I'm looing for it (but so far can't find it) but I saw an old article - unrelated to their current play-off position, that said that Indiana, unlike most teams, was comprised mostly of former 3 star players. Is this true? If so, is it a case of grossly underrating players? Or does Cignetti and his staff have a way (no one else is using) to select 3 star players and develop them into Championship game contenders?
He values PRODUCTIVITY over POTENTIAL and guess what the productivity wins out 9/10.
Many of his speeches and the story of how he turned the program around are a direct replica of what Saban did at AL.
In those years, Saban used JUCO players over HS kids, like Cignetti is using the portal.
Stars are worthless. Yes, they work sort of, but to build a program that kicks ass, you need high motor kids that are passionate, hard working, have a slight chip on their shoulder, and want it more than anything else. These are not typically the qualities of a 5*.
Coogan's and Burnham's are quintessential Saban and Cignetti players. Highly productive when allowed to play, not sexy or household names. Guys that have passion, are leaders, and most importantly want to prove they are winners.
Link: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Leadership-Secrets-of-Nick-Saban-Audiobook/B0B6KY6H91?ipRedirectOverride=true&overrideBaseCountry=true&bp_o=true&language=en_US&source_code=GPAPP30DTRIAL5480813240005&source_code=GPAPP30DTRIAL5480813240005&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_s
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