Carolina Panthers: Top takeaways from 31-21 victory over the Bengals

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CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 23: Cam Newton #1 hands the ball off to teammate Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers in the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 23, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

The Carolina Panthers thanks to four interceptions were able to come away with their second home win of the season with a 31-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Carolina Panthers should feel good heading into an early bye week at 2-1 after a dominant 31-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. However, the game didn’t appear to be heading the Panthers way early on as the Bengals opened the scoring with an 11 play, 75 yard touchdown drive. It was actually the first time all season they had a first down on their opening drive.

The game stayed close through the first half with neither team able to build more than a touchdown lead.

The Panthers tied it up before the end of the first quarter thanks to the first rushing touchdown by Cam Newton. Then in the second quarter Newton connected with Devin Funchess for the first of his two touchdown passes in that quarter.

In the second half, the Panthers dialed up the defense as they were able to force three interceptions in the final two quarters. The team was able to intercept Andy Dalton four total times, including two by rookie Donte Jackson.

It was a complete performance for the Panthers and these are the top takeaways from their victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.

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