Washington Football Team quarterback Taylor Heinicke spoils former MVP Cam Newton’s homecoming. Out of the two quarterbacks, Heinicke is the less popular. However, he also made his return to North Carolina on Sunday. Heinicke went on to upstage the veteran Newton by throwing 206 yards and three touchdowns against the league’s top-ranked pass defense. The Washington Football Team went on to defeat the Carolina Panthers, 27-21.
Washington’s rising star receiver Terry McLaurin recorded five catches for 103 yards and a touchdown. The Football Team had 369 yards of total offense. Heinicke said winning in Carolina wasn’t a big deal for him since he was only there for one season. He mentioned that it was nice to secure the win with the last two kneel-downs.
As a result of the win, Washington’s team presented head coach Ron Rivera with the game ball. This game meant more to Rivera and Newton than anyone else in the ball game. Their ties with each other and the memories they share at that stadium are hard to recreate.
Rivera expressed satisfaction with how he felt during the game, mentioning that it was enjoyable. He also acknowledged the crowd’s support and mentioned that it would have been disappointing if the outcome had been different.
Cam Newton’s Season Debut as Starter
Newton is attempting to help steer the Panthers toward a playoff run in his first start. Newton provided several glimpses of hope and big moments; however, it wasn’t enough. He threw for 189 yards, two touchdowns, and rushed for a 24-yard touchdown as well.
Unfortunately, in the biggest moments of the game, Newton seemed to fold. The final two offensive possessions the Panthers received could have been potential game-winning drives. Instead, those two drives ended in turnovers.
“Cam did great,” Rhule praised. “Considering it’s only been a week, he performed well.”
“Making completions is crucial for any two-minute offense,” Newton explained. “It’s about paying attention to the small details like signals and such. I need to study the playbook and understand it better.”
