ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 01: Cam Newton #1 of the New England Patriots scrambles during a game against the Buffalo Bills at Bills Stadium on November 01, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
Cam Newton wasn’t going to be denied of scoring a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills on Monday night.
The New England Patriots have nothing to play for in Week 16, as they were officially eliminated from playoff contention following their loss to the Miami Dolphins last week. However, they do have the chance to mess with the Buffalo Bills’ seeding in the playoffs. After facing criticism for his play this season, let’s just say quarterback Cam Newton was motivated in the first half of Monday night’s game.
In the second quarter, Newton appeared destined to be sacked by Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver. Instead, Newton escaped Oliver’s grasp and bulldozed his way into the end zone to cut New England’s deficit to 10-9.
That touchdown run was the 70th of Newton’s career and the 12th of the season. Newton is now tied with Steve Grogan for most rushing touchdowns by a Patriots quarterback in a single-season.
The highlight of Newton’s night
Unfortunately for Newton, this would be the lone highlight of his night. The Patriots wouldn’t get into the end zone again, and midway through the third quarter, head coach Bill Belichick benched Newton in favor of Jarrett Stidham.
At the time of his benching, Newton had completed 5-of-10 pass attempts for a total of 34 passing yards, while rushing 24 yards on four carries.
While Newton tied the single-season rushing touchdown record for Patriots quarterbacks, it’s unknown if he’ll get the chance to break it in Week 17 against the New York Jets, as he could be relegated down the depth chart in favor of Stidham.