Carolina Panthers Beat New Orleans Saints 27 - 22

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The Carolina Panthers beat the New Orleans Saints 27 -22 at Bank of America Stadium. This matchup was important because it was a game between division rivals. The Panthers were projected to win this game by 9.5 points when news spread that Saints' starting quarterback Drew Brees had an injured shoulder.

But the Panthers only ended up winning this game by 5 points, and it wasn't a "Brees." Why was that?

In my game preview, I talked about what the Panthers needed to do to win this game. I mentioned that they needed the defensive line to create pressure, Greg Olsen had to be involved, and the run game had to be successful. The Panthers only did one of these things, but they still won.

How Did The Panthers Win This Game?

  • Josh Norman "The Closer" - Panthers' starting cornerback Josh Norman saves another game for the Carolina Panthers. There was less than a minute left in the game and Saint's quarterback Luke McCown tried to connect with open receiver Brandin Cooks in the end zone. But Norman fooled all of us, because out of nowhere he jumped up extended his arms and got the interception. Josh Norman has really impressed me this season and should get a new contact. But when?
     
  • Greg Olsen Was The Leading Receiver - Greg Olsen was the leading receiver this week with 8 receptions on 11 targets for 134 receiving yards, and 2 touchdowns. Olsen is the most reliable and best option on offense for the Panthers right now. As long as Cam Newton keeps getting Olsen the ball, this Panthers' team will be able to move the ball.
     
  • Cam Newton's Decision Making - Panthers' quarterback Cam Newton is full of surprises. Last week he flew into the end zone and this week he threw for over 300 yards. He really has shown his maturity this season with his signal calling, and decision making. He finished this game with a season high 64.5% completion percentage and no turnovers. Which Cam Newton will show up this Sunday?

The Panthers are heading into week four where they will play another inexperienced quarterback. So far they have gone up against Blake Bortles, Ryan Mallett, and Luke McCown. The Panthers will be traveling to Tampa Bay to play against the Buccaneers, and number one draft pick Jameis Winston. I don't see the Panthers taking it easy on the rookie. If you have the Panthers' defense on your fantasy team, I would start them this week.

By, Justin Raymond

Follow Me On Twitter @JayRay19