Written by Clark Gerber, contributing sports writer for WRAL.

Following two promising performances, the Carolina Panthers’ offense struggled greatly on Sunday, resulting in a disappointing 26-0 defeat against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The team had not experienced a shutout defeat since 2002, ending a run of 342 consecutive games with at least one score.

Interim head coach Chris Tabor expressed his disappointment, stating that he did not expect the team’s performance to decline based on their recent progress. Unfortunately, the team never found their rhythm and failed to start the game off strong as discussed during the week.

Prior to the start of the game, there were indications that the Panthers could face difficulty in putting points on the board. It was mentioned that kicker Eddy Pineiro woke up with tightness in his hamstring and was unable to participate.

Due to time constraints, Carolina was unable to make changes to their roster and had to play the game without a kicker. Linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill took on the responsibility of kickoffs, and the Panthers chose not to attempt a field goal on their first possession.

The issue with the kicker, though unfortunate, did not significantly affect the game as the Panthers were seldom in a position to make a score.

After a 13-play, 44-yard possession that resulted in a turnover on downs, the Carolina offense experienced six consecutive three-and-outs and went 32 minutes without gaining a first down.

Bryce Young, who achieved his first 300-yard passing game last week, was limited to 112 yards and one interception on 32 attempts.

Throughout the game, Young was constantly under pressure and was taken down six times by the opposing team. He was hit with force and briefly rendered unconscious after being sacked in the first quarter. Despite this, he did not sit out any plays.

This season, Young has been sacked a total of 59 times, making it the second highest in franchise history and tied for the 11th most in league history.

In the year 2000, Steve Beurlein was sacked a total of 62 times while playing for the Panthers.

Young acknowledged that his sack numbers are a result of teamwork. He believes he can improve by releasing the ball faster, communicating more effectively, and making better calls to put his teammates in advantageous positions.

The defense made a strong attempt, recording five sacks. They also limited the Jaguars to four field goals on five separate trips to the red zone.

Despite their efforts, they were unable to stop Travis Etienne who racked up 118 yards and two touchdowns during the match. One of his touchdowns came from a 62-yard outside pitch play in the third quarter, securing their victory.

The Panthers have secured the poorest record in the current NFL season after losing. However, they will not have the top pick in the draft as they traded it to Chicago in April for the selection of Bryce Young.

Tabor asked, “How do you plan to handle the situation? It’s a matter of either staying true to your principles or making a compromise… We will return to our duties and the final game will not be canceled.”

Next week, Carolina will finish their season at home against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They will attempt to disrupt the Bucs’ plans, as a win is necessary for them to secure the NFC South.

Source: wralsportsfan.com