CBSSports.com columnist Gregg Doyel has had it with all the hero worship, the idolatry, the 'canonization' of the guy:
This one's going to hurt. It's going to hurt you, and it's going to hurt me..... It's directed at those who would beatify the man.... Because he's just a man.
No, he's not referring to President-elect Obama but rather Tim Tebow, the University of Florida quarterback who led the Gators to a national championship on January 8. Yet in his January 13 column, Doyel went from waging a legitimate complaint about excessive hero worship to hashing out liberal talking points regarding the open practice of faith by Christian athletes (emphasis mine, h/t NewsBusters commenter Blonde):
Story Continues Below Ad ↓"There's the functional football player part of it, but we all know it's much deeper than that," [Florida head coach Urban Meyer] said. "He is so good for college football. He is unbelievable. When my daughter texts me in the morning the Bible verse he has under his eyes it's good for college football, it's good for young people, it's good for everything."
Sorry. Wrong. If Tebow were a Muslim or a Mormon, and Meyer's daughter texted him with Tebow's chosen verse from the Koran or from the Book of Mormon, would that be "good for college football, good for young people, good for everything?"
Of course not.
Tebow's religion is seen as good because it is the religion of the majority. But it's not the religion of everybody. It's exclusionary, and just because you share Tebow's faith, that doesn't mean you're right. I don't expect you, or Meyer, or Tebow, or your pastor, to agree with me.
But you're still dead wrong.
So forgive me, please, if I'm not ready to anoint Tebow as anything more than a great college football player. He is that. And he's a great young man, too. I'll anoint him that as well.
But the idolatry of Tim Tebow has crossed the line. You ask me, the whole thing is blasphemous.
Before launching his screed, Doyel -- himself a Florida alumnus -- insisted he lodges his complain both as a loyal Gator fan and a Christian:
This one is really going to hurt, because I'm going to attack two institutions that have impressed me greatly over the years: Christianity ... and Urban Meyer. My thoughts on Meyer were made clear a few paragraphs ago (perhaps the greatest coach, etc.). And as for Christianity? Not to get too deep into things, but church has been a huge part of my life over the years. Done the baptism (twice). Done the tithing. Done the small groups and the volunteering and so forth.
This begs the question that if the church has been "a huge part of [his] life," why he would react so viscerally to Tebow increasing interest among college sports fans in the Bible and Christianity. Instead Doyel blasts the "exclusionary" nature of Tebow's evangelistic zeal, perhaps forgetting that SEC football lends itself heavily, in its rivalries, to exclusionary "idolatry."
What's more, these idolatries are predicated on team loyalty, not something of more eternal worth such as, I dunno, the nature of God and man's ultimate responsibility to Him.
Perhaps Doyel's real problem is that his sacred cow -- keeping Christianity a private matter divorced from public life -- has been gored by Tebow's example.
—Ken Shepherd is Managing Editor of NewsBusters
Editor at Large
Comments Policy
You're right, Ken
January 13, 2009 - 17:31 ET by BlondeHis reaction was visceral...and I don't know whether it is in response to Tebow, Timmy's being a truly great individual, or the fact that he openly celebrates being a Christian.
I suppose the only thing he could attack which is politically correct. (A side note, John 3:16 was the most googled term the day after the big game).
Disgusting.
Particularly in light of all of the Obamadiefication going on these days.
Superman wears Tim Tebow pajamas.
Says something about Google-searchers
January 14, 2009 - 11:17 ET by RightOfMostI find it disheartening to think there are that many people who don't already know (and haven't memorized) what John 3:16 says and means. But I'm glad they're at least looking it up.
Exclusionary
January 13, 2009 - 17:34 ET by nkviking75"Instead Doyel blasts the 'exclusionary' nature of Tebow's evangelistic zeal..."
Isn't choosing one faith over another essentially "exclusionary" by nature? The more radical wing of Islam isn't known for saying nice things about Christianity or Judaism.
Welcome to the era of unity, you racist!
Tebow's priorities
January 13, 2009 - 18:09 ET by LionKingTim Tebow lists his priorities in this order:
Seems to me that Tebow is an excellent example to all because he has his priorities right.
Furthermore, Jesus called His believers/followers to evangelize to everyone...this would be known as the Great Commission. Kudos to Tebow to being obedient to his faith.
Tebow
January 13, 2009 - 18:10 ET by zoro7957..............I think Tim Tebow is an extrodinarily fine young man, both on and off the football field. So the only gripe Doyel has is that Tebow happens to be a christian? That's sad, very sad indeed. ( by the way, I'm a huge Buckeye fan)
Doyel
January 13, 2009 - 18:31 ET by JPR1This is one seriously confused guy.
Individuals excelling in athletic endevors have been idolaized forever. Politicians, not so frequently.
Where's he been the past two years?
Exclusionary?
January 13, 2009 - 18:38 ET by saw the lightAsk Utah about the exclusionary aspects of college football. Bet Doyel doesn't have a problem with that.
(No offense to Blonde on how the national title was decided, though.)
"I think that when you spread the wealth around, it's good for everybody." Barack Obama to "Joe the Plumber"
Hey Blonde
January 13, 2009 - 18:38 ET by cocodrieHow come Y'all have a quarterback that insists on following rhe ten commandments and goes to church? What kind of example is that? His parents are probably the kind that approve of that kind of behvior.
Why isn't he out getting drunk, doing drugs and stuff like the pros? You people in Florida are probably even proud of this boy. MY-MY-MY.
Jesus loves you.
Coco
January 13, 2009 - 18:44 ET by BlondeThat would be Gawja.
Good evening Blonde
January 13, 2009 - 18:52 ET by cocodrieI know that boy's folks are so proud and it upsets me that these ignorant toads can't let them enjoy life.
LOL, I saw that, J.
January 13, 2009 - 19:12 ET by R D HelmI just know you meant Miami. :-)
-Dave
“Them that’s going get on the wagon. Them that ain’t get out of the way.” -While there is still time.
RD...of course I meant Miami
January 13, 2009 - 20:09 ET by BlondeDidn't your QB get arrested for DUI tho?
I've been reading the Gator mb's....LOL...links to Whaaaachant and also to other boards (like yours)....there was great wailing, gnashing of teeth and pulling of hair over Timmy's announcement. :)
Superman wears Tim Tebow pajamas.
He's a SPORTS columnist
January 13, 2009 - 19:56 ET by ProssSo why would I want to hear his views on religion? Tim Tebow is a great role model. Heck, even if he WAS Muslim or Jewish he would STILL be a great role model! We all had to hear about how Sam Bradford, Colt McCoy, and Knowshon Moreno were "great" this season. I would rather have my son look up to Tebow as a "hero" than any one of the aforementioned. (for the record though the entire SEC is waaay over-rated haha :-)
"We will not tire, We will no falter, We will not fail." President George W. Bush, October 26, 2001
Just so you know both
January 14, 2009 - 08:37 ET by taterJust so you know both Bradford and McCoy are Christian and make it know quite a bit. Tebow even commented on McCoy and how he displays his faith.
www.theholyrosary.org
"There is no problem, I tell you, no matter how difficult it is, that we can not resolve by the prayer of the Holy Rosary." -Sister Lucia
I guess this guy thinks
January 13, 2009 - 20:04 ET by Dan DiegoI guess this guy thinks he's the next Olbermoron and when did being a the guy who can't do what he comments on provide the power to "Anoint" anybody or thing?
The cost of living's going up, and the chance of livin's going down. - Flip Wilson
Straight from Gregg's bio.
January 13, 2009 - 20:21 ET by Mike BrattonQuoting thusly, and like so (apologies for the language):
"Misunderstood, Doyel lives life by two phrases. He wrote neither of them, because as anyone will tell you, he's not good enough to come up with this stuff himself.
The first comes from My Name Is by Eminem: "I don't give a f---, dog. God sent me to p--- the world off."
The second comes from The Rose by Bette Midler: "I say love, it is a flower. And you, its only seed."
What a gem.
--Mike
www.thebrattonreport...
He probably would not have
January 13, 2009 - 20:39 ET by JerryHe probably would not have had a problem if Tebow had bowed at the altar of GoreBull Warming, or praised the new Obama messiah.
It's funny that Doyel's depiction of Christianity.... baptism, tithing, small groups, and volunteering.... neglects the very thing that Christianity IS ALL ABOUT...... JESUS the Christ! And this is the very thing that Tebow proclaimed. How can a Christian be anything but elated to hear a popular figure professing Christ on a public platform???
Brings to mind Matthew 10:22: And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake.
When asked if he went to war with Iraq to derail the impeachment vote: “I don’t think any serious person would believe that any President would do such a thing." - President Clinton (Dec 1998).
Careful
January 13, 2009 - 20:45 ET by BlondeDoyel will diss you for wearing it on your sleeve (under your eyes) as Timmy does.
Careful
January 13, 2009 - 20:45 ET by BlondeDoyel will diss you for wearing it on your sleeve (under your eyes) as Timmy does.
Careful
January 13, 2009 - 20:45 ET by BlondeDoyel will diss you for wearing it on your sleeve (under your eyes) as Timmy does.
SSS Strikes again!
January 13, 2009 - 20:46 ET by BlondeOh my!
Don't tell her, okay?
You need 31 more
January 13, 2009 - 20:57 ET by cocodrieYou need 31 more to break her record.
Lol! If anyone can do
January 13, 2009 - 21:29 ET by JerryLol! If anyone can do it, Blonde can. I've been working on my posting moves for quite a while, but I can't get past an occasional double.
When asked if he went to war with Iraq to derail the impeachment vote: “I don’t think any serious person would believe that any President would do such a thing." - President Clinton (Dec 1998).
Whoa Jerry
January 13, 2009 - 21:34 ET by BlondeThe SSS award is not a Heisman, dude!
But thank you for your support. :)
Superman wears Tim Tebow pajamas.
Vol Fan for Tebow
January 13, 2009 - 20:43 ET by pgrossjrI never thought I would cheer for a Gator, but I cheered for Tebow. His is exactly the kind of inspiring young man we need in sports instead of the tattooed swaggering blowhards many of them are these days. Yep, I am an old coot. What Doyel's problem is that he was no doubt schooled in one of great ivy covered institutions that pedal the multi-culti BS. We have to be "inclusive" and we don't want to offend anyone. It is the PC crap that is really the tryanny of the minority! He needs to read that bible he supposedly is so familar with. Something about not hiding your light. It takes courage in today's environment, particularly on a large campus for Tebow to let his shine.
pgross
January 13, 2009 - 20:58 ET by BlondeNo...the totally disgusting part of this is that the creep is an ex-member of the Gator Nation.
No longer, though.....we PNG'd him.
Couple of thoughts....
January 13, 2009 - 20:47 ET by HillbillyKing1. I encourage everyone to read the article at CBSsports. Not only is the article provocative, the comment section is worth looking at also. I encourage people to read the whole column because I think the guy makes some very valid points about excessive hero worship.
2. I would love to see what actually would happen if some kid who happened to be Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist or whatever was the Heisman winning QB of the National Champions and took every opportunity to thank his God. What would be the reaction? Anyone have any thoughts?
Oh and as for Tebow being the best college football player of all-time.......um, let's see what he does in his final season. I mean, he can only tie Archie Griffin for total Heismans and he was a backup on the first Gator title team.
If you make people think they're thinking, they'll love you; But if you really make them think, they'll hate you.
Don Marquis 1878-1937
I want to clarify
January 13, 2009 - 21:05 ET by ProssI want to clarify that Tebow wasn't the Heisman Trophy Winner this year. That honor went to Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford. I, for one, would not have a problem whether the "Tebow" in your scenario was Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, Wiccan, or any other religion for that matter. To hear Mr. Tebow talk, hear the things that he has done, and to see the leadership he displays all while having the humility that he does is a great accomplishment. It is because of this that I think he is worthy of the praise he has been given. In my eyes, he is a great role model regardless of his religion.
"We will not tire, We will no falter, We will not fail." President George W. Bush, October 26, 2001
Thnxs
January 14, 2009 - 01:22 ET by HillbillyKingThanks for your thoughts Pross.
I agree that he is a great role model for young people. Just like Myron Rolle from Flordia State.
If you make people think they're thinking, they'll love you; But if you really make them think, they'll hate you.
Don Marquis 1878-1937
HBK
January 13, 2009 - 21:07 ET by BlondeProvacative questions. Obviously, I read the whole thing (oh yeah....I sent it to Ken).
As to your final point, though.....he was a backup on the first NC team because (as a true freshman) he played behind a senior QB, Chris Leak, who was also a Heisman contender.
And Tebow played quite a bit that season, but he wasn't a starter.
Don't go dissing Timmy just yet.
Superman wears Tim Tebow pajamas.
B(lue)lo(range)nde...
January 14, 2009 - 02:09 ET by HillbillyKingit IS a provacative story and I'm glad you read the whole thing and then sent it to Ken. Otherwise it probably would've not made it to NB.
I simply recommend certain originals for the parts of those stories that aren't included in the main posts here at NB. For some reason, some people never click on the originals and just post about the select parts included in the pieces here. It really detracts from and narrows the range of discussion we can have about the covered piece. Case in point, Timmer's ranking among the all-time greats of college football. Also, the comment section on the story at CBSsports was very interesting.
As for dissin Tebow, I do no such thing. He is already ONE of the greatest CFB players of all-time. I just don't think he's number ONE in that department. Doyel's points about that subject were pretty legit in my book. Imho, IF Tim wins another Heisman and another title, then and only then can he be argued for the #1 slot.
If you make people think they're thinking, they'll love you; But if you really make them think, they'll hate you.
Don Marquis 1878-1937
I don't think anyone cared
January 13, 2009 - 21:38 ET by JerryI don't think anyone cared much that Mohammed Ali professed Allah, but then again, I was a youngster at the time.
The public professions of faith that I DO have a problem with are the ones where the hijacker yells "Allah Akbar" before flying the plane into a building.
When asked if he went to war with Iraq to derail the impeachment vote: “I don’t think any serious person would believe that any President would do such a thing." - President Clinton (Dec 1998).
Thanks,
January 14, 2009 - 02:11 ET by HillbillyKingJerry.
If you make people think they're thinking, they'll love you; But if you really make them think, they'll hate you.
Don Marquis 1878-1937
Thanks, HBK... for
January 13, 2009 - 22:19 ET by JerThanks, HBK...
for recommending the article. You're right...very provocative, maybe even too thought-provoking.
A far from perfect, but still instructive, analogue is the Muhammed Ali experience several decades ago after his conversion to Islam. Following each of his many victories, Ali would invariably respond to Howard Cossell's initial question with a ritualistic "first of all I want to praise Allah, and Elijah Mohammed, etc." [I don't recall the exact words.] My sense was that it was a turn-off and further reinforced the enmity harbored by the legions of Ali detractors, and was more or less tolerated bombast to his many fans--tedium to be endured prior to the always colorful follow-up exchanges with Cossell. I doubt that it enhanced his image with anyone other than Muslims.
Public displays of faith generally cause me to feel slightly uncomfortable. But they also evoke admiration and respect. Tim Tebow has certainly earned mine. So has Doyel with this excellent article.
Jer
Bad Jer!
January 13, 2009 - 22:25 ET by BlondeBack to the Dawg pound with you.
Oh, never mind.
Where did I go wrong?
January 13, 2009 - 22:33 ET by JerWhere did I go wrong? Effective discipline requires knowing what one is being punished for.
Jer
Re-read, Jer.
January 13, 2009 - 22:41 ET by BlondeAnd be thankful the real Dog Whisperer, cl3x, didn't do that, LOL.
(Kidding....I was the one who found this article).
Having said that though, I find the ever present Christian bashing tiresome....typical.
Blonde...
January 14, 2009 - 02:11 ET by JerI don't care for Christian bashing either, Blonde. I didn't really think Doyel was engaging in it...certainly not intentionally. However, I do think his use of the word "exclusionary" was inappropriate, and criticism of Doyel for that is certainly fair.
Jer
Jer, you da man ;-)
January 14, 2009 - 02:35 ET by HillbillyKingHowdy Jer, been a while. Ah, Ali. It was before my time, but when I was rackin my brain tryin to think up a prominent athlete that professed their faith that wasn't a Christian, Ali was one of two I could think of. I wonder if it wasn't the impression that he converted to get out of the draft that soured people on his religion? I also came up with Sandy Koufax, Jewish, but again, before my day.
I would really like to see the reaction of the public and the press if a Muslim kid with a backround as inspiring as Tebows, along with his athletic prowess would profess his faith in the same manner as Tim has. I think the reponse would say alot about this country.
I'm glad you took the time to read Doyels article. While I don't agree with his take on the religious side of things, I thought there was alot more to his piece than just his take on religions involvement in the Tebow situation.
Thanks for the response Jer.
HBK
If you make people think they're thinking, they'll love you; But if you really make them think, they'll hate you.
Don Marquis 1878-1937
Religion in sports
January 14, 2009 - 06:01 ET by AgnosticI remember watching Hakeem Olajuwon in the 90s during the Rockets championship years and there was nothing but praise for him following his religion by fasting during the playoffs. He still dominated and was a great player.
Couuple of Others:
shareef abdur-rahim part of the Olympic team that won a gold medal
mahmoud abdul-rauf one of the all time great free-throw shooters - Used to refuse to stand for the National Anthem.
There are plenty of Muslims in soccer.
A person may be won over with logic and reason but the masses must be bought with spectacle and platitudes. - 2008 Elections
No surprise from a dumb sports writer
January 13, 2009 - 21:31 ET by Captain KirockMost sports writers are hopelessly liberal (and stupid). Most liberals feel uneasy whenever sincere religious beliefs are publicly expressed. Hence, this idiot rips on a guy who by all accounts is a good person.
Someone needs to tell this idiot Doyel that Tebow has First Amendment rights too. He didn't give them up when he started playing football.
Huh???
January 13, 2009 - 23:08 ET by RESTLESS 1"Tebow's religion is seen as good because it is the religion of the
majority. But it's not the religion of everybody. It's exclusionary..."
Now far be it for me to call this guy a liar, but he claims to be religious. Maybe, but a linguistic scholar he is not. How can Christianity be exclusionary when it welcomes all who want to join. Sinners of all stripes are welcomed and urged to repent of their sins and enjoy life everlasting. That some choose not to join does not put the fault on Christianity.
"This
liberal would be all about socialize -- uh, uh, would be about
basically taking over and the government running all of your companies."-Maxine Waters 2008
Libs only like sports if
January 14, 2009 - 00:33 ET by RR GOPLibs only like sports if it's the Olympics or the USSR's Spartakiad, then it's OK because they want the New Socialist Man and Woman to be showcased on an international stage.
One of the 24% who thinks George W. Bush was a great President. One of the 89% who wants to bring back the stock and pillory.
"Ask Utah about the
January 14, 2009 - 07:48 ET by ckc1227"Ask Utah about the exclusionary aspects of college football. Bet Doyel doesn't have a problem with that."
When Utah plays the type of schedule that Florida and Oklahoma play, then they can make an argument for national championship consideration. Until then, padding one's schedule by playing in the Mountain West Conference won't get it done.
"Libs never let you down. You don't have to talk to one very long before the stupid comes out."
In any other year you might
January 14, 2009 - 08:46 ET by taterIn any other year you might be right, but not this year.
TCU and BYU are pretty good MWC teams. Top 15 when Utah played them, Air Force is pretty good too.
They beat Oregon State, USC can't say that.
They went to Michigan and beat them. Granted they weren't as good, but that is still a huge win.
They had just as many cupcake teams as Florida or Oklahoma did.
And they beat Alabama more convincingly than Florida.
www.theholyrosary.org
"There is no problem, I tell you, no matter how difficult it is, that we can not resolve by the prayer of the Holy Rosary." -Sister Lucia
tater
January 14, 2009 - 09:00 ET by AgnosticThe MWC was a much improved conference this year the argument of the schedule is still valid in my opinion. But the real clincher is for most people voting in the polls is going to be the fact that the MWC doesn't have a conference championship game. I know it sounds ridiculous but even if they teamed up with another conference and had a western conference champion they would get more respect in the voters eyes.
The reason I think strength of schedule still matters is that MWC faced the same problem USC does when it had the same record as the two teams in the National Title Game; they may play ranked teams but those ranked teams only real claim to their status is they only lost to USC which is also the only really tough team they play (this is only the appearance not necessarily the reality). Also, the SEC gets a bit of bias by having so many of the top 20 defenses in the country and you know how sports writers and coaches are a sucker for big defenses when declaring great teams.
A person may be won over with logic and reason but the masses must be bought with spectacle and platitudes. - 2008 Elections
Tater
January 14, 2009 - 10:41 ET by BlondeThat argument won't hunt. Utah is #2, and here's why.
Oklahoma's SOS ranked #1 (they played us, after all), Gators ranked #2, USC & Utah ranked <35.
Here are the ranked teams we beat: #4 LSU, #6 UGA, #25 South Carolina, #20 FSU, #1 Alabama, #1 Oklahoma.
Miami and Florida State are fierce intrastate rivals, Tennessee, while awful this year, is usually in the run for the SEC East, and Kentucky occasionally plays out of their minds (their D was #1 in the SEC when we crushed them).
So by my count, that's two "cupcakes"....always the first two games of the season (we think of them as our pre-season warm up).
I could go on, but I won't.
As for Timmy, the press built him up...and now they want to tear him down, using his faith as a convenient excuse. Disgusting behaviour.