in my life. Football is a gift from the Lord, and it is my intention to glorify Him with what He has given me, whether by crediting Him for personal success or encouraging teammates to seek a relationship with Jesus.”



  


Ryan Whalen
 #8
College
: Stanford University
Position: Wide Receiver
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Alamo, CA



 “Being focused on the Lord on game day is a priority of mine. I offer the game to Him knowing that my trust in Him is well-placed. I also write verses on my wrist tape to serve as reminders during the game that God is with me.”

     


Tauren Poole
 #28
College
: University of Tennessee
Position: Tailback
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Toccoa, GA



“The biggest thing is knowing that it’s not about you, but about His glory. It’s just humbling yourself before Him on your stage and realizing that it’s a platform where you can be a role model to a lot of people.”




Nick Reveiz
#56
College
: University of Tennessee
Position: Linebacker
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Farragut, TN



“It’s hard because, in the game, you start thinking about your assignments and what you have to do. But I remind myself by writing a Bible verse on my wrist tape and ‘A.O.1,’ which stands for ‘Audience of One.’”


Chris Walker
#84
College
: University of Tennessee
Position: Defensive End
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Memphis, TN



“Before I go out there, I remind myself Who I’m playing for. I have ‘Audience of One’ tattooed on my arm so I will always remember it.”





Andy Dalton
#14
College
: Texas Christian University
Position: Quarterback
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Katy, TX



“Like 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 says, everything belongs to God and God alone. My talents and abilities are all from Him. So, when I take the field to play and use those abilities, it is my way of giving thanks to Him for all He has given me.”


Jake Kirkpatrick
#76
College
: Texas Christian University
Position: Offensive Line
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Tyler, TX



“We are called as believers to represent Christ in all we do, and football gives us a stage to do that. The only thing that can truly satisfy us in life is grace through our Savior, so I use all of my abilities to glorify Him on and off the field.”




Jerrod Johnson
#1
College
: Texas A&M University
Position: Quarterback
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Humble, TX



 “It’s important for me as a Christian to be consistent in my walk at practice and on the field on game day. My faith is how I’m able to handle every day.”



Bradley Stephens
#20
College
: Texas A&M University
Position: Running Back
Year: Jr.
Hometown: McAllen, TX


"God has blessed me with the ability to play football, and in everything I do, whether it is football or school, I intend to give my best for God and His glory.”
 





Ryan Tannehill
 #17
College
: Texas A&M University
Position: Quarterback - Wide Rec.
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Big Spring, TX



“Every day, whether in biochemistry class, on the practice field or during a nationally televised game, I feel it’s important to have a consistent walk with the Lord and to connect with Him. My witness happens every day and in every way.”


Emmanuel Acho
 #18
College
: University of Texas
Position: Defensive End
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Dallas, TX 



“Jesus is the reason I do what I do, and all glory be to Him. Even after a loss, Jesus is still the reason I do what I do. There is literally always a moment in every game when I realize I’m trying to do it all by myself, and I have to just let it go.”






Sam Acho
 #81
College
: University of Texas
Position: Linebacker
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Dallas, TX



“I bring God into the game by playing for Him. He has given us talent and the gift of playing the game. Obviously, you can’t physically see Him right next to you, but, by doing everything you can for Him, you’re bringing Him into the game.”



Baron Batch
 #25
College
: Texas Tech University
Position: Running Back
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Midland, TX



“Bringing God into your game involves bringing God into your daily encounters and actions. It’s impossible to play Christ-like on the field when you’re not living Christ-like off the field.”
 




Brian Duncan
#57
College
: Texas Tech University
Position: Linebacker
Year: Sr.
Hometown: Baton Rouge, LA



“In Romans 8:37, God tells us that we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us. Before and after games I pray to acknowledge who I am in Him and to be reminded that He’s the source of my strength. In Him I have victory over anything that stands in my way.”


Collin Carroll
#50
College
: Virginia Tech
Position: Snapper
Year: R-Jr.
Hometown: Hopkins, MN



“I play my hardest and make the most of the talent God has given me. I play to please Him, not to impress coaches, other players or the fans because He loves me and accepts me no matter what.”






Andre Smith
 #88
College
: Virginia Tech
Position: Tight End
Year: R-Sr.
Hometown: Germantown, MD



“God is a part of my game because, on a play-to-play basis, you can get frustrated and upset, but He helps me keep my integrity. Keeping that godly integrity is one key thing you have to maintain throughout the game.”



David Wilson
#4
College
: Virginia Tech
Position: Tailback
Year: So.
Hometown: Danville, VA 



“I bring God into my game and into my life through constant prayer. I give all the glory for my abilities to Him.”









Matt Lindamood
#38
College
: West Virginia University
Position: Fullback
Year: R-So.
Hometown: Parkersburg, WV



“I bring God into my game by asking that He be glorified on the field not just by me, but by everyone out there. No matter what happens, win or lose, He still gets the glory.”



Bradie Ewing
#34
College
: University of Wisconsin
Position: Running Back
Year: Jr.
Hometown: Richland Center, WI



 “I bring God into my game by being thankful for the opportunity to play. God gave us these great talents, and we just have to honor Him through those talents and play every play for Him.”




Aaron Henry
 #7
College
: University of Wisconsin
Position: Defensive Back
Year: R-Jr. 
Hometown: Immokalee, FL



“Camp Randall Stadium can hold more than 80,000 people, but with the ‘Audience of One,’ I know I play for one God. He’s blessed me with my talents, so when I play all-out and fearless, no matter what the outcome, I am worshipping Him.”



Jay Valia
#2
College
: University of Wisconsin
Position: Defensive Back
Year: R-Sr.
Hometown: Euless, TX



“I want to be like the hammer of God on the field. Our God is loving, but He’s also an aggressive God who can put fear into people. I want to give all I have using every talent and blessing that’s been given to me and put it all on the field for Him.”

--For more stories about faith and sport, visit www.sharingthevictory.com, the official magazine of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. To subscribe to STV, click here.


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