First-Team Offense Was So-So

 

Coach Ron Rivera hoped to see "three good drives" by a unit that settled for a field goal on its only drive in Baltimore. The opening drive passed that test, taking just five plays thanks to a 61-yard touchdown sprint by WR Ted Ginn Jr.

QB Cam Newton and co. went 3-and-out on drive No. 2, but then added a field goal on their third series. Since those weren't "three good drives," the offense got a fourth chance at the start of the second quarter. After another 3-and-out, Newton's day was done.

After an 8-12/162/TD afternoon, the reigning MVP's numbers after two preseason games: 13-of-18 for 198 yards and a touchdown.

"They gave us two (good drives)," coach Ron Rivera said. "The unfortunate part is we had an opportunity again to put a few more points on the board but we didn’t. Credit Tennessee for what they did defensively, but we had opportunities so that’s disappointing."

 

So Was the First-Team Defense

 

Tennessee gained just 49 yards in its two first quarter drives, but 47 came on its second series. Then QB Marcus Mariota picked apart the Panthers' defense in his third drive. Mariota went 6-for-6, with half those completions going to WR Tajae Sharpe, whose biggest gain was for 20 yards on 3rd-and-14 against CB Daryl Worley and S Tre Boston.

"We can’t allow a conversion especially when we are in a good position to stop them," Rivera said. "I want to credit them because they did some good things. But again we did not take advantage of third down situations. At the end of the day that is going to get you."

WR Harry Douglas's 23-yard touchdown will leave a sour taste in the mouth of a defense that will likely face Patriots QB Jimmy Garoppolo and not Tom Brady next Friday.

 

Bené Benwikere Back?

 

The Panthers opened in their smaller nickel package which gave Benwikere his first start since he broke his leg eight months ago. He responded by leaping to intercept a bad Mariota decision at the Panthers' 12, Benwikere's first pick since his rookie season.

"Reading the quarterback’s eyes," Rivera said, "understanding where the route is coming to and beating guys to the ball, that’s a veteran move."

Benwikere later finished off a blitz by sacking Titans backup QB Matt Cassel.

 

 

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