NFL Draft 2011: Cam Newton Says Criticism of Him Is "Ammunition"

Cam Newton is still the topic of most conversations where the NFL Draft is concerned and, for good reason, people continue to wonder if can get it done at the next level. The same sorts of questions plagued one Tim Tebow who, against all odds, ended up being a first-round pick in 2010.

Cam Newton, if I may be so bold, is a better quarterback prospect—physically—than Tim Tebow was at this stage and, adding even more creme to the coffee, he has some nice intangibles that are hard to overlook when you are considering building a franchise—including confidence in himself and a fierce need to prove every single one of his doubters wrong.

That said, there is no reason, yet, to believe that Newton will be able to do that given the questions surrounding his ability to read defenses, take snaps from under center (consistently), and transition from the "simple" offense he ran at Auburn to the more complex one he will likely execute at the pro level.

Even still, he remains optimistic that he is much better than his critics keep telling us he is and, in the end, he will kill us all with his ability and success at the next level.

Check his one-on-one interview with John Gruden:



For the record, the last quarterback Jon Gruden selected in a draft was Josh Johnson—just saying—yet
he has given Newton his seal of approval saying, "I think Cam Newton's the best player in the country...I agree with the Heisman Trophy people that gave him the award. He's got everything I'm looking for.''

While there can be no denying Newton as one of the best players in this year's draft, does that necessarily mean he will be the best quarterback? Is he a better quarterback prospect than Blaine Gabbert or Ryan Mallett? At this point does he even have to be?

Mallett is still battling character questions after  admitting he used drugs while at Arkansas and, just this morning, skipped out on a meeting with the Carolina Panthers due to illness (illness that's rumored to be due to a hangover). Which, if that's true, he is looking a lot less like a pro prospect than a massive problem—a la Ryan Leaf.

As for Gabbert, well, he may have some believers still hanging onto his potential as a No. 1, but the his spotlight seems to fade with each new Cam Newton interview, article, or editorial. Gabbert just hasn't been able to maintain public attention he seemed to have coming up to the NFL Combine. 

While some have already stated that Gruden is not qualified to make an assessment of any potential prospect's talent at the next level, you still have to respect a guy who is better known for telling it like it is than blowing smoke up your rear, so Gruden just joins a few others in the NFL camp who feel that Newton is the real deal.

As for the rest, I suggest Newton keep that gun handy—I see plenty more "ammunition" headed your way.

Related articles

• Cam Newton: Further Exposed by Jon Gruden's Coach 'Em Up Segment (football.rawsignal.com)
• Dilfer calls Cam Newton no-brainer for Bills (football.rawsignal.com)
• Broncos take final look at Cam Newton, Blaine Gabbert (profootballtalk.nbcsports.com)
• Jon Gruden gushes about Cam Newton (profootballtalk.nbcsports.com)

Friday Links: Will A.J. Green Be The No. 1 Pick?

Friday is here and that means the 'Lady' will take a break from writing about sports, but not before I drop a few interesting links to buffer your morning web wandering.

Could A.J. Green go No. 1?

According to Adam Schefter, a noted NFL Insider, A.J. Green is considered by many to be the "top-rated player in the draft". Does that mean he could go No.1 overall—defying the opinion of some pundits who felt that Julio Jones' great combine, coupled with Green's bizarre pro day, made the former Dawg slip down many a draft board. We shall see what happens with this one, but it sounds to me like Green is still in a very good position.

Domonique Wilkins in brawl.

Apparently someone didn't give this man the memo. Didn't he know that Wilkins is known as the "human highlight reel"? Surely, he didn't think he was going to get a punch in on this former Bulldog great—tsk, tsk. According to this publication, Wilkins was attacked by a former NBA ref seeking to collect a debt of $13,000 from 'Nique.

Jakar Hamilton and Shawn Williams: dueling safeties.

Neither Jakar Hamilton, nor Shawn Williams, were better than true freshman Alec Ogletree last season. Now, on 2011, with Ogletree moving to linebacker, these same two players are hoping to do what they couldn't do last year—win the starting safety job and play it well. I hope that they both are committed to getting the job done, Georgia's options here are relatively slim.


Could the Bulldogs run the table in 2011?

This mailbag question by a college football fan prompted this response from a Rivals writer, "...
even if Georgia did go unbeaten in the regular season, it still would have to play in the SEC championship game, where Alabama or LSU likely would be looming. Your optimism is respected, but I cannot share it." Read the whole response here.

What's next for Auburn after the HBO report?

"The NCAA would need more than just allegations made by these players to bring a case against Auburn. But it’s enough for it to start asking questions." I don't know if the NCAA will ask questions that actually lead them anywhere, but perhaps they'll do their due diligence—you recall how they handled the Cam Newton situation, right? They'll just ask. 'did you cheat'? to which Auburn will reply, 'no'. Okay, carry on then.

Not everyone is convinced Cam Newton will be successful at the next level.

"Newton has only been exposed to basic coverages in the SEC due to the nature of the Tigers' offense, leaving scouts and coaches diligently working to determine his football acumen in workouts and meetings." So, what you're saying is, Newton looks good in person, not on paper? Well...who didn't know that?!?

Oh, I get it now, it's okay for Auburn to pay players—if they did. 

Funny, I don't think this guy would have this opinion if Alabama were the school on the proverbial hot seat for running an elaborate pay-for-play scheme, "...It's time to say, yes, Auburn paid players. And that did everyone else does too." So, as long as everybody else is doing it, Auburn shouldn't be penalized. Well, I'll buy that convenient logic for $1.


Steve Spurrier is unimpressed with his quarterbacks—as usual.

This is hilarious. I love the part where Spurrier says the mediocre play of his quarterbacks is likely why they'll be "running the ball about 50 times a game with Marcus". You hear that, SEC? Focus on the run!

(h/t GamecockAnthemTube)




HBO Roundtable With Rich Rodriguez, Jason Whitlock, etc. 

Wonderlic Revealed: It's A Good Thing Cam Newton's Got Other Skills

According to Chris Mortenson, a well-known NFL analyst, teams "get uncomfortable" anytime a quarterback scores less than a 20 on the Wonderlic. Well, if that's true, GM's must have done some collective shifting in their seats when they got word of Cam Newton's score—who scored an unimpressive 21 on his test.

Newton's score, along with other notable quarterbacks, was released today and—aside from Jake Locker's damning 20 (I hope that kid still has some baseball skills)—Newton's was the lowest. Even Ryan Mallett, the guy whom many thought was the biggest question mark as far as intelligence was concerned scored a 26. So, what does this mean for Newton?

Will his draft stock plummet? Not likely.

If the past has proven anything, it's that teams are willing to take chances on guys whose skill-sets are as special and potential-laden as Cam Newton's. Take Vince Young, for example, he scored a 16 on his Wonderlic in 2006, but still managed to be selected No. 3 overall and I'm willing to bet that the decision to select him had more to do with his body of work than anything—so Newton may still be sitting pretty despite his eye-brow raising score.

The highest score was achieved by former Alabama quarterback, Greg McElroy (43), but it's tough to see him being anything more than a career back-up, if anything, in the NFL. By contrast, Blaine Gabbert's 42 can only help his rising stock as he appears to be steadily climbing up draft boards everywhere.

If Gabbert can impress scouts at his pro day, he could easily leapfrog Newton as the most coveted quarterback in the 2011 NFL Draft.

It will be interesting to see the spin the QB conversation takes now that this information has been leaked—I mean, honestly, the comparison to Vince Young can go either way, ya know?— then again, with the NFL big wigs and their "slaves" still not finding any common ground, it could be 2012 before any of this even matters and by then, perhaps, no one will care who scored what.

Careful, Cam, Someone Might Think You've Got A Big Head

Cam Newton may need to temper that god-like complex he's developed since leading the Auburn Tigers to a national championship, winning the Heisman, and securing a million dollar endorsement deal with Under-Armour. If there's one thing people don't like, it's an arrogant SOB and, despite his intention, Newton came off as such when making the following statement to Sports Illustrated's Peter King—as revealed via King's Twitter account last night,

an "icon", eh? Alrighty then. However, if that wasn't enough, he had this to say about his one-year of college domination, "I don't want to sound arrogant but I did something in one year people couldn't do in their whole collegiate careers."

Yeah, okay. Well, perhaps the one thing you didn't do in that one year is learn a little bit about humility. And, for the record, you didn't win that national championship all by yourself—Nick Fairley, Michael Dyer, and a few other guys on that team made a contribution as well.

Wow, a No. 1 pick you definitely will not be—hope you're ready to sit in the green room for a few slots past that point.

Jeez, some people. I don't mind confidence in one's ability, but this is borderline narcissism in my humble opinion and Newton would do well to keep his egoist ways in the parking lot when he starts his rounds of interviews at the combine this weekend if he expects his stock to rise even the slightest bit.

College Football: Power Ranking The SEC Quarterbacks After Week Six

See week five here.

1. Aaron Murray, Georgia (17/25 for 266 yards and 2 touchdowns. 7 carries for 44 yards and 2 touchdowns) vs Tennessee.

It was only a matter of time before Aaron Murray made his presence felt against an SEC opponent. The reconfigured offensive line, and a healthy A.J. Green on the football field, made the passing and running lanes easier for Murray to take advantage of as he scrambled, passed, and tip-toed his way into SEC Freshman of the Week Honors. He's for real folks...don't let any one tell you otherwise.

2010 season stats: 97/157 for 1366 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 45 carries for 122 yards and 4 touchdowns. 

2. Cameron Newton, Auburn (13/21 for 210 yards and 1 interception. 28 carries for 198 yards and 4 touchdowns) at Kentucky.

People talk about the run of luck that Les Miles has had over at LSU, but Gene Chizik has had quite a run of good fortune himself—thanks in large part to Cam Newton. The junior transfer has been the x-factor in four of the six come-from-behind wins the Tigers have this season. Against Kentucky, he was the driving force behind several key downs where a first down was necessary if Auburn were going to have any chance at winning the game.

Newton showed, yet again, why he is one of the most dominant players in college football.

2010 season stats: 70/108 for 1138 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. 104 carries for 672 yards and 9 touchdowns).

3. Stephen Garcia, South Carolina (17/20 for 201 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception) vs. Alabama.

Garcia finally came up big in a big game. The junior found redemption for his mishap at Auburn two-weeks ago (where his last-minute gaffes contributed to a Gamecock loss)—upending No. 1 Alabama at Williams-Brice Stadium, and getting Steve Spurrier one step closer to realizing his goal of winning an SEC Championship at South Carolina.

2010 season stats: 73/101 for 944 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 42 carries for 94 yards and 2 touchdowns).

4. Greg McElroy, Alabama (27/34 for 315 yards and 2 touchdowns) at South Carolina. 

McElroy finally faced the first loss of his collegiate, starting, career at the hands of a better-than-advertised South Carolina team that had plenty of time to prepare for his Tide's arrival. McElroy spent much of the day on his back—thanks largely to holding on to the ball too long in multiple situations—but he still managed to protect the ball and keep his team close for a time.

2010 season stats: 99/137 for 1238 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.

5. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas (27/38 for 310 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception) vs. Texas A&M.

This game was likely too close for comfort for Razorback fans, as it took a last-minute interception of Aggies quarterback, Jerrod Johnson, to seal the victory at home. However, Mallett continues to be stellar this year—ringing up yet another 300+ yard passing game to add to his season total.

The senior is averaging just under 350 passing yards per game.

2010 season stats: 122/176 for 1748 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions.  

6. Larry Smith, Vanderbilt (16/27 for 253 yards and 2 touchdowns) vs. Eastern Michigan.

The Commodores had no problem dispatching Eastern Michigan, relying mostly on the rushing talents of Warren Norman and Zac Stacy, but Smith tossed a couple touchdowns in the second quarter for good measure.

2010 season stats: 67/119 for 793 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 

7. Jarrett Lee, LSU (9/11 for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns) at Florida. 

Given the opportunistic nature of the Florida Gator's secondary this season (they lead the nation with 13), you have to be impressed with the poise of Jarrett Lee. After coach Les Miles called for a fake field goal late in the fourth, Lee tossed the game-winning touchdown to seal the victory for the Tigers.

2010 season stats: 27/36 for 330 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception. 

8. Mike Hartline, Kentucky (23/28 for 220 yards and 1 touchdown) vs. Auburn.

Hartline was as steady and poised as you would have wanted him to be for this game against the Auburn Tigers. He didn't hurt his team with costly mistakes or turnovers and he kept his cool when his Wildcats were down early in the third quarter—tossing the touchdown that, eventually, led to the start of a Wildcat rally.

Sadly, Cam Newton proved to be too much for the defense, and Kentucky simply couldn't hang on.

2010 season stats: 125/188 for 1442 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.

9. Matt Simms, Tennessee (9/13 for 178 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception) at Georgia. 

Simms did all he could to get the offense going but the Volunteers were mauled on both sides of the football field by a motivated Georgia Bulldog team. Still, Simm's scramble to shake off a potential Justin Houston sack and find Justin Hunter for the score, early in the game,  was one of the few shining moments of the day for the offense.

2010 season stats: 88/154 for 1136 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. 

10. John Brantley, Florida (16/24 for 154 yards and 1 interception) vs. LSU

Cracked ribs or no, Brantley is not the right guy for this Florida offense so long as his new coordinator, Steve Adazzio keeps calling the plays. Brantley is a pocket-passer trying to run a spread offense that is built for a guy like Trey Burton. It seems only matter of time before either Brantley or Adazzio is replaced because this offense has been anything but fluid this season.

2010 season stats: 105/169 for 1056 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. 

11. Tyler Russell, Mississippi State (5/9 for 72 yards) at Houston.

Russell came in to replace Chris Relf who, to be honest, did more damage with his legs than his arm (rushing for 96 yards and a score).

2010 season stats: 35/58 for 555 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. 

College Football Betting Odds: 10 ATS Picks For Saturday (10/9)

The Lady had a terrible run of luck, missing on all but two picks last week. The finally tally once all the days picks were in came up to a disgustingly awful 2-8—ugh.

As of now, this season's record stands at a horrendous 22-23. But, alas, there are another round of picks coming this week and, hopefully, this time the Lady sees a touch more luck.

Take a gander at the disaster that was last week here—if you dare. Otherwise, let's move on to the next slate of games:

(All lines courtesy of VegasInsider.com)

1. Georgia vs. Tennessee: Georgia (-10.5)

This line was as large as -13 early on this week, but now has regressed to a more respectable 10.5 points—favoring the Georgia Bulldogs. After losses to both Mississippi State and Colorado, it's difficult to imagine that this team is capable of beating any one by more than a touchdown.

The Lady's Pick: Tennessee

2. Air Force vs Colorado State: Air Force (-26.5) 

Air Force is better than Colorado State. There is no denying that and the Falcons will utilize their rushing attack to steam roll the Rams for the better part of this contest. That said, as bad as Colorado State is this season, they still aren't awful enough to lose by this many points.

The Lady's Pick: Colorado State

3. Florida vs LSU: Florida (-9)

It makes no difference whether or not Jarrett Lee or Jordan Jefferson plays at quarterback this weekend, LSU is not a good team and they will not win this game. Even still, the Tigers defense is stout enough to keep them in the game and make this match-up close.

The Lady's Pick: LSU

4. Texas Tech vs Baylor: Texas Tech (-3)

This is the same Texas Tech team that allowed Iowa State to put up 52 points, right? Home field advantage or not, Robert Griffin has made fools out of just about every opponent his team has played this season—and there is little reason to believe that streak will stop here.

The Lady's Pick: Baylor

5. Arkansas vs Texas A&M: Arkansas (-7.5)

The Razorbacks have too many weapons and Ryan Mallett has a chip on his shoulder after giving the game away to the Tide two weeks ago. Expect the Aggies to bear the brunt of his anger.

The Lady's Pick: Arkansas

6. Nevada vs San Jose State: Nevada (-38)

San Jose State has a ton of trouble scoring points but, last years match-up aside (Nevada won by 55 in 2009), this is a game that is usually a lot closer than 38 points. Prior to 2008's thrashing, the biggest win deficit the Wolfpack have had over the Spartans, in the last six seasons, is 24.

The Lady's Pick: San Jose State

7.  Houston vs Mississippi State: Pick Em' (PK)

Houston is not the same team without Case Keenum and there should be a ton of doubt about their ability to win this game against the Bulldogs. The Cougars have a horrific run defense and the Bulldogs are more than willing to win this game via time of possession—keep the Cougars off the field and there is little else about them that is intimidating.

The Lady's Pick: Mississippi State

8. Stanford vs Southern California: Stanford (-7)

The Cardinals were rolling along just fine before the Ducks spoiled their undefeated party. To their credit, they made a game of it early before Oregon took over—as they have done all season long. This week, Stanford gets to settle onto their home field to face a USC team that, suddenly, no one is afraid of.

The Lady's Pick: Stanford

9. Alabama vs South Carolina: Alabama (-10)

South Carolina is much better than advertised and they have had a whole week to get ready to face the Crimson Tide who, coming off a blowout of the Florida Gators could get caught sleeping a little bit too comfortably. The Tide should win this one, but the Gamecocks won't be rolling over at home.

The Lady's Pick: South Carolina

10. Kentucky vs Auburn: Auburn (-6.5)

This could be considered a trap game, except for the fact that Cameron Newton has been playing out of his head and Kentucky seems to have a lot of trouble stopping the run.

The Lady's Pick: Auburn

College Football: Power Ranking The SEC Quarterbacks After Week 5

See week four here:

1.  Cameron Newton, Auburn (14/19 for 245 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception) vs. Louisiana-Monroe.

No last minute heroics by Cam Newton were needed in this match-up—the Tigers dispatched of the Warhawks handily, 52-3. A 94-yard pass to Emory Blake, in the first quarter, set the tone for the day. Newton was able to win the game with his arm, instead of his legs, this week. As a result, his team is now 5-0.

2010 season stats: 57/87 for 928 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. 76 carries for 474 yards and 5 touchdowns. 

2. Chris Relf, Mississippi State (11/15 for 209 yards and 2 touchdowns) vs. Alcorn State.

Relf had another impressive day, albeit against a team that was not nearly as competitive as what he has or will see the rest of this season, and the Bulldogs are now 3-2—just three wins shy of bowl eligibility.

2010 season stats: 44/72 for 618 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 

3. Aaron Murray, Georgia (16/27 for 221 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception) at Colorado. 

Poor Aaron Murray, if only he had a better offensive line, a better running game, and a better offensive coordinator to call the plays, imagine how much better he would be? Despite the ineptitude that has surrounded him on offense this season, Murray continues to shine.

2010 season stats: 80/132 for 1100 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 

4. Mike Hartline, Kentucky (27/46 for 300 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception) at Ole Miss.

The Wildcats did nothing to help themselves on Saturday—turning the ball over three times and performing abysmally on third downs (6/16). However, you have to give Hartline a lot of credit for not losing heart and nearly leading his team back to victory in the fourth quarter, where the Wildcats scored 15 points before losing by seven to the Rebels.

2010 season stats: 102/160 for 1222 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 

5. Jeremiah Masoli, Ole Miss (9/17 for 90 yards and 3 touchdowns. 9 carries for 43 yards and 1 touchdown) vs. Kentucky.

Masoli was as efficient as you can get, throwing only nine completions—three of which went for scores. His Rebels capitalized off the mistakes of a Wildcat offense that didn't seem to find any consistency until it was far too late.

2010 season stats: 57/94 for 823 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. 50 carries for 262 yards and 5 touchdowns. 

6.  Larry Smith, Vanderbilt (15/25 for 157 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions) at Connecticut.

The Commodores gave it the old college try on Saturday and, for a moment, it looked as if they might actually give the Huskies a run for their money. Sparked by a big special teams play, Larry Smith aided his team to two quick scores in the second quarter before the Huskies took over and never looked back. Smith also added 64 yards on the ground to the 157 yard passing effort.

2010 season stats: 51/92 for 540 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 



7. Matt Simms, Tennessee (12/23 for 121 yards) at LSU.

Simms wasn't awful and he wasn't good, but he nearly helped his team to victory against an LSU team that has a lot of luck on its side this season.

2010 season stats: 79/141 for 957 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 

8. Greg McElroy, Alabama (11/17 for 84 yards) vs Florida.

He was hardly relevant, but he didn't have to be playing against a Florida team that had no answer for either Mark Ingram or the Alabama defense.

2010 season stats: 79/141, 957 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.

9. John Brantley, Florida (16/31 for 202 yards and 2 interceptions).

Brantley didn't stand much of a chance against an Alabama defense that seemed to always know exactly what he wanted to do, when he wanted to do it, but he gave a noble effort—considering the questionable playcalling by his former quarterbacks coach turned offensive coordinator.

2010 season stats: 89/145 for 902 yards, 6 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. 

10.  Jordan Jefferson, LSU (3/10 for 30 yards and 2 interceptions. 5 carries for 100 yards and 1 interception) vs. Tennessee.

Jefferson was his normally awful self and got yanked before he embarrassed his team any further. Jarrett Lee took the reigns in his absence and was not nearly as bad. However, compared to how poorly Jefferson has played this season, it would be hard to be much worse.

2010 season stats: 46/89 for 449 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. 

College Football: Power Ranking The SEC Quarterbacks After Week Four

See week three here.

1.  Cameron Newton, Auburn (16/21 for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns. 25 carries for 176 yards and 2 touchdowns) versus South Carolina. 

Pretty soon the Auburn Tigers might take on the moniker of the "cardiac cats" as the last two weeks have both seen some dramatic come-from-behind victories by the Tigers. Once again, Cameron Newton put on his Superman cape in the fourth quarter as he led his team to another victory over a worthy opponent.

2010 season total: 43/68 for 683 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 75 carries for 485 yards and 5 touchdowns. 

2. Matt Simms, Tennessee (19/34 for 245 yards and 3 touchdowns) vs. UAB

Simms sealed the Volunteers second victory of the season on a 25-yard touchdown pass to Denarius Moore to win in double overtime. The junior quarterback showed plenty of poise and leadership on the field against a feisty UAB team that seemed determined to walk out of Neyland with a win. Simms has made subtle progressions each week and, so far, has given Vol fans a reason to be hopeful for the future.

2010 season total:  67/118 for 836 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.

3.  John Brantley, Florida (24/35 for 248 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception) vs. Kentucky.

Brantley finally did two things for the first time this season—break 200 yards passing and throw his first interception. The latter is impressive, the former not so much. Though he was largely overshadowed by his freshman counterpart, Trey Burton, Brantley still gets credit for being steady, if not stellar, for the Gators in their win over Kentucky.

2010 season total: 73/114 yards for 700 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 1 interception.

4. Aaron Murray, Georgia (18/31 for 274 yards and 1 touchdown) at Mississippi State

Murray continues to be impressive for Georgia, in spite of the teams' overall anemia on offense, and offers plenty of reason for fans to believe he is the future at quarterback. He looks more comfortable in the pocket each week and, even minus A.J. Green, has developed solid chemistry with his other receivers. Now, if the rest of the team could play with as much passion, the Bulldogs might have something.

2010 season total: 64/105 for 879 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. 

5. Jeremiah Masoli, Ole Miss (8/12 for 153 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception) vs. Fresno State

The Rebels left most of the dirty work to their running backs this week, but Masoli helped get the party started with a touchdown early. He's not been the spark that Houston Nutt hoped he would be, but he hasn't been downright abysmal either.

2010 season total: 48/77 for 733 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions.

6. Chris Relf, Mississipi State (8/13 for 135 yards and 1 touchdown. 20 carries for 109 yards) vs. Georgia.

Leading your team to victory over a cross-division rival has to count for something, right? This was, without question, one of Relf's best SEC performances so far this season.

2010 season total: 33/57 for 409 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 48 carries for 249 yards. 

7. Stephen Garcia, South Carolina (15/21 for 235 yards and 3 touchdowns) vs Auburn.

You're probably wondering why Garcia isn't ranked a bit higher, right? Well, his position here has less to do with what he did do, than what he didn't do. Garcia fumbled twice in the second half, clearing the way for 14 of the points Auburn needed to win the game and spoil the Gamecocks bid to go 4-0 on the season—2-0 in the SEC.

2010 season total: 56/81 for 743 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. 

8.  Greg McElroy, Alabama (18/26 for 194 yards, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions) at Arkansas.

McElroy was mediocre for the majority of the day, but money when it mattered. He made a drive saving play on fourth-and-inches and helped engineer two touchdown scoring drives in the second half.

2010 season total: 61/86 for 899 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.

9. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas (25/38 for 357 yards, 1 touchdown, and 3 interceptions) vs. Alabama.

It was a valiant effort that nearly turned into a big win for the Razorbacks, but Mallett lost his groove after throwing his first interception—in the fourth quarter—and never recovered. Arkansas was close to being the beasts of the West...but, as we all know, close only counts in horseshoes.

2010 season total: 95/138 for 1438 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions.  

10. Mike Hartline, Kentucky (21/39 for 242 yards, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions) at Florida.

Hartline couldn't continue the momentum of the Wildcats in the face of the Gators smothering defense, but he did give a valiant effort. 

2010 season total: 75/114 for 922 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions.  

11. Jordan Jefferson, LSU (10/22 for 75 yards and 2 interceptions) vs West Virginia.


Jefferson has been atrocious this year. Is he the victim of bad coaching or does he really suck this bad? My goodness, it's an utter miracle that the Tigers are 4-0 —an. utter. miracle. If Jefferson continues to play his uninspired brand of football the rest of the way, it's a miracle that should end very soon.

2010 season total: 43/79 for 419 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. 

College Football: Power Ranking The SEC Quarterbacks After Week Three

See the power rankings for weeks one and two at the respective links:

1. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas(21/33 for 380 yards and 3 touchdowns) at Georgia.

The senior leader of the red hot Razorbacks continued to prove why he is one of the best quarterbacks in the SEC this season. His dismantling of the Georgia Bulldog offense, including tossing the game-winner with only seconds left to play, sent a message to the rest of the nation that he is for real.

2010 season total: 70/100 for 1081 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. 

2. Greg McElroy, Alabama (14/20 for 258 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception) at Duke

Speaking of senior leaders, the Crimson Tide once again took care of business against a lesser opponent. Mark Ingram made his season debut and he didn't disappoint. The dynamic duo will need to be at their very best this week as they prepare to take on the Razorbacks high-powered offense led, of course, by Ryan Mallett.

2010 season total: 43/60 for 705 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 1 interception). 

3. Matt Simms, Tennessee (19/31 for 259 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions) vs. Florida

The Vols are going to be a good team, at some point, they simply need to find a way to keep up their intensity for 60 minutes. Simms did a fine job getting against a talented Florida secondary that leads the SEC in interceptions this season (10). His maturation process grows with each passing week.

2010 season total: 48/84 for 591 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.

4. Aaron Murray, Georgia (15/27 for 253 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception) vs. Arkansas

For all the question marks the Bulldogs have on both the offense and defense, one thing is very clear: Aaron Murray can play ball. The redshirt freshman engineered the comeback that nearly won the game for the Bulldogs. He's still got a lot of growing to do, but he's done a fine job thus far.  

2010 season total: 46/74 for 605 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions.


5. Cameron Newton, Auburn (7/14 for 203 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions) vs. Clemson

For a while it looked like the Tigers would be upended by Clemson, but Auburn showed why they have every bit the reason to be optimistic about their chances of winning the west. The offense finally woke up in the second half (scoring 21 points), thanks in large part to Cameron Newton, and Auburn was able to stay undefeated on the year.

2010 season total: 27/47 for 525 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. 

6.  Mike Hartline, Kentucky (21/29 for 250 yards and 2 touchdowns) vs. Akron

The Wildcats have done well this season. Hartline's team stands at a comfortable 3-0 so far this season. Of course, they haven't played anyone yet, we'll have to see how well they do once they get into conference play. That said, Hartline continues to manage the game as well as anyone and his confidence appears to grow with each win under his belt.

2010 season total: 54/75 for 680 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions.  

7. John Brantley, Florida (14/23 for 167 yards and 1 touchdown) at Tennessee

Brantley managed to escape his first true road test with a win—the accolades end there. The Gators offense continues to look mediocre and all the hype about Brantley still seems as if it may have a come a year too soon. He's not awful, he's just not as impressive as many thought he might be.

2010 season total: 49/79 for 452 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions. 

8. Stephen Garcia, South Carolina (13/20 for 150 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions) vs. Furman

Garcia looked about as uninspired as he could playing against Furman and, although the Gamecocks offense put 24 points on the board against the Paladins, they didn't look nearly as crisp as most might like. Perhaps Spurrier's team was simply saving some of that fire for next week when they face the Auburn Tigers...at least, that's what Gamecock fans should be hoping.

2010 season total: 41/60 for 508 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. 

9. Jordan Jefferson, LSU (10/16 for 97 yards, 0 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions) vs. Mississippi St.

Jefferson...what can you say about him at this point? He's been bailed out each week by a particular unit. In week one, it was Patrick Peterson (special teams). In week two, it was Stephen Ridley (running backs), and this week it was his field goal kicker. At some point, Jefferson's luck is going to run out.

2010 season total: 33/57 for 344 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions.

10. Jeremiah Masoli, Ole Miss (19/35 for 190 yards, 0 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. 19 carries for 104 yards and 1 touchdown) vs. Vanderbilt.

Masoli's mobility has to be the only thing keeping him from being completely worthless to the Rebels this season.

2010 season total: 40/65 for 580 yards, 1 touchdown, and 4 interceptions 

11. Tyler Russell, Mississippi State (5/10 for 81 yards, 0 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions

Russell is a long way from his week one performance. He's not proved to be nearly as prolific against better defenses and his performance against LSU last week just shows that he's still got a long way to go yet.

2010 season total: 22/35 for 356 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions.

12. Larry Smith, Vanderbilt (9/19 for 73 yards, 0 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions)

Larry Smith is not good. There is little that can prove the contrary right now. The Commodores won on Saturday, but not much of that was due to the play of Smith.

2010 season total: 36/67 for 383 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception

College Football: Power Ranking The SEC Quarterbacks After Week One

Week one is in the books and all of the SEC games have been played. The actual pass efficiency ratings for each quarterback can be found here, but these power rankings not only take normal stats into consideration (i.e. touchdowns, interceptions, completion percentage, and total yards) but intangibles as well (i.e. game management, decision-making, pocket presence, etc.).

1. Tyler Russell, Mississippi State (13/16 for 256 yards, and 4 TD's)
 
Russell, the redshirt freshman for Dan Mullen's Bulldogs, made a case for why he may very well supplant Chris Reif before long. In helping lead the Bulldogs to their very convincing 49-7 victory over the Memphis Tigers. Russell completed over 80 percent of his passes and finished with a near-perfect pass efficiency rating (298.15).

2. Cameron Newton, Auburn (9/14 for 186 yards, and 3 TD's—15 carries for 171 yards, and 2 TD's)

Newton turned out to be all that was adverstised—and then some. The JUCO transfer was as impressive running the ball as he was passing it, and he brought the home crowd to its feet when he broke one run off for a 71-yard touchdown run. The Auburn Tigers definitely have the duel-threat they were hoping for in Newton—who accounted for 357 of the teams 608 total yards on the day.



3. Greg McElroy, Alabama (13/15 for 218 yards and 1 TD)

Greg McElroy didn't have to do much to lead his team to victory, but the Tide rolled even without their Heisman winning running back out there to carry the ball. McElroy was concise on every throw and left little doubt where his focus will be this season—a third trip to the Dome for the SEC Championship.


 
4. Ryan Mallet, Arkansas (21/24 for 301 yards, 3 TD's and 1 INT)
Ryan Mallet was nearly perfect in the opening quarter of his first game of the season—a sure sign that his broken foot will not be an issue this season. The senior, a potential Heisman candidate, was in good form on Saturday as his Razorbacks mauled Tennessee Tech 44-3.

5. Aaron Murray, Georgia (17/26 for 160 yards, 3 TD's and 1 INT—4 carries for 42 yards, and 1 TD)

The redshirt freshman was better than expected in his home debut as he led the Georgia Bulldogs to an impressive 55-7 win over the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns. Some of his most impressive plays came while he was on the run—a 21 yard scramble to the end zone to end the half brought the fans to their feet. He still has some learning to do but, if he can remain healthy, Georgia could have a special player on their hands.



6. Stephen Garcia, South Carolina (16/23 for  193 yards—5 carries for 38 yards, and 2 TD’s 

Garcia made a lot of high-percentage completions last Thursday night in the Gamecock's season opener, but it would have been nice to see him get a couple in the end zone—utilizing the obvious height advantage his receivers had over the Southern Miss secondary. However, he did manage to showcase his scrambling ability in netting two rushing touchdowns.

7. Larry Smith, Vanderbilt (19/33) for 244 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT)

It's safe to say that Vanderbilt played the toughest opponent in the SEC this week and nearly ended up with the win. Smith performed notably better than expected given the holes in his offensive line—passing and running for nearly 300 yards on the day.

8. Mike Hartline, Kentucky (17/26 for 217 yards)

Hartline didn't walk away with any touchdowns on the day, but he did manage the game well on Saturday in helping to lead his team to a win over their in-state rival—Louisville.

9. Jordan Jefferson, LSU (15/21 for 151 yards, 2 TD's, and 1 INT)

The Tigers got the victory, but it was sloppy and unimpressive—much like Jefferson. The junior quarterback didn't necessarily do anything to hurt his team—save the silly interception—but he made several throws in the game that could be his undoing later. He's going to have to do better than he did on Saturday against the Heels because there is little that indicates he's remarkably better than 2009.



10. Nathan Stanley, Ole Miss (6/10 for 133 yards and 3 TD's)
You can say this much for Stanley: he made every completion count. The sophomore was forced to split time with Jeremiah Masoli, but not before netting 21 points off three of his six completions. Too bad for him, though, his performance will be erased by the overwhelming embarrassment that was the Rebels' loss to Jacksonville State—an FCS team.



11. John Brantley, Florida (17/25 for 113 yards and 2 TD's)
Brantley looked rather pedestrian calling the shots this weekend—he certainly didn't strike fear into the hearts of the SEC East. By the fourth quarter, his Gators had exactly 26 total yards of offense entering the fourth quarter—ouch.

12. Matt Simms, Tennessee (14/24 for 181 yards and 1 TD)

Simms performed fairly decent for his first time out, but he will need to do a lot better if he expects to make a game of it next week against the Oregon Ducks.