Panthers QB Newton confident, thriving in 5th season at helm

“In some way, shape or form we played this game numerous times in our head, watched countless film, made this adjustment and that adjustment so when you’re put in the fire you already have what you need to do what you do”.

In December 2014, in the midst of the National Football League season, Cam Newton was involved in a vehicle crash that left him with two fractures in his lower back.

Cotchery said he has no doubt Newton is ready for the pressure that is ahead in the NFC title game -and potentially the Super Bowl. The Panthers were able to finish the regular season with a 15-1 record led by a determined Cam Newton. Both quarterbacks just finished career years: Palmer posted career-bests in passing yards (4,671) and touchdowns (35) this season, while Newton also managed career-highs in touchdown passes (35) and passer rating (99.2).

“With those great quarterbacks you always get that sense that they’re in control”, wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery said.

Newton had already been named the Sporting News offensive player of the year, as well as a first-team all-pro.

“All I said was I’m focused on the playoffs”, Shula tells FOX Sports.

The Panthers will take on the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC championship game on Sunday at 6:40 p.m. on FOX8.

“When you see me play, you see a kid out there”.

The Carolina Panthers stars season can be hallmarked by the fourth quarter comeback against the Seattle Seahawks.

Newton’s insistence at maintaining his personality has let other players know it’s OK to be themselves, too.

Newton led the Panthers to the winning field goal that day last December against the Giants, calmly driving 49 yards in eight plays in 1:46 to set up Graham Gano’s 43-yard field goal as time expired. “We better go get the next guy.’ There might be a little bit of that”.

“Most certainly”, Cotchery said.