Β CHARLOTTE, NC — With Cam out, the Panthers will turn to a backup for Sunday’s game. Β Unlike Week 1 of the season, when Cam was recovering from fractured ribs, Ron Rivera did not wait until game day to announce his starting quarterback.
Cam Newton is out. Β Derek Anderson is in. Β D.A., as his teammates cal him, took reps with the first team Wednesday afternoon at practice, with Joe Webb as his back up. Β It’ll be Anderson’s second start of the season. Β He led the Cats to their Week 1 win over the Bucs–the same team he’ll face Sunday.
While he’s concerned about the health of his teammate, D.A. says he’ll be ready to go. Β “We’re all fired up about this weekend and the opportunity that we have. Β I think it’s going to take a city-wide effort to get the stadium rocking. Β Last week we played well, and looking to continue that,” he said.
“He’s a veteran quarterback,” said Head Coach Ron Rivera. Β “He’s been through this before. Β He understands. Β He’s had success as a quarterback in this league.”
“D.A. could play in a lot of cities. Β I’m sure a lot of teams right now would love to have D.A. in their locker room, and we appreciate him, everything he does on a weekly basis,” said fellow Panther Greg Olsen.
Of course, Greg Olsen and teammates also appreciate their franchise quarterback. Β As for Newton’s return, Rivera didn’t have a specific time table, calling it week to week.
