Adrian Peterson Strong Fan Support During Metrodome Arrival

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Adrian Peterson arrived to the Metrodome this morning with his game face on -- and fans waiting outside gave AP tons of love for showing up.

Peterson is set to face the Carolina Panthers any moment now -- and judging by the video ... fans inside the arena are gonna go OFF when AP hits the field.

As we previously reported ... Adrian insisted on playing in today's game following the death of his 2-year-old son and earlier today said, "God wants good to come from it."

He added, "We mourn and grieve but heaven had the baddest welcoming party for my son ... That knowledge gives me peace."

Cam Newton Pulls a Dangerfield ... Heads Back to School

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton knows ... he's gotta have a backup plan if the whole NFL thing doesn't work out ... so he's heading back to college.

Newton -- who blew off school to become the #1 overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft -- has re-enrolled at Auburn University for the spring semester to continue working on his sociology degree.

FYI -- Newton signed a 4-year, $22 million contract with the Panthers when he first left Auburn ... and has undoubtedly racked up millions more through various endorsement deals.

Still, it's clear Newton knows you can't put a price on a good education ... and made the decision to go back.

A rep for the school told the Associated Press Cam won't be talking to the media about his decision because he just "wants to focus on school and be a normal student."

A normal student ... who can buy and sell the entire teaching staff.