It isn’t supposed to look like this.
I’ve seen what “number one” looks like. I’ve seen it in person. I’ve felt all the things “number one” is supposed to make you feel—fear, respect, honor, reverence—and seen the personification of greatness.
In 1999, Bowden Bowl I—still the craziest day I’ve ever experienced as a sports fan—featured top-ranked Florida State. The Seminoles were deep and talented and quick and fast and strong, and they were facing a Clemson team that was “kind of” all of those things. The Tigers lost that game 17-14 playing the best game they could possibly have played.