It is official; the savior of New Orleans has signed a 6 year deal believed to be worth up to $60 million with $26.3 million of it guaranteed.  Reggie's college career, particularly his junior season, speaks for itself.  How does a Heisman trophy and 10.1 yards per touch sound? 

Agent Joel Segal has become Bush's "ambassador of kwan", making Bush look like a genius for holding out and waiting for Vince Young's deal to become public, perhaps being the catalyst to Bush finally agreeing to a contract.  

The next step is getting to training camp and making up for lost time.  Let's remember, notables like LaDainian Tomlinson held out of camp in the past and still managed to perform at a high level (1,236 rushing yards, 10 TDs).  Reggie is a special talent and is capable of making a similar impact (albeit not as a pure rusher) that LT did in his rookie year. 

There are two hurdles that Reggie Bush will have to overcome to make an impact in New Orleans:

1) Show the coaching staff that he is deserving of the lion's share of touches instead of Deuce McAllister.

Deuce is coming off injury, but has looked good since his arrival at camp.  Don't think that this will simply be another version of Bush-White; McAllister is not that type of runner.  He is more creative than physical and tends to bounce outside off the tackle or to the perimeter, sound familiar?  It should, because that description is interchangeable for these two backs. 

The difference, though, is in the passing game, where his holiness, Saint Reggie, is truly divine.  His ability to line up in the slot, in the backfield, or on the edges and routinely beat his defender in coverage is something the Saints will take advantage of.  Expect him to make an impact in this department from day 1 as Drew Brees has experience with passing to running backs (see LaDainian Tomlinson, c. 2003).

2) Show the city of New Orleans the level of his commitment.

After a tumultuous year on and in particular, off the field, the people of New Orleans need something to turn their spirits around.  Anyone who doubts the impact sports can have on people's lives may change their tune this year as Reggie Bush is capable of inspiring this city and helping to bring better days.  Bush has already pledged proceeds from jersey sales to the relief effort and gave $50,000 to a Catholic school for students with learning disabilities to keep it from closing. 

Reggie received a little help by owner Tom Benson, who has looked into moving the team to San Antonio, angering fans who had already endured so much.  Next to Benson, Bush's holdout looked more like Superman fighting Lex Luthor than the rich trying to get richer. 

Am I the only one tired of seeing Reggie Bush in suits???

If Bush is able to accomplish these two goals, he can anticipate not only a great year, but a great career.  The second one, specifically, is the one that will make or break young Reggie.  Ask any player who was embraced by his city, be it Walter Payton, Brett Favre, or Lawrence Taylor; that acceptance will ultimately lead to success, both personal and team.

The time has almost come for Reggie to prove whether the Gayle Sayers and Barry Sanders comparisons are not just college based.  Reggie, save the city of New Orleans, and while you're at it, see if you can get Kevin Costner, Steven Seagal, and Jean-Claude Van Damme to stop making movies!  You do that and you are my savior.

(Side Note: I am in no way trying to be blasphemous or sacrilegious, so please do me a favor and spare me the sermon, I'm heading to one soon, it is Sunday)