Jim Tomsula on appreciation vs. gratitude, adversity vs. success, and Jim Harbaugh

SANTA CLARA — Here’s what Jim Tomsula said about Jim Harbaugh in particular and success in general on Monday in the press trailer.

Q: Is it gratifying that this D-line group that has worked so hard and stayed the course is finally paying off?

TOMSULA: “Gratifying? I don’t know if that’s the word.”

Q: Are you happy to see it?

TOMSULA: “You know, I am. I really am. But gratitude? I have gratitude to Jim Harbaugh, let me tell you that. What I appreciate right now, and I think what the guys appreciate, is Coach Harbaugh, these guys that have come in, and what they’re doing and how they’re doing it. I’m not reflecting on the past – I’m talking about the present. Look what’s happening. And it’s everybody doing it together. Everybody’s really working hard to do it, and I really don’t think you have anybody jumping out front, beating their chest, you know what I mean? I don’t see that. That’s where I’m grateful, or appreciative.

“And then I stand there and look at them, and they’re in there – that’s a hearty, deep laugh and a really genuine smile. And also an understanding of, okay, we’ve got a game this week. That’s not the top of the mountain. You won a game? Nice accomplishment. Let’s move forward. That goes with the game ball in the locker. On to the next. We’ve got a game this weekend and they’re in there, you guys see them. I just came out of the D-line room – the boys are in there with the film on. Today’s their day off – it’s been that way for five years. Those guys will put ten hours in on their day off. I don’t think that will change.

“I tell guys, adversity – you have to deal with adversity or you’re done. I’m always looking to see how people handle success. That’s harder. And what level of success? You’ve got bumps in the road and you’ve got catastrophes, but I think you’ve also got bumps in the road also with success. It’s a little sugar sprinkled along the way, but we’re not at the end of anything by any means.”

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