10 key takeaways from the Panthers’ dismal loss vs. Broncos

What were the key takeaways from the Carolina Panthers’ loss in Week 14?

Another week, another disappointing loss at the death for the Carolina Panthers against the Denver Broncos. It didn’t take long for their pre-bye week struggles to rear their ugly head and they left themselves with too much to do thanks to a poor start and an inability to come through in the clutch yet again.

This is becoming increasingly frustrating and the fact the same outcome keeps happening again and again just shows that the Carolina Panthers aren’t making the necessary adjustments. They have lost seven games this season by one score and this is a trend that cannot continue if the organization wants to become a realistic postseason contender sooner rather than later.

Denver was their most winnable game remaining on the schedule. Now there is a real chance they finish the campaign on a sour note that would leave plenty questioning just how long this expected rebuild is going to take.

Here are ten big takeaways for the Panthers following their disappointing loss to the Broncos at Bank of America Stadium.

Takeaway No. 1

Players in the doghouse

It didn’t take long to figure out the level of displeasure Matt Rhule has regarding his players holding a social gathering away from the team facility during the bye week. Those involved didn’t start the game and although this lasted for only a couple of snaps each, it was a statement that things like this will not be tolerated moving forward.

This didn’t have much in the way of an impact on the game. But the message was clear.

Preparations for Carolina’s game against the Broncos were significantly disrupted due to this lack of discipline and Rhule has made it clear in no uncertain terms that this lack of awareness was a clear breach of trust.