5 Carolina Panthers losses that hurt the most in 2021

Carolina Panthers loss to Washington in Week 11

Cam Newton’s return to the Carolina Panthers felt magical.

There was an energy in the air that hadn’t surrounded the Panthers since Newton left. His enthusiasm and the excitement his play brought could be felt in the stadium and among the Carolina fanbase.

It was a week after Carolina’s upset win at the Arizona Cardinals that gave the team playoff life. Playing a beatable Washington Football Team with Newton back as the starter meant there was so much optimism.

Early on, the expectations grew larger thanks to Newton’s touchdown and celebration at the center of the field. The Auburn product was back in full force and the fans lapped it up.

Taylor Heinicke and Washington remained unimpressed, however, and kept his game close.

Late in the contest, Heinicke drove his team for the go-ahead score and set the stage for Newton to win the game.

Newton’s celebration wouldn’t age well with the drive that followed. The perfect storybook ending for his return was set up and the player couldn’t take advantage.

Unable to move the football or mount a game-winning drive, Newton struggled and lost in his return. It was a sad ending to what had been such a fun and exciting story.