ESPN 30 for 30 USFL episode

[cookinbrak]

Yeah, Steve Young found success with his third team.

[Frizzy350]

Racist

Hahahaha.

Well I think this is what brought the whole "media hating Cam" thing to light, and the racism accusations shortly followed. Those three guys were black quarterbacks with the prototypical size and armstrength of a pocket passer with a little athletic upside sprinkled in (and I think Cam should have been compared to them, as he has the same attributes with much more athleticism). The media chose to compare Cam to the likes of Vick, Vince Young and Jamarcus instead, thus immediately illustrating the media's ultimate goal of how they want to portray Newton.

There are many reasons why Cam is a great target to be painted a tragedy. Many people don't like him due to his collegiate success and allegations. Some people truly are racist and hate RG3 and Russel Wilson as well (however most of these people are also incredibly dumb and think the quarterback is really the only position that matters, and all the other black football players are OK because they just do "grunt" work). Some people hate that Cam has an urban appeal, despite the fact that Cam plays it down and does it in a classy and almost inspiring way (he's a good role model for kids growing up in poverty, surrounded by the temptations of gang and street life - showing them you can overcome it).

I think more than anything though, people don't like Cam and like to see him lose because people are naturally envious, and Cam has no visible, outstanding flaws. His good looks and natural charisma work against him in this sport. Everything about Cam just seems to be too good to be true, and thats why so many reporters grasp at straws to show why he isn't what he seems.

[FootballMaestro]

Cam is actually closest to Eli Manning and Aaron Rogers from what I see. If he keeps throwing picks (which I hope, don't think he will), maybe Brett Farve LOL.

He's more similar in his throwing style and ability to Eli, including stretches of inaccuracy and over throwing where they eventually come back to make some incredible throws and game busting plays during the same game.

He's similar to Rogers, where he's a pocket passer--always looking to throw down field--who has great escapability to scramble and ramble for yards when the play is busted. Rogers is very underrated, but nonetheless very good in this aspect. That's what many Panther fans strive/would like Cam to ultimately be, when he matures more as a passer.

I don't think Cam is as similar to Big Ben as some people make them out to be. Yes, they're both big, rugged and can hold on to the ball too long in the pocket. That's true. However, Cam appears to throw in much tighter windows--with mustard on his throws--including down field, while Cam's a much better and willing down field runner than Ben as well.

Ben, at this stage, is a much better mover within the pocket than Cam is against the rush. Cam could learn the quick side step, wiggle or step/move forward into his throws more to avoid the rush and get his throw off. Cam does dance around and roll out wide well--like Ben. The difference being: Ben does it long enough to get the throw off. Cam does it, to both get his throw off, or on big down field yardage scampers. Both QB's could benefit from getting rid of the ball quicker at times.

My two cents.

[raleigh-panther]

The key with Steve Young was his incredible speed and scrambling ability.

A play would break down and he'd gash the defense and make a play.

As a Ram fan before they left LA so damned many times that bastard scrambled out of trouble.

Hated him.

I was a huge Rams fan growing up. I share your pain. When they traded Bettis and Kevin that was it and followed no team until the Panthers.

Cam is extraordinary in many ways. How that transfers over time remains to be seen. If they don't fix that o line and depth well...he'll take one shot too many like young. Young never had his arm or size though. He had many other things. Heart and a pretty good brain.

[Originalman]

Hahahaha.

Well I think this is what brought the whole "media hating Cam" thing to light, and the racism accusations shortly followed. Those three guys were black quarterbacks with the prototypical size and armstrength of a pocket passer with a little athletic upside sprinkled in (and I think Cam should have been compared to them, as he has the same attributes with much more athleticism). The media chose to compare Cam to the likes of Vick, Vince Young and Jamarcus instead, thus immediately illustrating the media's ultimate goal of how they want to portray Newton.

There are many reasons why Cam is a great target to be painted a tragedy. Many people don't like him due to his collegiate success and allegations. Some people truly are racist and hate RG3 and Russel Wilson as well (however most of these people are also incredibly dumb and think the quarterback is really the only position that matters, and all the other black football players are OK because they just do "grunt" work). Some people hate that Cam has an urban appeal, despite the fact that Cam plays it down and does it in a classy and almost inspiring way (he's a good role model for kids growing up in poverty, surrounded by the temptations of gang and street life - showing them you can overcome it).

I think more than anything though, people don't like Cam and like to see him lose because people are naturally envious, and Cam has no visible, outstanding flaws. His good looks and natural charisma work against him in this sport. Everything about Cam just seems to be too good to be true, and thats why so many reporters grasp at straws to show why he isn't what he seems.

You make some great points especially that some fans only wanting black players to do the grunt work while the so called great white QB gets the credit. Also the comparison to McNair, Culpepper and McNabb is fine but the media wanted to paint Cam as a failed black QB and at the same time wanted to white wash the success that players like McNabb, McNair, Cunningham and Culpepper had. We hear this bs when the media will say we have never seen monile QBs like the current guys when the older guys were doing it before.

But this is the same old story with most black QBs that come out of college. Rarely are they compared to successful black QBs who have played in the NFL. They are almost always compared to black QBs that were failures (plus add in the usually questions of intelligence, work ethic and whether they will be lazy after getting paid).

Last let's not think that because Cam grew up in the city that he was poor. The young man grew up in an upper middle class household. Also atlanta has maybe the most affluential, well to do and eduacated black population in the entire country (maybe outside of the Maryland area).

So this thought of him being poor because he grew up in an urban area is not accurate.

[footballisasport]

Like, S.Young, Vick and Big Ben had gay sex. And it produced Super QB.

WOW...quite a visual there. :phew:

[footballisasport]

You make some great points especially that some fans only wanting black players to do the grunt work while the so called great white QB gets the credit. Also the comparison to McNair, Culpepper and McNabb is fine but the media wanted to paint Cam as a failed black QB and at the same time wanted to white wash the success that players like McNabb, McNair, Cunningham and Culpepper had. We hear this bs when the media will say we have never seen monile QBs like the current guys when the older guys were doing it before.

But this is the same old story with most black QBs that come out of college. Rarely are they compared to successful black QBs who have played in the NFL. They are almost always compared to black QBs that were failures (plus add in the usually questions of intelligence, work ethic and whether they will be lazy after getting paid).

Last let's not think that because Cam grew up in the city that he was poor. The young man grew up in an upper middle class household. Also atlanta has maybe the most affluential, well to do and eduacated black population in the entire country (maybe outside of the Maryland area).

So this thought of him being poor because he grew up in an urban area is not accurate.

The Media wouldn't be pushing if they didn't already know that there is a built in audience who want to believe that. Just like the automatic belief that Cam's father was trying to sell him to the highest bidder and not an agent offering money for Cam to sign to his Alma-Mata. Like the norm. Some folks seem to like to automatically assume things about these athletes based only on what they see, hear, and believe.

Also, The comparison of Steve Young and Cam has been thrown out there a lot. I can't offer much on that comparison truthfully because Steve came after Joe Namath. I hated the 49ers so much because of Joe, that I would not be able to tell you who the QBs were after him. I didn't pay attention. I have since moved on from that level of hate thou.

[Frizzy350]

You make some great points especially that some fans only wanting black players to do the grunt work while the so called great white QB gets the credit. Also the comparison to McNair, Culpepper and McNabb is fine but the media wanted to paint Cam as a failed black QB and at the same time wanted to white wash the success that players like McNabb, McNair, Cunningham and Culpepper had. We hear this bs when the media will say we have never seen monile QBs like the current guys when the older guys were doing it before.

But this is the same old story with most black QBs that come out of college. Rarely are they compared to successful black QBs who have played in the NFL. They are almost always compared to black QBs that were failures (plus add in the usually questions of intelligence, work ethic and whether they will be lazy after getting paid).

Last let's not think that because Cam grew up in the city that he was poor. The young man grew up in an upper middle class household. Also atlanta has maybe the most affluential, well to do and eduacated black population in the entire country (maybe outside of the Maryland area).

So this thought of him being poor because he grew up in an urban area is not accurate.

Ohhh no I wasn't saying he grew up poor... but I definitely think he had more people around him embracing an urban culture and lifestyle than say RG3.

[FootballMaestro]

Ohhh no I wasn't saying he grew up poor... but I definitely think he had more people around him embracing an urban culture and lifestyle than say RG3.

Not sure what you mean by this (and I'm not saying your being offensive)?

Cam grew up in a god fearing family. Both he and his family believe in hard work and responsibility. He has another brother in the NFL. And I've heard his father--on WFNZ, steer clear of criticizing the coach or the team, when he was struggling during the first half of the season... To his credit, his father also demonstrated strong faith that Cam would bounce back, which he did. And he was also critical and honest regarding what Cam needed to, and the fact that he bitterly hated to lose from early childhood, and how he could deal better deal with it (at least with the media, I guess).

Now, we can't have this discussion with out adding: Cam doesn't drink, take drugs, hang out late, nor get in any off field trouble. He's also been mentoring kids since Auburn (maybe before)? And the head coach in Blinn said, 'everyone in my family, from my wife to little girl misses and loves Cam'. We can also add, that Cam is pursuing his bachelor's at Auburn during the off season, so there's a disconnect from Cam's perceived negative image, from it's actually reality.

Football wise: Let us not forget, that Cam is a football nerd, seemingly dedicated to his craft and about getting better. We don't even know who his girlfriend is (and no I don't care to know). Cam stays out of the news and interviews, until he wants you to. That's his focus (and actually a reason why a few in the media don't like him).

So just because Cam may be more charismatic, versatile--regarding the company he keeps (RG3 comes off as a corny homebody, married type already), cool and outgoing over RG3, Russell and Luck, that doesn't make him more "urban". Cam appears to have as many traditional values as RG3 and his family. Note: We don't hear these things about Kaepernick, who many times in appearance, attitude and excitability on the football field, comes off as a non-conformist, immature Wild Child himself. But we digress.

Ultimately, I didn't hear anything "Urban" from Cam or his family at all, except for--maybe his Charisma, his "Brand"/Endorsement image, and the occasional hangers on he may attract (which comes with the territory and his personality), since so many admirers--including celebrities--think he's so cool.

[TheRumGone]

his father has an electrical engineering degree from Savannah State and a masters degree in Divinity. His brother has a college degree. And Cam is going back to get his Sociology degree. His mother worked for AT&T for 23 years.

[FootballMaestro]

his father has an electrical engineering degree from Savannah State and a masters degree in Divinity. His brother has a college degree. And Cam is going back to get his Sociology degree. His mother worked for AT&T for 23 years.

Exactly.

The media megaphone has a way of creating certain or negative stereotypes (of chosen players). And many of us as fans, comply by not only eating it all up, but repeating and regurgitating it--ad nauseum, no matter how much of a fool we make ourselves--in contrast to the actual reality.

[carpantherfan84]

Not sure what you mean by this (and I'm not saying your being offensive)?

Cam grew up in a god fearing family. Both he and his family believe in hard work and responsibility. He has another brother in the NFL. And I've heard his father--on WFNZ, steer clear of criticizing the coach or the team, when he was struggling during the first half of the season... To his credit, his father also demonstrated strong faith that Cam would bounce back, which he did. And he was also critical and honest regarding what Cam needed to, and the fact that he bitterly hated to lose from early childhood, and how he could deal better deal with it (at least with the media, I guess).

Now, we can't have this discussion with out adding: Cam doesn't drink, take drugs, hang out late, nor get in any off field trouble. He's also been mentoring kids since Auburn (maybe before)? And the head coach in Blinn said, 'everyone in my family, from my wife to little girl misses and loves Cam'. We can also add, that Cam is pursuing his bachelor's at Auburn during the off season, so there's a disconnect from Cam's perceived negative image, from it's actually reality.

Football wise: Let us not forget, that Cam is a football nerd, seemingly dedicated to his craft and about getting better. We don't even know who his girlfriend is (and no I don't care who she is). Cam stays out of the news and interviews, until he wants you to. That's his focus (and actually a reason why a few in the media don't like him).

So just because Cam may be more charismatic, versatile--regarding the company he keeps (RG3 comes off as a corny homebody, married type already), cool and outgoing over RG3, Russell and Luck, that doesn't make him more "urban". Cam appears to have as many traditional values as RG3 and his family. Note: We don't hear these things about Kaepernick, who many times in appearance, attitude and excitability on the football field, comes off as a non-conformist, immature Wild Child himself. But we digress.

Ultimately, I didn't hear anything "Urban" from Cam or his family at all, except for--maybe his Charisma, his "Brand"/Endorsement image, and the occasional hangers on he may attract (which comes with the territory and his personality), since so many admirers--including celebrities--think he's so cool.

Every now and again I am reminded that there are at least a few people who are "awake" in American society. I hope, for the sake of a nation whose demographics are changing very rapidly, that more people can start to tear down those blatant prejudices and miconceptions we as a nation hold to.

Cam stays out of the news and interviews, until he wants you to. That's his focus (and actually a reason why a few in the media don't like him).

I slightly disagree with this statement, in that I think you understated it. I believe the media is incredible vindictive and spiteful. Whatever criteria they use to pick their "golden boys" once that person is picked they hold on to those assertions, and spend tireless effort influencing the public opinion. People may argue that there is no media conspiracy, okay maybe maybe not. However, I have no doubt that they are keenly aware of the images they create and the effect they have on public opinion. Their success relies heavily on public trust and they lose support when people stop believing they are the experts they claim to be. I believe there is no limit to the extent they will go to protect their reputation.

Not trying to preach to the choir. Hopefully somebody with an openmind will read this.

[Marguide]

Cam has always reminded me of a young John Elway (minus the horse face).

[FootballMaestro]

Every now and again I am reminded that there are at least a few people who are "awake" in American society. I hope, for the sake of a nation whose demographics are changing very rapidly, that more people can start to tear down those blatant prejudices and miconceptions we as a nation hold to.

I slightly disagree with this statement, in that I think you understated it. I believe the media is incredible vindictive and spiteful. Whatever criteria they use to pick their "golden boys" once that person is picked they hold on to those assertions, and spend tireless effort influencing the public opinion. People may argue that there is no media conspiracy, okay maybe maybe not. However, I have no doubt that they are keenly aware of the images they create and the effect they have on public opinion. Their success relies heavily on public trust and they lose support when people stop believing they are the experts they claim to be. I believe there is no limit to the extent they will go to protect their reputation.

Not trying to preach to the choir. Hopefully somebody with an openmind will read this.

Oh, I don't disagree with you on your later point/s.

I was only speaking about THAT particular issue (Cam not interviewing with certain reporters, who now hold a grudge), such as Peter King of Sports Illustrated, who's always ready with a quick, unsubstantiated shot against Cam.

Now Media Individuals Hating Cam, is for a multiplicity of reasons. And it's not all; just some, many of them. LOL.

1) Supposed Auburn Scandal (which he was cleared of); the purchased stolen lap top and exams controversy at Florida. The seeds of hate were planted.

2) Combine those things above, with Big, Black, Charismatic, 1yr starter, BCS QB, who won the national Championship. A lot of people just wanted to say, "he can't make it in the NFL" regardless. Not experienced enough!

3) His Charisma and perceived arrogance (i.e. I'm not going to talk to the press, until I'm ready), made many in the press feel he was entitled and not an ass kisser, like so many others, who would/should have felt honored to be given air time. Think "Prima Donna". LOL

4) They beat the great Alabama, for the national Championship and their fans wanna believe that Auburn paid him off, as MSU or Cam's father supposedly wanted them to.

5) Comparison to other Black QB's and Big Black Bust, Jamarcus Russell (i.e. Lazy, "be careful").

6) Cam was an option QB, so they normally assumed he was a "one read" guy, who didn't make pro throws or possess good pocket presence. They also felt, he'd run out the pocket at a moments notice. That was a poor assumption obviously. Break down of Film demonstrated his "Pro throws" and talks with both Chizik and Mulzahn revealed how much Cam actually sat in the pocket (i.e. called/designed runs vs perceived early scampering out of the pocket).

7) Unfounded rumors that he was, hard to coach, self centered, poor work ethics, locker cancer and a "Me" Player.

8) You combine all this: And some lazy members in the media wanted to believe (for what ever predispositions some of them had, and I'm not just talking about race), who already had their minds made up. Many changed their opinion quick. And others, still grudgingly 'don't wanna be wrong', or just dislike the kid for what ever reason, like Bill Polian.

Mind you, active NFL people never bought into any of this media chatter (though many of us, confuse the media's attitude, with NFL teams and scouts, sadly). Because, they did the same research that the Panthers did (and the excellent Miami Herald scouting series, to a lesser degree), and found that most of the negative things said about Cam were unfounded. And the more they dug, the more they realized he had much better pro potential than he was originally dismissed/given credit for. Pro scouts knew he was the number one pick, and the media only created a meek, pseudo debate regarding Gabbert, Locker and those guys. But even Mel Kiper (who didn't do background checks and interviews of Cam's teammates and coaches past, like NFL teams and the excellent Miami Herald series and others did), listed Cam the DeFacto #1 pick, weeks before the draft. Why did he do it? Simple; cause he heard what the NFL people were saying internally. Cam was too great a prospect to pass up on (unless you really had red flags about Jamarcus Russell or incredulously believed he had actual/current character issues).....Cam had already accounted for Florida ("I grew up"). By all accounts, was a model citizen at both Blinn Junior College and Auburn. And he spoke candidly about the supposed, alleged bribing in College, that the NCAA had already closed it's case on. But those doubts were being fed by media people, not NFL people (unless they put out negative info, miraculously hoping Cam would drop into their hands-LOL)...Unlike so many in the media, NFL teams did their research!

So despite all the negativity and uncertainly you may have heard months before the draft, by the time the NFL draft rolled around and NFL teams had all did their research, ANY OF THEM would have drafted Cam number one (unless they just liked some else better for what ever reason)! He was #1 with all the teams that had top 5 picks. But they knew he was going to be gone, and the Panthers would take him anyway, so they had all moved on to their own picks. Unfortunately not many people (including many Cam and Panther fans, realize this).

Sorry for the War and Piece Response. LOL