Carolina Panthers: Three studs from first win over Dallas Cowboys

CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 09: Devin Funchess #17 of the Carolina Panthers dives to catch an overthrown pass against the Dallas Cowboys during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 09: Devin Funchess #17 of the Carolina Panthers dives to catch an overthrown pass against the Dallas Cowboys during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 09: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers celebrates with fans after their win against the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Panthers won 16-8. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 09: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers celebrates with fans after their win against the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Panthers won 16-8. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Cam Newton

It was not pretty, but he got the job done. Cam Newton was not spectacular, but credit must be given where it is due. At the very least, he put on a good show for the fans and started the Carolina Panthers season off the right way.

Newton went 17-of-26 through the air, throwing for 161 yards.  He was the leading rusher for the Panthers too. He carried the rock 13 times for 58 yards and a touchdown. His offensive line did him no favors, as he was sacked three times for 15 yards. He threw the ball really well in several spots, getting the Carolina Panthers in the red zone on several occasions.  Other times however, it appeared as though he struggled, and as a result, the offense struggled too.

Even still, he did what he needed to do to get the win. It was not the prettiest effort but he took charge when he needed to and secured the victory. It will be interesting to see how he follows up this performance against Atlanta.