NFL Carolina Panthers

5 Takeaways From Carolina Panthers’ Week 5 Win

5 Takeaways From the Panthers' Week 5 Win

Cam Newton Carolina Panthers
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The Carolina Panthers needed something good to happen after their last two weeks, and got just that with a come-from-behind win against the Chicago Bears. It was an impressive performance from Carolina after a slow start. Here are five takeaways from their much-needed victory.

5. Running Game Still Struggling

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5. Running Game Still Struggling

Chicago Bears Carolina Panthers
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Carolina scored a season-high 31 points in this game despite, once again, having little production from the running game. Darrin Reaves and Chris Ogbonnaya combined for 19 carries for just 59 yards. The Panthers have to hope the running game will improve when they get healthier at the running back position.

4. Opportunistic Defense

Roman Harper Carolina Panthers
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4. Opportunistic Defense

Roman Harper Carolina Panthers
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The Panthers' defense got exposed in the past two weeks, and it looked like it was going to be three straight weeks. One of the differences this week was their ability to come up with turnovers. They intercepted Jay Cutler twice and also recovered two fumbles. That proved to be the difference in the game for Carolina.

3. Greg Olsen

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3. Greg Olsen

Greg Olsen Carolina Panthers
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Greg Olsen had a great game against his former team. He caught six passes for 72 yards and two touchdowns. Olsen has shown that he is still capable of putting up big numbers despite teams knowing he is the go-to target in the red zone. That is important for Carolina because he is going to get more and more attention from opposing defenses.

2. Pass Rush

Kawaan Short Carolina Panthers
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2. Pass Rush

Kawaan Short Carolina Panthers
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The Panthers' pass rush returned to form after disappearing during their two-game losing streak. Carolina sacked Jay Cutler four times and had consistent pressure on him throughout the game. Keeping the pass rush intact is critical for the Panthers moving forward.

1. Cam Newton

Cam Newton Carolina Panthers
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1. Cam Newton

Cam Newton Carolina Panthers
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Cam Newton still didn't make plays with his feet, but he didn't need to. He was able to win this game with his arm. Newton made some big-time throws that led his team to the comeback win. He continues to look good throwing the ball from the pocket. His success is even more impressive considering the weapons around him.

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