Cam Newton’s former coach is in his corner. On Friday, Washington head coach Ron Rivera warned the doubters to not bet against his former quarterback.
Rivera was able to see Newton play some of his best football. From winning the NFL MVP award in 2015, to making the Super Bowl that same year, Newton enjoyed some of the best years of his career with Rivera.
Now, the two have gone their separate ways as both look to make instant impacts in their new homes. Rivera compiled a 76-63-1 record in Carolina and went 3 for 4 in the playoffs with Newton at the helm. He was released by the team following Week 12 of the 2019 season.
He, like many others, has confidence in Newton to lead the Patriots to a successful 2020 season.
“The one thing I’ve always said is don’t bet against Cam, especially when he has something to prove,” Rivera said Friday on “The Dan Patrick Show,” as transcribed by WEEI. “Coming off the 2014 season, even though we got in the playoffs in 2014, he didn’t play his best. In 2015, he played unbelievable. In 2016, he had an off-year and was hurt, and then in 2017, he had a great year that got us into the playoffs. In 2018 and 2019, he was hurt.
“I think he has something to prove. I think he’s going to prove something. I like the fact that coach (Bill) Belichick and what they want to do offensively, I think that’s going to suit (Cam). I think Josh McDaniels is creative enough to use Cam’s skill set to the best of his abilities. I’ll watch them. I’ll be excited to watch them.”
Newton certainly has something to prove as he looks to take over the starting role. One has to wonder how Newton will fit into the New England offense.
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