Cam Newton: "I Don't Feel Safe"

Earlier today, the Panthers beat the Cardinals at home and gained their much-needed second win of the season. Outside of the victory, though, what has drawn a considerable amount of attention are Cam Newton's comments post game.

As I've written about before in this blog and as has been commented on quite a bit by different sports media sources this season, Newton's been the victim of many big hits that have gone uncalled. Previously, Newton has always seemed to hold a stance of frustration yet humility when asked about these hits, expressing the unequal treatment of different players around the league by officials, but also understanding the risks he puts himself in by using his legs as a fundamental part of his game. However, today, Newton was again asked about hits he took during this week's game, and he let loose some of his frustration over missed calls by the officials. Click the link below to watch the press conference. Newton's commentary on officiating comes around the 5 minute mark.

It's one thing for Newton to comment on how the lack of calls makes the game less fun, especially when other quarterbacks are getting penalties in their favor on the same type of hits Cam takes. But for Newton to express his desire to meet with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, because, as he describes, "in games, I do not feel protected by the officials," shows how serious this issues has become to him. Newton, who suffered a concussion in week four against the Falcons, stated earlier this month how his injury forced him to reflect on how certain aspects of his game make him more vulnerable to big hits than most NFL quarterbacks are.

Although it's unfortunate that all this has been happening to Cam, it's beneficial for the health of football as a whole, because it increases awareness of head injuries and of the importance of protecting players. I'm looking forward to see if Newton really does meet with Goodell at the end of the season.