The Frosty-looking Matt Moore returns

So, this post is long overdue. It’s been sitting in my “outbox” for about four days now. But just know, he’s back.

It’s been a long time since I’ve mentioned Frosty the Turnover Man. Almost five years. Of course, the last time Carolina Panthers quarterback Matt Moore wore his magical hat was 2005.

It was back when he played for the Oregon State Beavers and was responsible for endangering his team’s chances every time he took the field. It was a year he was responsible for more turnovers than touchdowns. More scowls than smiles.

He lost the ball 19 times through the air and a handful more on the ground.

It was a frustrating year for Moore. And the rest of his team. He helped the Beavers to a 4-2 start but watched his bowl chances shrivel to nothing down the stretch. Although it didn’t rest squarely on his shoulders, a lot of people pointed his direction first. After the 4-2 start, he was responsible for seven turnovers in a loss to Arizona, three in a thumping at UCLA.

Then, against Stanford, was sidelined by a knee injury.

The Beavers finished 5-6 and lost the civil War in dramatic fashion. The final score was: Oregon 56, Oregon State not even close.

Moore spent the offseason improving on his delivery, timing, accuracy and, most importantly, poise. From that offseason forward, he seemed like a different quarterback.

But Moore took a short Leave of Absence last weekend. Frosty is back.

Frosty threw three interceptions last week against the New York Giants. All of them in the endzone. Then, he – to quote Chris Tucker – got knocked the [bleep] out and suffered a concussion.

This week, he passed all of the necessary tests. He was named the starting quarterback and will play against Tampa Bay. Hopefully for Moore, he shows up and isn’t wearing his magical hat.