Carolina Panthers performance analysis following Week 12 setback
Carolina Panthers performance grades following a third consecutive loss.
The Carolina Panthers returned home with hopes of solidifying their playoff position by virtue of a win over the Seattle Seahawks. Unfortunately, Seattle scored on five consecutive drives, including every possession in the second half, and a field goal to close out the game pushed the Panthers out of the current playoff picture.
Offensively, Carolina nearly matched the Seahawks production with opportunities on their last six drives, including two in the first half and four over the final two quarters, but an interception in the end zone and missed Graham Gano field goal allowed Seattle to capitalize.
Quarterback – A-
Cam Newton didn’t throw an incomplete pass in the entire first half and finished with only five misfires on 30 attempts. He tossed two touchdowns and added 63 yards on the ground but a questionable attempt to hit covered tight end Chris Manhertz in the end zone resulted in an interception.
Running Back – A+
A franchise record 100-plus yards of receiving and rushing was achieved but will soon be forgotten because of the end result – a loss. Christian McCaffrey was near unstoppable all game scoring a rushing and receiving touchdown behind 125 and 112 yards, respectively.
Receivers – A+
The combination of rookie D.J. Moore, Curtis Samuel and Jarius Wright looked extremely good in the passing game along with tight end Greg Olsen. Torrey Smith returned from a knee injury but played sparingly and Damiere Byrd exited with an injury. Overall, the absence of Devin Funchess wasn’t noticeable which is something to consider given he’s in a contract year.
Offensive Line – A
Newton wasn’t sacked all game and rarely found himself under pressure. The run game was a huge success with this unit paving the way and despite an early failed attempt to convert a fourth-down in the red zone, any other issues were non-existent.
Defensive Line – C-
The defensive line played well stopping the run and generating a bit of pressure although no lineman recorded a sack. When Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson was brought to the turf it came on blitz packages from other levels of the defense.
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Linebacker – B+
The improved play of the defensive front allowed for linebackers Luke Kuechly, Shaq Thompson and Thomas Davis to make plays. Thompson recorded a sack and Kuechly led the team with 12 tackles. Combined, this unit accounted for 26 stops on the day.
Secondary – F
As much promise as the secondary showed early in the season, they have reverted back to being a liability. Rookie Donte Jackson exited after the first play from scrimmage and his absence left a glaring hole opposite James Bradberry. Wilson’s 339 yards passing were his most for the entire season.
Special Teams – F
The nice play of punter Michael Palardy is being dragged down by kicker Graham Gano. Following a missed field goal and extra-point attempt last week, the Panthers recently extended contract recipient missed another critical try late in the game.
dark. Next. Secondary Woes
Overall, a third straight loss leaves Carolina on the outside looking in for a playoff berth with serious questions on the defensive side of the football, in addition to Gano.