5 major observations from Cam Newton’s performance at the Dolphins

Cam Newton benched, but the problems run deeper

The Carolina Panthers made a move to bench Cam Newton in the fourth quarter. Perhaps head coach Matt Rhule wanted a spark from P.J. Walker, or it might have had something to do with the staff knowing this game was beyond them.

However, Walker was sacked twice and picked once on his first series. A microcosm of how things transpired on another dismal afternoon for Carolina that’s ended any slim hopes they had of reaching the postseason.

There is much work to do. But the problems are far bigger than Newton, Walker, or whoever is under center.

Newton finished the game with a 23.8 percent completion success rate for 92 passing yards, two interceptions, one rushing touchdown, and a passer rating of just 5.8, according to ESPN.

The honeymoon period is now over for Newton. What comes next is of critical importance.

This was a bold move by the organization to bring him back. Even though it did have something of a desperate feel to it despite the romance.

Newton is an upgrade and has the talent. But unless other elements improve then no quarterback walking the earth is going to make a go of things in Carolina.

It’s a sloppy operation. And some big changes could be on the way sooner rather than later.