Live from Tahoe: Ex-Florida coach Urban Meyer is happy Tim Tebow is getting back to his roots
Ian Rapoport | Tags: Tim Tebow, Florida, Jets, Ohio State
As soon as the Jets acquired Tim Tebow,the questions began about how he would fit in. There is some doubt, for instance, about whether a two-QB system could work. But they obviously want him for a reason. So… huh?
Well, ESPN New York reported that the Jets are planning to use Tebow as a red-zone option, taking starter Mark Sanchez out at times inside the 20. Interesting idea. But not new.
In fact, when Tebow was a freshman at Florida, he was the backup to nearly-as-heralded Chris Leak. Essentially, playing in the red zone was his role. Don’t believe me? Let’s ask a dude who knows.
I spoke with ex-Florida coach Urban Meyer coming off the course during a practice round of the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. And his mind went back to a magical 2006 that ended with a national title.
“That’s kinda how we used him his freshman year,” Meyer told me, when I mentioned the report to him. “We used him as a short-yardage specialist and change-of-pace guy, so yeah. I think he’s just gotta get on the field.”
That’s the plan. Tebow accounted for 13 touchdowns as a freshman, eight rushing, in that role. There is a great breakdown on the Florida Times-Union’s site. That’s when he popularized the jump pass. So, if the Jets follow that example, things might happen.
And for the Ohio State fans out there — yes, talking to you Albert Breer — Meyer said he’s already feeling the anticipation for camp. “It’s been there for a long time,” he said.



