TLDR: At QB, I'll take the TRIPLE-threat guy who can pass, run, and LEAD his teammates with composure.
Seems like a thorough conversation on the topic, with a logical focus on the guy who just played in the big game. Ultimately, championships do matter most, but the angle of the write-up is best dual-threat seasons. And although the headline asks the question of best ever, the story concludes that Newton has to be able to replicate his success before earning that title.
I don't see any disrespect toward Wilson. He is included in the list of all-time bests with Steve Young, Randall Cunningham, et al., and gets props like, "Tarkenton, Russell Wilson and Roger Staubach offered more creativity and elusiveness as scramblers."
But I agree that Wilson's overall greatness is somewhat glossed over with statements like, "While other dual-threat quarterbacks have run for more yards or posted a higher passer rating in a single season..."
How about MUCH higher passer rating over SEVERAL years?
RW = 101.8 rating
CN = 88.3 rating
Newton just had his only season with a rating over 90. In his FIFTH year.
Wilson has not had a season below 95, and only one of his four seasons was below 100.
Other career passing stats
RW = 8.05 Y/A, 6.1 TD%, 51.25 passes 20+ yards (per season), 9.5 of 40+, 41 sacks/ssn, 5.99 Y/sack
CN = 7.55 Y/A, 4.8 TD%, 48.8 passes 20+ yards (per season), 8.2 of 40+, 37 sacks/ssn, 7.7 Y/sack
There are tons of other stats and analyses, but these basic raw stats show RW ahead as a passer. He takes one extra sack every 4 games, but Newton loses 40 more yards on sacks over the season.
Passing and Rushing combined
RW = 118 total TDs, 47 total TOs. (4 years) Per season: 29.5 TDs, 12.25 TOs
CN = 160 TDs, 78 total TOs. (5 years ) Per season: 32 TDs, 15.6 TOs
So the guy getting "best ever" consideration accounts for 2 more scores per year and 3 more turnovers.
Career rushing stats
RW = 38 Y/G, 34.25 1st downs/season, 33% 1st%, 3 TD/ssn
CN = 41 Y/G, 49.2 1st downs/season, 41% 1st%, 8.6 TD/ssn
The significant difference is 1st downs and TDs on the ground. The stats back up the general narrative that Newton is the game's top running threat at QB and a good-to-very-good passer. Wilson is an elite passer who uses the run to extend plays and drives, but is not a top red zone threat on the ground. That's where Newton earns his rep as a dangerous, unique weapon.
I have no problem putting Newton atop the dual-threat list amongst active players. He is in fact the biggest QB with that kind of quickness and running ability. Nobody matches his physical traits.
But as far as important qualities for a QB, I would be looking for the best TRIPLE-threat guy, with Composure/Leadership as the third aspect. In that department Wilson is leaps and bounds ahead. Both guys believe they are great and meant for great things, and capable of accomplishing great things. The difference is how they get there.
Wilson has had to – and continues to have to – earn every accolade and opportunity through mental toughness, perseverance, preparation, and consistency. In a team game, these traits are relatable and transferable, even teachable to teammates.
Surely Newton works hard and is a good teammate in his way. The difference is he has relied on his physical stature and a major, if not central, aspect of his game is emotional truth. When he's happy he bounces around, when he's sad he sulks. He doesn't hide his heart.
There's a consistency in that the feelings are true to the moment. The problem is moments change and an expressive celebration does not necessarily balance out an equally outward display of discouragement. The passion can inspire teammates, but you can't teach someone else to feel how you feel; there's no technique to share. The reactive nature is a double-edged sword. The smiles and dances are contagious, so too is the insularity in the face of adversity.
As long as there is a common goal, or common enemy, that can work. But when the chips are down, is an emotional leader sufficient? The answer depends on the surrounding players and coaches, the general culture of the locker room and organization, personal support networks, and even the relationship with the fans to a limited extent.
At the core of the complex structure is the QB. Passion is important for that position. Without a level head, without the ability to handle bumpy roads with a steely resolve, without a history of managing difficult situations with forward-thinking intent and a team-first mentality, passion is often not enough.
