5 major factors to blame for Carolina Panthers’ loss vs. Washington

What were the major factors that decided an emotional occasion between the Carolina Panthers and Washington Football Team in Week 11?

One would have to go back quite some time to find a game Carolina Panthers fans were looking forward to more than their Week 11 clash against the Washington Football Team.

The presence of Cam Newton at Bank of America Stadium as the team’s starter played a substantial part in this, but Ron Rivera also returned to the place where he enjoyed tremendous success in the 2010s. Something which added to the overall excitement of the occasion.

The build-up was extraordinary. So it was probably nice for Newton, Rivera, and everyone to focus on football once the game began.

As it turned out, this was a disappointing outcome for the Panthers, who were dealt a significant blow to their playoff chances with their sixth defeat of the campaign.

Without further ado, here are five major factors that determined the outcome of Carolina’s game against Washington in Week 11.

Major Factor No. 1

Penalties cost the Carolina Panthers in big moments

Remember the “Don’t Beat Ourselves” sign that was prominent across training camp? Well, the message continues to get ignored if this game was any indication.

The Panthers were once again victims of their own demise with costly penalties in key moments. This halted their momentum just enough for Washington to hold on and gain revenge for Ron Rivera.

Carolina gave up seven penalties for 65 yards throughout the contest. Although this was fewer than Washington on the day, it was the timing of the infringements that made a massive difference.

A lack of discipline cost the Panthers in a big way. And in all honesty, not for the first time this season.