January 1, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) against the New Orleans Saints during the second quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-US PRESSWIRE

Cam Newton received a lot of criticism about his performance at the Pro Bowl, but no one really praised him for what he did. By the time he took the field, the pace of the game had changed from the Offensive and Defensive Lines dancing around like a Pop Warner game to a full blown football game. While Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees had time to sit completely still in the pocket, Cam was forced to avoid sacks and throw into full coverage. So this brings me to the article I read recently on the Charlotte Observer’s page. A former NFL Coach is praising Cam Newton for his rookie season, and for good reason. Check back after the break to see Former 49er’s coach Steve Mariucci’s thoughts on Cam. (more…)