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Caleb Hanie Becomes ‘Internet Famous’

Yes, in the National Football League's NFC Championship Game pitting the Chicago Bears against the Green Bay Packers, a former Texas high school football player became the talk of the Internet. No, not for coming in and winning the game, but mainly for being so unknown. Caleb Hanie was that player.

The 6'2" quarterback who played his high school ball with the Forney Jackrabbits (outside of Dallas) and college at Colorado State, played a grand total of 4 NFL games in his three seasons and none bigger than this one.

Hanie made believers out of stunned viewers when he threw a 35 yard pass for a touchdown (his first in the NFL) and followed that up with what appeared scripted for a game winning drive.

As Hanie took over the reigns, twitter lit up with "Haney who?" comments, jokes and comparisons to Earl Morrall. The buzz continued as twitter's Trending Topics changed from Jay Butler's meltdown to Caleb Hanie. Tens of thousands of people started talking about the unknown kid from Forney and the NFC Championship Game became a whole lot more interesting.

In the end, Caleb's moment in the spotlight ended with an interception ensuring that the Packers, not the Bears, would head to the SuperBowl. For one brief, shining moment however, Caleb Hanie was a God - or at least he was Internet Famous.

It was a great showing for him and will likely put him on a few people's radar for next season. Whether it is a sign of coming greatness for Hanie or a flash in the pan - he will forever live in Chicago sports lore.

by Chris Doelle

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