Cam Newton Talks His Race Playing A Part In The Scrutiny He Receives & How He Feels About The Critics

Over the course of the season, Cam Newton has proven that he’s more than just hype. But while Cam Newton may be untouchable on the field, that hasn’t kept critics from ripping him for other things all season long. When it comes to how he’ll handle criticism heading into Super Bowl 50 to battle the Broncos, Newton’s response is simple: “People are going to say whatever they want to say.”

Individually, Newton has taken a heightened amount of scrutiny this season for what he does when the ball is not in motion. Whether it’s dabbing, smiling too much, or creating the trend of giving touchdown balls to kids in the crowd, a lot of what Cam Newton does bothers others. When asked about the scrutiny, Newton had this to say: “People should be scared of a quarterback with his skill set more than anything else … I don’t think he wants to be known as an African-American quarterback. I think he wants to be known as a quarterback, and a great one at that.”

Newton is unapologetic for his actions on the field, stating that he’s just being himself. “Here I am, I’m doing exactly what I want to do, how I want to do it,” Newton said. “When I look in the mirror, its me. Nobody changed me, nobody made me act this certain type of way. I’m true to my roots. And it feels great,” he continued.

Newton is adamant on the idea that, despite their recent success, the Panthers as a whole are no different than they’ve ever been. “The only thing that’s changed, is we’re winning.” And when it come to the upcoming big game, the former War Eagle has plans of doing just that. “Find any way — any way — to win a football game,” Newton said. “Cause when you win [he chuckles], that’s going to give them something else to talk about.”