Carolina Panthers: Ron Rivera wrong at Detroit Lions, here’s why

Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera was wrong in deciding to go for two against the Detroit Lions.

The Carolina Panthers lost another road game against the Detroit Lions, who ended a three game losing streak of their own. On the road, Carolina has struggled this season, needing a franchise record fourth-quarter comeback to secure their lone victory, a 21-17 win over the now 4-6 Philadelphia Eagles.

After being embarrassed on national television a week earlier, expectations for the Panthers following a 10-day layoff were to rebound and take care of business in the Motor City. Unfortunately, a defense that continues to execute poorly coupled with a terrible performance from kicker Graham Gano and an ill-advised decision from Ron Rivera, ended in a one-point loss.

The Panthers had another great start, scoring on their first possession after having a kickoff penalty enforced and beginning from their own 10-yard line. Following, an immediate Lions answer tied the game before an exchange of punts for most of the first half.

Ultimately, quarterback Cam Newton and the Panthers offense pulled within one with just over a minute remaining when D.J. Moore caught a touchdown pass after accumulating 157 yards on the day.

Rivera went for two and failed. Afterwards he said, “you go for two on the road to win the game and that’s what I did” but here’s why it was the wrong decision.