The Blind Side

In football terms, the blind side refers to the side the quarterback cannot see (for right-handed quarterbacks, the left side). More broadly, the blind side refers to something one does not see coming until it is upon him or her. Discuss the symbolic meaning of the “blind side” in the book.

What is structural racism, and how does it figure into The Blind Side?

Lewis describes several games that represented turning points in football strategy. Explain two of these games, along with their impact on the game’s evolution.

Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy have Michael move in with them early in his Briarcrest career. What does Lewis suggest motivated each of them to connect with Michael?

Lewis does not tell Michael’s story chronologically. Why does he do this, and what is its impact as a storytelling device?

What do various figures’ responses to the recruiting of Michael by NCAA football programs highlight about those figures? What stance does Lewis seem to take on the recruiting process?

Should NCAA athletes be paid a salary for their services? Why or why not?

Throughout the book, Lewis draws attention to institutional racism both in Memphis and at Ole Miss. To what extent does the evolution of football provide a model for how to implement systemic change more broadly in society?