6 best and worst moments from the Panthers vs. Jets in Week 1

Carolina Panthers offense struggled in the 2nd half

The Carolina Panthers took a 16-0 lead into halftime, but the offense came to a screeching halt in the second half which began with three straight punts.

Carolina had one quality possession in the second half that took 7:43 off the clock, traveling 52 yards on 12 plays for a field goal, the only Panthers score after halftime.

Carolina Panthers OL remains concerning

The offensive line was a concern heading into the regular season and the season opener didn’t make fans feel any better. They struggled in pass protection throughout the game, particularly in the second half.

Carolina only allowed one sack – which was given up by Dennis Daley – but conceded eight quarterback hits.

Taylor Moton, the team’s best offensive lineman, was on the injury report earlier this week but is expected to play Sunday against the New Orleans Saints. Guards John Miller and Pat Elfein were also on the injury report this week but have healed up and are good to go as well.

All three players will be needed against a talented Saints pass rush.

Carolina Panthers red zone offense needs to improve

Last season, the Panthers struggled to score touchdowns when reaching the red zone and that streak appears to remain an issue in 2021. Carolina got inside the 20-yard line four times against the New York Jets but only scored one touchdown, which was on their third red zone appearance.

Their first red-zone trip ended in a fumble by Sam Darnold in the backfield while the second and fourth appearances settled for field goals. If any of these ended with a touchdown, the Panthers would’ve won by a larger margin and fans would have a better outlook on the rest of the season.

Nevertheless, a win is still a win and those are hard to come by in the NFL.