Newton and Panthers offense trending in the right direction.

By: Adam Hothersall

In the first three weeks of the 2017 season Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers offense continued
their struggles stemming back to a 6-10 record a year ago. But the last two games, this unit has figured
something out.

The fuel to the operation is run through seventh-year quarterback and 2015 MVP Newton, who is
coming off shoulder surgery in late March. The surgery caused a set-back in his reps during training
camp, but his rhythm seems to be coming back after two 300-yard games against New England and
Detroit.

The back-to-back 300-yard games is the first time Newton has accomplished this feat since the first two
games of his career in 2011.

Every game this season Newton has improved his completion percentage. The last two weeks the mark
has been at 75.9 and 78.8 respectively with four touchdowns and one interception.

The drastic improvements can be credited to extended snaps in practice along with a new confidence in
the offensive line. The O-Line has given Newton time to let plays develop which has limited mistakes and
given his receivers time to gain separation.

The passing success for Carolina recently has not been backed up as an abysmal running game has been
present. All-time Panthers rushing leader Jonathon Stewart is only producing 3.3 yard per carry this
year, but despite this the team still leads in time of possession by six minutes per game.
The running game has received a jolt from Newton however, who has carried the ball seven and eight
times the last two weeks, both season highs. Despite only 44 total rushing yards in those games the
defense has been forced to respect his legs again, especially on third down and goal line situations.

When Newton uses his legs as part of his game it brings a whole new dimension to the offense.
Defenses can only account for so much and a running quarterback isnt a threat every week. Its hard to
game plan for this type of athlete when hes healthy.

Newtons top target and tight end Greg Olsen broke his foot in week 2 against Buffalo but two guys
particularly have stepped up in Ed Dickson and Devin Funchess.

Dickson the No.2 tight end and starting fullback has really shined in his opportunity as Newtons threat
over the middle of the field. Dickson, 30, is known more for his blocking, but after a career-high 175
yards on five receptions last week, he has changed the outlook of the Panther offense without Olsen.

Funchess in his third season out of Michigan has possibility made more strides than anyone on the team
from a year ago. The receiver at his 6-foot 4-inch frame has showed up in the best shape of his NFL
career, and the results have shown it.

In 15 games last year Funchess had 23 receptions. This season in just five games Funchess has 24
receptions while averaging 11.2 yards per catch. His expanded role and improved route running has him
turning into the No.1 outside threat for the Panthers offense.

Next to Newton in the backfield most of the time in running scenarios is Stewart, but rookie Christian
McCaffrey may be the most important offensive player on the team other than Newton.

The first-round pick out of Stanford has really showed his versatility and importance to Carolina in just
five weeks leading the team in receptions with 27. Although he is getting plenty of touches, his most
important quality may be his use as a decoy.

The speed and playmaking ability of the multi-talented McCaffrey is a defenses worst nightmare. No
matter where he is lined up, he will garner attention from the opposing defense which opens
opportunities for his teammates to make plays. You watch the tape, this is happening every game.

The last two weeks Carolina has played the 32nd and 18th ranked defenses, thats understood but strides
and playmakers are emerging on this offense. Newton is getting healthier every week and the
continued upward trend is something to be excited about.

There have been 145 teams in NFL history to start 4-1, 111 of these teams have made the playoffs.
Carolina hopes to keep the new-look offense rolling tonight against the Philadelphia Eagles in route to
becoming No.112.