Tim Tebow: Realistic Expectations for Controversial New York Jets QB in 2012

Tim Tebow is the New York Jets backup QB, but you would never think it based on the amount of media coverage he receives.

It’s created an unnecessary controversy, is a distraction for the coaches and will likely cause a locker room rift—just as Tebow unwittingly did during his time with the Denver Broncos.

Fortunately, Rex Ryan seems to have the confidence to stick to his guns and will certainly use Tebow, but the head coach does not seem to be leaning towards starting the controversial QB unless something drastic happens.

Lets’ make a few predictions on just how Tebow’s first season as a Jet will turn out.

Tebow Remains Backup for Entire Season

Unless Mark Sanchez has an absolutely horrid season, Tebow isn’t winning the starting job. The Jets are a solid team and can make the postseason based on their tough defense and good ground game—which now includes Tim Tebow.

All Sanchez has to do is make enough plays in the air to win the game, which shouldn’t be hard considering how honest defenses will be due to the rushing attack.

The former USC standout would have to have a significant amount of mental errors and interceptions for Tebow to take his job. It’s not likely to happen as he prepares for his fourth season in the league.

Wildcat is Successful, but not Elite

Ryan plans to use Tebow in the Wildcat, and every opponent will be game planning for that. Regardless, Tebow had success last year as a starting QB and every week he was game planned against to varying degrees of failure.

The mobile QB simply knows how to run the ball when necessary and zip it downfield when the opportunity presents itself.

However, as the league's defenders continue to react faster and become more prepared for gimmicks, the Wildcat becomes less effective. It will still make an impact and catch teams off guard, but it won’t be the revelation that many Tebow lovers feel will earn him a starting gig.

Tebow Takes on Versatile Roles

Expect Tebow to line up at QB, RB, TE, WR and anywhere else imaginable on the gridiron. The guy is a winner and will do whatever it takes to accomplish that goal.

He’s got the size and athleticism to create matchup problems all over the field. Ryan will use that to his advantage and keep the defense off balance by putting Tebow out there as much as possible while not making him a starting QB.

It should pay dividends in the long run.