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Remember the optimism? The excitement? The hyperbole so over the top you knew it was nonsense but let it fill you with hope anyway? It was April, and the Redskins had just brokered a deal for quarterback Donovan McNabb. There was talk of championships, a new era, a marquee star. Flash forward nine months, and McNabb is playing third string, he's reportedly seeking a release from the team, and the Redskins are 6-9. If you’ve forgotten, The List is here to remind you of the greatest moments in Donovan McNabb hype.

1. A "statement move"

   "I personally believe that this is a STATEMENT MOVE. Why a statement? Mike Shanahna and co. came in and my initial thought was whether this new staff was willing to suck for a few years. This says that this new staff wants to win as soon as possible. McNabb is the kind of quarterback who lead a team in battle and have the trust of his coach."
   Ryan John Estorninos, "With McNabb In, What Happens To #17?," Riggo's Rag, April 5, 2010.

2. A new era

   "Much like the previous press conference held for this new regime, this new era of Washington Redskins Football, the pomp and circumstance was avoided. This was a press conference and not a pageant, displaying Super Bowl trophies of an era long ago. Fitting, because a new era in Washington is quickly taking shape."
   -Ryan John Estorninos, "Mr. McNabb comes to Washington," Riggo's Rag, April 6, 2010.

3. McNabb: much better than Grossman

   "Donovan McNabb is most certainly a significant upgrade over Jason Campbell. And even moreso over Rex Grossman."
   -“Holy crap, McNabb is the Redskins quarterback,” Staying Medium, April 4, 2010.

4. Old but wise

   "Putting injuries aside, there is no doubt that McNabb can play effectively for at least another 5 seasons. Always remember, with age comes wisdom."
   Shae Cronin, "Correctly analyzing the McNabb deal," Bet Big DC, April 11, 2010.

5. Washington will be a "piece of cake" for McNabb

   "If you can survive playing quarterback in Philly, and lead the team to five NFC championship games, then Washington ought to be a piece of cake. After a week or two in D.C., McNabb will wonder who turned down the volume. … He's as battle-tested a quarterback as could possibly have been available to the Washington Redskins right now."
   Michael Wilbon, “Washington Redskins’ trade for Donovan McNabb is a perfect fit,” The Washington Post, April 5, 2010.