Unsurprisingly to many (or maybe even all), the Carolina Panthers fell victim to the Detroit Lions on Sunday. So, yes, that’s five straight losses to begin the season.
Here is everything we know, whether you want to know it or not, from the Week 5 matchup:
Final score: Lions 42, Panthers 24
Keys to the game
- The Panthers offense still couldn’t shake off their struggles. An overwhelmed and undermanned attack hit the end zone just once in the first three quarters, struggling mightily before regaining lost ground in garbage time.
- That “attack” also resulted in three painful turnovers—with two interceptions from quarterback Bryce Young and a fumble from running back Miles Sanders. The Lions turned those takeaways into 21 points.
- Detroit certainly turned out some points on their account, though. They took advantage of what’s been a leaky Carolina run defense, controlling the rock with 157 yards and three touchdowns on the ground.
It was over when . . .
This one felt like it was over before all the fans even settled into their seats.
The Lions, thanks to a pair of brisk and effective drives, jumped out to a 14-point lead at the 4:53 mark of the first quarter. Those touches, with the second being aided by an Aidan Hutchinson pick, totaled all of eight plays and took under four minutes to develop.
While the Panthers answered with an end-zone visit of their own on the following possession, Detroit continued to bang away to a 28-10 lead by halftime.
Players of the game
- WR Adam Thielen: 11 receptions, 107 yards, touchdown
- WR DJ Chark: three receptions, 42 yards, touchdown
- S Sam Franklin Jr.: eight tackles (seven solo)
What's next?
Before going into their much-needed bye week, the Panthers (0-5) will take a trip down south to take on the Miami Dolphins (4-1) in Week 5.
