10 quick thoughts from the Panthers shock win at Seahawks in Week 14

Carolina Panthers couldn’t handle Marquise Goodwin

All the talk before this game was about the matchup between Jaycee Horn and D.K. Metcalf. However, it was another wide receiver that the Carolina Panthers had trouble handling in Week 14.

Marquise Goodwin was a constant thorn in the team’s side, eventually finishing the day with five receptions for 95 receiving yards and a late touchdown. This was a riddle Carolina had difficulty solving and is another example of the lack of sufficient depth behind Horn.

An impressive first half from the Carolina Panthers

This was arguably the best first-half Carolina’s put together this season. They coped with the hostile atmosphere at Lumen Field effectively and despite a late rally from the Seattle Seahawks, interim head coach Steve Wilks’ men went into the break up 20-14 as a result of their efforts.

There was a long way to go, obviously. But fans couldn’t have been anything other than encouraged by what they saw aside from the odd mistake or two.

Carolina Panthers missed Xavier Woods

Not having the benefit of Xavier Woods on the backend was a presence sorely missed by the Panthers. The veteran’s communication and natural instincts have been tremendous assets following his arrival in free agency and his absence only heightened how important he is to the defense’s overall strategy.

Hopefully, Woods can make a return in Week 15 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Because if this game taught us anything, it’s that the safety is a core component of Carolina’s blossoming defensive unit.