A must read. 10/10.” —Broderick Hunter, actor, model, and activist **This fearless debut novel explores racism, injustice, and self-expression through the story of a promising Black football star in Louisiana.** *The system is rigged.* For guys like Russell Boudreaux, football is the only way out of their small town. As the team’s varsity tight end, Rus has a singular goal: to get a scholarship and play on the national stage. But when his best friend is unfairly arrested and kicked off the team, Rus faces an impossible choice: speak up or live in fear. *“Please rise for the national anthem.”* Desperate for change, Rus kneels during the national anthem. In one instant, he falls from local stardom and becomes a target for hatred. But he’s not alone. With the help of his best friend and an unlikely ally, Rus will fight for his dreams, and for justice. A gripping story about what it looks like when we demand equity, justice, and recognition of our own humanity. —Kalynn Bayron, author of *Cinderella Is Dead*