NFL: Carolina 30, Atlanta 20

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CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 9 (UPI) -- Cam Newton passed for two touchdowns and ran for another Sunday, powering the Carolina Panthers to a 30-20 victory over Atlanta.

Newton's 72-yard scoring run early in the second half put the Panthers ahead 23-0 and Carolina (4-9) went on to win for the second time in three contests.

The rookie signal-caller completed 23-of-35 for 287 yards -- hooking up with Greg Olsen and Deangelo Williams on TD tosses -- and added 116 yards rushing on nine carries.

His favorite target was Steve Smith, who made seven catches for 109 yards in the win.

The Falcons (11-2) were led by Matt Ryan (34-of-49, 342 yards, two touchdowns, one interception) and Roddy White (nine catches, 117 yards, one touchdown) in the setback.

Atlanta missed a chance to clinch the first-round playoff bye with the loss.