TAMPA, Fla. — USF head football coach Jeff Scott usually plays a "video of the day" to perk up his players at the beginning of their 7 a.m. meetings.
This week, the first-year head coach played a portion of Chadwick Boseman's 2018 commencement speech at Howard University. The late actor was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016.
"Sometimes you have to feel the pain and sting of defeat to activate the real passion and purpose that God predestined inside of you," the "Black Panther" star said. "Whatever you choose for a career path, remember the struggles along the way are only meant to shape you for your purpose."
Scott and his players felt the power of Boseman's words.
"He’s literally fighting for his life during the most successful and happiest years of his life," Scott said. "And in reality, that is life."
"Hearing that message has opened my eyes more," said linebacker Antonio Grier. "Try to become a better communicator, and understanding my teammates more."
Scott said one of his team commandments is to have a positive attitude no matter the circumstances. He knows playing a full season of football during a pandemic isn't guaranteed, but he wants his team to enjoy these unique times as much as possible.
"There are a lot of things that are hard, seem not fair or whatever, yes. Let’s enjoy it," Scott said, while smiling through his mask. "We’re going to appreciate the things that we learned going through this. My deal is, to be better for it."
The Bulls are scheduled to host The Citadel next Saturday at Raymond James Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.
