While I usually reserve my sports commentary for the NBA & the Lakers, this recently ESPN article Who’s No. 1? got my attention because of the “6 degrees of separation” rule. While one of my best friend’s, Chris Rattay, is planting a church among the urban poor here in Los Angeles, his brother Tim is competing to retain his starting position at QB for the San Francisco 49ers.I’ve only been to 2 NFL games in my life - a 1990 Raiders playoff win over the Bengals (when Bo Jackson’s football career ended because of injury); and a 49er’s game IN Green Bay in 2003. Chris & I flew out to Green Bay to see Tim start against the Packers. It was a disappointing loss, but a great experience. That solidified my fan support for Tim.

Now, though, he is competing not only against a former Heisman trophy runner-up (Ken Dorsey), but also the #1 pick in the NFL draft (Alex Smith) - and his $49million contract!! Regardless, I think Tim has a good shot of being the opening day starter, barring injury.

UPDATE: Check out this article about Tim Rattay from S.F. paper.