Nine awesome things about Cam Newton's 72-yard touchdown run

Cam Newton seems to think the media is hard on him. Considering Rick Reilly's complaints, editorial cartoons and reactions to his comments about leaving out a suggestion box, he's not wrong. Nor is the criticism undeserved.

But in the spirit of the season let's celebrate the good rather than focus on the bad. In Sunday's big win over the 11-1 Atlanta Falcons, Newton ran for a 72-yard touchdown. It was one of five longest runs by a quarterback in the past 50 years. Here are the nine best things about it.

1. The continuing success of the read option. Take note, Steve Young.

2. Newton breaks away from the first wave of defense like Usain Bolt at the 50-meter mark in the 100.

3. But he doesn't outrun Steve Smith, who stays with Newton for five yards, then passes him to block downfield.

4. The blocking Steve Smith does downfield. Watch it again if you haven't. He does a full 360 while taking two Falcons defenders out of the play. Without Smith, Newton's run is an impressive 50-yard first down, not a 72-yard score.

5. Cam's stutter step at the 28-yard line to create a moment's hesitation in the defense.

6. The flip.

7. Finally having a good reason to do the Superman celebration.

8. Panthers players congratulating Steve Smith in the end zone for the key block.

9. And, most importantly, welcoming Gus Johnson back to an NFL booth in style.