jasonenglish1.com

This week, Jim Fassel was fired from his perch as Ravens’ offensive coordinator. Sure, the Baltimore offense is a mess. And I think they’re better off with backup Kyle Boller, who was dominant in the last three games last season*. But I’m not here to pile on. Instead, let’s look back at the defining Jim Fassel moment — no, the defining moment in press conference history. November 22, 2000. The then-Giants coach set the tone for an improbable Super Bowl run and set the record for metaphor use.

This team is going to the playoffs. I’m raising the expectations. I’m raising the stakes. I love it. Maybe I should put more pressure on myself. The way I feel right now, I really don’t care.

I am raising the stakes right now. If this is a poker game, I am shoving my chips right in the middle of the table. I am raising the ante. Anybody who wants out can get out. This team is going to the playoffs. OK?

I want a new attitude around here. No worries. I told the players that I’m driving the train and all they have to do is listen and follow. I’m redefining the season. I’m responsible and no one else is. We’re in a horse race and we’re coming around the last corner. I want to get this team to the finish line. That’s my whole goal in life right now.

I’m having fun. I like it. Beautiful. This is a poker game here and I’m shoving my chips to the center of the table. I’m raising the stakes. That’s the game and anybody who wants in can play. But I’m upping the ante. I’m loving it.

*I think. Can’t muster the energy to fact-check right now.