NFL Predictions Week 6: Cam Newton and Rookies That Will Continue to Impress

If you look at the NFL in 2011, you will see rookies performing like they have been in the league for five years.

It's really amazing when you stop and think about it.

Generally, even impressive rookies struggle. They show growing pains and put up numbers that are good, but not on par with what the elite players at their positions can do.

That's not happening this year.

Yes, these rookies do look like rookies at times, but only for brief moments. That will continue in Week 6. 

Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

Cam Newton is on a hot pace in 2011. While early-season paces rarely reach anywhere near their potential at the end of the season, Newton is currently on track to throw for better than 5,000 yards.

Atlanta has allowed a 300-yard passer in all but one game this year, while Newton has hit 300 yards in three of five games so far. This seems like another match where the points will come early and often.

I think that the Falcons will win the game. However, that will only help Newton's numbers, as he'll be passing a lot in order to catch up. When he does, the targets Newton has are actually some of the best in the league.

Newton's pace won't be dropping a lot this week, 

Victor Cruz, New York Giants

Cruz has been a big-play machine over the last few weeks. However, he now goes against a defense in Buffalo that's sneakily good.

On the one hand, they have a lot of points and big yards. On the other hand, they force a lot of turnovers—and that's not going to hurt a receiver's production at all.

Cruz does have issues, but he's an incredible playmaker. Over the last three weeks, he's gone for over 20 yards per reception (and isn't a bad PPR guy, either, for you fantasy folks). 

If Eli Manning shows he trusts you, he will throw you the ball.

A.J. Green, Cincinnati Bengals

Green has had one game this year in which he didn't catch a touchdown or go for 100 yards.

Indianapolis' pass defense isn't exactly vaunted. Yes, they can get to the quarterback, but that's not going to hurt a receiver's numbers at all. Actually, it will help them.

If the Colts sack the quarterback on first down, it sets up a certain passing situation. That's where A.J. Green enters the picture.

Expect another very strong day from Green.