Matt Heisman's time has come

Matt Leinart,

You've been a great quarterback these past two seasons here at 'SC. You led the Trojans to back-to-back titles, 25 victories in your 26 starts, and two BCS Bowl wins. It's been fun watching you sling TDs left and right and lead one of the most explosive offenses in the nation.

So what I am about to say, I mean with the utmost respect toward you: Matt, in regards to your decision of declaring for the NFL's 2005 draft, get the fuck out!

It is clearly time for you to move on. You will have your degree at the end of this semester. You can graduate without coming back next year. Your stock will never be higher. You have nothing left to prove at the collegiate level of football. It has become evident to not only myself but to anyone who has watched you play for 'SC over the past two seasons that you are a man among boys in this game.

The NFL is waiting for you. You'll see familiar faces there: Carson Palmer, Troy Polamalu and even your favorite target from last season Mike Williams.

I - along with countless other Trojans fans - will be sad to see you go, but what else could you possibly show us? Anything else you feel you need to prove to the football-watching-world can be done on football's greatest stage: the National Football League.

But you say that this decision is tough. You still haven't made up your mind and only have until January 15 to do so. It's time for you to follow in the footsteps of Carson Palmer and go to the pros. It's time for you to move on.

Thank you for some of the greatest memories of my life that I've experienced while watching you play for 'SC. What greater high-note could you go out on than a five-touchdown performance at the Orange Bowl? It's time for Paul Tagliabue to call your name.

Enjoy the NFL, Matt.