CHARLOTTE — Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, the NFL's reigning MVP, wasn't super except as a spectator Monday night, out with a concussion.
The Bucs had several megabucks stars lining the sideline and also out of uniform. Running back Doug Martin, defensive tackles Gerald McCoy and Clinton McDonald and defensive end Robert Ayers all were out with various injuries.
How soon those players come back — with the real possibility each could return after the bye week for the Oct. 23 game at San Francisco — could affect the Bucs' fortunes.
Martin, who has not played since suffering a hamstring injury at Arizona in Week 2, has a good chance to return against the 49ers.