When Charlie Weis came back to Notre Dame to coach, he knew he had the luxury of a returning two year starter at quarterback with unlimited potential. What he didn't know was that the quarterback, Brady Quinn, would develop so quickly in his new offense that people would start to wonder if he is the best ever to line up behind center, donning the blue and gold.

With his latest masterpiece, a 6 touchdown performance against BYU, Brady has already set the single season TD record for a Notre Dame Quarterback in only 7 games. He still has 4 regular season games plus a possible BCS game to pad his stats and move himself into elite ND QB status. In other words, he will shatter every school record for passing after this season.

So this brings up the inevitable question among Domers, "Is Brady Quinn the greatest QB ever at Notre Dame?"

Right now it is a little premature to say that Brady is the best QB ever, but by the time he finishes his senior season many who doubt such a proclamation will believe. Take a look at this season alone. Statistically Brady is having the best year ever for a ND QB. He currently has a 5-to-1 touchdown (20) to interception (4) ratio. With the bulk of the tough schedule already over, Brady is on pace to throw for over 30 TD's while throwing for nearly 3700 yards. And to think this is his first year under Charlie Weis.

Statistics aren't enough for immortal glory at Notre Dame. Essentially the greats graduate with a Heisman Trophy and/or National Championship in the eyes of Domers. If not for two last second plays at home that cost the Irish victories this year, Brady Quinn could have been bringing home both the Crystal Ball and the stiff arm bronze statue. Think about it: two close losses to Michigan State and USC have kept him from reaching those immortal standards this year. To join the immortal class of Joe Montana, John Huarte, John Lujack, Paul Hornung, and Angelo Bertelli, all of which either won a National Championship, Heisman, or both; Brady will have to more than likely accomplish it his senior season of 2006.

With Charlie Weis admitting that he is putting more of the offense "in his(Brady)hands", Brady is more than likely going to be the frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy next year with a probable invitation to New York City this year for being one of five finalists. Unless Reggie Bush gets injured, expect Quinn to finish second in voting come Heisman time this year. But this much is certain to NFL scouts and football experts, Brady Quinn is the best QB in the college game right now. Sorry Leinart.

Next year bring new opportunities for Brady and the Irish. Quinn will come in with high expectations for his senior season and will be the clear frontrunner for the Heisman. Notre Dame will be a top 5 preseason team with high expectations of bringing home the first National Championship since 1988. With returning wide receivers Jeff Samardzija and Rhema McKnight; and tight ends Anthony Fasano and John Carlson providing valuable targets next season for Brady, and the majority of a veteran line coming back, it is clear that 2006 will be a banner year for Brady.

The near 20 year wait for a National Championship and Heisman Trophy that so many Irish faithful dream about will end next year thanks to Brady Quinn. So yes, after next season, Brady Quinn will be the best QB ever to play for the Irish.

You can contact the writer at:matt@sportscrack.com

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