2016 NFL Power Rankings Week 2: Los Angeles Rams Edition

Aug 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Case Keenum (17) throws the ball against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first inning at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Case Keenum (17) throws the ball against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first inning at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
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Sep 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) reacts following the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Panthers 21-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) reacts following the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Panthers 21-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

4. Carolina Panthers (2)

For starters, let’s give Cam Newton the credit he deserves for the way he handled his frustration over non-calls from Thursday’s game against the Denver Broncos as the quarterback was most likely feeling sore all over the following day.

Newton has taken plenty of hits throughout his career as a running quarterback, but the argument can be made the opener against the Broncos was one of the most painful games he’s ever played in. Last year’s MVP was constantly taking shots throughout the game, and a few replays indicate there were even a few cheap ones that should have resulted in penalties.

Unfortunately, there’s nothing Newton or Carolina can do now other than focus on earning the extra rest for next weekend’s game. Despite coming up on the losing end, the Panthers still showed the NFL why they should be considered one of the top teams in the NFC for the second-straight season.

Next: 3. Green Bay Packers

Schedule