Newton struggles to adjust
It's hard to believe Tim Tebow won't be the biggest quarterback in the Gators' backfield this year.
But that's just what will happen if 6-foot-5, 242-pound freshman Cameron Newton has his way.
The early enrollee from Atlanta Westlake High has a chance to see playing time if he can improve during spring practices.
"We've always got to get a backup quarterback, whoever that is, in the game," UF offensive coordinator Dan Mullen said. "Their ability level will determine how much they play, just like last year."
Newton has struggled so far this spring -- dropping snaps, missing open receivers and looking lost in the offense -- a likely product of adjusting to the speed of the college game.
"It's a big difference and a big jump from high school football," Newton said. "Everything is going fast, fast, fast, but it's organized."
Despite some poor throws, his hardworking nature has the coaches optimistic.
"I'm pleased he's trying hard," Mullen said. "I don't think a lot of high school guys when they come in understand how fast everything is going to happen and how fast things are going on the field.
"He's learning a whole new system at a whole new speed, so what we want from him is effort and that is what he's giving. He's just got to improve on his fundamentals."
Much like Tebow, Newton is a double threat. He runs a 4.5-second 40-yard dash and boasts a strong arm that made him the No. 14 quarterback in high school.
With an injury sidelining junior college transfer Bryan Waggener for the rest of spring, Newton is the only quarterback behind Tebow.
Signee John Brantley won't join the team until fall, and Newton has a head start on his competition.
"It's a big jump," he said. "Getting into the offensive system early, getting those early plays and being around coaches and players -- that can be a big help.
"It's a big advantage."
While John Brantley has expressed a desire to redshirt, Newton is auditioning for the top spot alongside Tebow, who has taken the freshman under his wing.
"He's just leading me, that's his job and what he's supposed to do -- be a leader and teach me the ropes," Newton said. "He's done a good job of telling me who my reads were supposed to be."
The pair have shown up early to meetings to dissect plays, and Tebow spends time advising Newton during practice.
"They work together," Mullen said. "Everybody is competing for the starting job right now, but they are competing with each other -- nobody is competing against each other.
"They are competing to make each one the best."
The competition has spilled over into the weight room as well.
"It's excellent," Newton said. "You've got great coaches and players pushing you every second and every minute you're in the weight room, making you a better athlete and a better person."
While he has a long way to go, Newton isn't satisfied with just a backup role.
"Every quarterback's goal is to win the starting job," he said. "I've just got to pick it up."
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