The Patriots signed quarterback Cam Newton on Sunday, setting up a Week 13 matchup against the Chargers.
While Newton will have to fend off Jarrett Stidham for the starting job, it’s more than likely that he will be the starter that late in the season, especially if New England is in playoff contention.
In our game-by-game predictions, we pegged Los Angeles to come out victorious in their bout against the Patriots. But it will now be a tougher task with Newton under center.
The Bolts have faced Newton twice, and they dropped both of those contests.
In 2012, which was Newton’s second season in the NFL, he led the Panthers to a 31-7 victory. He threw for 19-of-33 passing and two touchdowns.
Four seasons later, Carolina won the game by the score of 26-18. But he didn’t have as much individual success as he only managed 10-of-27 passing for a touchdown and interception, as well as 37 yards on eight carries.
Much of Newton’s success in 2020 will depend on his health. While he’s been the MVP of the league and has won a Super Bowl, Newton was hampered by a foot injury that kept him off the field last season.
The former Auburn product will also be facing the most superior Chargers defense that he has come across yet.