Russell Wilson would vote Cam Newton for MVP

Ahead of their divisional round clash, Russell Wilson and Cam Newton clearly engendered a mutual admiration for each other.

Newton and Wilson were two of the premier quarterbacks this season, each elevating their games to unforeseen heights.

With their respective seasons on the line, Wilson paid Newton the highest compliment Wednesday.

"He's one of the best players in the National Football League," Wilson said of Newton, according to ESPN's David Newton. "He's a great guy. He does a lot of stuff with the community. He's got a great presence on the football field. He's been an exciting player to watch."

Newton is the prohibitive favorite for the award, leading the Carolina Panthers to a league-best 15-1 record. The Panthers' superstar quarterback completed 59.8 percent of his passes for 35 touchdowns against 10 interceptions, while adding 636 rushing yards and 10 more scores.

"In terms of winning football games, (Carolina has) been able to win. They beat us. It's one of the things you've got to give him respect for, all the hard work he's put into it," Wilson said.

Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll echoed Wilson's sentiment.

"He does things that most (quarterbacks) can't and won't. He's an exceptional talent, we're excited about the challenge," Carroll said of Newton on SiriusXM NFL Radio.

Newton led the Panthers to a dramatic 27-23 comeback victory over the Seahawks during the regular season. With both teams vying for a bid in the NFC Championship Game, Wilson and Newton could deliver a series of marquee performances.