Carolina Panthers Week 1 Report Card
It's Monday....which means it's time to review this Sunday's game as we break out our weekly report card grading all three sides of the ball (offense, defense, special teams).
OFFENSE: B- (from Schuyler Callihan)
Maybe I'm just a little optimistic here, but I really like what I saw from the Carolina offense on Sunday. Without Dennis Daley, I thought the offensive line held their own and did a decent job. The receiving corps was probably the most disappointing unit in week one. Too many drops, didn't get great position on some throws and aside from Robby Anderson's 75-yard touchdown, there was a lack of explosive plays. With that said, I think the offense played fairly well for not having played in a live game setting prior to this weekend. Teddy Bridgewater looked like a leader and played like a leader. A lot of potential on this side of the ball.
DEFENSE: D+ (from Jason Hewitt)
The Panthers' defense was unable to stop the run or the pass on Sunday. Josh Jacobs had a field day with 93 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Derek Carr also threw for 239 yards through the air with a touchdown to add to that. He was able to throw the ball comfortably all game long. There were only five pressures and zero sacks on the defensive side of the ball. The Raiders' offensive line had its way, which was one of the main reasons why the Panthers lost. Shaq Thompson and Jeremy Chinn had decent days, but it wasn’t enough to get the job done. On a few occasions, the defense helped the team stay in the game, but there were way too many mistakes.
Special Teams: B (from Schuyler Callihan)
Joey Slye's missed extra point was disappointing to see to start the game, but he did bounce back and have a solid day finishing with a pair of field goals beyond 45 yards. Pharoh Cooper at returner is lightning in a bottle - he's got the ability to flip the field and was a great pickup for the Panthers this offseason. Punter Joseph Charlton showed off his leg in the second half getting a pair of punts for an average of 60 yards.
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