As the Carolina Panthers go through their bye week, it's safe to say that the team and its starting quarterback Cam Newton are having a rough time this season. Because of this, the team could make a drastic change this week by replacing Newton with backup QB Derek Anderson.
Ever since the 2016 NFL season started, the Panthers were only able to secure one win, and that was against the equally troubled San Francisco 49ers. Before the bye week, the team was looking at four consecutive losses.
Of course, following the break from the games, the Panthers are looking to improve their record by beating the Arizona Cardinals at Week 8. However, it seems the team is planning on doing this with Newton on the bench.
As most NFL fans know, Newton doesn't accept defeat well. This was highlighted when the Panthers lost to the Denver Broncos during the Super Bowl in February. During the postseason press conference, Newton sulked in front of reporters as he quietly answered their questions.
This was the same situation during the postgame session when the New Orleans Saints defeated the Panthers at Week 6. Like in the Super Bowl interview, Newton muttered his answers and eventually walked out on the reporters.
This type of behavior, and his overall performance, are starting to become issues for Carolina's front office. Since Newton is considered as the face of the Panthers, his constant sulking is sending a bad message for the entire character of the team.
This could be the main factor that might force the Panthers to make a drastic change to its current roster. The team could ultimately demote Newton to the No. 2 spot and replace him with Anderson.
If the Panthers play around with this idea, they might be able to improve the team's record this season. After all, Anderson is already a veteran QB who had already been with various teams such as the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns and Arizona Cardinals.
Given the way Newton is playing and acting, the Panthers have nothing to lose at this point, which is why it would be good for them to test the notion of promoting Anderson as the team's starter.
