Richard Sherman Postgame Analysis

     The news of the past 24 hours has been the outburst of Seattle Seahawks All-Pro cornerback Richard Sherman. This is partially because Sherman brought it upon himself and partially media promoted. If I had to place the blame, it would go to the media first of all, and then ignorant people. Not just ignorant fans, but people in general.

     What Richard Sherman said after the game to Erin Andrews was not appropriate. Not only do I believe that, but also so does Sherman himself, who publically apologized that his actions deviated attention away from a great play he made and an incredible effort by his football team. But that interview is not his fault. The greater question that should come to mind is: Why was there a camera in Richard Sherman’s face less than 30 seconds after his team had officially been sent to the Super Bowl? This is a former 5^th round draft pick with roots from Compton. After being All-Pro last year and this year, Sherman made the play to send his team to the biggest stage in American sports. Considering all he went through, you think emotions would be running high? Obviously.

     The funny thing is, that after the interview had happened, so many people took to twitter and started insulting Sherman and his intellect and aimed a lot of that towards his race (ironically on the eve of Martin Luther King Jr. Day). A couple of things people should consider before making that assessment: The guy that people are criticizing, graduated as the salutatorian (number 2) in his high school class with a 4.2 GPA. He went to Stanford and got a degree in Communications with a 3.9 GPA and even returned for his final year of eligibility to start pursuing his Masters. That’s a lot more school than most people can credit themselves for. Would people question the intellect of say Luke Kuechly if he did that? Fair to assume not.

     The other thing that bothers me is the dissatisfaction of the general public. We hate it when Bill Belichick says nothing in his answers, yet when Sherman answers a question, we are still quick to criticize. There are some parts of the Sherman stuff that was not right. He probably shouldn’t have gone to Crabtree after the interception but those things always happen. That’s what makes football FUN! As far as his comments that he’s the best corner in the game…Who’s better? It is brash for him to come out and say that but he plays CORNERBACK. To play that position on an island the way he does, you gotta have a certain swagger and confidence to yourself.

     So often this year, the media has scrutinized players for being “too emotional”. Tom Brady vs. the Jets. Dez Bryant vs. the Lions. Now Richard Sherman vs. the 49ers. Ask yourself this question: What is the common thread for those players? The answer is that they are one of the top few at what they do. Football is an emotional game. People are often different on the field and off. A prime example would be Tom Brady. The guy in the press conferences does not look like the same guy who’s veins start popping out when he gets frustrated. Emotions are a part of the game and only those who have played can attest to that. I’ve only ever played at a high school Varsity level and I can tell you, during the game I am nothing like the guy off the field. This was the NFL for the right to play in the Super Bowl. Come on.

     My point is, criticize all you want, but know what you’re talking about. Before you call Sherman dumb and uneducated, remember he has a degree from Stanford to back it up. Before you say Sherman is just a trash talker, remember he is an All-Pro cornerback that just sent his team to the Super Bowl. Just remember the facts and grow some think skin.