Carolina Panthers Week 1 grades vs. Los Angeles Rams

Offense

Quarterbacks: C-
Running Backs: A+
Wide Receivers: C
Tight Ends: B-
Offensive Line: B-

Newton completed 25 passes for 239 yards and was sacked three times but a late interception hurt tremendously while trying to claw back into the game. The Panthers rallied for a touchdown after a Rams missed field goal but getting on the board with over five minutes remaining, instead of under two would have helped. He also finished with negative rushing yards for the first time in his career on just three carries and what appeared to be only one designed run.

The lone offensive bright spot for Carolina was running back Christian McCaffrey who continues to impress – catching deflected passes, hurdling defenders and routinely making play after play. The Panthers running back was responsible for well over half of the team’s total yards accumulating 81 in the air and 128 on the ground with two touchdowns. Second-year receiver D.J. Moore, who is expected to see an increase in targets, fumbled to stall an early drive and failed to react on a backwards pass executed by Newton.

Up front the offensive line blocked well for McCaffrey against a potent Rams defensive unit, in addition to providing opportunities for Newton to stand in the pocket and attempt down the field throws, although he often settled for a check-down route.