Newton on Kaepernick comparisons: ‘Two different players’
It’s no secret at this point that Carolina Panthers’ quarterback Cam Newton and San Francisco 49ers’ signal caller Colin Kaepernick have similar styles.
Both are big – Newton is listed at 6’5 245, Kaepernick at 6’4 230 – both can throw the ball with some mustard behind it and both can run all over defenses.
Newton sees the parallels, but apparently doesn’t like being compared to his fellow 2011 draftee, according to an Associated Press report, via CSN Bay Area. Newton was, of course, selected 1st overall and Kaepernick wasn’t selected until the 2nd round (36th overall).
“Two different players,” Newton said.
“Being a big guy, being fast and being agile and having the art of throwing like only God has blessed a few people with – and Kaepernick has it (too),” Newton said.
Back before the team’s first meeting in November – which ended up in a 10-9 Panthers’ victory at Candlestick Park – Newton expressed his appreciation of Kaepernick’s game, per the AP.
“He’s an explosive player and a dominant player and I’ve kept up with him ever since,” Newton said. “I have respect for him and I think he does for me.”
Both San Francisco and Carolina went 12-4 in 2013. Newton threw for 3,379 yards and rushed for 585 this season while Kaepernick threw for 3,179 and rushed for 524 – those numbers are pretty darn close.
Neither had a particularly good game in their first matchup this year. Newton went 16-of-32 for 169 yards with a touchdown and an interception and Kaepernick went 11-of-22 for 91 yards and a pick.