Cam Newton is going to be a fantasy stud in 2018

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 24: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers reacts after scoring the game winning touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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ORCHARD PARK, NY – AUGUST 09: C.J. Anderson #20 of the Carolina Panthers carries the ball during the third quarter against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on August 9, 2018 in Orchard Park, New York. Carolina defeats Buffalo in the preseason game 28-23. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

The Panthers had a bit of a problem moving the ball in the rushing game last season. Although Christian McCaffrey showed improvement throughout the course of the season, the rushing game struggled. This led to a lot reliance on the passing game and likely aided in Newton’s low pass completion percentage. Newton was also forced to carry the ball more than one would like to see in an NFL offense.

This season, the Carolina Panthers added C.J. Anderson to the offense. This addition should not be overlooked. Anderson brings the ability to get tough yards and fight through contact, which was definitely missing last season. With the one-two punch of McCaffrey and Anderson, the rushing game will be greatly improved. Newton has also shown great faith in McCaffrey’s pass catching ability, which makes the combination even more lethal. The addition of Anderson should not be overlooked.

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An improved rushing attack will help Newton in the passing game, as defenses will be forced to respect the offense in its entirety. Last season, many defenses played the Panthers in sub-packages because of the lack of fear of the rushing attack. This season, opposing defenses will be forced to game plan against an effective rushing game. The Panthers offense will be difficult to stop.

With a completely revamped offense, Newton will put up even more fantasy football points than usual. While it seems unlikely that he will be forced to run the football as much, he will have fewer interceptions and more touchdowns than last season, which will make up for the loss of fantasy points. The Panthers are a dangerous team and could make a deep run this season.

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