Football

Cam Newton named NFL Offensive Player of the Week

One day after being injured in a crash near uptown, Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance in the win over the Saints Sunday.

Newton tied his career high with three touchdown passes, completing 21 of 33 passes in a 41-10 victory over their NFC South rivals.

Panthers GM 'thankful' Newton was wearing seatbelt

Newton also rushed for 83 yards and scored on a leaping touchdown run.

This marked the fourth time in his career that Newton has had at least 200 yards passing, multiple passing touchdowns and at least 80 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown in the same game.

This is the third time Newton has won the award, tying a franchise high with running back Stephen Davis.

Newton’s status for Sunday’s home game vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is in doubt after he suffered two transverse process fractures in his lower back in the crash Tuesday afternoon near uptown.

IMAGES: Scene of crash involving Cam Newton

Newton spent the night at Carolinas Medical Center for observation.

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