The Carolina Panthers did everything right except get the win against the Green Bay Packers. The Panthers came out strong taking a 13-0 lead but ultimately l0st 30-23. Cam Newton threw for 432-yards, topping his previous week of 422-yards. The Panthers failed to add any points on the board for most of the second and entire third period. Despite the 0-2 start for the Panthers, the team continues to effectively move the football and put points on the board. But great stats don’t mean anything without the win to back them up. Coming off last years 2-14 season, Panthers’ fans are hungry for a win.
OVERALL: B+
The Panthers had the home field advantage against the defending Superbowl Champion Packers today at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC. The Panthers could not have asked for a better start, going on a 13-0 run in the first half. But Arron Rodgers and the Packers struck fast and in big number. Rodgers had both 49-yard and 89-yard touchdown passes along with three straight Mason Crosby field goals. The Packers recovered the Panthers onside kick attempt and clinched the victory 30-23.
OFFENSE: B-
Cam Newton continues to rack up passing yards by the masses, throwing for back-to-back 400+ yard games. While Newton continues to improve his accuracy and overall composure, he had three interceptions that effectively crippled the Panthers offense. The Panthers had no trouble moving the football, but to have three drives cut short with no points to show is almost impossible to recover from.
DEFENSE: B
The Carolina Panthers defense allowed three touchdowns, 431-total yards of offense and one forced fumble to the Packers. The only registered sack for the Panthers went to Charles Johnson. Despite four Panthers turnovers the defense managed to keep the game within reach for the offense.
SPECIAL TEAMS: A-
Olindo Mare tacked on nine points with his three field goals for the Panthers. After a late game rally, the Panthers attempted an unsuccessful on-side kick, trying to get the ball back in the hands of Cam Newton.
The Panthers fall to 0-2, but it’s safe to say that they are playing like a much for unified team. Steve Smith’s performance has drastically improved from previous years and Cam Newton continues to impress. With a few minor tweaks and better ball control the Panthers have high hopes for the rest of the season. Next game: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars, Sep 25 1:00pm ET
