The Pittsburgh Steelers topped the Carolina Panthers 33-17, and although Derek Anderson stood out, going 11 of 19 for 192 yards and a TD, Cam Newton scored his first touchdown as a pro on a pass to Jeremy Shockey. Bob Pompeani, calling the game for KDKA in Pittsburgh, said that the scamper went for more distance than any regular-season quarterback run in franchise history. Following the game, head coach Ron Rivera named Newton the starter for the season opener.
The Miami Dolphins trounced the Dallas Cowboys 17-3, as Dallas backup quarterback Stephen McGee went 21 of 25 for 233 yards, with no TDs and 1 INT. Dolphins Larry Johnson scored on a 22 yard touchdown run, and backup quarterback Matt Moore threw for another score.
