1. “Championships aren’t won on game day; they’re earned in practice.”
2. “Defense wins games, and heart wins championships.”
3. “Every play is a chance to show your grit.”
4. “Adaptability is the heartbeat of innovation.”
5. “In football and in life, perseverance is your greatest ally.”
6. “Every great coach is part motivator, part mentor.”
7. “To be extraordinary, you must do ordinary things extraordinarily well.”
8. “A great defense is a masterpiece of discipline and teamwork.”
9. “It’s not about the size of the player, it’s about the size of his heart.”
10. “The scoreboard only tells part of the story; the effort tells the rest.”
11. “Relentless preparation is the root of success.”
12. “Winning isn’t just about talent; it’s about character.”
13. “Game film never lies. Learn from it.”
14. “Adversity reveals true character.”
15. “You only get stronger by facing your toughest challenges.”
16. “A coach should build leaders, not just players.”
17. “In the trenches, that’s where the game’s really won.”
18. “Success isn’t given; it’s earned one practice at a time.”
19. “Pressure is a privilege.”
20. “It’s the attention to detail that separates good from great.”
21. “Every setback is a setup for a comeback.”
22. “Mental toughness is the foundation of a winning team.”
23. “Leadership is leading by example, not by command.”
24. “Your attitude defines your altitude.”
25. “Game strategies change; principles don’t.”
26. “Passion fuels performance.”
27. “Football is more than a game; it’s a craft.”
28. “Team chemistry is built on trust and respect.”
29. “Execution beats potential every time.”
30. “Courage in the face of adversity is what defines champions.”
31. “Never underestimate the power of a resilient team.”
32. “The game is won in the details.”
33. “True success is playing your best when your best is required.”
34. “Resilience is the true measure of a champion.”
35. “Great players make great coaches.”
36. “Adapting to change is what makes a good team great.”
37. “In every game, mindset is half the battle.”
38. “Heart and hustle: that’s how we win.”
39. “Focus on fundamentals and the wins will come.”
40. “You can’t coach willpower, but you can inspire it.”
41. “Talent sets the stage; effort steals the show.”
42. “Preparation is the practice ground of champions.”
43. “A unified team can achieve the impossible.”
44. “Hustle beats talent when talent doesn’t hustle.”
45. “Success starts with believing you can.”
46. “In football and beyond, integrity matters.”
47. “Challenges are the crucible of champions.”
48. “From every loss, there’s a lesson to be learned.”
49. “The way you practice is the way you’ll play.”
50. “Victory favors those who are prepared.”
A Coffee Chat between Gary Patterson and TCU’s New Head Coach Sonny Dykes
Gary Patterson: Well, well, if it isn’t the new man in town! Sonny Dykes in the flesh. How are you settling in, Sonny?
Sonny Dykes: Hey, Gary! Settling in nicely, thanks. Big shoes to fill, though. You’ve cast quite the shadow over TCU Football. Any advice for the new guy?
Gary Patterson: (laughs) Plenty, but let’s start with the basics. Number one, embrace the purple. Two, love every minute of the chaos that comes with those Saturday nights. And three, always keep a spare game plan ready—those last-minute changes can be a killer.
Sonny Dykes: (smirking) Duly noted, especially on the game plans. Speaking of chaos, what was the craziest game you’ve ever coached here at TCU?
Gary Patterson: Oh man, that’s a tough one. There was the Alamo Bowl comeback against Oregon in 2016. Down 31-0 at halftime and we pulled off a triple-overtime win. The locker room vibe was electric! But I have to say, every game had its own brand of crazy.
Sonny Dykes: That Alamo Bowl game was legendary! I’ve watched it countless times for inspiration. Shifting gears a bit, what’s one thing you learned at TCU that you didn’t expect?
Gary Patterson: Honestly? How deep the community roots go here. It’s not just about football; it’s about Fort Worth and the pride people have in this place. I expected football to be a big deal, but the way the entire community rallies—it’s something special.
Sonny Dykes: I’m feeling that already. The welcome has been overwhelming, in the best way. Okay, Gary, let’s put you on the hot seat. If you were a player on the current squad, which position would you play?
Gary Patterson: (laughs) Oh, good one. I’d probably play linebacker. That’s where you can really make an impact, lay some hits, and read the field. It’s a thinking man’s position. Plus, I’m not built for those QB runs!
Sonny Dykes: (laughs) I can see that. Alright, one last question before we both get back to the grind. If you had to pick one song to describe your time at TCU, what would it be?
Gary Patterson: “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, no question. It’s all about perseverance, the fight, and keeping that edge. Hits the nail right on the head.
Sonny Dykes: Perfect choice. Here’s to hoping to keep that spirit alive. Thanks for the coffee and the chat, Gary. Appreciate the wisdom!
Gary Patterson: Anytime, Sonny. Go Frogs!
