Greg Olsen, Benjamin Watson and J.J. Watt Named Finalists for Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award

Carolina Panthers tight end GREG OLSEN, Baltimore Ravens tight end BENJAMIN WATSON and Houston Texans defensive end J.J. WATT are the three finalists for the 2017 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award presented by Nationwide, the NFL announced today.

The winner will be announced during NFL Honors, a two-hour primetime awards special to air nationally on Feb. 3, the eve of Super Bowl LII, at 9 PM (ET and PT) on NBC. NFL Honors will be taped earlier that evening at Northrop at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.

"Greg, Benjamin and J.J. have changed countless lives with their generosity and commitment to helping others," said NFL Commissioner ROGER GOODELL. "As remarkable leaders on and off the field, they personify the character of the late Walter Payton. We commend them for using their platforms to leave a positive impact on communities across the country."

$500,000 dollars will be donated in the name of the 2017 winner. $250,000 will be donated to the winner's charity of choice and $250,000 will be donated in his name to expand Character Playbook across the country. The two other finalists will each receive a $100,000 donation to their charity of choice and a $100,000 donation in their names to expand Character Playbook. All other 29 nominees will receive a $50,000 donation to their charity of choice and an additional $50,000 donation in their names to expand Character Playbook. All donations are courtesy of the NFL Foundation, Nationwide and United Way Worldwide.

Below is a brief overview on the three finalists. To read their full nominations or to learn more about all 32 team nominees, visit nfl.com/manoftheyear.

GREG OLSEN (Carolina Panthers)

"I was fortunate enough to have played with Walter Payton for several years," said Panthers head coach RON RIVERA. "And Greg shares many of the same qualities that made Walter so special. Greg's commitment as a husband, father and community servant reflects Walter's loving spirit. And the tenacity in which he plays is indicative of Payton's toughness on the field. I can think of no other player who is as deserving as Greg."

In 2009, after watching his mother tackle and survive breast cancer, Greg Olsen founded Receptions for Research: The Greg Olsen Foundation. The Foundation's Receiving Hope program focuses on cancer research and education programming.

In early 2013, Greg and his wife Kara founded the HEARTest Yard Fund after a routine examination of their unborn son, T.J., revealed the infant had Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), a congenital defect marked by an underdeveloped left ventricle and aorta. The HEARTest Yard Fund, , an umbrella program under Olsen's Receptions for Research Foundation, is a family service program administered in conjunction with Levine Children's Hospital in Charlotte. The cutting-edge program provides families of babies affected by congenital heart disease with services including in-home, private nursing care, physical therapy and speech therapy, all at no cost to the families or hospital. In November 2017, the HEARTest Yard's cutting-edge programming expanded when Greg and Kara announced the initiative's new cardiac neurodevelopmental program – the first of its kind in the region. Since 2009, Receptions for Research has distributed over $3.5 million in support.

In February 2013, Greg traveled to Raleigh, N.C. to lobby the House of Representatives for legislation that would require mandatory heart disease screening for newborns. The bill went in to effect in July 2014. In 2016, the family donated $150,000 to purchase new pediatric bypass pumps for the cardiac ICU. Greg was also a driving force in creating the hospital's signature fundraising gala in 2015. In just three years, the gala has raised nearly $4 million.

On the field, Greg is one of the NFL's best tight ends. A four-time team captain and three-time Pro Bowler, he is the first tight end in NFL history with three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons (2014-16). Greg ranks in the top 10 all-time in receptions (625) and receiving yards (7,393) and is approaching the top 10 in receiving touchdowns among NFL tight ends.

BENJAMIN WATSON (Baltimore Ravens)

"You don't have to spend much time with Benjamin to understand his passion for serving others," said Ravens owner STEVE BISCIOTTI. "He is an exceptional person who has a unique ability to lead, educate and inspire. For him to be honored with this award is outstanding. He never looks for recognition, but he certainly deserves it."

Benjamin assists countless people through his charitable arm, the One More Foundation. One More's mission is to bless individuals wherever they are, whether supporting existing charities or initiating programs of its own. Most recently, One More partnered with the International Justice Mission (IJM). In partnership with IJM, the world's largest international anti-slavery organization working to combat human trafficking, modern day slavery and other forms of violence against the poor, the Watsons joined the global fight to end the scourge of sex trafficking. This effort was highlighted in April during a three-day trip to Lebanon, where Benjamin witnessed firsthand the Middle East's refugee crisis. Additionally, he and his wife, Kirsten, traveled to the Dominican Republic in June to begin formulating plans that combat sex trafficking.

Benjamin also annually hosts the Big BENefit – an event that offers 25 underserved families an opportunity to provide holiday gifts for their children. Each parent is brought to a local Walmart and is surprised with dinner and a $300 gift card to shop with their favorite Raven. Benjamin also started a campaign with the fundraising platform, Donors Choose, where One More matches all donations raised. This year's contributions go directly to benefit local schools in Baltimore, allowing teachers to purchase tools – books, art supplies, iPads – that enhance their children's educational experience.

Coming off a season-ending Achilles injury that sidelined him in 2016, Benjamin was back in full force on the field, as he led the Ravens with 61 catches for 522 yards and four touchdowns. Completing his 14th NFL season, he has played in 179 career games to produce 495 receptions for 5,485 yards and 42 touchdowns. Benjamin was also named recipient of the 2016 Bart Starr Award, given annually to the NFL player who exemplifies character and leadership on and off the field. In 2015, he was a Man of the Year finalist while with the Saints, while he was also honored as one of five finalists for the NFLPA's Whizzer White Award.

J.J. WATT (Houston Texans)

"We have long been proud and appreciative of J.J.'s passion and authentic care for others as he has consistently given back to the community, created memories for all ages and positively impacted lives around the world," said Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer ROBERT C. MCNAIR. "J.J. is one of the most selfless, giving and inspiring young men in the NFL and we are proud he is a Houston Texan. During one of Houston's worst disasters, J.J. was our shining light after raising more than $37 million for victims affected by Hurricane Harvey. We congratulate him on being named a finalist for this year's Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award." 

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, J.J. Watt solidified his importance to the city of Houston by being an unwavering fixture of hope. While watching the events unfold from a hotel room in Dallas, J.J. posted a video on social media announcing a fundraising campaign with a very reasonable goal of $200,000, to which he matched the first $100,000. In 19 days, he raised more than $37 million. J.J. has dedicated himself to finding organizations that will apply the funds in the way he has promised the donors and victims of Harvey. J.J. will soon unfold a plan with strategic organizations, making good on his promise to ensure that every dollar goes directly to the people of Houston and its surrounding areas that are in need.

J.J.'s dedication to charitable service began at a young age when the thought of being in the NFL was still just a dream. He started the Justin J. Watt Foundation in Wisconsin in 2010 out of a desire to help underserved kids. His personal motto of "Dream Big, Work Hard" culminated into a mission that he continues to use to impact communities nationwide. The foundation has provided over $3.4 million in funding to middle schools and organizations that have insufficient funding for after-school athletic programs or no after-school athletics whatsoever for 6th – 8th grade children.

In his 7th NFL season, J.J. has been named to the Pro Bowl 4 times and is a 4-time first-team All-Pro. Leading the league in sacks in 2012 and 2015, J.J. was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in both those years and in 2014 as well. J.J. has played in 88 games for the Texans and recorded a total of 394 tackles and 76 sacks.

Below is the list of previous Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award winners. Of the award recipients, 28 players are members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Hall of Fame inductees are indicated with asterisks:

YEAR	WINNER	TEAM
2016	Larry Fitzgerald Eli Manning	Arizona Cardinals New York Giants
2015	Anquan Boldin	San Francisco 49ers
2014	Thomas Davis	Carolina Panthers
2013	Charles Tillman	Chicago Bears
2012	Jason Witten	Dallas Cowboys
2011	Matt Birk	Baltimore Ravens
2010	Madieu Williams	Minnesota Vikings
2009	Brian Waters	Kansas City Chiefs
2008	*Kurt Warner	Arizona Cardinals
2007	*Jason Taylor	Miami Dolphins
2006	*LaDainian Tomlinson Drew Brees	San Diego Chargers New Orleans Saints
2005	Peyton Manning	Indianapolis Colts
2004	Warrick Dunn	Atlanta Falcons
2003	*Will Shields	Kansas City Chiefs
2002	Troy Vincent	Philadelphia Eagles
2001	*Jerome Bettis	Pittsburgh Steelers
2000	*Derrick Brooks Jim Flanigan	Tampa Bay Buccaneers Green Bay Packers
1999	*Cris Carter	Minnesota Vikings
1998	*Dan Marino	Miami Dolphins
1997	*Troy Aikman	Dallas Cowboys
1996	*Darrell Green	Washington Redskins
1995	Boomer Esiason	New York Jets
1994	*Junior Seau	San Diego Chargers
1993	*Derrick Thomas	Kansas City Chiefs
1992	*John Elway	Denver Broncos
1991	*Anthony Muñoz	Cincinnati Bengals
1990	*Mike Singletary	Chicago Bears
1989	*Warren Moon	Houston Oilers
1988	*Steve Largent	Seattle Seahawks
1987	Dave Duerson	Chicago Bears
1986	Reggie Williams	Cincinnati Bengals
1985	*Dwight Stephenson	Miami Dolphins
1984	Marty Lyons	New York Jets
1983	Rolf Benirschke	San Diego Chargers
1982	Joe Theismann	Washington Redskins
1981	*Lynn Swann	Pittsburgh Steelers
1980	Harold Carmichael	Philadelphia Eagles
1979	*Joe Greene	Pittsburgh Steelers
1978	*Roger Staubach	Dallas Cowboys
1977	*Walter Payton	Chicago Bears
1976	*Franco Harris	Pittsburgh Steelers
1975	Ken Anderson	Cincinnati Bengals
1974	*George Blanda	Oakland Raiders
1973	*Len Dawson	Kansas City Chiefs
1972	*Willie Lanier	Kansas City Chiefs
1971	John Hadl	San Diego Chargers
1970	*Johnny Unitas	Baltimore Colts
1969 – Gladiator Award	*Bart Starr	Green Bay Packers

*The Gladiator Award was the precursor to the Man of the Year Award, which was established in 1970.

Saints try for trifecta vs. Panthers

Stats, LLC

NEW ORLEANS – The commonly accepted myth about the difficulty of beating a team three times in one season will be put to its latest test when the NFC South champion New Orleans Saints (11-5) host their division rivals, the Carolina Panthers (11-5), in a wild-card playoff game Sunday at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

The Saints turned around an 0-2 season by beating the Panthers 34-13 in Charlotte in Week 3, igniting an eight-game winning streak. They then beat them in the Superdome 31-21 on Dec. 3.

Since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970, teams that swept the regular-season series also won the playoff game 13 of 20 times, a 65 percent edge.

The Saints are not banking their hopes on statistical probabilities but on a balanced offense that does not rely on 45 throws a game by Drew Brees and on a revitalized defense that so far has withstood a withering number of injuries to starters.

Brees, who will turn 39 on Jan. 15, said he does feel an internal clock ticking on his career but treats every game with respect.

"I prepare like every game could be my last or (like) it's a playoff game or I've got something to prove and I've got an edge," Brees said. "It's not like, 'Oh, the playoffs are here, it's time to ramp it up or things are a little more important.' It's always important for me."

There were some common threads in the Saints' two regular-season victories over Carolina. The Panthers are ranked No. 7 in the NFL on defense, allowing 317.2 yards per game, and just 88.1 yards rushing, third best in the league. But Carolina yielded their most yards rushing this season to the Saints -- 149 yards in Week 3 and 148 in Week 13.

That's a credit to rookie sensation Alvin Kamara and veteran running back Mark Ingram as well as to the Saints' offensive line. Brees is the biggest beneficiary of a powerful running attack that is averaging 4.7 yards per carry, best in the NFL, and 129.4 yards per game, fifth in the league.

Brees threw 137 fewer passes this year (536) but connected on 386 for an NFL-record 72.0 completion percentage. His 4,334 passing yards are nearly 800 yards fewer than his 2016 totals but just about equal to his 4,388 passing yards in 2009, the Saints' Super Bowl season.

"Sure is nice," Brees said, smiling. "Does it change the way I prepare? No. Does it change my mindset going into a game? No. It's just that when you add up the number of throws ... if you take away five, seven, 10 attempts a game and those are going to the run game, that means you're doing something right in the run game, and it probably means you're playing good defense. It doesn't force me to take as many chances."

The Saints also have done an excellent job putting a vise around Carolina quarterback Cam Newton, who happens to be the Panthers' leading rusher. Newton has passed for just 350 yards in the two losses. He threw three interceptions in the first meeting, including one in the end zone. He is a dangerous runner, but his only gash run against the Saints this year was a 32-yard scramble in garbage time.

The Panthers could have won the NFC South outright last week but were hamstrung by an inept offensive performance in a 22-10 loss to the Falcons. Newton completed just 14 of 34 passes for 180 yards and was picked off three times.

Newton said the Panthers have erased that game from their memory banks and are poised to make a playoff statement.

"This is when real football starts," said Newton, who led the Panthers to the Super Bowl in 2015 with a 15-1 regular-season record. "(We're) explaining it to the young guys and the guys who haven't witnessed playoff football. This is where you are made or broke. I look forward to these types of moments because it brings out the best in individuals because there is so much pressure. We all know what they say about pressure -- it does one of two things -- and we're hoping to shine like diamonds."

Each team will have a significant player available who did not play in either of the first two games: Carolina tight end Greg Olsen, who has been battling a foot injury all season, and Saints rookie cornerback Marshon Lattimore.

Saints coach Sean Payton said if Olsen is healthy, it could pose a threat to his defense because Olsen is "one of the better tight ends in the game. Not having him is significant and having him is huge."

Carolina coach Ron Rivera knows that Lattimore, who made the Pro Bowl, can help the Saints shut down any deep threat the Panthers have. Lattimore normally shadows the opponent's best receiver, so he may draw Devin Funchess, who has 63 catches for 840 yards.

"When I watch (Lattimore), he's a terrific football player," Rivera said.

The Panthers hope to have guard Trai Turner back after missing three games with concussion symptoms. Saints starting left tackle Terron Armstead (thigh) and wide receiver Michael Thomas (hamstring) were limited in practice on Wednesday but should be able to go.

Newton's TD lifts Panthers into playoffs with 22-19 win

By STEVE REED
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) – Cam Newton certainly has a flair for the dramatic.

The emotional and charismatic quarterback scored on a whacky 2-yard touchdown run with 35 seconds remaining to lift Carolina to a 22-19 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday and help the Panthers secure a spot in the NFC playoffs for the fourth time in five seasons.

The Panthers (11-4) trailed most of the second half, but Newton completed 4 of 7 passes for 52 yards in the final 3 minutes before turning a potential debacle into a memorable touchdown. Newton fumbled the shotgun snap after it hit his knuckles, but the ball bounced back up into his hands and he alertly picked it up and dove across the goal line for the go-ahead score.

"The idea was to put it on the ground, get (the defense) to freeze for a second, and pick it up and score," joked Panthers coach Ron Rivera. "I tell you when I saw that. ... But the best part is it didn't ruin my Christmas, which I appreciate."

Newton celebrated the score by using the football as a prop, pretending to "light a candle on a cupcake" in celebration of son Chosen's birthday. Newton brought his son into the news conference after the game for the first time ever, and said it was ironic that he scored on a 2-yard run on his son's 2nd birthday.

Newton said he lost sight of the snap because he was thinking about whether or not to leap over the pile.

When the play came in, Newton said he had the option to run or pass in the huddle.

He chose a run - and he's glad he did.

"I'm just happy it wasn't a pass play because if it was then the offensive line would have been coming back," Newton said. "But everyone was moving forward, so it might have been good because it froze everybody for a moment. I'm just happy that we scored."

The Panthers sealed the game when Kawann Short sacked Jameis Winston on Tampa Bay's final drive, and forced a fumble that Julius Peppers recovered. Winston threw for 367 yards and a touchdown but was sacked six times and fumbled three times for the Bucs (4-11).

"The guy's a warrior," Bucs coach Dirk Koetter said about Winston.

The Panthers offense struggled all day.

Newton threw for just 160 yards and ran for 52 yards on 14 carries. Carolina's only touchdown in the first three quarters came on a 103-yard kickoff return by Damiere Byrd. Tampa Bay's defense set the tone early, limiting the Panthers to just 78 yards in the first half - the fewest in an opening half since Newton took over as Carolina's starting QB in 2012.

"We found ways and this is what great teams do - they find ways to win," Newton said.

Added Short: "It was an ugly win. At the end of the day we got the job done. We're in the playoffs, another step to where we're trying to get to."

For the Bucs it was another close loss - the story of their season.

"We play together, but we just have to figure out the last step - that's it," said Tampa Bay cornerback Brent Grimes.

PLAYOFF SCENARIO: Carolina can still clinch the NFC South championship, but it would need a win over Atlanta and a New Orleans loss to Tampa Bay next Sunday.

For now, the Panthers are just happy to be back in the playoffs following a 6-10 season last year.

"To be 11-4 with one game left, that's solid," tight end Greg Olsen said.

STRONG RUSH: Short and defensive end Wes Horton each had 1 1/2 sacks and a forced fumble for the Panthers. Carolina has 15 sacks in the last three games and forced 10 turnovers.

BIG GAME FOR BUCS RECEIVERS: The Bucs had six plays of 25 yards or longer against the Panthers fifth-ranked defense, including a 70-yard catch-and-run by Chris Godwin. Mike Evans led the way with 107 yards on six catches, while Godwin finished with 98 yards on three receptions.

RIVERBOAT RON: Panthers coach "Riverboat" Ron Rivera called a fake punt in the third quarter because he felt the offense needed "a shot in the arm." It worked as punter Michael Palardy threw over the middle for tight end Ed Dickson, who was interfered with by Josh Robinson. That resulted in a first down and led to a Carolina field goal.

"He's a lefty and he went to Tennessee - so there is a lot of things we can sharpen up," Newton joked about Palardy's throw.

UP NEXT

Buccaneers: Host Saints next Sunday.

Panthers: Visit Falcons next Sunday.

Richardson, under fire for allegations, puts Panthers up for sale

Carolina Panthers owner and founder Jerry Richardson announced Sunday night that he is putting the team up for sale at the end of the 2017 season.

The development comes as the NFL takes over the investigation into allegations of workplace misconduct made against Richardson amid a report on Sunday that the team settled with at least four former employees.

League spokesperson Brian McCarthy confirmed the league will retain an outside counsel to conduct the investigation.

Richardson did not address the development in a letter published on the team's official web site Sunday night.

"There has been no greater mission or purpose in my life than to have brought an NFL franchise to Charlotte," Richardson said in a statement. "The obstacles back then were significant, and some even questioned whether our community could or would support professional football. But I always knew that if given the chance, The Carolinas would rise to the occasion."

"And you have. The team has become an integral part of our community. The stadium is in its best condition since the day it opened. And we have played in two Super Bowls.

"Football is also an integral part of my life -- and I am blessed, every day, that I made the Carolinas my home. I can never repay all of you for the kindness and generosity you have shown me, Rosalind, and my family for more than two decades. We have the best fans in football -- and I truly mean that. In my opinion, we also have the best organization, and they have served us well.

"I believe that it is time to turn the franchise over to new ownership. Therefore, I will put the team up for sale at the conclusion of this NFL season. We will not begin the sale process, nor will we entertain any inquiries, until the very last game is played. I hope everyone in this organization, both on and off the field, will be firmly focused on just one mission: to play and win the Super Bowl.

"While I will no longer be the team owner, I will always be the Panthers Number One fan."

Meanwhile, Sports Illustrated reported Sunday that it learned at least four former Panthers employees have received "significant" monetary settlements due to inappropriate workplace comments and conduct by Richardson, including sexually suggestive language and behavior. On at least one occasion, he directed a racial slur at an African-American Panthers scout, according to the magazine.

The settlements came with non-disclosure requirements forbidding the parties from discussing the details, according to the SI article written by Jon Wertheim and Viv Bernstein.

The Panthers declined to comment to Sports Illustrated beyond reiterating their statement issued on Friday.

Sports Illustrated detailed accusations made against Richardson, including describing what happened on Friday's "Jeans Day" when most staffers at the team offices would wear denim to work.

"The female employees knew what that meant," the article read. "As the team's owner, Jerry Richardson, made his rounds on the way to his spacious office, he would ask women to turn around so he could admire their backsides. Then, in his rolling Southern drawl, he'd offer comment, drawing from a store of one-liners he'd recycle each week. Among those in heaviest rotation: Show me how you wiggle to get those jeans up. I bet you had to lay down on your bed to fit into those jeans. Did you step into those jeans or did you have to jump into them?"

Richardson's conduct was treated as something of a running office joke, according to multiple former Panthers team employees who spoke to Sports Illustrated on the condition of anonymity out of fear of retaliation.

The Panthers originally announced Friday that the team opened an investigation into the allegations, which have not been revealed because of the nature of the issue.

"The Carolina Panthers and Mr. Richardson take these allegations very seriously and are fully committed to a full investigation and taking appropriate steps to address and remediate any misconduct," team spokesman Steven Drummond said Friday in a statement. "The entire organization is fully committed to ensuring a safe, comfortable and diverse work environment where all individuals, regardless of sex, race, color, religion, gender, or sexual identity or orientation, are treated fairly and equally. We have work to do to achieve this goal, but we are going to meet it."

The team initially said the investigation of the allegations facing the 81-year-old Richardson was being led by law firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart and Sullivan, LLP. Overseeing the probe originally was minority owner and former White House chief of staff Erskine Bowles, but the investigation now will be handled solely by the NFL.

The Panthers shut off access to cameras and reporters for player arrivals for Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers at Bank of America Stadium, according to ESPN. No reason was given.

Richardson was at the stadium for the game, but the windows to his end zone suite were not open as they typically would be by game time, ESPN reported.

Richardson, who played for the Baltimore Colts in 1959-60, became the first former NFL player since George Halas to own an NFL team when he was awarded an expansion franchise on Oct. 26, 1993.

Panthers coach Ron Rivera issued a statement Friday regarding the allegations: "I have had a strong relationship with Mr. Richardson during my time with the Panthers. I have enormous respect for the man, but will wait for the results of the investigation before making any judgment."

Richardson, who primarily works behind the scenes and rarely does interviews, is one of only two owners to have owned a franchise since its inception. The other owner is Bob McNair of the Houston Texans.

Panthers spoil Rodgers' return with win over Packers

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Carolina Panthers didn't want to be consumed with the return of Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Instead, quarterback Cam Newton made a series of headline-worthy plays and the defense rose to the occasion by forcing four turnovers as the Panthers won 31-24 on Sunday afternoon at Bank of America Stadium.

"We said we were focused on us and that's what we did," safety Mike Adams said. "We disguised some things a little bit."

It resulted in a troublesome outing for Rodgers, a two-time NFL Most Valuable Player who threw three interceptions along with three touchdown passes.

"The DBs played awesome," Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly said of the members of the secondary. "Those guys made the difference."

Newton did, too. He threw three of his four touchdown passes in the opening 18 minutes of the second half.

Newton completed 20 of 31 passes for 242 yards as the Panthers (10-4) remained in a first-place tie in the NFC South.

Each of Rodgers' interceptions came on underthrown balls. He completed 27 of 45 passes for 287 yards, but the Packers (7-7) saw their postgame aspirations crippled.

"I didn't throw it as well as I'm used to throwing it and that hurt us," Rodgers said.

Disrupting Rodgers' rhythm was all part of the Carolina plan.

"We've just got to do our part," defensive tackle Kawann Short said. "We all locked in and stayed focused on the task at hand."

Trailing 24-14, the Packers used a 12-play drive, which included a fourth-down conversion on Rodgers' keeper, for Mason Crosby's 28-yard field goal with 1:23 left in the third quarter.

The Panthers pushed their lead to 31-17 on Newton's 13-yard touchdown pass to Damiere Byrd with 12:24 remaining.

Green Bay, despite another fourth-down conversion, stalled after reaching the Carolina 21. A fourth-down sack by former Packers defensive end Julius Peppers gave the ball back to the Panthers.

But Green Bay got the ball back and Rodgers hit tight end Richard Rodgers on a 24-yard touchdown pass with 2:43 to play. The Packers recovered the onside kick.

"We know how to keep a game interesting there at the end," Newton said.

Green Bay moved to the Carolina 26, where receiver Geronimo Allison fumbled after picking up first-down yardage with 1:48 remaining. Adams recovered the ball after James Bradberry forced the fumble.

"I think we had the momentum and we had it inside the 30 there with (enough) time," Rodgers said.

Earlier, Newton's 30-yard touchdown pass to tight end Greg Olsen on the opening possession of the second half enabled the Panthers to regain the lead at 17-14.

After Colin Jones picked off Rodgers on the next possession, the Panthers scored again on Byrd's 9-yard bobbling touchdown catch in the back of the end zone.

Byrd called it likely his best catch ever.

"Probably," he said. "I'm sure nobody expected that from me."

Bradberry had an interception at the 7:01 mark of the third quarter, so that was the third time on seven Green Bay possessions that the Panthers came up with a pickoff.

Green Bay went ahead for the first time with 26 seconds left in the second quarter when Rodgers, as he was falling toward the ground under heavy pressure, released a pass to Randall Cobb for a 33-yard touchdown play.

Rodgers was intercepted by Daryl Worley on an underthrown second-quarter pass intended for Davante Adams.

Rodgers, 34, missed seven games. He hadn't played since suffering the broken collarbone during an Oct. 15 loss at Minnesota.

Running back Christian McCaffrey was the focal point of Carolina's first drive, with his 7-yard reception accounting for a touchdown to complete a 15-play, 85-yard drive.

On the march, McCaffrey accounted for 40 receiving yards on four catches and rushed for 20 yards on five attempts.

The Packers were on the board on Rodgers' 13-yard, third-down pass to Adams on the final play of the first quarter.

Graham Gano's 33-yard field goal gave the Panthers a 10-7 lead in the second quarter.

Adams departed after the Packers' first possession of the second half as he was evaluated for a possible concussion. When another underthrown pass by Rodgers was intercepted by Jones, Adams was wiped out on a block by Carolina linebacker Thomas Davis.

The Packers had won two in a row by six points with Brett Hundley filling in for the injured Rodgers.

NOTES: Panthers RG Trai Turner missed the game after going into the concussion protocol during the week. ... CB Captain Munnerlyn, who played a key role a week earlier against Minnesota, was inactive for the Panthers. It wasn't an injury-related move. ... With QB Aaron Rodgers activated, QB Joe Callahan was waived Saturday. ... Green Bay's defensive coordinator is Dom Capers, who was the original coach of the Panthers. ... The Packers play their home finale Saturday night against Minnesota. ... Carolina wraps up a three-game homestand with its regular-season home finale next week against Tampa Bay. ... Two days prior to the game, the Panthers announced they had opened an investigation into allegations of workplace misconduct involving owner Jerry Richardson. On Sunday, the NFL announced it has taken over the investigation and Sports Illustrated reported that the team paid settlements with four former employees.

Stewart scores 3 TDs as Panthers beat Vikings

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- It's all about finishing strong for the Carolina Panthers.

It took that to pull out a 31-24 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday afternoon and it will take that across the next three weeks to remain in playoff position.

Jonathan Stewart's third touchdown run of the game was a 1-yard leap with 1:47 remaining, breaking a tie after the Vikings rallied during the last six minutes at Bank of America Stadium.

"Just getting the job done," Stewart said. "It's about finishing games."

The Panthers (9-4) pulled into a tie for first place in the NFC South with the New Orleans Saints. The Vikings (10-3) had an eight-game winning streak snapped, and with Green Bay and Detroit winning overtime games, they will have to wait another week before they can clinch the NFC North.

Carolina quarterback Cam Newton ran 62 yards on second down to take the ball to the Minnesota 8-yard line to set up the winning score.

"This whole game was a result of just persistence, persistence, persistence," Newton said.

That running play was one of many that irked the Vikings.

"He needed to do whatever it took to keep his team in the game," Minnesota cornerback Xavier Rhodes said. "He is the leader of the team and he needed to make plays, and he made them."

The Vikings failed to pick up a first down after Carolina's go-ahead score. That series began with defensive tackle Kawann Short registering a sack.

"They're trying to get a two-minute offense going and you get a sack that's going to (make a difference)," Panthers defensive tackle Star Lotulelei said. "To come out and get a win against a good team like that, a team that has been on a roll that means a lot. It wasn't perfect."

Newton completed 13-of-25 passes for 137 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Stewart gained 103 yards on 16 carries.

Vikings quarterback Case Keenum was 27 of 44 for 280 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions.

Minnesota had a chance to take the lead late in the game, but it was thwarted by Carolina's goal-line stand.

Safety Andrew Sendejo's interception of a third-down pass off running back Christian McCaffrey's hands gave the Vikings the ball at the Carolina 6 following a 34-yard return with 4:36 remaining.

The Vikings lost 3 yards, settling for Kai Forbath's tying 27-yard field goal.

"I put it all on us," Vikings wide receiver Stefon Diggs said. "We had the opportunities."

The Vikings hadn't lost since Oct. 1, so there was no need to make a big deal about this result.

"It was just a game," Rhodes said. "That is all it was. It was not a playoff game. We are not going home, no one is going home. We have a game next week."

Trailing 24-13, Minnesota drove more than 50 yards in the fourth quarter. Then Diggs bobbled a pass that was intercepted by James Bradberry with 8:48 remaining to thwart a scoring chance.

The Vikings were back in business by the 5:36 mark, when Adam Thielen made a 52-yard catch and run for a touchdown. Keenum connected with tight end Blake Bell on a two-point conversion.

Carolina held a 21-13 lead after its first possession of the second half. Newton escaped pressure and threw 18 yards to receiver Devin Funchess for a touchdown.

A strange turnover on a fumble by Keenum, who was trying to throw a pass, gave Carolina the ball right back at the Minnesota 31. That resulted in Graham Gano's 41-yard field goal.

Keenum, who was sacked six times, took a third-down sack on the next possession that knocked the Vikings out of field-goal range, so there was a punt instead.

Another third-down sack in the opening minute of the fourth quarter came before a missed 54-yard field goal by Forbath.

The Panthers led 14-13 at halftime despite the Vikings compiling 200 yards of total offense.

Stewart scored from 1 yard out in the opening minute of the second quarter, capping a 14-play, 89-yard drive that consumed more than seven minutes and included a pair of personal-foul facemask penalties. That put the Panthers on top 14-7.

Minnesota's first possession ended after one first down with Daryl Worley intercepting Keenum.

Three snaps later, Stewart burst up the middle for a 60-yard touchdown run.

The Vikings tied the game with tight end Kyle Rudolph's 18-yard catch from Keenum.

Forbath had second-quarter field goals from 30 and 22 yards for the Vikings, the latter of those with seven seconds left in the half on the play after Minnesota had a touchdown wiped out on an official replay review. Thielen was ruled to not have control of the ball in the end zone.

NOTES: It was 41 degrees at kickoff. ... Vikings RT Mike Remmers, a first-year member of the team after playing for Carolina, remained out of the lineup as he has missed more than a month. ... TE David Morgan (concussion) also remained inactive for the Vikings. ... Vikings backup LB Emmanuel Lamur didn't return after going out with a foot injury. ... Panthers LB Shaq Thompson was out with a foot injury, replaced in the starting lineup by LB David Mayo. ... Newly signed LB Spencer Paysinger was on the field for the opening kickoff as part of Carolina's coverage unit. ... The Vikings are home next Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. ... This was the beginning of a three-game homestand for the Panthers, who meet Green Bay next Sunday.

Kuechly, Clay lead Panthers to 35-27 comeback win over Jets

By DENNIS WASZAK Jr.
Associated Press

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers' offense were far from their usual playmaking selves.

Thanks to the opportunistic defense and special teams — and some big-time mistakes by the New York Jets — they didn't need to be.

Luke Kuechly returned a fumble 34 yards for a touchdown and Kaelin Clay had a 60-yard punt return for a score, capping a stunning swing in the fourth quarter that lifted the Panthers to a 35-27 comeback win on Sunday.

"I always hear, 'That was an ugly win,' but I've never heard such a thing as a pretty loss," Newton said. "Either way it goes, we would prefer to get a win today. A great team win. It wasn't a blockbuster outing offensively for us, statistics-wise. But at the end of the day, we found ways to win the football game."

It was the fourth straight victory for the Panthers (8-3), who are now tied with the Saints in the NFC South after New Orleans lost 26-20 to the Los Angeles Rams. The teams meet next Sunday at New Orleans.

"To have the guys pick it up and do things that they needed to on defense and on special teams," coach Ron Rivera said, "it was a big boost to the offense."

This one turned in a span of 2 minutes, 11 seconds on mistakes by the Jets — and the Panthers taking advantage.

First, Kuechly scooped up a fumble by Josh McCown , who was sacked by Wes Horton and had the ball slip out of his hand as he was about to throw, and rumbled to the end zone for a touchdown.

"Luke was luckily in position to scoop the ball up and take it to the house," Horton said.

Newton then hurdled linebacker Jordan Jenkins for the 2-point conversion to give the Panthers a 26-20 lead with 12:05 left.

After New York's next drive stalled, the Jets were forced to punt. Clay fielded Lachlan Edwards' kick and spun out of a tackle attempt and sped into the end zone . Newton's pass on the 2-point conversion fell short, but Carolina was suddenly up 32-20 with 9:54 remaining.

"We didn't panic," Clay said. "The game is never over. We just kept playing and we made plays."

The Jets (4-7) weren't done yet, though.

McCown drove the Jets down the field, connecting with Jermaine Kearse on a 3-yard touchdown pass to cut New York's deficit to five at 32-27 with 5:32 left.

The Panthers were able to add to their lead, getting a 45-yard field goal from Graham Gano with 21 seconds remaining. The drive was extended when Mike Pennel was called for roughing the passer on third-and-12, and helped seal the Jets' fifth loss in their past six games and severely damaging their playoff hopes.

"This one stings," McCown said. "To be up in the fourth quarter and not finish it, we've got to find a way to execute that and be better."

Newton was mostly contained by the Jets' defense, finishing 11 of 28 for 168 yards along with 28 yards rushing — including a 1-yard TD — on nine carries.

"I'm not going to be Debbie Downer spoiling a great win today," Newton said, "but it's great to see this team be resilient and find a way to win a football game in a very hostile environment."

OLSEN TWINGE

Tight end Greg Olsen left with a foot injury in the second half and didn't return. Olsen had missed the previous eight games with a broken foot, but returned Sunday. He had one catch for 10 yards before leaving.

"I felt fine," Olsen said. "It just got a little sore. It flared up. I went back out and played a little bit, but we just thought it would be best to live to play another day."

Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis also left in the second half with a thigh injury, but Rivera said he was also just sore.

JET CONNECTION

McCown was 19 of 36 for 307 yards with three touchdowns, including two to Robby Anderson. The second, a 54-yarder, gave New York a 17-12 lead in the third quarter when McCown rolled out of trouble and then pointed to Anderson to keep running down the field . McCown then threw a perfectly placed ball to the wide-open Anderson for a TD.

Anderson's first TD catch was a 33-yarder that the receiver was able to grab despite fighting off both Mike Adams and James Bradberry.

Anderson has a TD reception in five straight games, and lobbied for Pro Bowl votes to the TV cameras late in the game.

"I was just excited," Anderson said. "I wasn't trying to come off in a bad way."

BYE-BYE

Both teams were coming off bye-week breaks, and the Panthers improved to 3-4 under Rivera in such games, while the Jets dropped to 1-2 under Bowles.

NOT AGAIN

Austin Seferian-Jenkins appeared to have his fourth touchdown catch of the season — until it got wiped away by video review.

The Jets tight end stretched out in the back of the end zone for a 1-yard TD reception, but the call on the field was overturned when officials determined that the tight end didn't maintain control of the ball.

"I dropped it," Seferian-Jenkins said, "by what the refs said."

It was reminiscent of his reversed TD against New England in Week 6, when it was ruled he fumbled out of bounds in the end zone.

NOT SUPER

Newton gave the Panthers a 9-3 lead when he ran left on a bootleg and walked into the end zone past linebacker Bruce Carter. Rookie safety Jamal Adams appeared to take exception to Newton's celebratory "Superman" pose and pushed the Panthers quarterback, and an official intervened before anything escalated. Gano was wide right on the extra point.

UP NEXT

Panthers: at New Orleans next Sunday.

Jets: home vs. Kansas City next Sunday.

Emotional Newton leads Panthers to 20-17 win over Falcons

By STEVE REED
Associated Press

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Cam Newton felt the Carolina Panthers needed an emotional lift. He gave them one on Sunday.

An energetic and seemingly motivated Newton ran for 86 yards and a scored on a head-first diving 9-yard touchdown run as the Carolina Panthers erased an early 10-point deficit to beat the NFC South-rival Atlanta Falcons 20-17.

Newton pumped his fist, flexed his muscles and played up to the crowd in a game he knew the Panthers (6-3) had to have to remain a half-game behind the first-place Saints in the NFC South.

"When the Panthers are emotionless, good things don't happen," Newton said. "If we can get Bank of America Stadium with a pulse, that's when we are at our best. And that is what I was trying to do."

Newton was coming off an emotional week in which his top target — and best friend on the team — Kelvin Benjamin was traded to the Buffalo Bills.

With Benjamin gone, the Panthers turned to back to their running game, racking up a season-high 201 yards on the ground. Newton led the Panthers' rushing attack for the fourth straight week, while rookie Christian McCaffrey added a career-high 66 yards rushing and a touchdown . Devin Funchess, now Carolina's No. 1 receiver, had 86 yards on five catches.

"It was a good team win," Panthers coach Ron Rivera said.

And another tough loss for the Falcons (4-4).

Atlanta continued to struggle running the ball, Matt Ryan had a costly first half interception and a wide-open Julio Jones dropped a 39-yard touchdown pass in the end zone.

"With fumbles and drops and things like that, we're not trying to do it," Jones said. "It's just happening, We are not taught to drop balls or fumble balls. It's just the luck of the draw right now."

The Panthers spotted the Falcons 10 points before the game turned late in the first half, with Carolina scoring two touchdowns in the final 2:35 to take the lead for good.

The Falcons failed to convert a fourth-and-1 at the Carolina 35 when Devonta Freeman was stuffed at the line of scrimmage by a gang of Panthers. With the crowd fired up, Newton took just six plays to get the Panthers into the end zone, shuffling a pitchout to McCaffrey for a 4-yard score.

Ryan, who threw for 313 yards and two touchdowns , tried to get the Falcons more points before halftime but the strategy backfired when his receiver slipped and Mike Adams intercepted his pass and returned it to the Atlanta 25.

Four plays later, Newton leaped from the 3-yard line and flew through the air before hedunked the ball on Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant for the score. Newton turned to the crowd and began jumping up and down repeatedly , thrusting both arms in the air.

"He's gifted," Funchess said with a smile. "I just try to go out and be as gifted as him."

The Falcons cut the lead to 20-17 on a 19-yard touchdown reception by Tevin Coleman with 3:25 remaining in the game, but Carolina's defense kept Atlanta from scoring on its final drive to seal the win.

JONES' BIG DROP: With six catches for 118 yards, Julio Jones became the first receiver to surpass 100 yards receiving against the Panthers this season.

But Jones will likely remember the one he didn't catch. The perennial Pro Bowl wide receiver's drop with 8:12 left would have cut Carolina's lead to three.

"There are no excuses, just a missed opportunity," Jones said.

Said Ryan: "He makes that play 100 out of 100 times. He's made more plays on this team than probably everybody."

Panthers safety Kurt Coleman immediately ran over to console Jones, putting his arm around him after the drop.

"He said some spiritual things to me," said Jones, who had never met Coleman before. "I guess he's a very spiritual guy."

NO RUNNING GAME: The Falcons have struggled in recent weeks with their running game, and Sunday was no exception. Freeman and Coleman were held to a combined 51 yards on 16 carries.

"It's just execution in certain situations," Ryan said of the offense's struggles. "We'd gone up and down the field, but (missed chances on) a third-and-1, a fourth-and-1, another third-and-short opportunity. . Those little things throughout the game, when you're doing good things but can't capitalize, well, that's been the difference for us."

RECEIVER ROTATION: Rookie Curtis Samuel started for the Panthers as the No. 2 wide receiver opposite Funchess and had three catches for 23 yards. He ran once for 14 yards.

NEAL WITH THE STRIPS: Falcons safety Keanu Neal had a nice first quarter, forcing Stewart's two fumbles and recovering one. It marked the first time Stewart has lost two fumbles and fumbled twice in the same game since coming into the NFL as a first-round draft pick.

UP NEXT:

Falcons: Host Cowboys next Sunday.

Panthers: Host Dolphins on Monday, Nov. 13.

Bills acquire WR Benjamin from Panthers

The Buffalo Bills acquired wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin from the Carolina Panthers for two draft choices prior to Tuesday's trading deadline.

The Bills announced they sent their 2018 third- and seventh-round picks to the Panthers. The seventh-round choice is conditional.

The move reunites Benjamin with Bills coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane. Both men previously worked for the Panthers.

Benjamin has 32 receptions for 475 yards and two touchdowns this season.

The move immediately improves the Buffalo passing game. The team doesn't have a single wide receiver with 200 yards after they traded top wideout Sammy Watkins to the Los Angeles Rams prior to the season.

In 40 career NFL games, Benjamin has 168 catches for 2,424 yards and 18 touchdowns.

Kuechly's return emboldens Panthers

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- As if it was not already looking that way, the Carolina Panthers are probably going to have to rely on defense to get the job done this season. It is clearer that it could work out pretty well.

The Carolina defense hasn't given up a touchdown in back-to-back games. In half of the eight games, the Panthers haven't surrendered a touchdown by their defense.

The Panthers have been solid on defense all along, even when linebacker Luke Kuechly missed time. They're certainly better with him back in the lineup after another absence with a concussion.

Kuechly intercepted a pass and made eight tackles (second most on the team) in the 17-3 victory Sunday at Tampa Bay. He has two of the defense's three interceptions this season.

The Panthers are 5-3 midway through the regular season and, other than a few exceptions, the offense hasn't really gotten untracked. If that comes around, they could be ready to break out in the NFC South.

Head coach Ron Rivera said the offense is on the verge of becoming more productive because he likes the possibilities that exist as young players improve.

Now it's a matter of refining certain areas.

"You do get excited because you see what could happen," Rivera said. "It's just those details on things that you can just clean up."

The Panthers defeated Tampa Bay despite posting only 254 yards of total offense.

By winning, Carolina snapped a four-game losing streak against NFC South teams. There's another divisional foe waiting for the next game when the Atlanta Falcons visit on Sunday.

--The Panthers have thrived on ball-control offense when they've been successful in recent seasons. A drive of more than 8 1/2 minutes for a first-quarter touchdown Sunday against Tampa Bay was another sign it was returning.

"We've done that in the past," head Rivera said. "It's good to get back to that."

Third-down conversions were part of that success on that possession.

What impressed Rivera most after reviewing the footage was that 10 players touched the ball on offense on the drive.

"If we can spread the ball around, it helps our offense," he said.

The Panthers have 13 drives of more than six minutes this season, leading the NFL in that category.

--The Panthers have registered 27 sacks across their first eight games for one of the top marks in the NFL.

The addition of defensive end Julius Peppers has provided a boost in that department, though on the other side defensive end Mario Addison has been active as well.

Rivera said first-year defensive coordinator Steve Wilks has found the right combination. It comes from more than the ends rushing, but a good push up front and the ability to mix in some other elements.

"Guys that can blitz, you look for guys with those tools," Rivera said of the options with the pass rush.

NOTES: RG Trai Turner left the Tampa Bay game with a reinjured left knee after sustaining an initial injury a week earlier at Chicago. Head coach Ron Rivera didn't have an update on his condition Monday. ... S Kurt Coleman was back in action after missing three games with a foot injury. He led the team with nine tackles against Tampa Bay. ... DE Julius Peppers notched a sack at Tampa Bay to give him 151 in his career, pushing him into fourth place on the NFL's all-time sacks list.

REPORT CARD VS. BUCCANEERS

--PASSING OFFENSE: C -- A game-clinching 25-yard pass play from QB Cam Newton to WR Kelvin Benjamin bolstered this grade on what was otherwise a rather mundane game in the passing attack. Newton ended up 18 of 32 with one interception, but 154 passing yards might not do the job on many weeks. Carolina had most of its success with shorter routes, with wide receivers accounting for only eight of the 18 receptions.

--RUSHING OFFENSE: C -- The Panthers reached 100 yards rushing, something that seems like quite a feat for this team. Still, they managed barely 3 yards per carry. Again, QB Cam Newton was the most effective Carolina player in the ground attack by gaining 44 yards on 11 attempts.

--PASS DEFENSE: A -- The Panthers limited the Buccaneers through the air and it was a combination of a good pass rush and some solid coverage. It helped having LB Luke Kuechly back in the lineup. There were even two interceptions in this game after the Carolina defense went six games without a pick. Tampa Bay averaged a league-best 312.3 passing yards per game entering the weekend, and it managed just 194 net passing yards in this game.

--RUSH DEFENSE: A-minus -- The Panthers weren't giving up much here, and they also were alert to keeping Buccaneers QB Jameis Winston in check. The ability to defend well against the rushing attack put the Panthers in good defensive situations and ultimately seemed to make it more difficult for the Buccaneers to throw the ball as well.

--SPECIAL TEAMS: A-minus -- A strong day of punting from P Michael Palardy was part of the success for Carolina in this area, with seven boots averaging 50.4 yards. The Buccaneers managed only 36 return yards in the game. K Graham Gano's lone field-goal attempt was a successful 28-yarder.

--COACHING: B -- The Panthers recovered after a couple of losses and that was a good sign that a downward slide didn't continue. The Panthers lost twice to Tampa Bay last season, so at least that didn't become a trend. There still appears to be issues on the offensive side that need to get sorted out, because the way they played against the Buccaneers might not be enough in many weeks.

Jackson's 2 defensive TDs lead Bears past Panthers 17-3

By ANDREW SELIGMAN
Associated Press

CHICAGO (AP) — Rookie safety Eddie Jackson turned a painful anniversary into a record-setting afternoon.

He scooped up a loose ball and corralled a tipped pass. And with two long touchdown returns, he made NFL history.

Jackson became the first player to score multiple defensive TDs of 75 yards or more in a game, leading the Chicago Bears to a 17-3 victory over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. He's also the only rookie in NFL history with two 75-yard defensive touchdowns in a season.

Jackson's big day came exactly one year after he broke his leg playing for Alabama against Texas A&M.

"I'd dealt with adversity before," Jackson said. "That's one thing that I can credit Alabama on. They help you fight through adversity. I've been through a lot of stuff in my life. That was just a little minor stepping stone. I came here — it's a great organization, great training staff and great teammates so they did a great job keeping me up, keeping me going."

Jackson ran back a fumble recovery 75 yards on the game's opening possession and returned an interception of Cam Newton 76 yards for a score early in the second quarter to give Chicago a 14-0 lead.

He became the first Bears player since Fred Evans in 1948 — and the first NFL player since Tennessee's Zach Brown in 2012 — with two defensive TDs in a game.

Chicago also sacked Newton five timesand intercepted him twice.

The big plays by Jackson and the defense lifted the Bears (3-4) to their second straight win even though they got dominated in just about every statistical category.

Carolina (4-3) held huge advantages in yards (293-153), time of possession (38:35-21:25), offensive plays (69-37) and first downs (20-5).

"Those two turnovers hurt us and we just couldn't seem to get our (footing) back," said Newton, who completed 21 of 34 passes for 211 yards and ran for a team-high 50.

The Panthers dropped their second straight game.

"We didn't make plays, we really didn't," coach Ron Rivera said. "We were very methodical. We moved the ball. We got in certain situations and they bowed their neck and did some good things defensively. Offensively, they did what they needed to do."

Chicago's Mitchell Trubisky was 4 of 7 for 107 yards in his third NFL start. The No. 2 overall pick threw a 70-yard pass to Tarik Cohen, but did little else.

"We just have to get better in the pass game, and that falls on me," Trubisky said. "I'll be on the receivers and tight ends this week to continue to perfect our timing and routes. However, it mostly falls on me, so I just have to get better."

Jordan Howard also had a quiet afternoon, even though Panthers star linebacker Luke Kuechly missed the game because of a concussion. He ran for just 65 yards after going off for a career-high 167 against Baltimore last week.

The Bears matched last season's win total and put together back-to-back wins for the first time since 2015 — coach John Fox's first year in Chicago. They have six takeaways in the past two games. And against the Panthers, Jackson asserted himself right from the start.

A fourth-round draft pick, he scooped up the loose ball near the end zone after Curtis Samuel botched a lateral and was barely touched if at all on the way to the end zone.

Early in the second quarter, Chicago's Prince Amukamara tipped a pass intended for Kelvin Benjamin. Jackson hauled in the interception and made a neat move to avoid a lunging Cam Newton in an otherwise clear path to a 76-yard TD.

"I see it every day in practice," linebacker Pernell McPhee said. "He is going to be special. That's a special kid. Our whole secondary is special."

STINGY ON SCORING: The three points allowed matched Chicago's lowest total since a 41-3 romp at Jacksonville on Oct. 7, 2012. The Bears haven't allowed fewer than three since a 16-0 shutout of Miami on Nov. 18, 2010.

QUOTABLE: Bears coach John Fox on matching last year's win total: "I don't know if that's really a benchmark for us, to be honest."

INJURIES:

Panthers: Two-time All-Pro C Ryan Kalil said he suffered a setback in his return from a neck injury. He returned to the lineup after missing five games, only to last one quarter Sunday. "I'm just pretty frustrated about the whole thing," he said. "Just get back to Charlotte and figure out what the game plan is." ... LT Matt Kalil, his brother, limped to the sideline following a Panthers run early in the second quarter, but started the second half. ... RG Trai Turner injured his left knee late in the third blocking on a pass play and left the game. He is scheduled for an MRI, but he said he expects to play next week.

Bears: DL Roy Robertson-Harris injured his hamstring defending the kickoff return following Jackson's second touchdown.

UP NEXT

Panthers: Visit Tampa Bay on Oct. 29.

Bears: Visit New Orleans on Oct. 29.

Carson Wentz throws 3 TD passes, Eagles beat Panthers 28-23

By STEVE REED
Associated Press

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Carson Wentz said he saw some things from the Carolina Panthers he hadn't seen on film leading to three first-half sacks and plenty of pressure.

It didn't bother the Philadelphia Eagles' second-year quarterback.

Wentz came up big in a huge game, throwing for 222 yards and three touchdowns against one of the NFL's top defenses, and the Eagles beat the Panthers 28-23 on Thursday night to improve to an NFC-best 5-1.

"We kept backs in to handle their linebackers and we did a better job cleaning it up in the second half," said Wentz, who wasn't sacked in the second half.

The Eagles turned two interceptions deep in Carolina territory into 15 points. Wentz teamed with Zach Ertz on two touchdown passes, and LaGarrette Blount scored on a 2-point conversion run for an 18-10 lead in the third quarter. Wentz added a 24-yard scoring pass to Nelson Agholor in the fourth quarter.

"He's a great leader of this football team, even in his second year," Eagles coach Doug Pederson said about Wentz. "Guys really respect the way he plays. It's exciting to see that."

Cam Newton threw three interceptions for Carolina (4-2).

The first two interceptions came inside Carolina's 20, but weren't Newton's fault. He was hit by Fletcher Cox as he released one pass, and running back Jonathan Stewart bobbled another pass resulting in a pick.Newton's third interception — by Jalen Mills with 3:06 left — ended a chance for the go-ahead score.

Carolina had one last shot to win, but turned it over on downs at midfield.

"We gave them layups, giving them the ball inside our 20," Newton said. "Against a good team like that, well that's not good ingredients to win. We can't put our defense in that type of position."

Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly was placed into the concussion protocolafter his body crumpled following a collision with Eagles pulling guard Brandon Brooks. Kuechly missed nine games over the past two seasons with two concussions. All of the Eagles' touchdowns came after Kuechly left the game late in the second quarter.

Panthers cornerback Captain Munnerlyn said it won't be easy to replace Keuchly, adding "Luke is a big part of what we do."

Added defensive tackle Kawann Short: "You saw a quick prayer, but then the game has to go on."

Newton gave the Panthers a 10-3 lead on his 51st career touchdown rushing in the second quarter. He kept the ball on a read option and juked cornerback Rasul Douglas on the 16-yard run.

Douglas get revenge on Carolina's next possession, intercepting Newton's passafter Cox crashed into Newton as he was throwing, causing the ball to float high into the air.

EAGLES' COX RETURNS: After a two-game absence due to a calf injury, Eagles defensive tackle Fletcher Cox returned and was a dominant force. Along with the tipped pass on Newton's interception, he also had a sack and two quarterback hurries. "There's no way I could sit him tonight," Pederson said. "It was too important to him."

NO RUNNING GAME: If it hadn't been for Newton , the Panthers would not have had any running game to speak of against the Eagles. Newton ran for 71 yards and the touchdown, but running backs Jonathan Stewart, Christian McCaffrey and Fozzy Whittaker were limited to 1 yard on 13 carries.

"We have a lot of things to look at. We really do," Panthers coach Ron Rivera said of the running game."

BLOUNT POUNDS AWAY: The bruising Blount didn't find the end zone for a touchdown, although he did score on a 2-point conversion after the Panthers defensive tackle Star Lotulelei jumped early on an extra point attempt. That prompted coach Doug Pederson to go for two. Blount finished with 67 yards on 14 carries.

PEPPERS' MILESTONE: Julius Peppers needed one sack to become the fifth player to reach 150 since they became an official statistic in 1982. The 37-year-old Peppers didn't waste any time reaching it, sacking Wentz on the first drive of the game and forcing a fumble.

LINEUP CHANGE: Panthers cornerback Daryl Worley was benched in the first half for Kevin Seymour.

INJURIES:

Eagles: Linebacker Jordan Hicks left the game early with an ankle injury. Defensive end Brandon Graham briefly left with a shoulder injury.

Panthers: Aside from Kuechly's injury, Whittaker was carted to the locker room in the first quarter with a right ankle injury and did not return.

UP NEXT:

Eagles: Host the Washington Redskins on "Monday Night Football" on Oct. 23

Panthers: At the Chicago Bears on Oct. 22.

___

For more NFL coverage:http://www.pro32.ap.org andhttp://www.twitter.com/AP_NFL

Rams RB Todd Gurley, Panthers DE Julius Peppers and Rams K Greg Zuerelin named NFC Players of Week 4

Running back Todd Gurley of the Los Angeles Rams, defensive end Julius Peppers of the Carolina Panthers and kicker Greg Zuerlein of the Los Angeles Rams are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played in Week 4 (September 28, October 1-2).

Gurley accumulated 215 yards from scrimmage in Dallas, leading Los Angeles in both rushing and receiving. He finished with 23 carries for 121 yards — marking his first back-to-back games with at least 100 yards rushing since Week 7 and Week 8 of 2015 — and seven receptions for 94 yards. The Georgia product caught a 53-yard touchdown in the third quarter, the longest reception of his young career.

Peppers finished the game with two sacks, three quarterback hurries and four total tackles. This season, Peppers has recorded a team-high 4.5 sacks, ranking third in the NFC and fifth in the NFL overall. The nine-time Pro Bowler is Carolina's all-time leader in sacks with 85.5. He has the most sacks of any active NFL player with 148.0 career sacks, and is just 2.5 sacks from tying Chris Doleman for fourth all-time in NFL history.

Zuerlein has been named NFC Special Teams player of the Week after accounting for 23 points on Sunday, with two extra points accompanying his seven field goals. Zuerlein’s field goals came from 49, 44, 44, 30, 28, 43, and 33-yards out. He has made all 28 of his attempted kicks this season — 14 field goals, and 14 extra points, leading the league in both categories. He currently leads the league with 56 points scored, just ahead of No. 2 teammate Todd Gurley who has 42. Zuerlein has converted his last 18 field goal attempts dating back to last year. It’s Zuerlein’s fourth Player of the Week award, having previously received the honor in Week 4 of 2012, Week 13 of 2012, and Week 11 of 2014.

Gano field goal lifts Panthers over Patriots 33-30

By KYLE HIGHTOWER
Associated Press

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have been patiently waiting for the kind of performance from Cam Newton that had elevated him to the elite among NFL quarterbacks.

He finally delivered — against the reigning Super Bowl champions.

Graham Gano hit a 48-yard field goal as time expired, Newton threw for three touchdowns and ran for another and the Panthers stunned the New England Patriots 33-30 on Sunday.

The winner served as redemption for Gano, who missed an extra point in the third quarter. It was also the first signature game of 2017 for Newton, who threw four interceptions and just two touchdowns in Carolina's first three games.

"I felt this was a breakthrough game for us, a statement game," Newton said. "We had some careless turnovers, including (my) interception. But for us to come into a hostile environment, to battle, face some adversity early on, and still hold on at the end — it was a great team win for us."

Jonathan Stewart rushed 14 times for 68 yards to pass DeAngelo Williams and become the franchise's all-time leading rusher.

It was the second home loss this season for the usually unbeatable Patriots at Gillette Stadium. The defeat marked just the second time since 2012 that Tom Brady has lost two home starts within a season.

Newton finished 22 of 29 for 316 yards and an interception, picking apart a New England defense that was giving up an NFL-worst 461 yards and 31.7 points per game. The Patriots forced a pair of turnovers, but had trouble containing Newton's stable of targets. After exiting's last week's loss to New Orleans, receiver Kelvin Benjamin started and caught four passes for 104 yards.

"A lot of people counted us out this game," Stewart said. "There are a lot of guys on this team that deserve their credibility. ...We expected to win today."

Carolina (3-1) finished with 444 total yards, marking the fourth straight game the Patriots have given up at least 300 yards.

"So much stuff went wrong today," Patriots safety Devin McCourty said. "Giving up 30 points a game, 400-something yards. If it was one thing, we'd be better one of these weeks. It's just all of us. It's all 11 guys who are out there not playing good football."

Brady finished 32 of 45 for 307 yards and two scores.

The Patriots cut a 30-16 deficit in half on an 8-yard run by Dion Lewis with 8:46 remaining. Linebacker Dont'a Hightower forced a punt on Carolina's next drive when he sacked Newton on third down.

Brady then found Danny Amendola in the back of the end zone on fourth-and-goal from the 1 to tie the game. But two penalties on New England's defense on the Panthers' final drive set up Gano's winner.

CONFIDENT KICKER

If not for Gano's missed extra point, Carolina could have taken 15-point lead early in the fourth quarter following Newton's 7-yard touchdown run. He said he didn't let it deter him when his number was called again. Prior to the final drive Gano said receiver Devin Funchess told him, "We'll get you in range, don't even worry.

"This game meant a lot us," Gano said. "We had a lot of doubters out there. We have a great football team and I feel like we proved it today."

BIG HALF

Newton mostly had his way with the Patriots in the opening 30 minutes as the Panthers took a 17-16 lead into the locker room. He led them to a field goal on their first series of the game, completing passes of 14, 2 and 13 yards.

Newton tried to get too creative on their second drive, tossing into double coverage. He was intercepted by Malcolm Butler.

But after the Patriots took a 10-3 lead on a 2-yard pass from Brady to Chris Hogan, Newton led Carolina on a six-play, 75 yard drive capped by a 28-yard touchdown on a screen pass to Fozzy Whittaker .

He was spot-on again late in the half, leading Carolina on a nine-play, 84-yard drive that ended with a 10-yard strike to Funchess.

New England was able keep pace thanks to three first-half field goals by Stephen Gostkowski. It included a team-record 58-yarder as time expired in the second quarter.

ANTHEM DISPLAYS

No player kneeled during the anthem prior to the game. Stewart and linebacker Thomas Davis stood with their hands pressed in front of them as if in prayer. The Patriots all stood with one hand over their heart and the other on the shoulder of the player next to them.

INJURIES

Panthers: S Kurt Coleman left in the second quarter with a knee injury and did not return; WR Damiere Byrd left in the second quarter with a forearm injury and also did not return; Funchess limped off late in the fourth quarter.

Patriots: S Eric Rowe exited the game in the third quarter with a groin injury; LB Elandon Roberts left with a groin injury.

UP NEXT

Panthers: Play at Detroit on Sunday.

Patriots: Play at Tampa Bay on Thursday night.

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