Cam Newton benched by Carolina Panthers after poor play vs Dolphins
The Panthers benched quarterback Cam Newton following multiple first-half interceptions against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium. Backup quarterback P.J. Walker relieved Newton in the fourth quarter in hopes of providing a spark to a struggling offense, which trailed 30-10.
Things started well for Newton and the Panthers. Receiver D.J. Moore caught a 64-yard deep ball from Newton, who tied the game with a 1-yard rushing touchdown three plays later. But Carolina’s offense disappeared after that.
The Panthers totaled just 32 yards on four drives in the first half after their first-quarter touchdown. Two of those possessions ended with Newton interceptions. The first went to Dolphins safety Jevon Holland on a pass intended for Robby Anderson. On the next possession from the Panthers’ 13 yard line, cornerback Xavien Howard picked off Newton when he targeted Moore across the middle.
Miami scored three plays later to go up two scores. The Panthers’ offense went three-and-out three times in the first half and had a punt blocked in addition to Newton’s two interceptions.
Newton was 5-of-21 passing for 92 yards when he was benched and did not return.
The Panthers lost, 33-10. They’ve lost both games Newton has started.
This story was originally published November 28, 2021 at 3:35 PM.
