I feel I need to get this off of my chest.  I have seen nothing but Orton vs. Tebow posts, fanshots and links since the offseason started. The debate is heated and the fanbase is split into three (those for Orton, those for Tebow and folks stuck in the middle just wanting the Broncos to win).  I have noticed some similarities (not the exact same, but close) between Tim Tebow and our current AFC West tormentor from San Diego, Philip Rivers.

Rivers was drafted in the first round in 2004.  The Chargers were not impressed with Drew Brees in the 2003 season and they had a poor season.  Brees had some of his career-worst outings that year and the Chargers had a higher draft order.  They initially drafted Eli Manning, but since Eli wouldn't play for San Diego, his rights were traded away for Rivers.  Rivers could have potentially become the starter in week one of the 2004 season, but he had contract issues and didn't join the team until a week before the season started.  He was the #3 QB that year.

In 2005, Rivers became the #2 QB in San Diego since Drew Brees had a great 2004.  Brees was the starter for all 16 games.  In a twist of fate, the final game of the 2005 season would affect Rivers, Brees and our Denver Broncos.  In the fourth quarter of the game between the Broncos and Chargers, Denver had a commanding lead.  Drew Brees went back to pass and was sacked by a blitzing John Lynch and landed on by Gerard Warren.  Brees severely tore up his shoulder and Rivers took the helm from that day forth.  Rivers was unimpressive to finish the game, but he gained the starter position and has tormented the AFC West ever since.

Off the field, Rivers, like Tebow is a very devout Christian and family man.  While Rivers drives the opposing fans and team crazy with his antics on the field, he is very active in giving back to the community.  While I am not a Rivers fan by any means, he gains my respect for his faith and actions off the field.

While none of us knows what the future holds in regards to Tim Tebow, it is important to step back form the computer and let the process happen.  We have no control of what is happening in Denver right now.  I think that the lockout hurt Tebow this season.  All is not lost for him.  This is not intended to be a love-fest for Rivers, but it is a way to put things into perspective in Tim Tebow's career development.  Thanks for reading and I think I'll go throw up now for giving Rivers his props.