4 Panthers players that surprised in preseason Week 2 loss at Patriots

(Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports) Matt Corral
(Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports) Matt Corral
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Which Carolina Panthers players surprised during the team’s 20-10 preseason Week 2 loss against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium? 

The Carolina Panthers’ second preseason game is in the books after an ugly loss to the New England Patriots. In fairness, both Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold were held out of the game along with many other starters, leaving the team counting on P.J. Walker and Matt Corral.

It certainly couldn’t have helped that Matt Rhule chose to deploy both quarterbacks in alternating quarters. An odd decision that was indicative of how the head coach has run this team and the continued frustration with his decision-making.

Even the most casual football fan can understand the importance of allowing young or unproven quarterbacks extended stints to allow them to read the offense and get into a rhythm.

Perhaps this was Rhule’s plan all along to see how the quarterbacks handled less than ideal circumstances. Regardless, it was a head-scratching decision that contributed to a disappointing night for the Panthers.

The best story coming out of this game for Carolina is keeping their most important players healthy and getting one step closer to the regular season. The Panthers’ lone remaining preseason game will be played next Friday against the Buffalo Bills, which could see the first string play significant reps at Bank of America Stadium.

Before we turn our attention there let’s take a look at some Panthers players who surprised us during the loss.

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