Fearless Forecast
-
Bucky BrooksCam Newton is not only the NFL’s most exciting playmaker, he is the leader of the league’s most explosive offense. With a full offseason to master the nuances of playing quarterback at the NFL level, it is scary to imagine how good he will be in his second season as the Panthers' starter.
Prediction: 9-7, second in NFC South -
Daniel JeremiahI don’t anticipate a sophomore slump from Cam Newton. In fact, I think he’ll be even better in 2012. If the young players on the defensive line can develop, this is a playoff-caliber team.
Prediction: 8-8, third in NFC South -
Adam ScheinI'm guessing this wasn't what Ryan Kalil had in mind when he predicted a Super Bowl. They are thin at receiver and on defense.
Prediction: 5-11, fourth in NFC South -
Steve WycheCam Newton and this offense could end up dominating the NFL and the Panthers could be the surprise team of the NFL. That means getting through New Orleans and Atlanta.
Prediction: 8-8, third in NFC South
Their offense is already explosive, which means all that’s keeping the Panthers from diving into the race to the playoffs is their ability to stop people. With defensive-minded coach Ron Rivera, that might return, and Beason figures to help. After missing all but one game last season with an achilles ailment, the tone-setting Beason battled a hamstring injury in camp. If the hard-hitting, defensive sparkplug in the middle is healthy, they could be as balanced as they’ve been in years.
