Cam Newton: Carolina Panthers QB Locks Up Offensive Rookie of the Year Honors

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton continues to prove doubters wrong. This time he's showing off all his skills against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a performance that should lock up AP Offensive Rookie of the Year honors for the dynamic playmaker.

Heading into the season, fans and analysts alike were unsure if the Auburn product would be able to make an immediate impact. He's answered those questions.

Early in the fourth quarter, Newton had already totaled four touchdowns. Three of them were of the rushing variety, giving him 13 on the season. That breaks a record set by former New England Patriots signal caller Steve Grogan for the most rushing TDs by a quarterback.

Along with the rushing touchdown record, he's also on pace to break the passing yards record for a rookie QB, which is currently held by Peyton Manning.

That kind of production simply can't be ignored, regardless of Carolina's record. Newton has made the biggest splash of any rookie, and therefore deserves to be rewarded for his efforts. He would be the second straight first overall pick to win the honor after Sam Braford did so last season.

His main competition comes from Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals and DeMarco Murray of the Dallas Cowboys. Even though both of those players have had tremendous impact on their respective franchises, they simply don't match up with Newton statistically.

Unlike the MVP award, which is generally given to the most important player on an elite team, the Rookie of the Year Awards are individual honors. The team's results shouldn't have an impact on who gets the trophy.

One thing's for sure: the future in Carolina is a lot brighter with Newton leading the way. There are still a lot of holes to fill elsewhere on the roster, which is why his big season hasn't equated to a better record, but better days are on the horizon.

Newton's season is virtually unmatched by any other rookie QB in history, and he should only improve has he gains more experience, which is a scary preposition for opposing defenses. Especially those in the NFC South.

With all due respect to Dalton and Murray, Newton is undoubtedly the NFL's best offensive rookie.