NFL Predictions Week 8: Cam Newton Will Light Up Minnesota Vikings

The 2-5 Carolina Panthers host the 1-6 Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Now this game is not on anybody's marquee card but it is a interesting game. It's interesting because of the two quarterbacks (Cam Newton and Christan Ponder).  As you all know, Cam Newton has been lighting up the opponents he's faced, while Christan Ponder began his NFL career last week against the Green Bay Packers and was very impressive.

I believe the Panthers will win this game, but it's not a sure thing. Here's what Carolina must do to come out on top this weekend:

Stop Adrian Peterson

It's every NFL team's plan when they face the Vikings: Stop Adrian Peterson.

The Panthers rank 29th in run defense. That is not a good sign at all, as Peterson seems to have a good game every week. In order for the Panthers to win this game, they must keep Peterson under 100 yards and out of the end zone.  

Dont Rely on Cam Newton Too Much

Cam Newton is considered to a super rookie, but he has had his fair share of mistakes like all rookie quarterbacks. Lately the Panthers has been relying on Cam Newton to win games, but he cannot win it by himself. Look for the running game to step up and take advantage of the Vikings.

Get After a Rookie Quarterback

The Green Bay Packers are the only undefeated team in the league, but not even their defense could stop Christian Ponder. The Panthers must not get lazy on defense and must stop the pass and run game. They cannot make the same mistakes the Packers did last week. The defense must have a series of blitz packages to confuse Ponder. 

Steve Smith Must Have a Good Game

Steve Smith is having a renaissance year. At the beginning of the season he wanted to be traded—which the Panthers completely ignored. Smith could be a MVP candidate this year if everything goes right for him. In this game against the Vikings, he must help out the passing game and be the primary receiver. I expect him to have one of the best games of his career.   

All of the Role Players Must Step Up

Lets face it. Cam Newton and Steve Smith cannot do this alone. 

The defense, run game and special teams must all step up. The role players need to make those clutch catches and interceptions.