student to higher grounds. That also happens to be the objective of the Gospel, ordinances, temple, and other spiritual programs. Education just happens to be both temporal and spiritual. Because the church considers the tithes and offerings sacred, the brethren are correct in trying to provide ALL within the church a chance for education. Therefore, sports must take a back seat to the larger picture and holistic view of CES.
With that said, even the more ardent football fan must understand educational perspectives are greater to bless the lives of a larger base. Very similar to the Lord's wisdom to Nephi regarding better for one man to parish than for a whole nation to dwindle. Therefore football (Ricks sports) must be the one (sacrifice) to ensure more of God's children reach a higher potential.