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Boston Churches: Tebow Needs A 'Miracle' Against Patriots

By Matt Higgins

DENVER (CBS Denver) -- Praise be to Tebow?

In the heart of New England country, Boston churches are rooting for Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow, but before Patriot fans lose their faith, the religious institutions are still pulling for their beloved team.

"We want to see Tim Tebow do well, just not against New England," Father Matt Williams of the Archdiocese of Boston told CBS Denver.

One monsignor took it one step further, saying Tebow doesn't have a prayer against the Pats.

"We respect Tebow, but we think he is going to need a miracle," Monsignor Stephen Avila of St. Mary's Parish Family told CBS Denver.

The much-hyped Saturday night Divisional Round Playoff game between the Broncos and Patriots seems certain to be one of the most-watched football games in NFL history. And with the hype, comes more scrutiny for the Christian quarterback.

"He's not trying to impose his faith," Father Williams said, "he's proposing it."

Tebow has faced criticism for being overtly religious during and after games, either praying on the sidelines or thanking God for a win, but churches in Patriots country think it's good for the game.

"The phenomenon is a little blown out of proportion," Monsignor Avila told CBS Denver. "One of the things I don't like is that people are making a mockery of him. He is an honest and sincere young man."

Added Father Williams: "We want to see the underdog succeed. America is fascinated by him … people are intrigued by him."

A recent poll showed that 43 percent of people believe God is helping Tebow during games, but Father Williams said that "God doesn't care" who wins the game.

"God loves Tim Tebow as much as He loves Tom Brady."

Monsignor Avila said it will be a "hard pill to swallow" if the Broncos pull off the upset, but Father Williams believes in the battle between "David vs. Goliath," the Pats will eek out a win, 31-27.

The winner moves on to the AFC Championship to face the winner of the Houston Texans-Baltimore Ravens game.

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