The Carolina Panthers looked overmatched on paper. They’ve been sputtering while the Arizona Cardinals had been the best team in the NFL up to this point. Many probably expected a lopsided game, but the team on the winning of it was not who you’d think.
The Panthers utterly dominated the first half. Cam Newton was brought in twice in goal line situations and scored touchdowns on both plays. The defense limited the Cardinals to 62 first half yards and just three first downs. Donte Jackson secured a pick and ended multiple Cardinals drives with strong pass breakups.