Characters & Background
Who wanted to play for Permian High School and stayed in Odessa after his father's death?
Mike Winchell
What physical feature of Odessa symbolized the divide between black & white residents?
railroad tracks
What did some people think was more important than academics in Odessa?
Football received more attention and resources than academics
What family problem complicated Don Billingsley's home life?
His father being a drunk
What was the result of Permian's game against Marshall?
They lost
Which teammate suffered a knee injury that threatened his position on the team?
Boobie Miles
According to the text, how did some residents describe the effect of desegregation on Permian's access to talent?
It gave them access to black running backs they never had before
How did LaRue Moore compare the English department budget to football expenses?
it was less than what was spent on football medical supplies
Which character struggled with choosing between football and a religious calling?
Ivory Christian
During Don's first game as a starting tailback, what negative event happened on the field?
He fumbled the ball twice
Which player moved from Blanchard, Oklahoma, to play for Permian and later lived with his grandmother?
Don Billingsley
What happened to Ector High School as a result of the desegregation ruling?
It was closed
Give one concrete example from ch 4-7 that shows how football overshadowed academics at Permian.
Football success was central to community pride and identity
What is Mike Winchell's mental or emotional struggle when he plays quarterback in tight games?
overthinking and lack of confidence
What did Boobie Miles' injury cause for his role on the team?
his position was in jeopardy
Which player is described as academically capable despite fitting the "dumb jock" stereotype?
Brian Chavez
Summarize Laurence Hurd's role in the Odessa community.
He led the fight for school desegregation
How does the school's allocation of resources affect students not involved in sports?
It does not allow them the same opportunities since there are little to no funding.
How does Ivory Christian's behavior change after his religious conversion?
he struggled with loving football
What broader community value does Permian's football success represent?
pride & identity
Describe in one sentence the personal reason Mike Winchell gave for staying in Odessa rather than leaving after his father's death.
He wanted to wear the black and white of Permian football
Explain, using evidence from ch 4-7, one way the community's admiration for football both challenged and reinforced racial divisions.
Racial segregation and prejudice were still deeply entrenched
What are the long-term risks and benefits for a student whose identity is built primarily around high school football?
They could get injured and lose everything, and their academics could decline.
How do Don & Mike respond differently to family pressure and expectations?
Don views school as a place to socialize
Mike Winchell stayed in Odessa because he wanted to do what for Permian High School?
Play Football