3 winners and 3 losers from Panthers win at the Falcons in Week 8

Stephon Gilmore – Carolina Panthers CB

The hype of trading for former All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore a few weeks ago had kind of died off in the midst of the Carolina Panthers losing streak. But he finally made his debut for his hometown team on Sunday and ended up being one of the most important players on the field.

Tasked with defending electrifying rookie tight end Kyle Pitts while in the game, Gilmore completely shut him down, helping hold the former Florida sensation to just two receptions for 13 yards.

Then, when it mattered most, Gilmore came in clutch with a game-sealing interception on Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan with a little under two minutes remaining.

Speaking after a hugely impressive debut, Gilmore was clearly delighted things went so well after 10 months off the gridiron with a torn quad.

"“It felt great. You always want to make plays when you go out there, and you’re coming home. And making a play in my first game and helping the team win, that was a great feeling.”"

There was never a question about Gilmore’s skills, but coming to a team that was in need of more offense than defense, the South Carolina product still made sure to have his presence felt.

Overall on the day, Gilmore had just two tackles but did a lot more than what the stats showed. Next week, he’ll have a chance to face his former team, the New England Patriots.