Panthers superstar quarterback in hot water with media

photo+via+Wikimedia+Commons+under+Creative+Commons+license

photo via Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons license

Thomas Moloney, Staff Writer

After a 24-10 loss to the Denver Broncos in San Francisco on Superbowl Sunday, Cam Newton decided to ignore the media’s questions. After ignoring the media, Newton decided to walk out of interviews after only three minutes.  This move has generated a lot of controversy among members of the media and former players.

Members of certain media networks, including ESPN, CBS Sports, NBC Sports and many other networks have criticized Newton’s behavior. Some have called Newton a “brat” and stated how he lacks professionalism. Newton’s father, Cecil, went on a popular ESPN show, “ESPN First Take” on the Friday before the Super Bowl and repeatedly talked about how his son was a “changed man” and how he had “learned from his past.” His father was addressing the topic of how Cam Newton had not handled situations well in the past, mainly with the media.  Cam Newton’s actions caused many to be disappointed in the NFL’s MVP.

Cam Newton returned to the podium after the initial incident to defend himself. Newton called himself a “sore loser.”  Many believe that Newton came across too defiant in his response. When asked about the negative response from the public, Newton said “that’s cool.” The members of the Panthers have defended him. Newton’s coach, Ron Rivera, expressed how Newton was treated unfairly, but thought that it was great for him to talk to the media. Rivera did not agree with how the situation was handled by his quarterback, but was still proud. While not everyone agrees with how Newton dealt with the situation, his actions and behavior affect him and his legacy.