MARION, IN - Along with fellow writer Sam Smathers, Indiana Wesleyan University professor Scott Burson has co-written a new biography of NFL All-Pro quarterback Joe Burrow. The book is entitled From Bulldog to Bengal: The Joe Burrow Story Through the Eyes of His Hometown. The book will be released in April.
Burson has taught philosophy and theology at IWU for 15 years. He also serves as the coordinator for IWU’s sports ministry major. From Bulldog to Bengal is his fourth book.
The biography comes out of a deep commitment to community. Burson and Burrow both grew up in Athens County, Ohio. Smathers still lives in Athens County, where he coached Joe from third to sixth grade through the Athens Youth Football program.
From Bulldog to Bengal tells the story of how Joe Burrow has come to be one of the most celebrated quarterbacks in the NFL. The book includes stories from Burrow’s family history, youth sports days, high school career, time playing for Ohio State and Louisiana State University, and first three years with the Cincinnati Bengals, including their journey to Super Bowl LVI. But even more than all these accomplishments, the book focuses on the community and relationships that have shaped Burrow into the person and leader he is today.
Over 60 people from Burrow’s hometown—from his many coaches to close friends, family, and teachers—were interviewed in From Bulldog to Bengal. Burson emphasized that the book’s “major theme from cover to cover is family, friendships, and community.”
“The Joe Burrow story is sacred to the people of Athens County. It has also become sacred for LSU and Cincinnati Bengals fans,” said Burson. “It is more than a football story. It is a story about relationships, community, hard work, hope, and giving back. Joe embodies all of these things and he will never forget where he’s from and those who helped shape him along the way—from Athens and The Plains to Baton Rouge to Cincinnati.”
Copies of From Bulldog to Bengal can be ordered online at www.orangefrazer.com or www.amazon.com. For more information on Indiana Wesleyan University, its talented faculty, and course offerings, visit www.indwes.edu.
About Indiana Wesleyan University
Indiana Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered academic community committed to changing the world by developing students in character, scholarship, and leadership. Learn more at www.indwes.edu.