Are all NFL quarterbacks good-looking? Why do great players make such lousy coaches? And why doesn't the World Cup lead to world peace? Looking at sports through the prism of behavioral economics, neuroscience, and psychology, Sports Illustrated L. Jon Wertheim and psychologist Sam Sommers reveal the hidden influences and surprising cues that shape both the athletes and the fans. Filled with wry insights that may leave you pleading "no contest," this book lays out why fans of teams like the Cubs, Mets, and any franchise from Cleveland love rooting for a loser; why hockey goons would rather fight at home than on the road; and why the arena t-shirt cannon has something to teach us about human nature.

"It was only after delving into this unique tome that I learned that Mookie Wilson was available for bar mitzvah greetings via telephone, or that I can go elk hunting with Ryan Klesko for a mere nine grand. This information alone is worth many times the cost of this eye-opening and entertaining book."—Bob Costas