Some Denver Broncos fans are customizing their #15 jerseys with the name "Jesus" on the back. The jersey, currently worn by Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow, has caused quite a stir. Maybe it is fitting? Tebow is often crucified for no good reason. What has he done to deserve this?
To my knowledge, Tebow has never killed dogs, wielded unlicensed handguns or cursed at a fan. All he has done is tried his best to play a position that poses great challenges for him. Tebow has a very strong work ethic. He knows he has work to do so he works hard. And people criticize him?
It is no secret that Tebow is a devout Christian. He draws strength from his strong faith and sometimes expresses it on the football field. This expression has been coined "Tebowing" and people mock him for it. [video: Tebowing For Dummies]
You might thing his fellow athletes might empathize with him. But his own peers ridicule him, right in front of his face. Even Broncos Head Coach John Fox said Tebow would be "screwed" in a traditional offense. What happened to coaches giving words of encouragement?
Despite the criticisms, despite his publicized lack of quarterbacking skills, Tebow is winning. He is 3-1 as a starter. Some of his games have been nothing short of, dare I say, miraculous. In Week 7, the Broncos trailed the Miami Dolphins 15-0 with 5:23 left in the game. That is when Tebow somehow orchestrated a stunning comeback win. In Week 10, Tebow completed just two passes in a win over the Kansas City Chiefs. Two passes? How is that possible?
Like him or not, Tebow has been one of the most exciting stories in the National Football League this season. He continues to be bullied and beaten down by all the critics. Yet he remains undaunted. I admire his perseverance. Tebow does not deserve the criticism he receives. He has done no wrong. I will continue to watch and support Tebow. I hope one day this nice guy finishes first. Then maybe, just maybe, we can praise him instead.
More from Edwin Torres:
Edwin Torres became a fan of the Denver Broncos during the John Elway years. As a Featured Contributor for the Yahoo! Contributor Network, Edwin writes about trending sports topics. For more articles, follow him on Twitter @FlipPoker.
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Tim Tebow has become an intersection where football, religion meet
