4 key observations from Cam Newton’s return at the Cardinals in Week 10

What were some key observations from Cam Newton’s first game back with the Carolina Panthers at the Arizona Cardinals in Week 10?

After the most dramatic of weeks for the Carolina Panthers, it was finally time to focus on improving their fortunes on the field. A stern test undoubtedly awaited them at the Arizona Cardinals in Week 10, but the whole organization had a new lease of life coming into the contest thanks to the midweek acquisition of quarterback Cam Newton.

Newton‘s incredible homecoming was the lift everyone associated with the Panthers needed. Carolina activated the former NFL MVP for his second debut against Arizona after deciding to make his triumphant return – the place where it all began for the signal-caller.

Carolina got another major boost before the game with the news both Kyler Murray and DeAndre Hopkins were missing due to injury. Newton and the Panthers took full advantage to hand the Cardinals only their second defeat of the 2021 season in fine fashion.

With this in mind, here are four key observations from Newton’s first game back since his landmark return.

Observation No. 1

Cam Newton changed the energy

You could visibly see it before the game.

Cam Newton has changed the energy within the Carolina Panthers.

Players were smiling in pre-game warmups. Relaxed. Enjoying themselves while remaining focused on the task at hand.

A stark contrast from what we’ve seen in recent weeks.

Newton has altered the energy, as we knew he would. And thankfully, this also made a transition to the gridiron when it mattered.

A dream start for Cam Newton

No Hollywood movie could have scripted it better.

Cam Newton marked his return to the field in the only way possible. His first snap resulted in yet another rushing touchdown for the former first-round pick, which was followed by loud shouts of “I’m back” and his customary giving the football to a fan in the stands that obviously resulted in a penalty.

But at this point, not many people are complaining about that.

If that wasn’t enough, on the very next drive it was Newton again who made a difference. On another goal-to-go situation, the signal-caller unleashed a dart to Robby Anderson to make it two touchdowns in as many plays to begin his second stint with the Carolina Panthers.

This was nothing short of remarkable.

And every single fan, player, and coaching staff member was feeding off Carolina’s newfound vibe.

The Arizona Cardinals knew what was coming early on when Newton was in the game. They just couldn’t do anything about it.

After so long off the field, just how Newton would settle back in – albeit in a limited role initially – was the main factor to keep an eye on regarding his overall production. As it turned out, it was like the Auburn product had never been away.

Carolina Panthers kept it basic with Cam Newton

Considering that Cam Newton’s first practice was a walk-through on Friday, it wouldn’t have been a surprise to see him inactive. But that is not in his character and it’s evident he wanted to make some sort of contribution right away.

In that sense, it was mission accomplished.

The Carolina Panthers clearly kept things pretty basic for Newton, who hasn’t had any time to grasp the playbook and get familiar with offensive coordinator Joe Brady’s scheme, which was flawless in Week 10 all things considered.

Newton made a huge impact when called upon. And his influence should only grow moving forward once he gets fully acclimatized to the way things work and from a starting position.

The Panthers kept his work to short-yardage and goal-line situations, which was the right call considering his preparation time and the fact he hadn’t played a competitive down all season. There was a nice run/pass option in the third quarter and Newton also got the chance to air one out to D.J. Moore, which was slightly underthrown.

In terms of Newton’s overall contribution, it was far better than anybody envisaged. A testament to how professional the player’s mindset is and how teammates rallied around their signal-caller whenever he was on the field.

It’s perhaps harsh to bench Walker after an encouraging performance. But the Panthers didn’t bring Newton back for him to sit on the sidelines.

Cam Newton was a breath of fresh air

It was just a cameo appearance. But the return of Cam Newton was a breath of fresh air.

After weeks of mundane, mediocre, uninspiring football, the Carolina Panthers are back.

This was the blueprint Matt Rhule and his coaching staff should follow when Newton assumes command under center in Week 11 against the Washington Football Team. Although backup P.J. Walker can look back on his performance with an enormous sense of pride with so much going on around him.

There was a real sense of belief within the players. Although there were many who made their presence felt, it’s hard to look at Newton’s arrival and not think it had a significant part to play in their shock victory on the road.

As Newton stated during his presser on Friday, this isn’t just a feel-good, Cinderella story. He’s come back to win and judging by what we saw at the Arizona Cardinals, there could be life in Carolina’s bid to secure a surprise wildcard spot when it’s all said and done.

The whole thing still feels very surreal. Just one week ago morale had never been lower after a pathetic display against the New England Patriots and Newton was sitting on his couch wondering when and where a new opportunity would come.

Fast forward seven days and the whole dynamic has changed. Newton has become the beacon of hope once again and someone everyone is feeding off.

Who would’ve thought it?