Washington, February 23 – US President Donald Trump used a wide-ranging interview on a college football podcast to criticize new rules in the sport, reflect on hiring decisions in government, and speak about instinct, loyalty, and leadership.
Trump sat down with Josh Pate at The Varsity restaurant in Rome, Georgia, on February 19, during his visit.
The interview was released on Sunday night.
Asked about changes in football, Trump said he was unhappy with the new kickoff rule.
"It's a shame. I don't like to see it, and I don't like to see a lot of things in football," he added.
"When I look at the kickoff, I don't like this new kickoff rule they have. It takes away the excitement and glory that the game provides."
Referring to the kickoff as "the opening of a game" and "an important aspect", the US President added: "I think it's very bad for the NFL, and I hope college football doesn't do that."
On how he chooses which games to attend, Trump said he follows players and teams he likes.
"I like Georgia. I like this Georgia team. I also like your quarterback, Gunner. He's going to be a great quarterback," he added.
"I'm going to be watching him closely this year."
He also spoke about his interactions with leading college football figures, including coaches Nick Saban and Urban Meyer.
"For the most part, we're talking about politics," Trump said of such meetings.
"They want to know what's happening with Iran, what's happening in Venezuela, and how to deal with those situations."
Turning to leadership, Trump said experience shaped his approach between his first and later terms in office.
"In my first term, I was new to this," he added.
"I had some very good people, but I also had some people that I wouldn't have chosen if I had more experience."
He added: "Once I gained that experience, we now have an incredible Cabinet."
On decision-making, he stressed instinct.
"You never know, that's what instinct is all about. You never know. You just go with your gut," Trump said.
"You have to consider a lot of things, and that's what you could call instinct."
Asked what he learned from his first term as the US President, Trump replied: "It's about people. You have to get the right people. If you don't get the right people, you can be successful, but it will never be the same."
Trump also reflected on his first moments inside the White House in 2016.
"I'm standing right outside of the Lincoln bedroom, and it's so historic," he said.
"But the White House is a special place."
On dealing with critics, Trump struck a candid note.
"I have a lot of people I don't like, and I have a lot of people I like a lot," he said.
"I want to do what's right for the country."
Trump has frequently blended sport and politics in public appearances, often attending major college football and NFL games.
His remarks come as he remains a dominant figure in Republican politics and continues to frame leadership in terms of loyalty, instinct, and experience gained across multiple terms in office.