Cam Newton is expected to play Week 2 when the Carolina Panthers play the Detroit Lions, head coach Ron Rivera confirmed following Sunday's game. Newton was held out during Sunday's win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a hairline fracture in his ribs that he suffered in preseason.
Cam Newton expected to play Week 2, says Ron Rivera
Cam Newton’s absence shouldn’t last too long. Panthers head coach Ron Rivera expects the quarterback to return against the Lions next week.
David Manning-USA TODAY Sports
Apparently, Newton felt he could have suited up against Tampa Bay:
Cam tried to talk Rivera out of sitting him last night
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) September 7, 2014 The Panthers were able to gloss over Newton’s absence with a fine performance from veteran Derek Anderson. He went 24-for-34 passing for 230 yards and two touchdowns, with no turnovers against a stout Bucs defense. Carolina should be happy to have its young superstar back, however. The Panthers may need to match a potent Lions offense point for point, making Newton an especially important asset.
Newton’s missed game Sunday was the first of his career. Heading into Week 1, he had started 49 straight games, including a playoff appearance last season. Last season, he threw for a career high 24 touchdown passes, with 13 interceptions. He accounted for 3,964 total yards, including 585 yards on the ground.
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