The Carolina Panthers had many people confused Sunday night as they decided to start backup Derek Anderson in favour of their MVP pivot in Cam Newton.

However, the shakeup was short lived.

On the first play of the game Anderson threw an interception to Seahawks linebacker Mike Morgan. Newton started the next series for the Panthers and was unable to earn a first down as Carolina was forced to punt after three plays.

NBC's Sunday Night Football reported Newton broke a "minor team rule" which resulted in the decision to sit him for the first drive.

According to NFL.com's Omar Ruiz, Newton was healthy and it was head coach Ron Rivera's choice to go with Anderson.

Newton, a three-time Pro Bowler, has thrown for 2,432 yards with 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 2016, his sixth year with the club. The 27-year-old won his first career MVP last year, leading the Panthers to a 13-1 record and an appearance in Super Bowl 50 against the Denver Broncos.  

Going into Sunday night's game, the Panthers sit last in the NFC South with a 4-7 record and are in danger of missing the playoffs.