Ed Sherman & The Big Ten: Setting College Sports Standards

Hey guys! Let's dive into Ed Sherman's "This Is Big: How the Big Ten Set the Standard in College Sports" and see if it truly captures the essence of the Big Ten Conference as it stood in 2019. Was 2019 a defining year, and did the Big Ten really set the gold standard? This book is a deep dive into the history, influence, and impact of one of the most storied athletic conferences in the United States. Sherman meticulously chronicles the Big Ten’s evolution, highlighting key moments, influential figures, and the landmark decisions that shaped its identity. The book doesn't just focus on wins and losses; it explores the conference's academic contributions, its role in shaping college sports policy, and its profound impact on the student-athlete experience. Sherman’s work provides a comprehensive understanding of the Big Ten’s significance, illustrating how it became a model for other conferences and a powerhouse in collegiate athletics. It's a compelling narrative that blends sports history with cultural analysis, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the dynamics of college sports. Whether you're a die-hard fan, a sports historian, or simply curious about the forces that drive college athletics, "This Is Big" offers valuable insights and a captivating story. Sherman's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex issues easy to understand, and his passion for the subject shines through every page.

Delving into Ed Sherman's Perspective

Ed Sherman, a seasoned sports journalist, brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. His book isn't just a recounting of events; it's an analysis of the Big Ten's role in shaping college sports. He examines the conference's financial power, its academic integration, and its impact on the lives of student-athletes. Sherman doesn't shy away from controversies, addressing issues such as recruiting violations, academic scandals, and the challenges of balancing athletic success with academic integrity. He offers a balanced view, acknowledging both the achievements and the shortcomings of the Big Ten, providing a nuanced perspective that goes beyond the headlines. Sherman's deep understanding of the subject matter is evident throughout the book, as he connects historical events with current trends, offering readers a comprehensive view of the conference's trajectory. His work is a valuable contribution to the field of sports history, providing a well-researched and thoughtfully written account of one of the most influential conferences in college athletics. Sherman's ability to contextualize the Big Ten's significance within the broader landscape of college sports makes "This Is Big" an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of collegiate athletics. His insights are not only informative but also thought-provoking, prompting readers to consider the ethical and moral dimensions of big-time college sports.

The Big Ten Conference: Setting the Standard

The Big Ten Conference has long been a trendsetter. From its academic focus to its commitment to fair play, the conference has often led the way in college sports. But did 2019 particularly stand out? Sherman's book likely highlights key moments and decisions from that year that underscore the Big Ten's leadership. He probably delves into specific events, rule changes, or initiatives that demonstrated the conference's commitment to excellence and innovation. The book may also explore how the Big Ten navigated challenges, such as balancing athletic competitiveness with academic standards, addressing issues of player safety, and promoting diversity and inclusion. Sherman's analysis likely reveals how the Big Ten's approach to these challenges set a benchmark for other conferences to follow. Furthermore, the book might examine the conference's financial performance, its media partnerships, and its efforts to maximize revenue while maintaining its core values. Sherman's perspective on these issues provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of college sports and the role of the Big Ten in shaping its future. By examining the conference's actions and decisions in detail, Sherman offers a compelling argument for why the Big Ten deserves its reputation as a leader in college athletics. His work is a testament to the conference's enduring legacy and its continued influence on the world of sports.

A Look Back at 2019

To truly evaluate Sherman's claim, we need to jog our memories back to 2019. What were the Big Ten's major accomplishments that year? Were there any significant controversies? How did the conference perform in key sports like football and basketball? Who were the standout athletes and coaches? These are the kinds of questions Sherman likely addresses in his book. He probably provides detailed accounts of the major games, the individual performances, and the team achievements that defined the year. Sherman may also explore the behind-the-scenes stories, the strategic decisions, and the challenges faced by coaches and players. By examining the events of 2019 in detail, Sherman offers readers a comprehensive understanding of the Big Ten's performance and its overall impact on college sports. His analysis is not limited to wins and losses; he also explores the social and cultural significance of the events, highlighting the role of sports in shaping our society. Sherman's ability to connect the dots between athletic achievements and broader societal trends makes his work particularly insightful and relevant. He provides a nuanced perspective that goes beyond the surface, offering readers a deeper understanding of the complexities of college sports.

Critical Reception and Reader Feedback

What are people saying about "This Is Big"? Are critics praising Sherman's analysis? Are readers finding the book insightful and engaging? Checking out reviews and reader feedback can give us a better sense of the book's strengths and weaknesses. Do the reviewers agree with Sherman's assessment of the Big Ten's influence? Do they find his arguments well-supported and persuasive? Are there any dissenting opinions? Reader feedback can also provide valuable insights into the book's impact. Do readers find the book informative and entertaining? Does it change their perception of the Big Ten Conference? Do they recommend it to others? By considering both critical reception and reader feedback, we can gain a more complete understanding of the book's merits and its overall contribution to the field of sports history. This information can help us assess the book's value and determine whether it lives up to its promise of providing a comprehensive and insightful account of the Big Ten's role in shaping college sports.

My Take: Is "This Is Big" Worth the Read?

So, should you pick up "This Is Big"? If you're a college sports fanatic, especially a Big Ten enthusiast, it sounds like a must-read. Sherman's expertise and the book's focus on the conference's broader impact make it a worthwhile investment for anyone interested in understanding the history and influence of the Big Ten Conference. The book offers a comprehensive and insightful account of the conference's evolution, highlighting its key moments, influential figures, and landmark decisions. Sherman's analysis goes beyond the surface, exploring the conference's academic contributions, its role in shaping college sports policy, and its profound impact on the student-athlete experience. Whether you're a die-hard fan, a sports historian, or simply curious about the forces that drive college athletics, "This Is Big" offers valuable insights and a captivating story. Sherman's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex issues easy to understand, and his passion for the subject shines through every page. So, if you're looking for a well-researched and thoughtfully written book that delves into the heart of college sports, "This Is Big" is definitely worth a read.

In conclusion, based on the description, "This Is Big" seems like a solid exploration of the Big Ten's legacy. Whether it definitively proves the conference set the standard in 2019 requires reading the book itself, but it certainly sounds like Sherman makes a compelling case! Go Big Ten!