Published July 1, 2010 - 10:32am
NEW: Discuss this topic in the Google+ community for SEC fans.
Can Cameron Newton Lead The Auburn Tigers?
Cameron Newton has had an interesting journey through his college football career. Recruited by Urban Meyer at Florida, Newton was an incoming stud along with John Brantley (Florida’s QB this year). Newton, in the beginning was the preferred up-and-coming talent in Meyer’s eyes and was listed as Tim Tebow’s backup during his first season while Brantley was the one designated for red-shirt status.
Unfortunately, the idle time led to Newton making poor decisions as he was arrested in November 2008 for stealing a laptop on campus. The move ended his career with the Florida Gators, and he transferred to Blinn College in Texas. Last season, Newton led his team NJCAA National Championship while throwing for 2,800+ yards, 22 touchdowns and rushed for another 16 yards. Clearly, a major talent, Newton is back in the SEC, this time as the starting quarterback for the Auburn Tigers.
With only four returning quarterbacks in the SEC this year, Newton has the potential to have a major impact for Auburn. Clearly, Newton has immense size and offers a great dual threat option for the Auburn offense. With offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn’s creative, fast-paced, spread offense, Newton’s natural talent has the opportunity to shine.
Auburn starts the season off with games against Arkansas State and Mississippi State before playing in the anticipated out-of-conference matchup with Clemson at home. Incredibly, Auburn has 8 home games this coming season, and has an opportunity to sport a solid record as it marches toward its end-of-season matchup with rival, Alabama.
It’s likely that Newton has learned from his early mistakes in Gainesville, and has matured greatly by dealing with a major career setback and bouncing back to lead his team in 2009 to a championship. Auburn’s staff is likely to monitor his personal life closely and push him towards a successful season with the Tigers. Look for Cameron Newton to have a good year in 2010.
When will colleges cease recruiting at the state pen?