Spectacular Showing by Quarterbacks Cam Newton and Kevin Kolb

Hallelujah to DirectTV for giving me a free day of NFL Package because I got to watch quarterbacks Cam Newton and Kevin Kolb put on a show in their first day as the starting quarterbacks for their respective teams.

Newton, the No. 1 draft pick threw for 422 yards, completing 24 of 37 passes with two touchdowns and an interception becoming the first rookie to throw for more then 400 yards in his NFL opener. His counterpart, Kolb, debuted for 309 yards on 18 for 27 passing with two touchdowns. The two had so many question marks heading into this season, but showed so much in their first games.

Wide receiver Steve Smith was streaking past rookie cornerback Patrick Peterson throughout the entire game, and Cam connected with him numerous times including touchdown plays of 77 and 26 yards.  Peterson did redeem himself with a long punt return, which was the go-ahead touchdown late in the game. Cam also seemed to find his safety net in tight end Greg Olsen who seemed to be there every time Cam was in trouble. 

Newton showed off his strong arm, ability to scan the field and his mobility.  He almost led his team down the field for a game-tying drive that was reminiscent of the Titans and Rams Super Bowl game where Goodson caught the ball and was a few yards short.

Kolb showed he is a starting quarterback in this league and worthy of the contract that was given to him this offseason.  He was under duress all game, but made the right reads and passes to move the ball down the field.  Kolb will continue to progress and get better this season. He has a strong running game in Beanie Wells and solid receivers in Larry Fitzgerald and Early Doucet. He is in a great position to succeed in this league with Coach Ken Whisenhunt putting him in the right offensive packages.  Look for the Arizona Cardinals to be in the hunt to win their division.

Both quarterbacks have shown strong leadership qualities, and their teammates seemed to respect each player during this game.  Commanding the respect of their new teammates this early is a sign for great things to come.

The spotlight will be on both players throughout the season with Kolb receiving the most pressure to win now.  Newton will have to show that he is progressing and must use his legs in his first season.  The amount of wins for the Panthers will be determined on what Newton does and how fast he can learn.

The two looked good in their debut, and will have to prove their real worth over the rest of the season.