Halftime analysis: Panthers lead sloppy Chargers 18-7

The Panthers lead the Chargers 18-7 at halftime in what’s been a sloppy kind of game so far.

The Panthers lead the Chargers 18-7 at halftime in what’s been a sloppy kind of game so far.

Here’s how things are going at the half in all three phases.

Offense

So far this group has been moving the chains consistently but they’ve mostly been unable to deliver in the red zone. Backup running back Mike Davis has broken off a couple of explosive runs and has 40 yards on eight carries at the half. He also scored on a screen pass after a dumb penalty by the Chargers extended the possession. Teddy Bridgewater has gone 12/16 for 125 yards, one touchdown and a 118.0 passer rating. Robby Anderson leads the way in the passing game with 45 yards on three catches.

Defense

We may be seeing improvement here, at least up front. The defensive line has been more disruptive than the last two weeks, with Brian Burns and Marquis Haynes both getting sacks on Justin Herbert. The Panthers have also recovered a couple of fumbles. There’s alot of incompetence going on with the Chargers offense, though – they already have three turnovers, including a gruesome interception thrown by Herbert just before halftime.

Special teams

Kicker Joey Slye has been the scoring star of the day for Carolina, connecting on four easy field goal attempts, the longest of which came from just 30 yards out.

The Chargers receive to begin the third quarter.

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