Cam Newton shined in his one drive against the Steelers in a 33 to 17 loss to end the 2011 preseason. Newton was expected to play two series but was pulled after throwing a touchdown pass to Jeremy Shockey. This helped Coach Ron Rivera to name Cam Newton the starter for the regular season opener in Arizona. Derek Anderson played his way to the number two spot with Jimmy Clausen falling to number three.

The big problem in the Steelers game for the Panthers was defense, notably the defensive line. Charlie Batch looked like a Pro Bowler against the Panthers in the preseason finale. And once again the defensive backs looked shaky at best.

The final preseason game for the Panthers allowed them to finalize their player moves. David Clowney made the team at wide receiver which I didn’t expect but do approve of. The Panthers are clearly looking for defensive tackles as they are currently down to three according to Carolinagrowl.com.Carolina is also sitting with three corners right now which means they will add at least one who gets waived.

My biggest complaint about the Panthers cuts was the release of running back Tyrell Sutton as the team made room for two fullbacks. Fullback Tony Fiammetta was released and Jerome Felton and Richie Brockel are the current fullbacks on the Panthers roster.

The Panthers wrapped up the preseason with one win and three losses, with the win coming over the Giants. Cam Newton impressed me a little more each week and I think he has earned a start against the Arizona Cardinals next week.