8 chapters across the catalog
Strategy 14, "Overwhelm Resistance with Speed and Suddenness," is discussed in the context of political "ops" and the Hegelian dialectic (problem-reaction-solution). Mo uses the example of Deion Sanders' transition to Colorado as a "setup" that led to his eventual marginalization. They suggest that sudden, shocking events are used to keep the public in a state of emotional imbalance.
Louis Farrakhan on Collegiate Sports, Deion Sanders at Jackson State
Louis Farrakhan's 1990s speech at Michigan State is used to highlight the massive revenue black athletes generate for white universities. Farrakhan suggests black students should build their own institutions. This sets the stage for Deion Sanders' move to Jackson State University, which was initially seen as a disruptive force that could redirect top talent and revenue back to HBCUs.
Deion Sanders' arrival at Jackson State is characterized by his "Messiah" rhetoric, claiming God sent him to level the playing field for black athletes. He successfully recruited five-star players like Travis Hunter and Makur Maker to HBCUs. However, Moe notes Sanders' history of making "business decisions," a term Sanders coined to describe prioritizing his own career and longevity over team loyalty.
A documentary clip explores Deion Sanders' upbringing in a crime-ridden housing project in Fort Myers, Florida. Sanders' decision to avoid drugs and alcohol is attributed to seeing his father's addiction. His transition to Florida State University and his natural athletic dominance in multiple sports are highlighted, along with his early understanding of his own market value compared to professional offers.
Alabama coach Nick Saban's complaints about Jackson State "paying" players are discussed in the context of new NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rules. The hosts argue that major programs have always paid players through boosters, but Sanders' success at an HBCU threatened the established pipeline. The Brett Favre volleyball stadium scandal is cited as an example of the double standards in how sports figures use their influence.
Deion Sanders' decision to leave Jackson State for the University of Colorado after only three years sparked significant backlash. Critics argue he abandoned the "Messiah" mission he sold to the HBCU community. Moe shares his personal college experiences at Appalachian State and NC A&T to illustrate the importance of autonomy and the challenges of building sustainable black institutions in the face of "fast buck" temptations.
Moe posits that Deion Sanders was "bought off" by the established sports hierarchy to prevent him from permanently disrupting the talent pipeline to major white universities. The move to Colorado, a school with a strong Nike relationship, is seen as a way to neutralize Sanders' influence as a "change agent" for HBCUs. The segment concludes by noting that these collegiate environments serve as critical social and financial epicenters that the elite do not want to lose control over.
The episode concludes with a discussion of the 50-50 split in public opinion regarding Deion Sanders' move. While some see it as a betrayal of HBCUs, others view it as a standard career advancement. The hosts reflect on the "Messiah" trap and the need for collective action rather than waiting for a single leader. They wish listeners a Happy New Year and look forward to Episode 89 in 2023.
