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Ron Rivera says no decision made yet on sitting Cam Newton

With the Panthers losing their sixth straight game, head coach Ron Rivera said the team "plans on playing" Cam Newton against Atlanta this week.
Credit: Bob Donnan
Dec 17, 2018; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) looks to pass as New Orleans Saints defensive tackle David Onyemata (93) and outside linebacker A.J. Klein (53) pressure in the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium.

With the Carolina Panthers in the midst of a six-game losing streak, head coach Ron Rivera isn't ready to sit an ailing Cam Newton in the final two games. 

During his press conference Tuesday morning, Rivera said he hadn't yet met with Newton or the team's medical staff when asked about Newton's health and shoulder following the team's 12-9 loss to New Orleans Monday night. 

"From what I've been told and my understanding, everybody understands what's happening," Rivera said. "That's more of a question for the medical staff and Cam Newton himself."

Rivera said he still believes in Newton as the best chance for the Panthers to win and possibly make the playoffs.

"Believe it or not, there's still a slim glimmer, so we'll see," Rivera explained. "We'll continue to focus on playing football and for all intents and purposes, we plan on playing him."

Rivera said the team's losing streak has really weighed on the 2015 MVP. Over the last three games, Newton has thrown six interceptions to three touchdowns and has rushed for less than 35 yards each game. 

"This was a tough one for him, this was a tough pill to swallow and knowing him, he'll put a lot of responsibility on himself."

With a 6-8 record, the Panthers need a lot of help to make the playoffs. A win by Minnesota would eliminate Carolina from wildcard consideration. The Vikings visit Detroit Sunday at 1 p.m. 

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