David Newton, ESPN Staff Writer 7y

Patrick Peterson: 'Life would be much easier' if Cam Newton didn't run

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson responded how most NFL defensive players likely would when asked what it would be like to prepare for the Carolina Panthers if quarterback Cam Newton didn’t run.

“Life would be much easier, I can tell you that much," Peterson said as he looked ahead to Sunday’s game against Carolina. “I can guarantee that. Having that freak of nature running down between the hashes and down the sidelines, that’s not supposed to happen.

“It would definitely be a blessing to not prepare for Cam Newton as a runner, but we know that’s not reality."

Newton ran only twice -- for a total of 1 yard -- in Carolina’s last game against New Orleans, his first back from a concussion. But the reigning NFL MVP made it clear Wednesday that running will remain a big part of his game.

“I know as the Panthers, that’s our edge," Newton said. “That makes defenses prepare for extra things. So when you take that away, then the defense is like, ‘Yes! We don’t have to prepare for a [running] quarterback.'

“So I’m trying to find any and every way to create edges for us."

Newton has rushed for 46 touchdowns, the most by a quarterback in NFL history, and 3,355 yards since entering the league in 2011.

He rushed 10 times for 47 yards and two touchdowns when the Panthers beat the Cardinals in last season's NFC Championship Game.

Peterson expects nothing different Sunday.

“Like you said, that is his game," Peterson said. “You can tell that gets him into the game. That gets him fired up. Not only him, but his team. The guy is really, really tough. He’s a lot to deal with.

“I’m sure he knows how to be smart, watch himself for another [concussion] because he is a very valuable piece to that Carolina offense and to the organization as well. You want to have your best player on the field at all times, and he understands that, and I’m quite sure he’ll be smart from here on out."

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