Panthers’ Newton took some hard hits Sunday

“Ouch!” Cam Newton of the Carolina Panthers words on Sunday

Cam Newton led the Carolina Panthers into New Orleans on Sunday to face the Saints with an undefeated record for the regular season.

Drew Brees of the Saints had every idea to end the undefeated streak, as did the rest of the Saints.

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It was almost as if the Saints had put a bounty out on the Panthers and Cam’s head that they would do anything they could to stop the Panthers from leaving New Orleans, 12-0.

Well, the Saints were unsuccessful, as the Panthers won, 41-38, and are now 12-0.  In the process, the Panthers also clinched the NFC South division when the Atlanta Falcons lost earlier in the day to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Although the Panthers won, the Saints seemed to have the goal of taking Cam Newton out of the game.

Boy did Newton say “Ouch” several times.

Although only sacked one time, the one sack was one time when every fan held their breath until Cam got up.  As Cam was brought down from behind, his entire lower body folded underneath him.

Dec 6, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) is sacked by New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Kevin Williams (93) in the fourth quarter at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Panthers won 41-38. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports

Plus, it looked as if Cam had both feet and ankles twisted.  As Cam got up, the pain grimaced on his face and the next play it appeared as if he was favoring his ankles.  That would be the last thing the Panthers needed – Cam hurt.

The other time, Cam was rolling out and decided to run.  As he was running downfield, he started to go out of bounds and slowed down.  Well, out of nowhere, Michael Mauti, a linebacker for the Saints, hit Cam with a helmet to helmet.

No call was made for a penalty.  But, it appeared Cam could have a concussion.  However, he stayed in the game and the Panthers scored a touchdown.

What is crazy about this, is that now, Ron Rivera is being criticized for Cam being in the game – another sign of no respect.  Rivera’s answer

“Don’t question my integrity when it comes to those things, OK? Understand that.”

Nice job Ron!