I actually agree with a lot you say about our football program but I really disagree with you on this one.
The legal field, that I am a part of, is filled with tons of unhappy supposedly successful folks. Your career doesn't make you or define you. I know welders making more than attorneys and they literally work maybe 6 month shutdowns.
Matter of fact I probably know more plumbers, welders, landscapers, etc that are wealthy and happy than professionals. They have crews that do the physical work and they manage the social networks and professional networks. Seems like they have it figured out.
That said I took the traditional path of college and postgrad. I do pretty well and only work a month or so if you add it all up lol That said I am actually going to branch out into some of the blue collar fields to diversify some. I am actually happier watching something being built or fixed.