5 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers at Saints in Week 17

Cam Newton – Carolina Panthers QB

• Leads the team in rushing yards

There was a time when this wouldn’t be such a bold prediction. But the Carolina Panthers decided to bench Cam Newton in favor of reclamation project Sam Darnold at the New Orleans Saints.

Newton hasn’t done enough to remove Darnold from the equation since replacing the USC product under center. It wasn’t the easiest of situations to be walking into, with his undeniable love for the organization perhaps clouding just how difficult this was going to be.

For all Newton’s struggles in the passing game, the former Auburn sensation remains a substantial threat running the football. Based on this, it wouldn’t be the biggest shock in the world to see the Panthers deploy him in short-yardage situations and this is where the quarterback has been most successful since his bombshell return.

This would keep Newton involved, at the very least. With Chuba Hubbard and Ameer Abdullah failing to generate anything meaningful in recent weeks, getting No. 1 out on the field should be considered early and often.

The Saints know exactly what Newton can do. He’s punished them heavily over the years and although their defense remains a strong point, having the 2015 NFL MVP on the field still commands most, if not all, their attention.

Whether this comes off or not is up for debate. Rhule won’t want Darnold to become uncomfortable, after all.