As his mother spoke to him, Daniel Hardy fought back tears.
The Montana State senior defensive end’s father died when he was 19. Hardy would have loved for his dad to have been watching him, seeing all that he’s accomplished. He would’ve relished in walking in lockstep with him, along with the rest of his family, as the Bobcats gave honor to their seniors before Saturday’s game.
In that moment, Hardy just wanted to give his dad a hug. He was his best friend.
His mom told Hardy he was there. He was watching. And he was proud.