Tim Tebow compares Florida QB Anthony Richardson to Cam Newton

The Florida Gators just suffered a devastating upset loss to LSU last week. Despite the loss, Anthony Richardson took over for a struggling Emory Jones at quarterback and gave the Gators a second half spark. After Richardson’s performance, Tim Tebow has compared him to Cam Newton.

Tebow isn’t wrong in seeing similarities between Richardson and Newton. Both are dynamic athletes that can make big impacts on the ground with the ability to make plays through the air as well. In 2010 at Auburn, Newton threw for 2,854 yards, 30 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. He also had 1,473 yards rushing with 20 additional touchdowns.

Richardson hasn’t quite reached Newton’s level yet, but he also hasn’t had a chance to be the full-time starter for Florida. If given that opportunity, that comparison could prove to be very accurate.

“Well I think it got really hard when Anthony got injured and he couldn’t play for several weeks,” Tebow said of Richardson. “So then it’s OK, you’re trying to get a guy that has a crazy, freakish ability to change the game in one play. He really does. If people haven’t realized it, they’re going to realize it soon. There are very few people — he’s got Cam Newton ability. He really does. We say that about a lot of people, it’s different with Anthony.

“He really does have that ability where he can take over a game physically, he’s just that gifted. He also doesn’t have a lot of experience. You want to slowly be able to get him experience, without putting too much on his plate at one time. I think that’s what Dan has been trying to do.”

Richardson played well in Florida’s loss to LSU last week

After Emory Jones threw an interception early in the second half against LSU, Richardson took over at quarterback and remained there the rest of the game. Richardson provided a spark in a big way, leading an eight play, 75-yard touchdown drive to cut the game to 28-21. Jones has the ability to create plays with his legs too, but Richardson brings a whole different approach to the field, leading to the lofty comparison from Tebow.

Against LSU, Richardson completed 10 of his 19 passes for 167 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also ran for 37 yards and a touchdown and converted a two point attempt.

On the season, Richardson has completed 21 of his 37 pass attempts for 392 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also has 348 yards and three touchdowns on the ground behind 28 carries. His average yards per carry is an impressive 12.4. As Richardson continues to play more, he will continue showing that Tebow’s comparison to Newton wasn’t wrong at all.