Antonio Coleman: Master Strategist

I was perusing the Inside the Auburn Tigers magazine at Books-A-Million recently and I came across an interview with Auburn DE Antonio Coleman. Most of the interview was the normal fluff that most athletes are asked, "What is the game you look forward to the most? How many servings of wolverine gallbladders can you eat in one sitting?" All that cliched nonsense. 

But what made Antonio's interview standout was his answer to the "What item do you have to have on the bus rides?" All the other players interviewed listed the normal essentials. This includes Ipods, their favorite pillows, etc. (Lee Ziemba said the gold plated skull of Urban Meyer's firstborn.)

But Antonio decided to crush all my preconceived notions that I had about Auburn defensive ends (remember this guy, not really a scholar) and said The 48 Laws of Power. A book that describes itself as "amoral, cunning, ruthless, and instructive", exactly how a defensive end should play. 

Coleman said he "reads its scripture before every game." The 48 Laws of Power is Coleman's Bible. Opposing SEC offensive lineman beware, the Carl von Clausewitz of defensive ends is coming.

And now an ode to Antonio Coleman: Master of Strategy.

Law 15: Crush Your Enemy Totally 

The idea is simple: Your enemies wish you ill. There is nothing they want more than to eliminate you. If, in your struggles with them, you stop halfway or even three quarters of the way, out of mercy or hope of reconciliation, you only make them more determined, more embittered, and they will someday take revenge. 

Law 42: Strike The Shepherd And The Sheep Will Scatter

Trouble can often be traced to a single strong individual - the stirrer, the arrogant underling, the poisoner of goodwill. If you allow such people room to operate, others will succumb to their influence. Do not wait for the trouble to multiply, do not try to negotiate with them - they are irredeemable. Neutralize their influence by isolating or banishing them. Strike at the source of the trouble and the sheep will scatter.

Law 7: Get Others To Do The Work For You, But Always Take The Credit

Use the wisdom, knowledge, and legwork of other people to further your own cause. Not only will such assistance save you valuable time and energy, it will give you a godlike aura of efficiency and speed. In the end your helpers will be forgotten and you will be remembered. Never do yourself what others can do for you.