Backing down from a challenge never is going to be Jon Sumrall.
Similarly, maximizing everything from his program also is a Sumrall trait.
So when Tulane's head coach sounds off on the disparity in Name, Image and Likeness resources -- as well as doubles down on his intention for the Green Wave to compete, no matter the circumstances -- it's worth tuning in.
"We're going to find every way we can to be successful and win," Sumrall said at the New Orleans Book Festival. "I'm biased and I may have blinders on and so I'm going to compete to win against whoever we play. Anyone, anywhere, anytime."
Determination aside, Sumrall acknowledged that today's college athletics landscape -- particularly so in FBS competition -- isn't user-friendly for the smaller programs with fewer resources.
"There are hurdles. You know, when you have a -- call it a couple-million dollar roster versus a $15 million dollar roster you're going sometimes into a gun fight with a knife," said Sumrall, who led Tulane to the AAC Championship game in 2024, "and you have to figure out unique ways to make yourself competitive and different. And can you sustain it over the long haul of the year or can you be the best in your league and find that secret sauce at the end where there's chemistry and cohesion and culture that maybe beats somebody that may have a touch more talent than you?
"And, so, I think the point of the Cinderella maybe being harder and harder is very real. Is it dead? I don't know about that, yet. But, it's challenging. I mean, you look up and go, 'Man, that roster looks a lot different.' And they're able to just steal players from you left and right, Well, that makes it very challenging."
Tulane opens the 2025 season, its second with Sumrall at the helm, at home against Big Ten program Northwestern Aug. 30.