> ## Content Index
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# Beating Injuries: Mental Toughness in College Football
- URL: https://www.arkansasstatemedianetwork.com/beating-injuries-mental-toughness-in-college-football/
- Published: 2026-10-07T13:00:02.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-07T13:00:05.000Z
- Description: Arkansas State athletes Will Saxton and Ryan Reese share the raw mental grind of surviving injuries, depth chart drops, and the transfer portal era, breaking down what it actually takes to go from walk on to starter.
- Author: Arkansas State Media Network
- Tags: Inside the Den

College football breaks players who lack mental endurance to match their physical talent. Host Justin Parks joins Arkansas State athletes Will Saxton and Ryan Reese to unpack the daily grind of securing a roster spot.  
  
We dissect the transition from high school standout to collegiate scout team. The discussion tackles the mindset shifts required to survive career-threatening surgeries, depth chart drops, and the transfer portal.  
  
Players share the raw logistics of surviving before NIL money and the discipline needed to master defensive stunts off the clock. This details the exact grit required to advance from walk-on to starter.  
  
For athletes navigating an unexpected injury or demotion, this conversation provides a blueprint to rebuild confidence and reclaim playing time. Subscribe and share this episode with a teammate who needs this perspective. What habit keeps you focused when sidelined on the depth chart?