Underclass act

Heisman winner Tim Tebow seems as ready for fame as he is for blitzing linebackers | Mark Bergin

Web Extra: Florida's heralded quarterback will have all eyes on him next season -- for good or ill

Florida quarterback Tim Tebow took the stage at the Nokia Theater in Times Square Dec. 8 looking nervous and unprepared to deliver an acceptance speech for college football's highest honor. But the first words from the newly crowned Heisman Trophy winner betrayed a level of preparation beyond public speaking skills: "I'd just like to first start off by thanking my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave me the ability to play football."

Though at times awkward, Tebow's sincere deflection of glory to teammates, coaches, family, and God revealed the value of an upbringing rooted in Christian faith. The sophomore playcaller, who is the first underclassman Heisman recipient in the award's 73-year history, learned lessons of humility and character while growing up on his family's 44- acre farm near Jacksonville, Fla.