When Tim Tebow arrived at the University of Florida, the media’s obsession with the Gators’ new quarterback began.
Despite sitting behind Chris Leak, who led Florida to a BCS National Championship in his senior year in the 2006 season, his freshman year, Tebow mania was born.
Fans and the media immediately took to Tebow. He had an aura and mystique that charmed the masses. He played hard, never restrained his emotions, and made the Gators must-see TV. In his four years under center for Florida, he threw for 9,285 yards with 88 TDs and 16 INTs. He also rushed for 2,947 yards and 57 TDs. In 2007, Tebow was an All-American, AP Player of the Year and Heisman Trophy, Davey O’Brien and Maxwell Award winner. He also became the first sophomore in history to win the Heisman.
After leading the Gators to a second 2008 BCS National Championship victory, the Broncos selected him with the 25th pick in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. It was a much celebrated selection, but his professional career failed to match the hype. After three seasons in the NFL, Tebow was done.
Continue reading over at First and Pen.
This content has been brought to you by First and Pen in partnership with TheHub.News. First and Pen “amplifies local sports stories from voices of color to the national conscience..”
