Cam Newton can dance
Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton celebrates after scoring a touchdown on a 2-yard run against the Tennessee Titans in the second half of a game Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015, in Nashville, Tenn. The Panthers won 27-10. Credit: AP / Mark Zaleski
Cam Newton made plenty of news with his touchdown dance near the end of last week's game against the Titans, drawing criticism from some who felt he was showing up the Titans and praise from others who thought he simply was celebrating the moment.
In a league that tamps down shows of emotion, it's fine for Newton to dance, just as it is for Odell Beckham Jr. after he scores a touchdown. Or, for that matter, for Cardinals backup Drew Stanton to prance up and down the sidelines as his team is beating the rival Seahawks on the road.
But Newton did go on a bit longer than might have been necessary after some Titans defenders took umbrage at his celebration, and he and anyone else who celebrates in a similar fashion on the road has to expect some of that. Even Panthers coach Ron Rivera, who encouraged Newton for his outpouring of joy, suggested it went on just a bit too long.
And Beckham last year was seen as taunting Rams defenders in a road game last year, underscoring the fact that celebratory dances and shows of emotion are much more welcomed in front of the home crowd.
Bob Glauber retired in 2022 after covering the NFL for nearly 40 years. He was selected in 2021 for the Bill Nunn Career Achievement Award by the Pro Football Writers of America, and is a three-time winner of the New York State Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sports Media Association. President of the PFWA for the 2018-20 seasons, he is the author of “The Forgotten First” and “Guts and Genius.”
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