AU goes with Newton as their starting quarterback for 2010. Didn’t see enough of him in spring game to get a real read on him, but that must have been by design by the coaches to keep from showing too much. They felt like with Cam’s versatility running and throwing the ball–he’s 6’6″ and can see over the defensive line–and his stats from JC (Blinn Junior College in Texas) throwing for almost 3,000 yards and 22 tds were what tipped the scales in his favor.
More than that, his interview on the sideline during Auburn’s A-Day game was impressive. Sounded like a sharp kid who was focused and knew what he wanted to do in football. He wants to lead this team and he sounds like a leader. If he can deliver on the field, AU could win 10 games this year barring major injuries, particularly on defense.

I thought the other qbs looked good in the spring game, but Newton’s physical attributes, his size, speed, arm strength and mobility, sold the AU coaches. He’ll be tested in the best conference in the country next year with defenses geared towards stopping him, but he’ll have potent weapons around him with running backs Mario Fannin, Onterio McCalebb, Eric Smith, Dontae Aycock, Robert Dyer  and a talented group of receivers led by Darvin Adams, Terrell Zachery and the potentially explosive Kodi Burns. Kodi reminds me of a Hines Ward, Antwaan Randle El-type player. I think he can make a very good college and pro career at wr. Oline looks pretty solid from what I saw in spring though there wasn’t much rush and no real blitzing or tackling on defense.

Offense should be good this year. It’s up to defense. They need some leaders to step forward. If that happens and Newton plays well, AU could win 10 this year barring major injuries. They have a favorable home schedule, and they were impressive in the spring game. With some dbs coming back and some linebacker help coming in with Bynes, Freeman and others and some pretty good dlinemen, defense could be improved. They need to be to help this team reach their goals this season. AU is building well.