Lessons from a Fumble: Team First
Learn From Lamar
In a moment Baltimore Ravens fans won’t soon forget, star tight end Mark Andrews had what can only be described as a nightmare game. During a high-stakes playoff matchup against the Buffalo Bills, Andrews – Mr. Dependable himself – fumbled for the first time in five years. But wait, there’s more! He also dropped a game-tying two-point conversion pass that could have sent the Ravens into overtime. For an athlete who’s practically a walking highlight reel, this was like a superhero misplacing their cape—painful, unexpected, and downright surreal.
Yet, what unfolded afterward was just as telling and powerful as the play itself. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson approached Andrews, offering not just consolation but a profound lesson in leadership. "It’s on all of us. We are a team. It’s all of us. It ain’t just you," Jackson said. This moment wasn’t about statistics or game outcomes. It was about the human side of sports – resilience, accountability, and the power of supportive leadership.
From a sports psychology perspective, this scenario underscores critical mental skills that go beyond the physical demands of the game:
⬆️ Bouncing Back After Mistakes
Mistakes are inevitable in sports and life, but it’s the response that defines an athlete. For Mark Andrews, resilience meant facing his errors and moving forward. Athletes can practice a “next play” mentality—shifting focus to what’s still in their control to stay in the moment and perform at their best.
💖 Managing Self-Criticism
High-stakes moments can trigger unhealthy self-criticism. Andrews’ consistency didn’t shield him, but Jackson’s leadership emphasized shared accountability, easing the burden. Athletes can reframe negative thoughts, replacing “I failed” with “I’ll come back stronger.” This practice transforms pressure into growth.
💡 Leadership in Team Morale
Jackson’s response to Andrews showed how great leaders lift others during low points. By focusing on the team, not the individual, he reinforced trust and accountability. Empathy and perspective help teams bounce back and build collective strength.
- Dave Matthews, Head of The Focus 5 App
Kirk Herbstreit Gets Emotional After Ohio State’s Natty Win 😭
Ohio State’s national championship victory stirred deep emotions in Kirk Herbstreit, a former Buckeye quarterback and father of Zak Herbstreit, a tight end still on the team’s roster despite a heart condition that forced him to medically retire. Reflecting on the team’s journey, Herbstreit praised their resilience, saying, “This team, because of what they went through to get to this point, you’re just happy.”
The Bills' Secret Weapon 🤫
Every game day, Dr. Desaree Festa, affectionately known as “Dr. Dez,” plays a critical role for the Buffalo Bills—not on the field, but on the sidelines. As the team’s full-time sports psychologist, she supports players and coaches by managing the mental side of the game, fostering resilience, and destigmatizing mental health in sports.
The Australian Open Does What Wimbledon Nintendon't 🎾
If you've been on social media at all, you've likely seen a few viral clips that look eerily similar to Wii Sports; that's what the Australian Open wants! This year, the first Grand Slam of the year used motion capture technology to bring matches to YouTube for free, but because of the broadcasting agreement they have with ESPN, they had to get creative. The result? See for yourself!
Control What You Can Control 🎯
After Mark Andrews’ fumble, Lamar Jackson reminded him, “It’s on all of us.” Mistakes happen, but focusing on what you can control—like your response—makes all the difference. This week, write down all of the things that you think you can 100% control...hint: There's only 3!
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