NFC South: Carolina Panthers suffer divisional loss, return home for Week 3

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ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 16: The Carolina Panthers line up against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 16, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

The Carolina Panthers suffered a divisional loss in Week 2, falling in the standings.

Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera was not pleased with his team’s defense following a loss to divisional rival Atlanta. The unit, which hadn’t allowed a 100-yard rusher in a league leading 21 straight contests was gashed time and again by Falcons running back Tevin Coleman.

Not only was the group unable to contain the running game but an inability to reach quarterback Matt Ryan allowed the former league MVP time to carve up the Carolina secondary. A week after registering six sacks in the home opener, the Atlanta offensive line pitched a shutout against the Panthers.

Only two games have been played in 2018 but for both injury laden teams it felt like a must win situation. Carolina needed to prove they could win on the road, especially in Atlanta, and get off to a good divisional start but the Falcons wanted it more. Desperate after suffering a season opening loss to Philadelphia, Atlanta could ill afford to drop two straight.

Continue to view each teams’ outcome from Week 2 and a preview of next week.

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