Steve Smith Is Right: Cam Newton and Tim Tebow Are Not Comparable

In an article by Joseph Person of The Charlotte Observer, Panthers WR Steve Smith is just being honest about comparing Tim Tebow and Cam Newton:

"

“You can't compare Cam to Tebow. I think Cam's a more complete player,” Smith said. “Tebow has the wins. But everybody wants to crown Tebow. Yes, he has the will to win. I think Tebow is no different than any other professional."

"

Person continued in quoting more from Smith:

"

“Versatile would mean you can throw the ball very accurately, run the ball, create things. And the only thing he's creating is running,” Smith said. “He isn't very accurate. You watch him, I don't think 3-for-10 (after) three quarters is a versatile quarterback.”

"

Additionally, for all the Tebow supporters out there, if we're going to ignore the stats, we need to also count Arizona QB John Skelton.

Greg Rosenthal of NBC Sports gives a great look into Skelton, whose play is comparable to Tebow's:

"

"Skelton’s play has been erratic. He can look great one quarter and simply not up to NFL standards the next."

"

Rosenthal continues,

"

"Skelton has benefited from an improved Cardinals defense, special teams scores, and facing the Rams twice. He’s also had a knack for just enough big plays."

"

So, if we're going to continue talking and discussing about how great of a QB Tim Tebow is, we must also give credit to Cardinals QB John Skelton.

Skelton is 4-1 as a starter and at least for this season, much like Tebow, all he does is win games.

As Rosenthal mentioned about defense and special teams, Tim Tebow has certainly been assisted by his team in both facets of the game. The Broncos have forced nine turnovers during their six-game win streak.

And what about kicker Matt Prater? That man has been booming kicks all season, which only became more evident against Chicago.

Getting all the way back to Cam Newton, the numbers Cam has put up by comparison to Skelton and Tebow are, frankly, not comparable.

Newton has them both dominated and to some extent. If you combine Tebow and Skelton, Newton is still better.

Carolina's defense doesn't force turnovers, and the special teams don't help with field position, so it's all left up to Newton and the offense.

If you switch Cam Newton's place with Tebow's, the Broncos would be better than 8-5 and the Panthers wouldn't be much better than 4-9.

Newton is a developing versatile QB who can scramble when needed.

Tebow may be clutch in the fourth quarter, but how do you think he was in position to lead a comeback? Defense and special teams—something Cam Newton has not had the luxury of.

Follow John Rozum on Twitter @ Sportswriter27