Epic Showdown: Brutus vs. Rufus – Chris Garner and Kent Broussard Chase Their Dreams, Plus Chipotle Unveils the Caleb Downs Bowl!

Welcome to the Skull Session! Today, we dive into some interesting stories and insights from the world of sports and beyond.

“LEGENDS NEVER DIE.” This week, NBC4’s Jerod Smalley featured Brandon Hanning, the man behind the infamous 2010 mascot showdown between Brutus Buckeye and Rufus Bobcat. Hanning had a year-long mission: to tackle Brutus during the Ohio State vs. Ohio game. Inspired by videos of the Oregon Duck being a bully, Hanning was motivated to make a memorable splash.

Though he dropped out of Ohio University before the big game, fate had other plans. He got a call from Ohio’s athletic department, inviting him to be Rufus for the game. Excited, he accepted without revealing he wasn’t enrolled. When the game started, Hanning saw his chance. With adrenaline pumping, he charged Brutus and executed a surprising WWE-style takedown.

Footage shows Hanning swinging at Brutus, led by Sean Stazen, who wasn’t hurt thanks to the padding of the mascot costume. Both heroes of the moment said they have no regrets—just a good laugh about it. Hanning’s plan for infamy succeeded, proving that sometimes, bold moves make great stories.

“I KNEW I HAD MADE IT.” Ohio State alum Chris Garner shared his journey from a fan to a college football referee in a recent article for The Ohio State Alumni Magazine. Garner’s dream began while coaching high school football and wanting to stay close to the game. He drew inspiration from his grandfather, a WWII veteran, who valued hard work and determination. Garner’s story resonates widely, illustrating that pursuing dreams often involves perseverance and passion.

He eventually climbed the officiating ranks, culminating in working games in the Big Ten. Despite moving to Jackson, Mississippi, he made his mark, thanks to valuable support from mentors. Garner’s tale is a reminder that with dedication, dreams can indeed come true.

HITTING A HIGH NOTE. Another inspiring story this week features Kent Broussard, a 66-year-old sousaphone player in the LSU marching band. After years away from music, Broussard reflected on his life as he approached retirement. He decided to beat age stereotypes and pursue his dream of playing in the band, even training rigorously to prepare for the challenge.

His efforts paid off, making him the oldest member of the band, and recently he marched confidently at the LSU football game to roars of approval from fans. Broussard’s journey encourages us all: it’s never too late to chase our dreams.

CALIFORNIA DREAMING WITH CHIPOTLE. Chipotle recently introduced the “Caleb Downs Bowl,” honoring the standout player from Ohio State. This bowl combines tasty ingredients and promotes Caleb Downs, who is a frontrunner for prestigious awards this season. Coach Ryan Day recognizes Downs not only for his skills but also for his leadership, inspiring his teammates to strive for improvement.

These stories reflect the vibrant culture of sports and the spirit of determination. From Hanning’s playful showdown to Garner’s officiating journey and Broussard’s musical revival, they remind us that legends are built every day.

SONG OF THE DAY: Check out “Boom Boom” by John Lee Hooker for an energizing listen as we wrap up for today!

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