Carolina Panthers Week 14 performance analysis at Cleveland Browns

Carolina Panthers performance grades following a fifth consecutive loss.

The Carolina Panthers second half slide continued against the Cleveland Browns with a fifth consecutive loss. After winning six of their first eight games this season, the Panthers have failed to win again, in addition to struggling away from Bank of America Stadium.

Changes to the defensive coaching staff and coach Ron Rivera assuming the play calling duties didn’t translate into a win on Sunday. While the defensive line displayed their rushing prowess, particularly in the third quarter, Browns rookie quarterback Baker Mayfield was only sacked once during the contest.

Quarterback – D+
Cam Newton started after some questions concerning his health but was again removed for backup Taylor Heinicke when a long pass was needed. Newton made 42 pass attempts, completing 26 for 265 yards but couldn’t connect in the end zone before tossing a game ending interception.

Running Back – A
Running back Christian McCaffrey continues to impress down the stretch, adding two more rushing touchdowns. McCaffrey also had the second most receptions, catching six balls for 38 yards.

Receivers – C
Rookie tight end Ian Thomas was the most targeted (11) receiver for Carolina, hauling in nine passes for 77 yards in his most productive outing to date. Devin Funchess returned to the lineup but didn’t register a catch and missed an opportunity for a huge gain and potential score at one point.

Offensive Line – D
Facing last year’s first overall pick from the NFL Draft, Myles Garrett overmatched Panthers left tackle Chris Clark on numerous occasions. Although Newton was only sacked once, he was under pressure numerous times and benefited from a replay review that overturned another strip-sack on the field.

Defensive Line – B

The defensive line play continued to be somewhat sporadic, generating pressure but not registering a sack during the game. The first line of defense, Cleveland had success on the ground with rookie running back Nick Chubb, who rushed for a touchdown and 66 yards.

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Linebacker – A
Luke Kuechly was everywhere, attempting to put this defense on his shoulders and right the ship. His 11 tackles led the team and veteran linebacker Thomas Davis recovered two fumbles.
Secondary – D
Continuing to be a liability, rookie Donte Jackson was beat on Mayfield’s first pass attempt for 66 yards, setting up an answer to the Panthers opening touchdown.

Special Teams – B-
Kicker Graham Gano was replaced by Chandler Catanzaro after being ruled out with an injury. His replacement performed admirably, nailing all four of his attempts – two field goals and two extra points. Unfortunately, penalties continue to plague this group as a field goal attempt was nixed for a punt after a delay of game in the third quarter.

Thomas Davis Tweets His Frustration. dark. Next

Another loss centered around poor play and a disappointing defensive effort.

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