After a breakout rookie season, Cam Newton has struggled to find consistency over the past two seasons.
After a 1-3 start to the season, it didn’t appear as though much had changed for the Panthers’ offense with Newton at the helm. However, after two victories and two strong outings from Netwon, there is optimism that Newton may have finally turned the corner.
Newton completed 35 of 43 passes for 446 yards over the past two weeks with four touchdowns and no interception in victories over the Minnesota Vikings and St. Louis Rams.
Receiver Steve Smith says Newton has taken a step forward with his understanding of the game.
“He’s gone from playing checkers to playing chess,” Smith said, via Rich Hollenberg of the NFL Network.
Smith has been one of the beneficiaries of Newton’s performances. He’s caught 10 passes for 90 yards over the past two weeks and caught a touchdown pass in each game.
Newton has always has the physical tools to be a star at the quarterback position. He’s completed 81-percent of his passes over the last two games and carried 19 times for 56 yards and a touchdown as well. If he can continue to make strides with the mental aspect of the game, the Panthers may be able to find themselves playing in January.