Tim Tebow has accumulated more than his fair share of detractors over the last three months, and figures to accumulate even more in the weeks leading up to the NFL draft. From draft analysts to general members of the media to fans, there seem to be individuals around every corner looking to take a shot at the former Florida quarterback and his pro potential.
Now, however, even a former teammate is looking to get in a shot or two on the former Heisman winner for how he orchestrated the QB position at the collegiate level.
Aside from Urban Meyer‘s return, the biggest storyline for the Gators this spring is John Brantley taking over UF’s offense. Brantley is more of a throw-first QB, especially when compared to Tebow’s “go through two reads, run like Pamplona bull into opposing defense” style of play.
The differences between the two quarterbacks has not been lost on his teammates, especially wide receiver Deonte Thompson. And, whether or not Thompson meant it to come out the way it did, his words as quoted by the Orlando Sentinel when talking about the differences between Brantley and Tebow were a direct, biting shot at the latter.
“You never know with Tim,” Thompson said. “He can bolt. You think he’s running but he’ll come up and pass it to you. You just have to be ready. With Brantley, everything’s with rhythm, with time. You know, a real quarterback.”
Ummm, ouch?
Obviously, this means little or nothing as far as the 2010 Florida Gators are concerned, but it’s still a little jarring to see an ex-teammate take a shot -- however indirect or unintentional it may have been -- at one of the iconic college football players in the last quarter century.
Again -- “A real quarterback”???
That stings me and I’m pretty much agnostic -- compared to most -- when it comes to Tebow. And, I would assume, it’s a quote that Urban Meyer will not appreciate when it comes to his attention, especially in light of the criticism he’s received for what observers see as a QB woefully prepared for success at the next level.