The McDonnell era can be disassembled and separated into 4 different phases. Each demonstrate the same ambition and resolution, however, the increasing levels of success creates challenges for the coaching staff and team leaders. Early on burning desire and close calls are sufficient motivation. Eventually, the repeated success evolves into a massive burden of expectation. In John’s first years the Hogs had to look outside for inspiration; in the later years inspiration came from constant comparison to previous Razorback teams. Each phase required differing motivational techniques. This is the miracle of John McDonnell, he recognized the intrinsic differences of each phase and adapted. And somehow he managed to relate to and encourage a group of college kids with an increasing age barrier. The phases are: The Foundation, The Success, The Domination and The Burden.