NFL Playoffs: 5 bold predictions for Panthers vs. Cardinals
By Evan Massey
1. Cam Newton Will Have A Huge Game
Cam Newton has had an up-and-down season all year, but did the best he could with what he was given. The Panthers allowed his top targets from last year to walk in Steve Smith, Brandon LaFell, and Ted Ginn Jr., but they aimed to replace some of that group by drafting Kelvin Benjamin out of Florida State.
It hasn’t been an easy season for Newton, but he has embraced the challenge and been a solid leader for the Panthers. He ended up throwing for 3,127 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions this season in 14 games.
Carolina is going to need their franchise quarterback to step up in a big way against the Cardinals this week to get a win. He has found ways to come through when his team has needed him, and that will be the case once again this week. Expect Newton to come out strong and play a big game, both on the ground and in the air.
Arizona has a capable defense, but they have had their holes throughout the course of the season. Newton will need to find a way to attack them early through the air, and then be prepared to make plays on the ground as well. He has proven in the past that he can be a very dangerous two-way quarterback, and he’ll have to do it on a big stage this week to move on in the playoffs.
Next: 2. Ryan Lindley Will Throw At Least Two Touchdowns