The Facts:
New OC Mike Shula has set out with some time-tested philosophies on how to take Newton’s game to a higher level in his third season. Part of that means tailoring the offense to the quarterback. “We want his comfort level the highest it’s ever been,” Shula told me. “We looked at the things we’ve done our first two years. The things we do well, we want to continue to build on. The other stuff, we look at how we can do it better or get rid of it. We’re looking at different ways for him to think faster and play faster on the field.”
Reported by The National Football Post
Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
Shula also is streamlining some of the play calling verbiage Newton uses in the huddle, which essentially lifts some of the burden off him and puts it on his offensive teammates. Also worth noting, Newton also came to the Panthers as strictly a shotgun passer. But he has made significant strides under center. Last year in 375 shotgun attempts, Newton had a passer rating of 82.9 according to STATS LLC. In 110 snaps under center, he had a passer rating of 97.4. His completion percentage also was better under center --.590 to .573. So more snaps under center, particularly using play action, might be a part of Shula’s vision for the QB. And perhaps of most interest to fantasy owners, Shula doesn't want Newton to lead the Panthers in rushing again this season, but he also does not want to ignore, or allow defenses to ignore, Newton’s ability to run the football. “In this run/read offense, there are decisions he makes with the option,” Shula said. “Don’t make decisions where he gets hit right away. If you are not sure if you should hand it off or keep it, then hand it off. ...” Newton’s strong finish in 2012 leads Shula to believe Newton is taking off. We agree.
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