Former NFL quarterbacks Cam Newton and Robert Griffin III are trading verbal jabs over who would dominate in today’s 7v7 football leagues. The dispute erupted after Griffin boldly claimed he would outperform both Newton and Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith in the Overtime 7v7 league, where both retired stars currently coach teams.
Newton fired back on his “4th&1” podcast, questioning Griffin’s athletic claims and warning him to stop using his name for attention.
Griffin’s Bold Claims Spark Newton’s Response
When asked which quarterback would advance furthest if dropped onto an Overtime 7v7 team, Griffin didn’t hesitate with his answer.
“It’s the team I get dropped on. 1000%. It’s not even a question,” he replied with confidence.
Griffin backed up his claim by citing his supposed 4.25-second 40-yard dash from two years ago and his recent experience throwing to high school receivers. He specifically suggested that rushing Newton would be enough to neutralize the former MVP quarterback.
These comments didn’t sit well with Newton, who challenged Griffin’s speed claims while acknowledging their teams had already faced off in competition.
“I have a hard time believing that he runs a 4.25 in a 40-yard dash today…We played his team. Yeah, his team won. Ain’t no disrespect to all that, but when it comes to 7v7, consistent performance. You had better bring your lunch, pill, and play the best ball you can play versus Cam Newton,” he said on his “4th&1” podcast.
“Robert, we’ve got to stop the cap. I mean, bro, take the win. Like, come on now. Take the win. Just mentioning Cam is going to get you at least a couple of more views. But, yeah, let’s refrain from that ever happening again.”
History of Tension Between the Former QBs
This latest exchange adds to a pattern of disagreements between the two former quarterbacks. Their history includes Newton winning their only NFL matchup in 2012, when he was with the Carolina Panthers and Griffin played for Washington. Newton went on to win NFL MVP honors in 2015, while Griffin’s career was derailed by injuries after winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2012.
Their most recent public dispute occurred earlier this year when Griffin commented on WNBA drama, stating “Angel Reese hates Caitlin Clark” after a flagrant foul incident. Newton joined former NFL player Ryan Clark in criticizing Griffin’s take, with Newton specifically addressing how Griffin’s comments carried different weight given his personal circumstances.
Griffin recorded a 4.41-second 40-yard dash at the 2012 NFL Combine, which was the fastest quarterback time in history at that point. He later claimed officials told him his actual time was 4.35 seconds, though this was never officially confirmed. Newton’s combine time was 4.59 seconds in 2011.
Both quarterbacks now serve as coaches in the Overtime 7v7 league, with their teams having already competed against each other in March 2025. Video footage shows Griffin’s RG3 Takeover team defeating Newton’s C1N squad in that matchup, giving context to Newton’s acknowledgment of the loss while defending his overall 7v7 abilities.
The possibility of a direct quarterback competition between Griffin and Newton remains intriguing for fans. With both actively involved in the Overtime 7v7 league as coaches, an exhibition matchup featuring them as players could materialize if the league capitalizes on their ongoing rivalry.
Until then, the verbal sparring continues to entertain football fans who remember both quarterbacks’ dynamic playing styles during their NFL careers.