4 glaring stats that cost the Carolina Panthers in Week 6 vs. Vikings

What were some glaring stats that cost the Carolina Panthers as they fell to defeat against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 6?

Thankfully, it’s almost time to start looking forward as the Carolina Panthers begin preparations for their Week 7 clash at the New York Giants. Whether that’s a good thing or not remains to be seen.

One thing’s for sure, things cannot get much worse after two demoralizing defeats on home soil against the Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings, which has seen expectations dip from potential playoff gatecrashers to mediocrity at best unless significant improvements are made.

Sunday’s showing at Bank of America Stadium was full of the same old problems. The coaching staff and Matt Rhule in particular have a huge few days of practice ahead of them if they want to halt what’s fast becoming an alarming slide.

But just what went wrong against the Vikings? Here are four glaring stats that provide a better indication.

Glaring Stat No. 1

Carolina Panthers gave up 571 yards of total offense

The defense was on the field too much, and it eventually saw the Panthers give up a substantial amount of yardage to a Vikings offense that is well balanced and capable of doing some real damage.

Dalvin Cook ran for 140 yards and a touchdown from 29 carries. Kirk Cousins was also at the top of his game during what’s been an outstanding start to the season from the much-maligned signal-caller.

Phil Snow’s unit needs help from elsewhere and they did have some key men missing. But conceding 571 yards of total offense isn’t going to win many football games.