The Carolina Panthers came up on the short end of the stick Sunday afternoon as they lost 24-21 to the Minnesota Vikings. A highly questionable holding call and a missed field goal did in a Panthers squad that has shown a ton of line but has been unable to close the deal much of this season. Amidst all the losses, we still get exciting football from Cam Newton.
It is really no longer shocking to see Cam Newton play quality football, but he has become arguably the most exciting quarterback in the NFL this season. He has stiff competition for that title, but his combination of size, speed and general QB skills has been spectacular.
In losing to the Vikings, Newton completed 22 of 35 passes for 290 yards with a career high three touchdowns. And of course, Newton added in 53 rushing yards just for good measure. I'd say when will we see him line up at receiver, but the Panthers are smart enough to keep the ball in his hands as frequently as possible.
Newton is struggling a bit with interceptions as he has thrown nine to date, but these things happen with rookie quarterbacks. For fantasy purposes, his rushing skills are able to at least cancel out the interceptions. Additionally, six of those interceptions came in two games, so it is not exactly a prolific problem.
Unfortunately for Cam Newton fantasy football owners, the Carolina Panthers are on a bye in week nine. Newton has become a must-start quarterback, so teams will have to find an alternative. Of course, most teams that drafted Newton or grabbed him off waivers likely have a decent backup option already. If not, begin perusing the waiver wire.
For more on the Panthers, check out Cat Scratch Reader. For more on fantasy football, check out Fake Teams. Follow @sbnationfantasy on Twitter.


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