re: Missouri's future vs. Tennessee's future.

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We're working on that part of the equation.

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And that is the first step. I know folks think I harp on attendance so much but it really affects recruiting. The big part will be getting the existing core but growing it across the state in a state filled with pro sports.

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I still think winning means more than facilities, uniforms, etc.

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A generation ago this was correct when it was all about the team. These days the kids are coddled and their egos are stroked so much in high school it is much different.

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Winning breeds more winning.

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Yes, but the dynamics change. Where most teams fail is going from the underdog to the team with the target. It crushes teams because the view changes. If you are playing Alabama in football or Kentucky in basketball you are the underdog with nothing to lose and everything to gain. If you are the lead dog everybody brings their best to beat you and you have to play every game with no let down.

My feeling for the longest time is that getting to the top is much easier than staying there. Alabama is still a top football program and Minnesota no longer is. They both started out well but Alabama has sustained it while Minnesota crumbled.