When the Panthers came out for their opening series against the Seahawks, Derek Anderson was the quarterback, not Cam Newton.
More than a few people were confused when Carolina came out for their first possession and the quarterback was wearing No. 3, not No. 1. Anderson drew the start because Newton was apparently benched for disciplinary reasons by head coach Ron Rivera.
According to Panthers radio, Cam Newton will not be starting tonight due to disciplinary reasons. Must have happened pre-game.
— Adam Johnson™ (@TigerPanthrHeat) December 5, 2016
According to the Panthers media relations staff Cam Newton is healthy, just Coach Rivera's decision to have Derek Anderson start at QB
— Omar Ruiz (@OmarDRuiz) December 5, 2016
It’s worth noting, Newton was seen prior to the game speaking with the offensive line and running backs before leading them out onto the field.
Cam Newton giving his pregame speech before leading QBs, OL and RBs onto the field. pic.twitter.com/7vK2faoCPk
— Omar Ruiz (@OmarDRuiz) December 5, 2016
Unfortunately for the Panthers, their first drive did not start out well in Newton’s absence. Anderson was intercepted on the first play from scrimmage.
With Derek Anderson at starting QB for Carolina…
The @Seahawks intercept him on the FIRST PLAY. ? #CARvsSEA https://t.co/pNKQ7253lJ
— NFL (@NFL) December 5, 2016
It will be interesting to see what elaboration Rivera gives for Newton’s benching, if he provides any at all.
