1 They lose close games » Four of Carolina’s five losses have been by a touchdown or less; the Panthers lost to Chicago and New Orleans by a combined eight points in consecutive weeks. They feel they’re a play or two away; most likely, they’re a player or two away because big plays have gone against them late in each game. Punt returns for touchdowns by Chicago and Arizona were the difference in two of those games. Their special teams aren’t good enough to help in tight games. And despite an offense that ranks fifth in total yards, the Panthers don’t score much. They rank 18th in points a game because of an ineffective red zone attack. 2 Ground attack » The Panthers have a potentially strong running back combination with DeAngelo Williams (302 yards, 5.2 a carry) and Jonathan Stewart (210 yards, 4.8). Williams is more elusive than Stewart and can be difficult to tackle for that reason. At 5-foot-9 and 217 pounds, Williams is a compact runner. Stewart runs with more power.
3 Cam Newton is dangerous » Though scouts and executives were split on Newton, particularly his character, there was little doubt about his potential explosiveness. Newton has surpassed early expectations but clearly is still growing as a quarterback. He’s tied with Rex Grossman for an NFL-high nine interceptions, but he also has been asked to carry a big burden: He’s fourth in the NFL with 229 pass attempts. Panthers insiders say he has had several spectacular moments each game. And he has rushed 46 times for 210 yards.
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The defense is in transition? » Carolina eventually will play a 3-4 but probably not full time until next season. Until then the Panthers will mix it in on occasion, perhaps several times a game. They will turn to this defense in part because they can’t stop the run with the 4-3 (tied for 25th in yards a carry allowed). Standout middle linebacker Jon Beason is out for the season (as is fellow linebacker Thomas Davis). But end Charles Johnson has played well with five sacks and can play outside linebacker in their 3-4 look.
