Did the Carolina Panthers look so good in Sunday's season opener because they are so good or because the San Francisco 49ers aren't so good?
Good question.
The time for a good answer will have to wait for another day. As it should.
Panthers fans have waited more than eight months to watch their team play a meaningful game. Really more like nine months given that the chances of postseason participation were virtually gone with a month left last season.
So go ahead and smile. Every victory in the NFL is precious. Being 1-0 should feel good.