Panthers QB Cam Newton

On proving to critics he’s more than just an athletic QB

“I’ve said since Day One I don’t really care what people think as long as I have the trust of this organization. More importantly, the trust of the guys out there on the field with me. I’ve always labeled myself as a pocket passer with the ability to run.”

On the offense scoring 44 points

“I think one thing we did great today was battling adversity, especially after penalties. We got a sack early on. We still got a first down – found a way with a big completion to Jerricho (Cotchery). We had a hold and right after one penalty found a way to execute after that. We’re going to need those types of great efforts moving forward and that’s going to be hidden in statistics, but yet always good ingredients for good teams and great success.”

On the emergence of Funchess

“I kind of took him under my wing talking to him and giving him that big brother guidance. Sometimes it’s going to be good – sugar to the soul – sometimes it’s going to be something he doesn’t want to hear, but he has to hear. He’s growing up to be the player we all want him to be.”