Come Monday, Superman will be on the sidelines.
The Panthers have ruled out quarterback Cam Newton for Monday night's game against the Buccaneers.
Newton didn't practice all week after suffering a concussion in Carolina's Week 4 loss. He has remained in concussion protocol since then.
Derek Anderson will take over the offense in Newton's absence. Anderson has a nice history against Tampa Bay; he defeated the Bucs twice in 2014 while filling in for an injured Cam.
The Panthers will also be without left tackle Michael Oher (concussion), running back Jonathan Stewart (hamstring), defensive tackle Vernon Butler (ankle) and cornerbackJames Bradberry (foot). Linebacker Thomas Davis (hamstring), defensive end Charles Johnson (quad) and fullback Mike Tolbert (hamstring) are listed as questionable, though coach Ron Rivera "feels good" about their chances of playing.
Across the field, the Buccaneers will likely be without their top two running backs and much of their defensive line.
Doug Martin (hamstring), Charles Sims (knee), Robert Ayers (ankle), Gerald McCoy (calf) and Clinton McDonald (hamstring) are all listed as doubtful. Tight end Luke Stocker (ankle) is also doubtful, while wide receiver Cecil Shorts (hamstring) has been ruled out.
Among the Bucs listed as questionable are cornerback Brent Grimes (hamstring), tight end Brandon Myers (hip), center Evan Smith (back) and defensive end Noah Spence (shoulder). Spence was limited Saturday after sitting out a week of practice.
Martin and Sims' likely absences will prove a big opportunity for backup running back Jacquizz Rodgers, who has averaged 5.3 yards per carry this season.
