Pat White, Tim Tebow: Dueling Dual-Threat Quarterbacks in 2008

Tebow vs White. The Lefty vs The Lefty. Power vs Speed.

Two polarly opposite players at the same position that use their respective skill sets to terrorize opponents. Patrick White and Tim Tebow join Dan LeFevour, Jake Locker, Juice Williams and Steven McGee make up the cream of the dual threat crop for 2008. 

So which of these players is truly the most dangerous of the dual threat quarterbacks?

While LeFevour, Locker, Williams and McGee are truly elite talents the easy money has to land on Pat White to battle Tim Tebow for the top spot going into 2008. They are far and away the most talented of the group and although unseating Tebow is a tough task the supremely skilled Pat White has the tools to give the reigning Heisman winner a run for his cash.

Pat White (6'2", 185 lbs.)

The rail thin White is, arguably, the best athlete currently playing in the world of college athletics. His proficiency on the diamond (Angel's 4th rounder in 2004) is almost as well documented as his exploits on the gridiron. White is blessed with lightning speed, a cannon for an arm and decision making tools required to masterfully choreograph a deadly spread option offensive attack. 

Although his passing stats are far from gaudy (151.39 qb rating, 1724 yds, 14 tds) White's true skill lies in his ability to make the big play with his legs. He is reliant on his speed in his racking up over 1300 yds rushing and 14 tds on the ground in 2007 and is a threat every time the ball is in his hand, evidenced by his long touchdown scampers.

White is the toast of Morgantown going into 2008 after winning the Fiesta Bowl MVP, Big East Player of the Year, finishing 6th in Heisman voting and leading the Mountaineers over a highly touted Oklahoma squad. His 3rd season as a starter finds him entering unknown territory with the departure of Rich Rodriguez for Ann Arbor and offensive-coordinator Bill Stewart taking over the full time reigns.

Perhaps the biggest loss for White isn't Rodriguez so much as it is losing long time running mates Steve Slaton and Darius Reynaud. The younger but incredibly talented tandem of Dorrell Jalloh and Noel Devine must step up in his support to move the Mountaineers towards their second straight BCS bowl.

Tim Tebow (6'3", 232 lbs)

At his size Tebow fits the mold of a linebacker or a rush end more than he looks the part of quarterback. The same can also be said about the emotional swagger that he brings with him on to the field.  He is a fiery leader that isn't afraid to butt heads with defenders or do things the hard way.

The massive Gator quarterback's stats speak for themselves. He finished second in passer rating at 172.47, threw for 3286 yds and 32 touchdowns. His 23 rushing touchdowns put him first in the SEC and the 895 rushing yards was no small effort.

Though his accuracy has been iffy, he is a quality passer who only surrendered six interceptions a year ago. His favorite target Percy Harvin returns healthy and they will no doubt hook up in the clutch.

The major issue for Tebow last season was the Gators relying on him as a running back, however, Urban Meyer looks to have remedied this situation with the addition of Emmanuel Moody and Chris Rainey to the backfield. Tim Tebow looks to have the help he lacked for long stretches last season. Coupled with a healthy Harvin a capable supporting cast will have the Gators in contention.

The Verdict

The Pat White versus Tim Tebow debate features two proven winners who excel in similar roles using very different skill sets. Both look to be the best of the best, striking fear into the hearts of defensive coordinators everywhere. While they are both tremendous athletes Tim Tebow has intangibles in his game that Pat White has yet to show. 

Tebow is Florida football, he's an unquestionable leader of the team and his legendary toughness has earned him respect from his teammates and opponents. While White is more physically gifted than Tebow he's not on the same level in terms of immeasurables. That being said, Tebow's toughness, spirit, and unwillingness to lose make every other quarterback Gator Bait.

Next Battle at the Top: Linebackers