Cam Newton and Tim Tebow are different in many ways.  However, they are very similar in one interesting aspect.

loading...

There are plenty of fans that overstate the value of NFL players when they exceed expectations.  St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford had a good rookie season in 2010.  He threw 18 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.  He exceeded expectations.  The praise went above and beyond as well.  Sam Bradford has struggled this season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman had a very good season in 2010 also.  He threw 25 touchdowns and only 6 interceptions.  The praise for Josh Freeman's play was augmented by the fact that he far exceeded expectations.  Freeman currently leads the NFL in interceptions (10) heading into Week 8.

Cam Newton and Tim Tebow have received their fair share of props this season mainly because they have exceeded expectations.  It doesn't mean that they're overrated.  It doesn't mean that they'll both be the next great quarterbacks in the NFL either.  It just simply means that their skill level could be exaggerated because they are exceeding expectations.  Time will tell.

Brian Noe is the Program Director at 104.5 The Team, ESPN Radio in Albany, NY.  Brian also hosts "The Noe Show" each weekday from 1-3pm ET on WTMM.

More From 104.5 THE TEAM