Cam Newton Had One of the Best First Games EVER In NFL History

Published on August 29th, 2024 4:04 pm EST
Written By: Dave Manuel


Did Cam Newton have the best first game in the history of the NFL? It's certainly up for debate - Anquan Boldin, Kareem Hunt and Ottis Anderson all had some great first games as well, just to name a few.

Cam Newton, however, had, by far, the most hype for his first game in the NFL, and "Killa Cam" certainly didn't disappoint.

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The Carolina Panthers were looking for a transformational player when they selected Cam Newton first overall in the 2011 NFL Draft, and Newton certainly didn't disappoint.

In fact, Newton would win MVP in 2015, as well as Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2011.

If Newton's career hadn't been derailed by injuries, he almost certainly would have gone down as one of the most dominant quarterbacks in the history of the game.

Newton was practically unstoppable at his peak, taking over games with his arm and his legs.

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On September 11th, 2011, Cam Newton made his hotly anticipated debut with Carolina, in an away game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Newton dazzled early, connecting with Steve Smith Sr. on a 77-yard touchdown reception.

As the seconds ticked down in the first half, Newton and Smith connected on another touchdown pass, this time for 26 yards.

Halfway through the third quarter, Newton flashed another weapon, when he rushed for a 1 yard touchdown to make it 21-14 for the Panthers.

The Panthers would end up losing the game 28-21, but Newton would far outperform expectations.

Newton would complete 24 of 37 passes for 422 yards. Newton would throw 2 touchdown passes and just 1 interception, while rushing for 18 yards and a touchdown.

The next week, Newton would throw for 400+ yards for the second game in a row, cementing his status as one of the game's top young stars.

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Cam wrecked his shoulder and never recovered, though those who saw Cam Newton play in his prime know how unstoppable he was.