Bowls, Polls, and Tattered Souls

Bowls, Polls, and Tattered Souls cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Technical
  • ID: 5850
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9781118038994
  • Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
  • Published: 2010-12-14
  • Reviews: 3

Stewart Mandel's 'Bowls, Polls, and Tattered Souls' delves into the complexities and controversies of college football, offering a witty and in-depth analysis of the sport's most pressing issues. From the contentious BCS system to the arbitrary nature of polls, Mandel examines the challenges that have long plagued the game, providing historical context and behind-the-scenes insights. The book also explores topics such as the pressures on coaches, the hype surrounding the Heisman Trophy, and the proliferation of bowl games. Mandel's approach is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making the book a must-read for college football fans seeking a deeper understanding of the sport's intricacies and controversies.

Reviews
great 4.50

The book captures the essence of Coach Bryant's influence and the passion of college football fans.

This reviewer highlights the book's ability to capture the power and influence of Coach Bryant over his program. They appreciate the book's focus on the passion and dedication of college football fans, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the sport. The reviewer also mentions that the book is a great read, offering a unique perspective on various aspects of college football.


Quick quotes

    Great book. You can almost feel the power that Coach Bryant had over that entire program back in those days.

    It is a 'love letter' to those teams, but still very 'biting.'

    Every Jets fan owes it to themselves to read it. It is the best book that I have ...

The Quad, NYTimes · 2013-01-01
great 4.25

The book provides an intricate tour through the issues of college football while maintaining a breezy tone.

This review praises the book for its detailed exploration of the problems within college football. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to maintain a light and engaging tone despite the serious subject matter. They highlight the book's insights and history, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in the sport. The reviewer also mentions that the book is a bit dated, but the insights and history provided make it still highly engaging.


Quick quotes

    An intricate tour through the ills of the college football world (and there are many), but still manages to take on a breezy, airy tone.

    It's a little dated now but it's a great read.

    Also "Army ...

Reddit - r/CFB · 2010-08-13
great 4.00

The book is a great read, offering a unique perspective on college football. It's a bit dated but still highly engaging.

This review comes from a passionate college football fan who found the book to be a compelling read. They appreciate the insights and history provided, even though the book is a bit dated. The reviewer highlights that it's a great read for anyone interested in the sport, offering a unique perspective on various aspects of college football. They also mention that the book is a bit dated, but the insights and history provided make it still highly engaging.


Quick quotes

    It's a little dated now but it's a great read.

    Also "Army ...

    Football Outsiders "Presents history and insights on all aspects of the sport, from recruiting to the bowl system to why certain teams play in certain ...