Cam Newton Picks Baker Mayfield Over Jalen Hurts in Must-Win Game Debate
In a bold statement that’s shaking up the NFL quarterback conversation, former MVP Cam Newton has thrown his support behind Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield over Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Hurts when it comes to a must-win scenario. The remarks were made during a recent appearance on ESPN’s
While Hurts led the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance last season and is widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, Newton’s reasoning centers around Mayfield’s ability to perform in critical, high-pressure moments. Mayfield, who joined the Buccaneers this offseason, has already impressed with his early-season poise and efficiency.
“I’m going with Baker Mayfield if it’s a do-or-die situation,” Newton said. “I respect Jalen Hurts a lot, but when the game’s on the line, Mayfield has shown that he’s able to step up and make plays. He’s not just going through the motions, he’s playing with urgency, and we’ve seen him deliver when it counts.”
Mayfield has demonstrated his clutch ability in the first few weeks of the season, including leading the Buccaneers to multiple game-winning drives, an area where Hurts, while dominant, has yet to show the same level of consistency. With three game-winning drives already this season, Mayfield has proven that he can handle pressure, something Newton places a great deal of value on.
“Baker’s ability to deliver in the clutch is what makes him stand out,” Newton continued. “He’s already had multiple opportunities to seal games, and he’s done it. That’s something Jalen hasn’t had to do as often this season.”
On the other hand, Hurts has been nearly flawless in his play with the Eagles, leading them to a 3-0 record to start the season and racking up impressive stats, including over 1,100 passing yards and nine touchdowns. The Eagles are a more well-rounded team, with a defense that is playing at a high level and an offense that is explosive. Yet Newton argues that it’s not just about putting up great numbers — it’s about showing up when the game is on the line.
“Look, Hurts has been great,” Newton said. “But if I need someone to take the reins in a critical situation, I’m choosing Mayfield right now. He’s showing the ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver when it counts.”
Despite Newton’s confidence in Mayfield, Hurts’ Eagles are still viewed by many as the favorites in the NFC East and a team capable of making another deep playoff run. Hurts, with his leadership and consistent performances, has become one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the league. But Mayfield’s ability to lead the Buccaneers to wins in high-pressure situations has given him newfound respect, and Newton’s endorsement adds fuel to the fire of an already growing narrative around the 28-year-old quarterback.
The debate between Mayfield and Hurts is not just about which quarterback is better overall — it’s about who can perform in the most critical moments. As the season progresses, both quarterbacks will be tested in various high-stakes situations, and this discussion may only intensify as we move toward the playoffs.
As for Mayfield, this bold statement from Newton could serve as a springboard for his career in Tampa Bay. With the Buccaneers looking to make a playoff push, Mayfield’s ability to perform in clutch moments could define his legacy in Tampa Bay, just as it did for him in Cleveland. On the other hand, Hurts, with his proven track record, will have plenty of opportunities to prove why he’s considered one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
In the end, the matchup between these two quarterbacks may just be the most intriguing storyline of the season, with Mayfield and Hurts each looking to prove they are the ones to lead their team to glory. The football world is watching, and Newton’s pick has only added more fuel to this fascinating debate.
Terry McLaurin Avoids IR, Giving Commanders a Boost for the Road Ahead
The Washington Commanders got some good news on the Terry McLaurin injury front, as reports are that he will
“The expectation is Commanders will not place Terry McLaurin on IR. Team treating this as true week-to-week situation,” ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler tweeted on Saturday.
McLaurin is out with a quad injury, and although he has consulted with multiple doctors, he is not expected to have surgery. Now, with this news that he won’t go on IR, it looks as though the team thinks he could be back in the next two to three weeks. For the Commanders, who won last week despite Daniels and McLaurin’s injuries, that helps boost their playoff hopes.
Before getting hurt, McLaurin had 10 catches for 149 yards in three games. This is coming off a stellar 2024 campaign that saw the seven-year NFL vet put up 82 grabs for 1,096 yards and a stellar 13 touchdowns. He also added 14 for 227 in Washington’s playoff run with three postseason touchdowns.
While the Terry McLaurin injury news is good for the team’s long-term hopes, the more pressing concerns are the Commanders’ Week 4 matchup with the Falcons. The team will once again start Marcus Mariota, and they head to Atlanta to face a team desperate for a win after taking a 30-0 beating by the Carolina Panthers in Week 3.
Last week, in Washington’s 41-24 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, Mariota was 15-of-21 for 207 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions. The Commanders’ leading receiver was McLaurin, who had three catches for 74 yards before exiting the game. In his absence, offseason free agent acquisition Deebo Samuel will have to step up, as will Luke McCaffrey, Chris Moore, and rookie Jayliin Lane.
