Panthers' Newton breaks rib, should be fit for opener

[August 25, 2014]  (Reuters) - Quarterback Cam Newton will miss the Carolina Panthers' final pre-season game due to a hairline fracture in his ribs but is expected to be ready for their season opener, the team said on Sunday after medical scans confirmed the injury.

Carolina's final pre-season game is against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday before they meet the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their season opener on Sept. 7.

The 25-year-old Newton, who guided the Panthers to the playoffs in 2013, underwent ankle surgery during the off-season.

(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by Greg Stutchbury)

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