One of the reasons analysts give for Largent and Watts excelling within the GOP ranks is their strong character, defined more by their religious and family values than by their sports achievements. Watts played for Oklahoma coach Barry Switzer at a time when the Sooners were renowned for their bawdy behavior. In such company Watts and Largent were even more outstanding for their Christian character than for their athletic talent. This has carried over into politics. The important thing about them is that they both have profound religious beliefs, notes Cole.
Character continues to count.
Osborne is not alone among sports figures just entering politics to emphasize that point. In this November s congressional races, former Arena Football League quarterback Paul Williams, pro wrestler John Larsen and former San Francisco 49er Russ Francis are slated to battle for House seats in Texas, Connecticut and Hawaii, respectively. Of the four, Osborne has the best chance of success. Facing a May 9 primary, he remains the favorite. There s attention this week just because I was a football coach, Osborne said in his announcement speech.