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Defensive Coordinator Gunther Cunningham would typically agree that lining up across from a rookie quarterback presents more opportunities for the defense.

But when it comes to Panthers' quarterback Cam Newton, Cunningham says he's way above being "just another rookie."

"He is a tremendous talent and the thing that is really amazing is how big and strong he is," said Cunningham. "I was amazed by his size and strength in college and how he took college players on and ran right through them and he's showing some of that in the NFL.

"He's very confident and possesses a great arm, and what amazes me is that he can do all of that as a rookie. For him to be successful against teams like Atlanta and New Orleans, that really gets your attention."

Newton currently ranks seventh among league passers with 2,605 yards. He's also racked up 374 yards on the ground.

His ability to pose a threat in both phases  is what makes him dangerous, but not unstoppable, as defenses have been able to tie him up behind the line of scrimmage 22 times for a loss of 155 yards.

Known for their stout pass rushing defense, Detroit currently ranks sixth in league standings in sacks per pass play with 26.0 for 172 yards, and first in passing yards per play.

Holding up their reputation by keeping Newton under duress throughout the game will be the key in shutting him down.

"If he hadn't been sacked that many times, he'd probably be leading the NFL in rushing and in passing," said Cunningham. "He has God given ability, he's fast and has a powerful arm. You can't stay the same and give him a picture (of what's coming). If you blitz him, he knows you're man-to-man, so he'll go to Steve Smith or (Greg) Olsen.

"You have to keep him off balance and all of that pressure is on us."

Having played some tough offensive opponents this season, Cunningham says against Newton and the Panther's offense, the Lions' defense will have to play their best game so far in order to win.

"They have tremendous talent on offense," he said. "Their runners are outstanding. Their tight ends are as good as any receivers in the NFL and their receiver (Smith) sure as heck is, he's a 10-year vet, but he's running by everybody.

"We're going to have to be on top of our game, we're going to have to play our best defensive game all year, and that's really how I feel."