Tim Tebow remains a polarizing person to this day despite not having played since 2012. Many of his detractors hate him because of his outspoken beliefs, while his supporters say he doesn’t get a fair shake because of them. Many of his critics would point out his 48% completion rate, his dismal throwing yards, and his awkward throwing style as the reason for the hate. It remains to be seen if his throwing motion has really improved. On the other hand, he has a winning record at 9-7, a playoff win, and a drive that just won’t let him quit. You can argue about his record, but the fact remains he seems to find ways to win.
In his rookie season in 2010, he started three games for the Denver Broncos. Tebow threw for 654 yards and five touchdowns, also rushing for 227 yards and 6 touchdowns on 43 carries (averaging 5.3 yards a carry). His 82.1 quarterback rating was highest among seven other rookie quarterbacks. In 2011, he tied for second among NFL quarterbacks with six game winning drives, guiding the Denver Broncos to the AFC West title game something they hadn’t done since 2005. So yes, there is a little hope.
But here is where things get interesting. Chip Kelly’s offense may be the perfect fit. Tim Tebow’s strengths as a running quarterback fit right in with Kelly’s zone reads, especially in the red zone. Tebow had no trouble scoring, going 4 for 4 in quarterback keepers in the red zone. Also, his 989 yards rushing on 197 carries for a 5 yard per carry average is more yards rushing then all Sam Bradford, Mark Sancez and Matt Barkely have combined.
Back to Chip Kelly’s offense. A running quarterback can succeed with his style. The option will force defenses to creep up and give up throwing lanes. If Tebow can use this to his advantage, who knows how many yards he can put up. Then there’s the hurry up, which ran the most plays in the NFL last season. This could keep defenses off balance, giving Tebow an edge to make positive yards. Kelly loves the spread and Tebow doesn’t have to always take snaps from under center. That style of offense saw him shine in college. The fact that he has 2,422 yards passing with 17 touchdowns and 9 interceptions is a bright spot on his resume. Sure, there is room for improvement, but he can make positive yards throwing.
The contract Tim Tebow signed is not guaranteed. It’s hard to read Chip Kelly as he makes moves over the off-season. Kelly has said he likes Tebow, so that could be a big plus. He knows that a running style quarterback would be the perfect fit in his offense. So given a chance, Tebow could really shine in a Philadelphia Eagles’ uniform. It also remains to be seen what the Eagles will do with Sam Bradford as they haven’t put any of his jerseys on sale.
Whatever happens this upcoming season, if Tebow can make the team, we can expect the Eagles to have a whole bunch of new fans. If he can put up a winning record, look for the football world to be proven wrong. With a strong work ethic, a never give up attitude, and a great role model for kids, it’s hard not to root for the guy.
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