Ted Lasso Season 3 Episode 7: A Stroke of Genius in Total Football
An Unforeseen Lesson in Total Football
In the latest episode of Ted Lasso, the AFC Richmond team begins to realize the impact of their night out in Amsterdam. Ted’s barbecue sauce-induced hallucination from the previous episode turns out to be much more than just a whimsical idea involving triangles. For those familiar with football, the reference to Dutch footballer-turned-coach Johan Cruyff and Total Football in this episode comes as no surprise. However, even for those who are not well-versed in the sport, the episode effectively explains the concept through a hilarious PowerPoint presentation by Beard.
The Essence of Total Football and its Resonance in Ted Lasso
Total Football, a style of play where every player can assume any role on the field, aligns perfectly with the core themes of Ted Lasso. Throughout the series, Ted Lasso has consistently conveyed messages of acceptance, diversity, and embracing change. This style of play, which emphasizes taking risks and supporting each other’s choices, resonates deeply with the characters’ personal journeys. It prompts us to reflect on Colin’s struggle and his hidden life as a gay man, as well as the growth and transformation of characters like Keeley, Jamie, Roy, Rebecca, Leslie, Ted, and Nate. Total Football represents a philosophy that drives Season 3 of Ted Lasso – letting go of baggage and trusting one’s intuition.
Unveiling Unexpected Connections and New Perspectives
Total Football in this episode also uncovers an unexpected connection with Jamie Tartt, a player who has undergone tremendous character development and personal growth throughout the series. The mention of Jamie’s brief stint with Pep Guardiola, a football manager known for adopting the Dutch style of play, adds depth to Jamie’s arc. Suddenly, Jamie becomes a valuable asset to AFC Richmond as the only player with prior experience in Total Football. This revelation challenges the team’s perception of Jamie and opens the possibility for them to learn from someone they had previously underestimated.
Exploring Sam’s Stand for Social Justice
In this episode, Sam finds himself confronted with an opportunity to make a difference. When Home Secretary Suella Braverman makes anti-refugee comments, Sam, using his celebrity status, takes a stand in support of asylum seekers. Despite facing predictable backlash, Sam learns to “fight forward” rather than engaging in a futile battle. Ted Lasso portrays a healthy and effective approach to responding to injustices while shining a light on urgent societal issues.
Keeley’s Journey and the True Meaning of Love Bombing
Keeley embarks on her own transformative journey as she navigates a newfound love interest. The concept of “love bombing” takes center stage when her boss-turned-love interest begins showering her with extravagant gifts. Keeley, true to her character, addresses the situation in her own unique way. Meanwhile, audiences eagerly await further developments in the relationships between Keeley, Roy, and Jamie, captivated by the chemistry between the actors and the potential for future plot twists.
Nate’s Transformative Moment of Assertiveness
Among the many poignant moments in this episode, Nate’s personal growth stands out prominently. His attempt to ask out Jade, the hostess from A Taste of Athens, leads him to face a mirror. In episode 5 of Season 2, Nate struggled with assertiveness, his reflection symbolizing his lack of confidence. However, in Episode 7, something changes. Instead of repeating past behaviors, Nate does something different, demonstrating a quiet yet powerful moment of personal growth. Ted Lasso manages to convey the importance of assertiveness and its potential for positive change when it stems from an individual’s true self.
A Masterful Blend of Empowerment and Emotional Depth
Season 3 Episode 7 of Ted Lasso delivers a truly remarkable viewing experience. With a perfect blend of empowering scenes, well-timed comedic moments, and heartfelt emotions, this episode surpasses its predecessors. It offers satisfying character moments, including an endearing Trent Crimm and fan involvement, while imparting genuine wisdom. The episode stays true to the series’ distinctive wit and heart, complemented by a standout soundtrack. Ted Lasso encourages viewers to ask themselves, “What does this situation need?” and delivers precisely what audiences needed in this episode.
Conclusion
Ted Lasso Season 3 Episode 7 stands as a shining example of the show’s brilliance and its ability to captivate audiences. Through Total Football, the episode successfully intertwines sports strategy with the core themes of acceptance, personal growth, and the power of embracing change. Each character’s narrative arc expertly leads to this pivotal moment, further deepening our connection to their journeys. By addressing contemporary issues within the context of a sports comedy-drama, Ted Lasso continues to demonstrate its ability to engage viewers on multiple levels while leaving them eagerly anticipating what the next episode has in store.
FAQs
1. What is Total Football?
Total Football refers to a style of play in football where every player possesses the flexibility to assume any role on the field. It emphasizes taking risks, supporting teammates’ choices, and letting go of traditional positional constraints. The concept revolutionized the game and became synonymous with tactics developed by Dutch footballer-turned-coach Johan Cruyff in the 1970s.
2. How does Total Football resonate with the themes of Ted Lasso?
Ted Lasso, as a series, consistently promotes acceptance, diversity, and personal growth. The philosophy of Total Football aligns perfectly with these themes by emphasizing embracing change, taking risks, and supporting each other. It becomes a powerful metaphor for the characters’ journeys and highlights their growth throughout the show.
3. What significance does Jamie Tartt’s connection to Total Football hold?
Jamie Tartt, initially portrayed as a character focused solely on his personal success, surprises both the audience and the AFC Richmond team with his prior experience in Total Football. This revelation challenges the team’s perception of Jamie and offers an opportunity for growth and learning for both the characters and the viewers. It showcases the unexpected connections and depth of storytelling within Ted Lasso.
4. How does Ted Lasso address social justice issues in this episode?
Ted Lasso utilizes Sam’s character to confront social justice issues directly. When faced with anti-refugee comments from a government official, Sam utilizes his platform and influence to take a stand in support of asylum seekers, highlighting the show’s commitment to addressing urgent societal issues. The episode demonstrates the importance of standing up for what is right and offers a positive outlook on effecting change.
5. How does Nate’s personal growth manifest in this episode?
Nate’s growth is showcased through a transformative moment of assertiveness. Previously plagued by a lack of confidence, Nate confronts his reflection in a mirror. Instead of succumbing to self-doubt, he exhibits a newfound inner strength, symbolizing his personal growth and development. This moment serves as a powerful example of how positive change can be achieved through self-belief and assertiveness.