5 major factors to blame for Panthers loss vs. the Vikings in Week 6

What were some major factors to blame for the Carolina Panthers’ third loss of the season against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 6?

It was almost a comeback for the ages. But in the end, the Carolina Panthers fell to their third straight loss against the Minnesota Vikings at Bank of America Stadium.

Matt Rhule’s men now find themselves at 3-3 after a promising start to the campaign, with their season threatening to spiral on a downward slope. If things don’t collectively improve, it’s going to be a long second half of 2021 as the Panthers‘ schedule gets much tougher.

This was a tough one to take. Carolina clawed their way back with a 98-yard drive and two-point conversion to send things to overtime, even though it wasn’t enough to get the job done in the end.

The loss exposed some ongoing and ever-frustrating flaws. Here are five major factors that played a role in Carolina’s loss in Week 6.

Factor No. 1

Carolina Panthers didn’t pressure Kirk Cousins enough

The Carolina Panthers’ defensive front has been impressive for the most part this season. But they were simply unable to generate enough consistent pressure to prevent Kirk Cousins from gaining significant yardage.

Granted, they were on the field a lot due to Carolina’s inability to move the chains throughout the contest. However, Cousins had his way whenever he got enough space to do damage, eventually finishing the game with 373 yards, three touchdowns, no interceptions, and a passer rating of 112.6.

Minnesota’s offensive line is much improved this season. But it’s hard to look at this with anything other than disappointment.