Considering the experiences of Boobie Miles and Brian Chavez, for example, what role does football play in their lives and in the lives of the people of Odessa? Does football play a similar role in your own community? To what extent do Boobie and Brian's

Football is the hightlight of Boobie's life. He struggles academically and football gives him hope and focus for a better life. Sadly, he is sidelined by an injury, and his college prospects become bleak. He quits the team and never again finds a place where he truly feels he belongs.

Brian is intelligent, thus, he excells both on and off the field. Once at Harvard, he can't seem to get in the swing of playing football again. He does, however, go onto college.

The last part of your question calls for your opinion and experience.