Not even close

Newton leads Panthers to blowout win over Dolphins

CHARLOTTE, N.C. Cam Newton took it as a challenge when the Carolina Panthers defence vaulted to the league’s No. 1 ranking.

He said it was time for the offence to match that mark.

Newton did his part on Monday night, throwing for 254 yards and four touchdowns and running for 95 more as the Panthers piled up a franchise-record 548 yards in a 45-21 rout of the Miami Dolphins.

“It’s nice to see them have this type of breakout game,” Panthers coach Ron Rivera said.

Newton improved to 5-1 on Monday night games during his career.

“There is something about this stage with him,” Rivera said. “He played a tremendous game.”

Rookie Christian McCaffrey scored touchdowns rushing and receiving, and Devin Funchess caught five passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns as the Panthers (7-3) remained a half-game behind the NFC Southleading Saints heading into their bye week.

Jonathan Stewart ran for a season-high 110 yards, and Newton had a 69yard jaunt on a read option as the Panthers racked up 294 yards on the ground.

Jay Cutler had 213 yards passing with two touchdowns and one interception for the Dolphins (4-5), who have lost three straight.

The game turned with 41 seconds left in the first half, when Luke Kuechly intercepted Jay Cutler with Carolina leading 10-7.