4 big takeaways from Panthers’ Week 1 loss to the Raiders

What were some of the big takeaways from the Carolina Panthers’ Week 1 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders at Bank of America Stadium?

Things did not go according to plan for the Carolina Panthers in their Week 1 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders.

This was the first time that the Carolina Panthers have taken the field since Week 17 last season and there was some definite rustiness in periods despite a strong start. New head coach Matt Rhule got a crash course in what it takes in the NFL. But the game was a further indication of just how tough things are going to be for the organization this season.

The Panthers did manage to start the game well, scoring on their first three drives with Teddy Bridgewater under center. They were well in the game at the break but came out flat to start the second half and eventually paid the price.

Things will not be any easier for Carolina next weekend when they travel to the fancied Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Lessons will need to be learned and quickly in order for them to get that all-important first victory, however unlikely that might seem.

Everyone knew that this was going to be a work in progress after an offseason of unprecedented change. Cam Newton showing out on his New England Patriots debut didn’t exactly help matters with large sections of the Panthers’ fanbase.

There were plenty of things to take away from Carolina’s opening weekend defeat. Here are four of the main factors that ultimately decided the contest.