The Carolina Panthers can clinch the NFC South with a win over the Atlanta Falcons plus a Saints loss Sunday, but they will need a better performance from quarterback Cam Newton in Week 17. Newton had a terrible game versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 16, completing 16 passes on 25 attempts for 160 yards and an interception with 14 carries for 52 yards in the Panthers’ win. He salvaged the day with a rushing touchdown to end the game. Newton has been held below 200 yards passing in six of the last eight games, but he does have a touchdown in eight straight games.
Fantasy football Week 16: Start or sit Cam Newton?
Newton looks to rebound against the Falcons with a chance to clinch the division. We break down the fantasy impact.
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The Falcons should not be a difficult matchup for Newton Sunday. He struggled to pass against Atlanta in Week 9, but he rushed for 86 yards and a touchdown in the contest. The Falcons have contained QBs this season. They give up a lot of touchdowns and cause very few turnovers, however. They also struggle against mobile quarterbacks, giving up the third-most rushing yards to QBs this season.
Fantasy impact: Newton has not been a great passer this season. He only has seven games with more than 200 yards passing this season, but he is still dangerous because of his abilities on the ground. He has 11 or more carries and at least 52 yards rushing in the last three games. Since so much is riding on this game, Newton will find a way to make something happen with either his arm or his legs. The Falcons will not be able to contain him in both categories. Newton should be in your lineup for the final game of the season.
