2013 Football: Games 4, 5, 6, and 7

So I've stayed caught up with the pictures on Facebook, but the blog is another story. Today you're getting an update on 4 games at once! Which is a little intimidating. I feel like the last four years I've done a fairly decent job of keeping up with both pictures AND the blog, so I was trying to figure out why this year was different. Then I realized...this is the first season I've had the chance to use my fancy camera for more than 2 games. Last season when my camera was new I only had 2 full games of picture-taking before Marsh's injury.  Now, I'm not complaining AT ALL, but those of you who have been in the stands with me know I have a bit of an addiction. I just can't put the camera down. So that means Sundays/Mondays usually consist of wading through 500-600 pictures, editing, and paring down to approximately 150 for Facebook (and continually annoying people whose Newsfeeds I overtake, I'm sure...). And that's my story and I'm stickin' to it.


Here's a run-down of the Tigers' last four weeks of football!

Game #4: 
FHSU vs. Missouri Western
September 28th @ St. Joesph, MO
L 21-52

Mom, Tim, and I made the trek to St. Joe to watch the Tigers battle it out against the Missouri Western Griffins. Marshall got his hands on the ball a few more times this game and, of course, had an outstanding game blocking. This was the Tigers' fourth loss, but the margin was smaller. Improvement!

Tiger Talk 
Weekly Press Conference 
Tigers Remain Winless After Loss at #6 Missouri Western

Game #5:
FHSU vs. William Jewel College
October 5th  @ Lewis Field Stadium--Homecoming
W 34-17

This week the Tigers were back in Hays for Homecoming and secured their first win of the season! And it was a perfect night for a Tiger win. Marshall ran some nice TE routes this game. When he gets the ball he's definitely not content with the receiving yards; he fights for those rushing yards as well.  There was a sizable Musil crew at this home game and we had a great time bringing a little life to the stadium ;)

Tiger Talk 
Weekly Press Conference 
Tigers Defeat William Jewel for their First Win 

Doin' what he do best ;) 

Love our #22! 

Game #6:
FHSU vs. Lindenwood
October 12th @ St. Charles, MO
W 31-17

For this game the Tigers traveled across two states to St. Charles to bring home another win, scoring 31 points. And 6 of those points belong to our very own #22!!!!!!  After five years of determination and persistence,  Marshall finally accomplished one of his goals as a college athlete. It was a very special moment, watching him cross the goal line. As his biggest supporters, we are so proud of him. Even though Mom, Grandma, and I were the only ones there to see it in person, many of his loyal fans heard it on the radio and we have faith that he'll get to have a repeat performance at home before the season is over---so everyone else can celebrate with him!

Tiger Talk 
Weekly Press Conference 
Quick Start Helps Tigers to Second Straight Win

After his 1st collegiate touchdown 

Game #7:
FHSU vs. Southwest Baptist
October 19th @ Lewis Field Stadium
W 56-14

Another big win for the Tigers this week. The last two weeks we've seen some amazing defensive play and some good runs from our offense. This week Marshall's blocking was front and center. His strength is evident both in his continued ability to open holes for the RBs and to gain yardage after the catch.  Since it was another home game...and a flat-out beautiful day for football!....we were blessed to spend the afternoon with family and friends cheering for #22. This has been a year of transition,  but one thing that we can't deny: being able to share these memories and time together with both sides of our family is beyond priceless.  Football, food, and FAMILY...can't think of a better way to spend a Saturday!

Defense Carries Tigers to Blowout Win of SWB


A big thank you to everyone who has come out to support Marshall already this season. We  (Mom and I) see you at the games and it makes our hearts overflow with gratitude. Please know that even if we don't get the chance to say it in person (since one of us has her nose behind a camera 24/7)---we are GRATEFUL!

“The thing about football - the important thing about football

 - is that it is not just about football.” 

:) :) :)

2013: First 3 Games

Wow, where has the time gone?! The first three games of the season have come and gone and while I've attempted to stay up to date with pictures, the blog hasn't been so lucky. Whoops!

So games 1, 2, and 3 haven't been the most riveting battles to watch from the stands, but Tiger fans are hoping for improvement as the season progresses.  Marshall reminded us that the first four games will be their toughest competition. Hopefully after that things will start to look more positive. Individually, Marshall is continuing to improve each game. The first game it was apparent that he was still a little leery of his knee. But after being off the field for an entire year, he just needed a few plays to get everything working. With each game we continue to see sparks of that brilliance that is our Marshall. Hopefully the Tigers are seeing that as well and continue to give him the ball!

Game 1: FHSU vs. Emporia State
Final score: 13-43
Hays Post Article 
Tiger Talk

Punt 

Blocking 

Game 2: FHSU vs. Washburn
Final score: 17-54

Hays Post Article 
Tiger Talk

TE

Blocking 

Marshall and cousin Maura. Can you tell they're related?

Marshall and his faithful Hansen fans!! 

High school classmate, Nick! 

Game 3: FHSU vs. NW Missouri State
Final score: 14-49

Hays Post Article 
Tiger Talk

Do this even need a caption?

Osborne friends!

Now there's trouble!

Grandma Musil

Marshall and his ladies!

Shaun and Heather 

2 of Marshall's moms!

This week the Musil's travel to St. Joe, Missouri to take on Missouri Western. Kick-off is at 6:00 and you can follow the game online!

FHSU Camp

Sunday marked the end of pre-season camp for the 2013 FHSU Tigers. After a week of intense practices, the team ended with a scrimmage Sunday morning and a Meet and Greet at the Hays Mall. After getting used to being back in full pads (it's been nearly a year!!), Marshall hit the ground running and felt confident about his performance in practices throughout the week. It's hard to believe that he's officially done with his last camp and getting ready to start the final season of college football....we'll see where it goes from there :)

Below are the articles from Hays Post from last week's practices.

FHSU Football Camp Begins

Day Three Football Camp

Day Four Football Camp

Tigers at the Mall 

Tigers Wrap Up Practice  

 Sunday Mom, Grandma, Chelsey, and I made a quick trip to Hays to surprise him and meet his new teammates. The look on his face was priceless when we walked up! We were happy to spend a few hours with him before he started classes at Fort Hays on Monday. A new chapter, a new start, and good things to come :)

Signing autographs

#22!!

Corey, Marshall, and Brandon! All the Musil boys!

Chelsey, Marshall, Mom, Grandma, and Me! So much fun surprising Marshall!

And it's official! Our Tiger is officially on the 2013 Roster!!

Check it out here! 

Let the season begin! Mark your calendars for the first game:

FHSU vs. Emporia State

Thursday, September 5th

7:00--Hays, KS 

From Red Dirt to Rolling Plains (and everything in between...)

Hello to our faithful Musil followers,

OU Graduation

Have you ever used the word bittersweet to describe something? Well, that word has become my go-to adjective in the last month. Even though Marshall and I both moved back from Oklahoma in May it seems like the change hasn't hit home till now. School is starting, football practice begins...and we're in Kansas.

Bittersweet is used to describe something, such as a memory, that is both pleasant AND painful.  I think Marshall and I would both say that the move back and the transition has been bittersweet. Oh so pleasant in the fact that we are surrounded by those we love, but painful in that there's something about Norman, OK that gets inside you and doesn't let go as easily as I once thought it would.  But we are both confident that this has been the right choice and only time will tell what God's plan for us now will be.

As many of you have noticed, the Freelancer has been pretty quiet since the Bowl Game in Dallas. And as just as many of you probably know, it's because there have been some major changes that have occurred since February. Today is the first day that Marshall's new team, the Fort Hays State University Tigers, meet as a team...which also meant that I couldn't put off this blog post any longer.

It was time.

But I will say that it took me hours of sitting at the computer, getting up, and coming back before I could make myself change anything on the all-Sooner blog (you'll notice there's only subtle differences...for now!) And not because of any misgivings or regrets that Marshall is no longer a Sooner, but just because it's all so different.  While not every moment in Norman was happy, those four years being a part of Sooner Nation are four years that not every one gets to experience. Marshall has 2 Big 12 Championship rings, 4 Bowl Game jerseys, numerous encounters with pro-athletes, and a multitude of experiences that only D1 football players get to be a part of to cherish as priceless memories.  And we were blessed to be along for the ride.

In February of this year, after rehabbing his season-ending ACL tear, Marshall made the decision to leave OU and finish his last year of eligibility closer to home at FHSU. This was not an easy decision by any means. But in the end he concluded that being surrounded by his family/friends and carrying the football were the two best ways to finish his college football career.

Tyler Evans, Ben Habern, Austin Woods, and Marshall with their Academic Adviser, Annette! 

 Before leaving OU in May, Marshall graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in Social Sciences and Organizational Studies.  While at FHSU this fall he will further his college education by taking courses in Physical Education.  He hopes to coach football and teach someday. (Sound familiar??)

Gettin' that degree! 

Marshall has been in Hays all summer for team workouts, but things at For Hays run a little differently than at OU (imagine that!!) and today was the first time the entire 2013 Tiger football team has been together. After this week he will have a better feel for how things will go with his new team and he is very optimistic.  It's been overwhelming the amount of support he has received from family and friends about this choice. Every time we hear someone say they can't wait to come to a Fort Hays game this fall it just solidifies the fact that this was the right decision.  Playing on a stage, on cable networks, in front of 87,000 fans at home, is great and all...but nothing beats the support of all the people that helped get you to that point in the first place.

Our new Tiger was issued his jersey, helmet, and cleats today at meetings. If any of you had any lingering doubts as to whether he was supposed to be a Tiger...his new number will solidify that answer for you:

#22 Tiger

He requested #2, but this is what appeared in his locker. Just one more way Dad is telling us he's been with Marsh through this whole process.  No one would know more than Dad the importance of #22.

So get out your Gold and Black, Musil fans! (Maybe you can recycle some of that LaCrosse gear??) We're less than a month away from the first football game of the 2013 season and we only have to drive to Hays this year! Click the "Football Schedule" tab above to study the Tigers' schedule.

Mom, Marshall, and Meredith--OU Graduation 2013

A big thank you to everyone who has taken a few seconds to tell Marshall how excited they are to see him play at Hays this year. As a family, we can't tell you enough how much we appreciate your support! We're so excited to see what this season holds for Marshall!

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, 

"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you 

hope and a future.--Jeremiah 29:11

2012 Bowl Game: The Cotton Bowl

This fall has been different in so many ways and one of those small changes has been not updating my blog near as often! I really have missed my Sunday nights of picture editing and blog updating, so that everyone out there can experience the weekend's game.  As hard as it's been for me, magnify that times 100 and I'm sure we still don't come close to the emotions Marshall has dealt with this season.  This has truly been a test of his character as well as his physical health and the maturity with which he has handled the situation is admirable.  I know this time watching will only make that hunger to be back in pads that much stronger.

An update on his knee: As many of you know, the surgery was successful and Doctor predicts he'll be back to 100%, if not better, when he's fully healed.  Towards the end of the season he was getting to do more exercises, he's been lifting weights, and continuing rehab.  When the team returns from the bowl game he'll start running on the treadmill in the pool (which I thought sounded fun!), but probably isn't.... He's hoping to be ready to go for Spring ball in March.

If any of you are on Facebook you'll have already noticed that Soonersports is doing a fabulous job (as always) of keeping us updated on what's going on in Dallas. I'm probably not the only one who feels it's a little bittersweet to see all the photos, knowing Marshall is doing rehab or standing on the sidelines, but I've also realized my bittersweet feelings extend to seeing photos of all the boys that will be graduating this year.  So many  of the players that have been there for four years with Marsh will be gone next year and our team (and parent section!!) will look just a little different! It sounds like they're getting the royal treatment in Dallas and I'm so happy for the whole Sooner squad. I hope they enjoy every single minute of this week and show those Aggies no mercy on Friday.

Since I haven't been updating everyday, I thought I'd give you a few of the photos involving Marshall from Soonersports and some that he's sent Mom and I all in one BIG post.

The Gaylord Resort in Grapevine where the boys are staying! Marshall said  it's unbelievable...

These tiles are inlaid on the floor at the hotel!

Checking in at the hotel on Sunday. 

Team picture. You can see Marsh on the far right! 

The entire 2012 Sooner Football Team

I know I can rotate this.....it just wouldn't work! The boys had the chance to take photos with the Super Bowl trophy and the Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders! Marshall is with his two roommates, Bronson and Austin. 

Welcome dinner at Jerry World--Marshall, Ben Habern, and Tyler Evans

Entertainment for the evening! 

 Don't forget to tune in on Friday, January 4th at 7:00 on FOX.
BOOMER!

The After....

Three days after surgery and Marshall is finally feeling more like himself! The doctor said the procedure went great.  They repaired the ACL, no problem. But couldn't save the meniscus so it was scraped. This is good and bad. Good because Marsh will only have to endure crutches for about a week, but bad because in the long run it's better to have your meniscus. 

Fortunately, he really didn't start to get nervous until the night before, but probably just because this was his first time having major surgery and he didn't know what to expect. He arrived at the surgical center with Mom at 6:30 on Thursday morning, went back for surgery at approximately 8:00, and was done by 11:00.  They didn't release him to go home until 2:30 though because he was having such a hard time waking up.  Once Mom finally got him home all he did was sleep! I don't think he really remembers much until Friday.  

Overall, the weekend went really well and there were no major problems! It was so nice to have Mom here, though. I know she wouldn't have been any where but here....but still. I'm so thankful for her. :)

I don't have any fun, graphic pictures since I wasn't at the actual surgery, but here's his knee as of Saturday:

 This is what he knee looks like.  He has 3 incisions (2 smaller, 1 larger) and 2 places where a drain tub was inserted.  They also shaved his legs...which are lookin' lovely here....

Watching OU destroy Texas Tech on Saturday. Definitely different watching on TV. 

Being silly during his couch confinement.  I'm not sure he's ever sat for so long in his life!

Thanks again to all our friends and family who sent thoughts and prayers to Marshall.  Everything went so smoothly and we know it's because he was covered in prayers.  And he probably also had some pretty protective guardian angels watching over him as well. We're glad to have this step of the healing process out of the way. No on to rehab and getting stronger!

The End & The Beginning

As many of you already know, Wednesday, September 12th marked the end of Marshall's 2012 Sooner football season.  He is out for the rest of the season due to an injury suffered during a punt drill in practice.  He tore his ACL and there is also damage to the meniscus. Surgery is scheduled for tomorrow, October 4th.  Mom will be with him at the surgery and we'll both be around to take care of him afterwards.

These past few weeks have been the beginning of a new perspective on this year's football season.  For the first time Marshall had to endure standing on the sidelines in a knee brace while his teammates took the field in uniform. From a young age Marshall has lived by the mantra of "Good things happen to those who work hard" and "The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man's determination."  Even though it might look like things have just always fallen into place for him, that is far from the truth. Marshall is the consummate hard worker when it comes to something he's passionate about.  He's willing to go that extra mile and put in 110%, even when it's 110 degrees outside, just because he can't help but compete. Now he'll have to learn a whole new meaning of hard work. Surgery and rehabbing his knee will be a different battle, but another one he'll win. It's hard not to be proud of the mature outlook he has.  Through each setback, he just comes out stronger. (Maybe it's the Musil and Bieberle blood....just maybe...)

Thank you to all our family members who have reached out to Marshall already with cards, words of encouragement, and prayers.  We really appreciate your thoughtfulness and again we're reminded of how blessed we are to have such beautiful, caring family and friends.  How much different life would be if we didn't have each other!  This is just another small setback.  Our Sooner will come back bigger, better, and stronger; we have no doubt. Right now we just ask for prayers for a successful surgery and a smooth recovery.

Our Sooner and his mommy <3 nbsp="nbsp" td="td">

“Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Mark 11:23-26

2012 Season: OU vs. FAMU

Game 2 is already over for this year's Sooners, but thank goodness we were at home in Norman for the home opener! The weather couldn't have been better for the 84,000 loyal Sooner fans who showed up for the opening game. Even in September you could almost feel Fall in the air...almost!

After a not-so-hot season opener against UTEP last weekend, the Sooners left no doubts about their intentions for the season after battling the Rattlers. With a final score of 69-13, OU spoke loud and clear: They plan to win this year. The offense and defense both looked more like what we expected to see this weekend.

Our Sooner made appearances on kick-return, punt, and at fullback. He even had a catch in the 3rd quarter for a total of 12 yards. Needless to say, the Musil fans were on their feet for that play.  And for those of you who didn't purchase the PPV version, here's the link to the highlights:

OU vs. FAMU Highlights 
Marshall appears at about the 10 minute mark.

Marshall and his teammates were on the front page of The Oklahoman!

Sorry this is sideways...but check out Marshall in the box score! 

That's our #32!!! 

Look who's carrying the ball!?!?!

This was one of the most memorable games for the Musil family. We were so proud of our player and having so many family members there to support him made the experience a million times better. There's nothing better than sharing weekends like this with the people that mean the most to you.

My family

Look at that good-looking group of people! Aunt Wendy, cousin Bryce, Aunt Karen, Grandma Mary Ann, Marshall, Mommy, cousin Jennifer, cousin Amber, and me. 

This Saturday the Sooners have their first bye week (already...I know!) But in 2 weeks be sure to check back and we'll be ready to take on the K-State kitty cats at home.

Game Info:
Saturday, September 22nd
Norman, Oklahoma
Kick-off 6:50 PM
TV coverage: FOX (you won't have to pay this weekend!)