The Thursday Speeches pulls back the curtain to put listeners in the room with exclusive access to the compelling pregame speeches from one of the best college football coaches in history. The book reveals the exact words James used to inspire the Huskies to slay the football giants of his day. It features the inspiring stories and invaluable life lessons that Coach Don James used to transform the University of Washington football program from obscurity to the national championship during his legendary 18-year UW career.

Two days before Christmas 1974, Don James seized the reins of a Washington football program in disarray. Immediately James challenged players to do the hard work necessary to get to the Rose Bowl. Some players laughed, reminding James that Washington hadn't been to the Rose Bowl since 1963. James insisted on his vision.

In his third season, the Huskies advanced to the Rose Bowl and - led by future Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon - beat the heavily favored Michigan Wolverines.

As but one measure of his coaching skill, Sports Illustrated once named the three best college football coaches in the country: number on, Don James; number two, Don James; number three, Don James.