Cam Newton - We "need this more than anything"

Photo Courtesy of Bleacher Report

If Cam Newton is to be believed, the Carolina Panthers understand that the game tonight means a lot for their franchise. The Panthers have not won a playoff game since 2005 and are looking to get back to the postseason. Cam Newton wants to see that change, though, and knows that this game could change that.

“Everyone has been (hoping) for a magical season,” Newton said. “No one wants to be affiliated with mediocrity, or something that's just bland, so to speak. For the past couple of years, we know it, the Carolina Panthers haven't been the hot topic or the hot thing in the league.”

Make no mistake - the Carolina Panthers still have their hands full, even after the game tonight. They still have most of their division games to play, including 2 against the Saints and they still have to play Atlanta in Atlanta. But this game could be one of the most important they play, because they have a chance they prove that they are legit.

But, they can't get ahead of themselves. They still have to play New England tonight. And that means going up against one of the greatest coach/quarterback combinations in the history of the game, not to mention the Patriots are really good off of bye weeks under Bill Belichick. So, it is not easy for Carolina - and I'm sure they're well aware. I like the Patriots to win, but I fully expect a defensive slugfest, like the Carolina-San Francisco game last week. I never bet against Tom Brady and Bill Belichick, though, regardless of how hot the other team is.

Source: Citizen Times

Twitter - @ConorJF1016