Cam Newton scores in return, Panthers defeat Arizona 34-10

GLENDALE, Ariz. — An aura of excitement was in Glendale on Sunday, Nov. 14, for the Carolina Panthers. 

Cam Newton accounted for two touchdowns in his return and the Panthers (5-5) were able to hold down the fort on defense in a 34-10 win against the Arizona Cardinals (8-2).

Newton, who signed with the team on Thursday, Nov. 11, scored the first touchdown of the game after linebacker Hassan Riddick caused a turnover.

RELATED: Panthers to face Cardinals without Darnold: Will Cam Newton play?

RELATED: Cam Newton expected to be available for Panthers vs Cardinals

After the Panthers stopped the Cardinals on their second offensive drive, Newton was able to connect with Robby Anderson in the end zone to give Carolina a 14-0 lead with 8:39 to go in the first quarter. 

RELATED: Report: Panthers owner denied Stephon Gilmore's request for Cam Newton's old number

The Panthers defense was clicking in the early part of the game. On the Cardinals third offensive series, cornerback Donte Jackson picked off Colt McCoy.

P.J. Walker got the start behind center for the Panthers with Newton coming into the game in different packages. 

Christian McCaffrey also played a key role for Carolina's offense. The running back had 13 carries for 95 yards and led the team in receiving with 10 catches for 66 yards.

RELATED: 'This is definitely going to provide a great spark' | Charlotte businesses prepare for game day crowds with Cam Newton's return

The Panthers were able to cap off the first quarter with a 17-0 lead with a 44-yard field goal from Zane Gonzalez. 

The Panthers were able to take a 23-0 lead into halftime against the Cardinals.

After a Cardinals field goal in the third quarter, Chuba Hubbard was able to run in a touchdown unscathed from 5 yards out. Carolina converted a 2-point conversion to give themselves a 31-3 lead midway through the third.

Arizona was able to tack on a touchdown, but Gonzalez remained dialed in and hit another field late in the fourth to move the lead to 34-10.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Click here to sign up for the daily Wake Up Charlotte newsletter

Locked On is the leading podcast network for local sports and is owned by WCNC Charlotte's parent company TEGNA.
Listen to Locked On here. 

All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.