Carolina Panthers: 5 Most Impressive Runs by Cam Newton in 2011

Cam Newton is having one of the most successful rookie seasons in all of NFL history. In his first two games, Newton threw for 400-plus yards each and has continued to show great potential in his throwing ability. As the season progressed, however, he became more reliant on another weapon: his talent for running the ball.

Throughout 2011, Cam has strung together runs that would outshine many starting running backs today. His capability to turn a potential sack into a first down or more has allowed Carolina to continue many drives that would normally result in punts or field goals. 

The Panthers star has created many running plays this season, but there are five which excel above the rest.

Newton's First Touchdown

Technically Cam Newton's first rushing touchdown, this one came during the third week of preseason in Cincinnati.

Not many expected Cam to be quite as explosive on his feet, especially during his rookie season. Most assumed that he would flop and become another wasted pick by the Panthers, but Newton punished all his doubters by becoming a touchdown monster.

This touchdown unveiled the curtain that would lead to a record-tying run in Week 7.

Touchdown Dive Against Cardinals

For most people who weren't able to watch the preseason, this was the first rushing touchdown the world saw from Cam Newton the Panther. Short and sweet, this touchdown displayed Newton's unorthodox style of play and natural athleticism. 

Cam's natural talent is on display as he leaps up and well over the Arizona defense for a first of many rushing touchdowns.

This was a great first glimpse at how the Carolina offense would run during the second half of the regular season. 

Scramble Against the Redskins

This run captures Cam Newton's raw ability to convert nothing into something. This particular scramble, during Carolina's win over the Redskins, shows just how great Newton is on his feet.

What looks to be an easy sack for Washington quickly turns into an impressive display of speed and finesse. Newton displays his natural talent for seeing the field and observing defensive gaps through this run. He seems to effortlessly side-step and juke defenders until finally giving out of steam.

Rushing Record Tying Touchdown

Remember that record-tying run I mentioned previously? Yeah, well this is it. With this, Newton tied the record for rushing touchdowns by a QB in a single season.

The most striking thing about all the records he is breaking is that fact that they are being broken in his ROOKIE season. We aren't talking about a veteran quarterback who has grown over a decade of play, this is all raw talent from a 22-year-old rookie.

This touchdown might not be as impressive as the others; however, the meaning that came along with it makes it just as great as the rest.

49-Yard Touchdown Run Against Bucs

If you tuned into this run a little late, you might ask yourself which quarterback handed the ball off to this running back. That is just how explosive and quick Cam Newton looks throughout this play.

Sure, he is running against a depleted Buccaneers defense, but a 49-yard rushing touchdown from the guy snapping the ball is something to be in awe over. He also shows his strength as well, muscling his way to the end zone with a few defenders on him.

His athleticism and ability to confuse defenses are the key factors in making this run great.