What or Who is the Quarterback?

The quarterback is the leader on any football team. Although it is a team sport, if you had to pick THE guy who is responsible for his team’s success week to week, it would be the QB. Why? Well, for one, he is the only player on offense who touches the ball on every down, or offensive play. Second, he calls the shots. Although these days the coaching staff generally decides the next play, the QB has to use his judgment and make a quick assessment about whether that play will actually work with the current defensive alignment. Or, make a last-second adjustment, or audible, if he makes a different call.
The role of a quarterback has such prominence that its language has made its way into our everyday conversation. Oftentimes, politics will speak of leaders “quarterbacking” their constituents to success. And I can’t tell you how many times I’ve “Monday morning quarterbacked” at work – second-guessed or analyzed a decision or plan with the benefit of hindsight.
What makes a good quarterback?
Coaches and fans have different opinions but here are some winning characteristics:
•    He has good gut instincts
•    He has a strong arm, is able to throw far
•    He has an ACCURATE arm
•    He is flexible, able to play a good running or passing game
Here are five NFL quarterbacks who are taking the 2009-2010 season by storm:
•    Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints
•    Brett Favre of the Minnesota Vikings (he has only lost one game this season and is 40!)
•    Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts
•    Matt Schaub of the Houston Texans
•    Donovan McNabb of the Philadelphia Eagles