But Carolina’s defense was also a significant factor in the team’s 2015 success, as the unit finished No. 6 overall and No. 6 in points allowed. Delving deeper, the Panthers were No. 2 in yards allowed per play, No. 2 in passing yards allowed per play, and No. 1 in interception rate.
Much like many of the NFC West teams, the Panthers rush the passer well, force turnovers, and are known for playing a physical brand of defense.
The team lost some of their key contributors over the offseason — most notably cornerback Josh Norman, who signed with Washington after having his franchise tag rescinded — and that’s likely a reason for why the defense got off to a slow start in 2016.