Quarterbacks Cam Newton and Andrew Luck have indirectly competed against each other since both were finalists for the Heisman Trophy following the 2010 season.
Newton said that competition – even as indirect as it has been - has helped make him the quarterback he is today.
"I'm a fan of the game and a student of the game, and I really appreciate people who are great at what they do," said Newton, who will directly compete against Luck for the first time when the Panthers welcome the Indianapolis Colts for Monday Night Football. "Andrew is one of those guys that makes me be at my best.