This wasn't just a "display" for 20 million viewers last night. There have been pictures and videos posted all week from Orlando by the players themselves and ESPN. I watched a facebook live chat with TR and at the the end of it, Mathieu came in and they joked around and chatted for a minute and I could tell there was legitimate camaraderie going on. The videos and pictures from the Disney Parks showed kids who were just acquaintances, but friends having a good time. Shepard, HB7 and Mo Claiborne have posted several comments on Twitter that show they have great respect for Bama and are glad to have a rematch.
Those of us who have never played football or any other sport forget that there is a unique "brotherhood" between those who do play. Many of them have known each other for years, after attending camps, recruiting, etc. They form genuine friendships. These things make me realize how childish and petty we, the FANS, can get when it comes to sports. It is something that will never change, but probably should. Personally, I am making the effort not to be obnoxiously uncaring or disrespectful to my Barn brethren and show the TRUE CLASS that a Bama fan should have. Maybe one day, they could learn from the positive reinforcement! haha, I know--that is asking a LOT.
Anyway, I think these kids are sincere and it makes me happy to see them respecting one another and supporting each other. RTR, y'all!