Three studs from win over Patriots

The backup quarterbacks

Yes, I know. The backup quarterbacks are two studs in this case rather than one. However, both Garrett Gilbert and Taylor Heinicke played well enough to earn the top spot on the list. If nothing else, they proved that the Carolina Panthers will be okay in the unfortunate event Newton goes down.

Gilbert went 5-for-9 on the evening, throwing for 46 yards and a touchdown. Heinicke went an impressive 5-for 6 on the evening also throwing for 46 yards. He has a one-yard rushing touchdown on a play where he completely evaded the defense.

Gilbert looked very confident throwing the football on Friday. It’s not as if he is a rookie. He’s been around the National Football League block. Even still, he made the most of his opportunity on Friday. Heinicke has a very strong arm. That much was evident on Friday. There were a couple of throws where he overshot his receiver but other than that, he looked solid as well. This was a great test for them to see where they were at and by all accounts, they are in a very good place right now.

Hopefully, they will be used sparingly during the regular season. Nevertheless, it is nice to know that they should be ready to go when called upon.