Jojo Doria

Charlotte, NC

The Panthers' No. 1 overall pick of this year's draft Cam Newton showed flashes of talent in his NFL debut, completing two passes during his first series as Carolina downed the New York Giants 20-10 Saturday night, in their preseason debut at Bank of America Stadium.

The highly-touted rookie quarterback, who guided Auburn University to an undefeated 2010 season capped by a win in the BCS National Championship Game, completed only eight-of-19 passes but helped the Panthers drive for two field goals.

Newton, 22, who played the second and third quarters before giving way to veteran reserve Derek Anderson, struggled at times with his accuracy in the first game of his pro career.

Though regarded as a passing and running threat during his Heisman Trophy-winning season last year at Auburn, Newton failed to record any rushing attempts with the Panthers.

Newton is currently second on the Panthers depth chart behind second-year quarterback Jimmy Clausen, who started the game.

Clausen also had some tentative moments early in the contest but eventually settled in to finish with four completions in seven pass attempts for 69 yards with one TD and one interception.

The Panthers erected a 13-10 lead at halftime.

Carolina also accounted for the only points in the second half, with Anderson finding rookie wide receiver Kealoha Pilares for a 35-yard TD strike.

Anderson completed 3-of-4 passes for 71 yards with one TD.

Giants starting quarterback Eli Manning only played in five series, completing 4-of-9 passes for 36 yards.

Sage Rosenfels, meanwhile, was busy under center for New York and passed for 129 yards on 13-of-19 completions

Cam Newton's Debut: Panthers Rip Giants in Preseason Opener