Panthers Show Promise, Defense Struggles | Carolina Panthers News

The Panthers’ season opener against the Bears was a rollercoaster: offense dazzled with big plays and strong QB execution, defense crumbled under relentless ground attacks, and special teams handed away crucial opportunities. Bobby Okereke made an instant impact with a game-opening fumble recovery, while D’Andre Swift shredded the run defense for five touchdowns — a nightmare for the unit. Bryce Young showed marked improvement in play-calling and decision-making, but a costly punt muff by Jimmy Horn Jr. and a late fumble by Tetairoa McMillan sealed the loss. Coaching missteps and defensive positioning plagued the back seven, while the running back role remains murky between Chuba Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks. A promising start, but glaring holes demand urgent fixes. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.si.com/nfl/panthers/onsi/winners-losers-carolina-panthers-frustrating-loss-bears-bryce-young-ejiro-evero-jonathon-brookspa More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/aceea75b3f012e80 Report issues to [email protected].