Best in Show, Worst on Field

By Sarah McVeigh

I had it all planned out: I was going to write about the Arizona State University rivalry football game versus the University of Arizona. But I cannot commit myself to hitting a word count filled with that much misery. In case you missed it, my ASU Sun Devils completely embarrassed themselves at home against our in-state rivals.

Fun fact: The ASU and U of A rivalry is one of the oldest in college football, starting in 1899. (I’m not sure how that’s possible, since Arizona didn’t become a state until 1912, but we’ll take the credit.)

Anyway, my husband and I traveled across the country for Thanksgiving and, of course, went to the game with my family—all ASU alumni. The moral of the story: it was sad. From kick-off to the final whistle, we were in complete agony. It pains me to say it, but the kitty deserved to win. Let’s say a prayer that ASU gets a new quarterback, and we can try again next year!

This year for Thanksgiving, I am thankful that I at least have the memory of last year’s winning season, when ASU won the Big 12 conference and went to the college football playoffs. That level of glory will probably never happen again.

In other sports (?) news, let’s talk about the National Dog Show. This is a Thanksgiving tradition that my family holds true to. We wake up, watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and then tune into the dog show. I love listening to actor John O’Hurley, with his deep voice, “oo and ahh” over a little Shih Tzu.

Dog shows are truly another world that I know nothing about. These “dog people” take everything so seriously! They prance around in what must be a required uniform: ugly outfits, disgusting dresses, and pantyhose—all while showcasing purebred dogs that cost about the same as a new car.

I love seeing the dogs with insane hair. Personally, I have a Portuguese Water Dog, and he is seriously cute. But compare my dog to the one in the show? They look completely different! The hair stylists involved in dog showing must make serious money. I find the whole thing fascinating precisely because I know nothing about it! And don’t say it’s not a sport—John O’Hurley calls it one.

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention an incredible sports moment. The New York Jets honored Firefighter Patrick Brady at the game on Sunday, November 30. Members of the Brady family were asked to serve as honorary captains. Pat Brady was a lifelong Jets fan, and the team recognized his commitment to the team and his city.

The New York Jets even won the game in Pat’s honor, which, as we all know, is incredibly difficult for the Jets. Rockaway had an incredible showing at the game, repping Brady jerseys and insane airplane hats. I know Pat was up in heaven smiling that he got all his friends and family to another Jets game.