2.) Beastly Beasley

 

Next up for Newton and the Panthers is Saturday’s rematch with Atlanta, featuring the NFL’s leading sacker.

In just his second season, outside linebacker Vic Beasley has exploded for 14.5 sacks, 3.0 more than Seattle defensive end Cliff Avril, who’s sitting second in the rankings.

The Panthers kept Beasley away from Newton in Week 4, but a year ago, Beasley’s strip-sack officially ended Carolina’s hopes of a perfect season.

 

 

When asked on a conference call if he’ll change his approach because of all the attention Newton’s no-calls have received, Beasley gave a roundabout answer.

“You just have to be disciplined going against a player like Cam,” Beasley said. “He’s a guy that’s asking for calls now, so you’ve got to be disciplined. Know when to hit his torso and know when to tackle low. That’s why I merely just go for the ball when tackling a guy like him because he’s such a big target.”

Sure, Newton’s “asking for calls,” but does he deserve them?

“That’s not my position to make those calls,” Beasley said. “I leave that to the refs. I know that’s a tough job for them, so I just leave that to them.”