4 Panthers players who underperformed against the Raiders

Which members of the Carolina Panthers underperformed during their disappointing Week 1 defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders?

We thought things might get worse before they get better with the Carolina Panthers and if Sunday’s season opener was any indication, it could be a long season.

The Carolina Panthers returned to competitive action at an empty Bank of America Stadium against the Las Vegas, which was the first game under new head coach Matt Rhule. There was plenty to like about the way they started the game. But coming out of the locker room flat for the second half played a leading role in their eventual downfall.

This was a significant learning curve for players, coaches, and fans alike. Having no preseason games to fully integrate themselves was a complication that appeared evident later in the contest and their decision-making on a crucial fourth-and-one was something else that left a sour taste in the mouth.

If Rhule was under any illusions as to the size of the task awaiting him in Carolina, then there is now little doubt in his mind. The former Baylor man got a rude awakening regarding the fine margins that decide games at the next level and he will be looking back on his opening game as an NFL head coach with a sense of regret.

There was a real chance for the Panthers to pick up a morale-boosting win before coming up short. Some players will look at their respective performances and felt they should have done better. Here are four such individuals who underperformed during the contest.