The United States has long been seen as the land of opportunity, a place where individuals with ideas and skills can make a difference and achieve success. However, as we grow up and face the realities of life, we often realize that the American dream is not as accessible as we once believed it to be.
Watching the Baltimore Ravens and the Detroit Lions face off against formidable opponents in the NFL reminded us that most big victories are predictable. The teams that consistently win do so because it is their time. The underdog stories of the Giants’ Super Bowl wins against the Patriots were certainly shocking, but those victories did not feel like true underdog stories. The Giants had football royalty in the form of a Manning leading their team.
The Lions, on the other hand, have faced consistent losses for decades. Since their fourth NFL Championship in 1957, the Lions have struggled to find success. They have finished 36 out of 57 seasons with a losing record. In an attempt to turn things around, they hired a head coach known for his intense football talk and unconventional approach. But it remains to be seen if this approach will lead to success.
Race also plays a role in discussions about the Ravens. Quarterback Lamar Jackson has faced criticism for his flaws, despite his undeniable talent. Former Colts GM Bill Polian even suggested that Jackson should have been a wide receiver instead of a quarterback. These criticisms ignore Jackson’s ability to win games with his talent, and highlight the challenges faced by black quarterbacks in gaining recognition and acceptance.
As Americans, we are supposed to use underestimation as motivation to prove ourselves. We are taught to believe that hard work and determination will lead to victory. But in reality, established entities often have the upper hand. Business and sports are often rigged in favor of the status quo.
In order to beat the Chiefs, for example, it would take more than just hoping Patrick Mahomes has a bad day. The Chiefs have a strong team with a ferocious defense, making them a formidable opponent. The Ravens and Lions, despite their valiant efforts, were ultimately defeated by the established powerhouses.
Occasionally, disrupters like the Legion of Boom Seattle Seahawks make their mark and force change upon the masses. But for the most part, the establishment prevails. The status quo is championed and has a winning track record. The Ravens and Lions, like the American Dream itself, put up a valiant effort but are often overshadowed by what is familiar and conventional.
Different is not guaranteed victory, nor is it always encouraged. Systems are designed to reward what is familiar and established. While there is nothing wrong with being different, it is important to recognize that it may not always lead to success. The American Dream, as we envision it, often operates in the same way as those who have achieved success before us. The reason for this loss is not inferior creativity or judgment, but rather the inherent bias towards what is familiar and known.
In conclusion, while the United States may be seen as the land of opportunity, the American Dream is not always attainable for everyone. Success often comes to those who fit the mold of what is conventional and established. The underdog stories of the Ravens and Lions remind us that while different can be special, it is not always enough to overcome the odds.
