Charlotte, NC

Halftime score

Arizona Cardinals 7

Carolina Panthers 24

The Carolina Panthers jumped out early making the most of thier opportunities converting 2 of 3 third downs in hte first quarter while Arizona completed only 1 of 4. The Panthers took a 17 to 0 lead into the 2nd quarter.

Carson Palmer recovered from a very slow start in the first quarter to get going in the second. However, the 2 lost fumbles really hurt. Arizona must cut out the mistakes and start capitalizing on big plays being made by David Johnson.

A disastrous mishandled punt by Patrick Peterson put Carolina in business at the 46 yard line. Newton tops the drive with a 1 yard score out of the shotgun to put Carolina up 24 to 7 over Arizona.

Newton went 7 of 14 for 135 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He also rushed for 7 yards on 5 carries and the aforementioned touchdown. Jonathan Stewart rushed 9 times for 53 yards. Corey Brown has 2 receptions for 100 yards.

For the Cardinals, David Johnson is their offense. He has 13 carries for 58 yards and a touchdown plus three receptions for 25 yards. Palmer is nine of 17 for 86 yards and an interception.

The big difference in the game of course are the mistakes by Arizona. Three lost fumbles have put them behind and with Palmer having an iffy game it is hard to believe they can recover.

Follow @SportsBySharona for live game updates from the NFC Championship game.