The regular season arrived in full force on Thursday night. Defending Super Bowl champion, Denver, sent a clear message that despite future hall-of-fame quarterback Peyton Manning’s retirement they will continue to be a force in 2016. A typically stout Carolina defense was gashed for 148 yards on the ground, as Denver’s backs averaged over five yards per carry. Despite leading every statistical category: Total Yards, Rushing Yards, Passing Yards, Turnovers; the Panthers couldn’t overcome a late interception of their own leading to the go-ahead score.
Carolina’s struggles were compounded by two other key areas throughout the night.