Jake Delhomme in '08

In the dog-eat-dog world of the NFL, you live or die based on the play of your quarterback. 

Isn't that right, Dallas?

Your commander and chief, your captain, your rock, the face of your franchise...these terms are all connected to the NFL's past, present, and future glory position.

In a world which glorifies some gaudy stats coming from Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, and the rest of the sunshine band, has any player really owned a team more than Jake Delhomme of the Carolina Panthers?

He starts the 2007 season on fire. Eight touchdowns and one interception over the course of three games. It is unrealistic to think that he would ever maintain that pace throughout an entire season. However, if he did, he would have had one of the most prolific seasons ever at the QB position. 

Take a look at his major statistics through three games in 2007: 55-86 for 624 yards with eight TDs and one interception. 

Now, let's see what would happen if he maintained his pace and played all 16 games during the year: 293-459 for 3328 yards, 43 TDs, and six interceptions.

Wow. That is eye popping. This man is not considered one of the NFL's elite. Since he has been a Carolina Panther, his record is 44-28 (through week eight of the 2008 season).   

After the injury that took away Delhomme's seemingly magical 2007 season, many people assumed that he was through. This Tommy John surgery would take away his zip.  That is a pretty solid mistake. 

Jake is now the bionic quarterback. He is making all of the throws with precision and strength. He is leading the team with authority and fire.

Without a doubt, Delhomme is the heart of that team. Look no further than that floundering bunch in 2007. Without the coaching of John Fox and the amazing ability of Steve Smith, that team would have been lucky to win two more games without their leader. 

Do yourself a favor: Go to YouTube and search for his highlights and antics. If this man does not get you fired up about the game of football, then there is nobody in this league of ocho-stinkos that can.

Delhomme in '08.