Newton ready to face Pats; Brady’s status unsure

STEVE REED

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Here’s a look at tonight’s NFL preseason games. (All times CDT):

* New England at Carolina, 6:30 p.m.

NFL MVP Cam Newton will see his most extensive playing time of the preseason against the Patriots, while Tom Brady may have to take a back seat to Jimmy Garoppolo.

Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Newton and the rest of the starters from last year’s NFC championship team will play into the third quarter. Newton has played sparingly the first two preseason games, leading five drives culminating in one touchdown and two field goals.

Not surprisingly, Patriots coach Bill Belichick hasn’t disclosed his plans for tonight’s game, but it’s expected Garoppolo will start and see the majority of reps to get ready for the regular season. Brady