Carolina Panthers ‘special’ in preseason win, other takeaways

Defensive Shift

The Panthers are transitioning to more 3-4 fronts this season in an effort to spark a stagnant defense and initial indications were impressive. Again, it’s just one game but Carolina totaled five sacks and were continually in the backfield. At one point, the defense nearly forced a fumble which was returned for a touchdown before being ruled a forward pass.

Defensive ends Brian Burns, the Panthers first-round draft pick, and Marquis Haynes each had a couple sacks as Chicago struggled to contain them on the outside. The Panthers played well but still gave up a few big plays at bad times.

Vernon Butler allowed a big run early and Carolina struggled to stop the Bears from scoring right before halftime when they completed a 45-yard pass on third down to move into field goal range.