Sometimes it’s been a fast start followed by a lull in the second half. Other times, it’s been just the opposite. Either way, the Panthers know inconsistency is hampering their ability to close out wins.
Sunday against the Raiders, the Panthers trailed 24-7 at halftime. They had 89 total yards, 47 of which came from one rush by Jonathan Stewart.
“Let’s be honest, we didn’t play very well in the first half,” head coach Rivera said.
Quarterback Cam Newton, who was 3-of-11 for 18 yards, called the first half performance “unacceptable.”
But the Panthers rallied furiously in the second half, scoring 25 unanswered points and racking up 269 total yards after halftime.