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| Greg Hardy and the rest of the Panthers line sacked Robert Griffin III four times on Sunday. (US Presswire) |
The Panthers game at Washington on Sunday was supposed to be a changing of the guard, but Cam Newton outplayed rookie Robert Griffin III and helped Carolina earn its first road win of the season.
Offense: B+
The team was without WR Brandon LaFell, who missed the game recovering from a concussion, but Armanti Edwards stepped up with an 82 yard reception to set up a touchdown. The running game produced 129 yards and two touchdowns, and the Panthers didn’t turn the ball over. Previous game's grade: C+
Defense: B+
The defensive line sacked Griffin four times, led by Charles Johnson, who had two. The team hasn’t missed injured MLB Jon Beason, thanks to the play of Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis. S Haruki Nakamura and CB Josh Norman have both been targeted by opposing passers this season, but they played mistake-free football on Sunday. Previous game's grade: B+
Special teams: C
Justin Medlock missed his first field-goal attempt of the season. Brad Nortman struggled again with a 14-yard punt and a 32.2 average. The Panthers outgained Washington on kickoff and punt returns. Previous game's grade: D
Coaching: B
The Panthers were disciplined and motivated, while Washington self-destructed with 13 penalties. The defense had a solid game plan to contain Griffin, and the offense, which has often been too reliant on the pass, had a nearly even mix of run and pass. Previous game's grade: C-
For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis on the Carolina Panthers from blogger Shawn Krest, follow @CBSPanthers.
