Adams: Tebow isn't just about numbers

The best players don't just change games. They change minds.

Florida quarterback Tim Tebow did both in leading Florida to a come-from-behind victory over Alabama in the SEC championship game.

Afterwards, one media-type said he was changing his Heisman Trophy ballot.

The voter originally had Texas quarterback Colt McCoy No. 1. He said he was dropping McCoy and moving Tebow to No. 1.

After watching the same game, another voter said he might change his ballot as well. Again, the beneficiary would be Tebow.

Still, I would be surprised if Tebow repeated as the Heisman winner. When the winner is announced Saturday night, I expect it to be Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, based on those stunning statistics he has compiled: .683 completion percentage, 4,464 passing yards, 48 touchdown passes, and only six interceptions.

Never mind those numbers. Bradford didn't make my top three. In fact, my ballot was the same - though decided independently - as that of colleague Mike Strange.

We both had Tebow, No. 1; McCoy, No. 2; and Florida wide receiver Percy Harvin, No. 3.

Sure, it's a bit provincial, but I'm not apologizing. In fact, I would have added UT strong safety Eric Berry if the ballot had been five deep.

I'm not dismissing Bradford's numbers. I marvel at them.

But the award should go to the best player, not the player with the best statistics. And Tebow is the best player.

Ironically, he probably won the award last year based on his numbers. He ran for 23 touchdowns and passed for 32.

His numbers are down this season. His game isn't.

You don't need statistics to appreciate him. You just need to watch him.

On one play, he's a drop-back passer. On another, he's running the option. And when you desperately need a few precious yards for a first down, he's your power back.

He could run a wishbone offense or a pro-style passing game. He also probably could be a fullback, tight end or linebacker.

It's not just what Tebow does. It's that he does it in the best defensive conference in college football.

And Saturday night, he did it against one of the nation's best defensive teams.

He passed for three touchdowns, pitched to Jeffrey Demps for another on the option and scrambled for key gains against a defense that made him its No. 1 priority.

Yards mean more when you make them against a defense that's as smart and physical as the Tide's. They also mean more when they come in the fourth quarter with a championship on the line and your team behind.

The biggest games bring out the best in the game's best players. That's why it would make more sense if the Heisman were awarded after the bowl games. And it would make more sense than ever this season when you would have two Heisman candidates playing in the national championship game.

Then, either one would have a chance to change your mind.

Sports editor John Adams may be reached at 865-342-6284 or adamsj@knoxnews.com.

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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