"To say the truth, sir, I never even thought of that," Brown replied.

"But by me not doing anything, I don't want you guys to lose respect for me," Brown replied.

Asked if he felt secure that the starting job was his, Brown replied, "I don't think anybody can feel that way."

"So my father used to tell me," Brown replied with a taut grin.

In response, Brown replied, "He mentioned the word practice more than he attended it this year."

"Bless you, boys, and good luck," replied Brown.

Brown nodded but did not reply.

"My garden be fertilized with unicorn manure," Brown replied.

When asked early in the season if he thought he could generate a last-minute drive, Brown replied, "I welcome the opportunity."

According to the story, Brown replied without missing a beat: