Lunchtime Links: What National Media is Saying About the Panthers

Cam Newton might be the most photogenic athlete in the world

"It’s a thing I’ve noticed over the course of the year: I look forward to writing Cam Newton blogs because it’s a blast going through the photo wires." -- Barry Petchesky, Deadspin

Who leads the Cam Newton vs. Tom Brady MVP race?

"There are more similarities between the 38-year-old Brady and the 26-year-old Newton than you might think." -- Bill Barnwell, ESPN

Cam Newton rises to MVP favorite with thrashing of Washington

"As Newton's numbers continue to improve, even the most ardent statheads won't be able to deny he's the beating heart of the undefeated Panthers (10-0)—and even the most pious, pearl-clutching poindexters will have to concede Newton's fun-loving approach to the game is an asset, not a sin." -- Ty Schalter, Bleacher Report

Devin Funchess catching on just in time for the Panthers

"Every week he’s doing something big," cornerback Josh Norman said. "I don’t know where his climax is; he might not even climax. He might not even max out, but I know he’s striving for greatness, and if you can see that man, his confidence, it's something." -- Steve Petrella, Sporting News

Mike Shula, Coach of the Week

"No one—not Don Shula, not David Shula—expected the Panthers to be averaging 29.9 points per game at the 10-game mark of the season." -- Peter King, MMQB

Panthers bucking the narrative

"I've been pointing out they are a methodical, run-heavy offense predicated on efficiency in the red zone and with no designs on chucking the ball all over the field. Except that's only half right, because the Panthers are one of the most dangerous offensive teams in the league." -- Will Brinson, CBS Sports

The NFL should be terrified of the Panthers

"While the Panthers have looked like legitimate Super Bowl contenders for some time now, their hot start no longer a fluke, they're quickly becoming the team nobody will want to see in January (or February)." -- Scott Davis, Business Insider

Wasington-Carolina grades

"Cam Newton (+2.5) was clinical when not facing pressure, obtaining a 72 percent completion rate and a +3.5 grade. However, when Washington was able to get to Newton, the Panthers’ passing game struggled. He only completed 33 percent of his passes for 6 yards when pressured." -- Michael Mountford, Pro Football Focus

Washington-Carolina grades

"Cam Newton (+2.5) was clinical when not facing pressure, obtaining a 72 percent completion rate and a +3.5 grade. However, when Washington was able to get to Newton, the Panthers’ passing game struggled. He only completed 33 percent of his passes for 6 yards when pressured." -- Michael Mountford, Pro Football Focus