The 49ers Need "Samurai Mike"

“We are not a charity, we cannot give them the game.” These were the words that came out of your mouth after the Oct. 26 loss to the Seahawks.

Any fans or players' reaction to such a comment would simply be, “No kidding genius!” What happened to the intimidating stare? What happened to the "Monster of the Midway?" Time to get off the pulpit and get on the field, coach.  

I know that you are an ordained minister, and that is one of the reasons you inspire people with your words, but God also ordained you to be an athlete, not just a orator. Once you are able to awaken the player that struck fear into all opposing offenses, everything will fit into place.

During your time with the Bears, you had a couple of nicknames. “Samurai Mike” was one your teammates liked to call you. Something tells me your teammates didn’t tag you with this nickname because you were just a great speaker.  

A samurai is a warrior, someone who is focused and undeterred by any opposition. You were famous for possessing these attributes when you suited up and took the field. When you put on your uniform, it was as if you were putting on your armor to go into battle. You were never satisfied with anything less than a victory.

If we look back on history, samurai warriors in ancient Japan were bound by strict code of honor. A notable part of their code was called Bushido, meaning “Way of the Warrior.” It stresses frugality, loyalty, martial-arts mastery, and honor until death.

You are not honoring your roots at all. Instead, you are being passive and not teaching your players how to be intimidating and aggressive. You are not teaching them how to be samurais themselves. Benching your starting QB isn’t enough. You must show your team how to win. You must show your team how to be warriors!

Get out on the field with them and show them the ways. Samurais honor their code until death. Your muscles might not be as strong as they used to be. Your joints might ache more than they ever have before, but deep down inside, you still have the warrior waiting to be released.

Awaken the samurai, coach. Show your team how you became one of the greatest linebackers to ever play the game. Make your team better than you ever were, and make your defense strong. Give them an identity and be loyal to your starters. Teach them, and make this 49ers team the best we have ever seen.

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