USC legend Matt Leinart's 1st online series discusses if kids should play football

For some parents, the prospect of playing football is not an option that can be entertained. Former USC quarterback Matt Leinart, during his first series on X that he is calling 'Let's Be Honest,' aims to talk about important topics. Based on his first choice of conversation, the Heisman Trophy winner will not shy away from areas that can often be the source of great contention and disagreement.

Leinart's initial prompt centered around if parents today would be open to allowing their children to play football. The question specifically focused on tackle football. It is safe to say many would be more than willing to see their children play flag football. After all, soccer is becoming increasingly more popular, and that is a sport that sees a high level of direct contact during practice and games.

The issue arises when looking at the tackle form of football. There are inherently more risks. By the same token, equipment and science have improved significantly throughout the years. Yes, research shows what the serious potential long-term health risks can be. It also shows safer avenues for people to participate in the sport when approached the right way and in a smart way.

Naturally, something like this will vary based on the situation, and even with the number of precautions that can be taken, there will always be some parents who are understandably reluctant to allow their children to play this sport.

Looking at the positives from the USC icon's inquiry

In general, the older a person becomes, the safer it would be to play in the full-contact version of the game. Many view the best avenue to be to play flag football up through middle school and to then introduce the tackle element in high school.

Here too, it will still depend on the equipment that is available and how those responsible for the program ensure that the athletes are in a position to train and play in a conducive environment that eliminates unnecessary risk.

Regardless of where one falls on this side of the argument, it is nice to see the USC icon use his platform to have these needed, difficult conversations as Leinart continues to give back to the game that has meant so much to him.