The first 3 games, he proved that he had talent and poise under pressure, as well as the ability to bounce back from a bad performance.  Yesterday, however he proved that he is a leader and is willing to sacrifice himself for the team, literally.

Take a look at the play that he made in the 1st quarter Sunday and tell me you wouldn’t want to go to war with him:

Remember in the movie Any Given Sunday, when Al Pacino explains to Steamin Willy Beamen and the rest of the team that when they look in each other’s eyes they have to believe that their teammates will go to war and sacrifice for them?  That’s the only way that there can be a team.  Then do you remember when Cap Rooney goes out and sacrifices his body to score a rushing touchdown in the playoffs and that play exemplifies living and dying for your teammates?

The obvious comparison most people are making is to Elway’s big touchdown in the Super Bowl, but I’m choosing to leave that comparison where it belongs, in Denver.  Cutler does not need to be compared to Elway any longer.  Instead I want to compare him to an obscure scene in a fictional movie.  That’s just what I thought of immediately when he scored the touchdown.  The Broncos already believed in Elway when he made that big play.  This moment for Cutler is much more than just an example of his guts or courage, its about him becoming the leader of this team.

Oh and in case you’re curious what Al Pacino speech I mean, here it is.  Awesome: