The Carolina Panthers faced yet another tough loss on Sunday, falling 40-7 to the Washington Commanders. With six losses this year, each by at least 10 points, the Panthers have struggled both offensively and defensively.
Andy Dalton, Carolina’s starting quarterback, managed only 93 yards passing and threw two interceptions, contributing to an early deficit from which the team never recovered. Despite his poor performance, head coach Dave Canales reaffirmed Dalton as the starter.
The game’s turning point came when Dalton threw a costly interception in the first quarter, returned 67 yards by Washington’s Dante Fowler Jr. for a touchdown. Another interception and a subsequent three-and-out drive buried the Panthers early. Offensively, Carolina managed only 180 yards and ten first downs. Bryce Young came in for Dalton late, completing two passes for negative yardage.
Rapid Reactions: Panthers fall 40-7 in Washingtonhttps://t.co/i1Ch3cXsiK
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) October 20, 2024
Defensive struggles continued as Carolina dealt with injuries, missing six of their seven projected starters. This allowed Washington to dominate the run game, accumulating 214 rushing yards. Washington backup quarterback Marcus Mariota, who took over after rookie Jayden Daniels left with an injury, led a strong offensive performance, throwing a touchdown pass to Zach Ertz to help secure a 27-0 lead at halftime. The loss added to Carolina’s growing struggles, with only Shy Tuttle remaining among their original defensive starters on the field.
The Panthers are now set to travel to Denver this coming Sunday to take on the Broncos at 4:25pm
