The Carolina Panthers have been experiencing a quarterback meltdown here lately. In their last two games (playoffs from last season and first game of the 2009 season), Jake Delhomme has thrown for NINE interceptions, making some wonder if he’s still the man to lead the Panthers. I’ve got some good news for you, Jake — stud receiver Steve Smith still loves you, but his love comes with conditions.

You see, Jake, Steve loves you as person, but not as a quarterback. Quoth Smith:

“I never really liked you as a quarterback. But as a person, I love you as a person.”

Chin up, Jake. When you are the primary reason your team got bounced out of the playoffs as well as getting beatdown by the Philadelphia Eagles to open the season, a little love is better than none at all, right? In other news, Smith’s emotional support must be the reason why the Panthers let a player like Jeff Garcia sign with the same Eagles that wiped the floor with Delhomme’s pathetic passing. If Delhomme fails again, something he promises won’t happen again, the Panthers always Matt Moore and A.J. Feeley.

In light of that little detail, I can see why Smith is being so supportive of Delhomme. Sounds like he’s saying something like, “Thank you so much for being terrible thus far, because if your slide continues, look who will be throwing me the ball.” Hell, if I had Smith’s unending reservoir of ability, I’d be pissed too.

Update: The NFL is pulling these videos because, well, I’m guessing they are looking for some way to monetize sideline chatter.

Tags: Carolina Panthers, Jake Delhomme, NFC South, Steve Smith, Teammate Love

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