The Carolina Panthers took the first step toward their fifth playoff appearance in six years Sunday with a 16-8 victory over the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium.
It was the season opener for the two NFC hopefuls, and Cam Newton (17-of-26, 161 yards, 58 rushing yards, 1 TD) outplayed Dak Prescott (19-of-29, 170 yards, 0 TDs) throughout the game.
Dallas had an opportunity in the final two minutes, but Mario Addison sacked Prescott and forced a fumble, which Carolina recovered to clinch the win.
Cam Newton's Legs Are Panthers' Best Hope at Super Bowl Run
Running with the quarterback is always a dangerous proposition because of the risk of injury, but Newton's ability to do so represents Carolina's best chance to build on last year's playoff appearance and challenge for the Super Bowl.