The only obvious conclusion is that God answers none of our football prayers. God must have better things to do on Friday nights, and Saturday and Sunday afternoons in the fall, even in the South. Just like football, public praying is a tradition in the South. Coaches do it. Politicians do it.
Judges do it.
There's more public praying outside the church than inside. Public prayer here is meant as a righteous and communal act, not a self-righteous one. It's about faith and belief. It's also about respect and manners. Praying at a public event is like saying grace before a meal or bringing a pie when you visit someone.