The Panthers look a little bit sluggish in their first game after the bye week. They trail the Broncos 13-7 at halftime.
Here’s how things are going so far.
Offense
Teddy Bridgewater has been too tentative against an admittedly tough Denver defense. He’s been sacked three times already (losing 32 yards total) and has gone 9/12 for 62 yards and an 86.1 passer rating. He was also lucky not to be picked off late in the second quarter on his only deep attempt of the game. It doesn’t help that D.J. Moore and Christian McCaffrey are out, but Bridgewater can do better than this. The run game has also been stagnant with Mike Davis, Rodney Smith and Trenton Cannon combining for just 21 yards on six carries.
Defense
This side of things hasn’t been bad, despite what the scoreboard says. Free safety Tre Boston has shown a lot of energy, tallying a team-high five tackles. Rookie standout Jeremy Chinn made the play of the half by forcing a fumble which set up a touchdown for Davis. A slew of penalties have cost this group dearly, though. Troy Pride, Brian Burns and Jermaine Carter have all drawn critical flags.
Special teams
It’s been nothing but bad news, here. Carolina allowed an 83-yard touchdown on a punt return by Diontae Johnson early on and their own return game continues to be quiet.
The Panthers receive the kick to begin the third quarter.
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