5 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers vs. Falcons in Week 14

Cam Newton scores 5 combined TDs for the Carolina Panthers

After a blazing start back with the Carolina Panthers, things turned sour in the worst possible way for Cam Newton during the team’s disastrous loss at the Miami Dolphins before the bye.

This was a rude awakening in terms of how much work is ahead of the quarterback, who came in very late in the day and hasn’t had much time to familiarize himself with a scheme that might be altering slightly after Joe Brady was fired as offensive coordinator.

Newton’s had some time for study and reflection over the last two weeks. Although the former NFL MVP and Heisman Trophy winner will be without Christian McCaffrey alongside him in the backfield, there is still plenty of talent at the signal-caller’s disposal moving forward.

Much will depend on whether the offensive line can provide Newton with more than the 2.1 seconds he’s been afforded on average when dropping back thus far. But if they can hold the Atlanta Falcons defensive line in check, there should be a few opportunities in the passing game and carrying the football.

The next five games will be crucial for Newton and his long-term future with the organization.

Keeping him around would be the simplest option. But the player has to prove worthy of an extension, and producing the goods when it matters is the only way to achieve this.

Newton is a man for the big occasion. So expect the No. 1 overall selection in 2011 to bounce back in the best possible way in front of his adoring fans this weekend.