I cheer and support BYU football, because I like football and I like BYU. I am a BYU alum. I like everything BYU stands for, like helping young adults get a college degree, start a career, hang out with other church members, and grow their knowledge and testimony of the gospel. BYU is the church's school.

Their team is made up of guys who agreed to live the honor code, even if they sometimes make mistakes. Everyone knows that BYU is the squeeky clean, stone-cold sober school. That is their identity. So I love watching them play. Even if all their games were only on BYUTV. That would be so much better than the lack of access I had growing up outside of Utah. Even if they don't win them all and have down years, I am a BYU football fan and will *always* support the team.

Now, do I want them to win? Of course! Does their great football tradition and national prominence make it more enjoyable. Yep. I also like seeing the team play big time teams in front of a national audience on ABC and ESPN, or near me in the east. It is great that the church can gain some attention and $$ from it. I love that they won a national championship, Heisman trophy, all the other accolades, and have had some pretty special seasons. I support trying to get back to those special seasons, including making whatever changes are needed to the staff and scheme going forward, within the bounds set by the BOT. I like seeing them win great recruits. I like seeing BYU guys play and coach in the NFL, and in this week's Superbowl!

I get that other people see it differently. I respect their right to see it how they want. But my BYU fanhood is not dependent on all those accolades and national prominence. I love BYU and football, it's as simple as that.