Carolina Panthers: Key takeaways from 33-31 win over NY Giants

Panthers passing attack a team effort

The Carolina Panthers passing attack was a team effort as Cam Newton did a great job moving the ball around and keeping as many of his weapons involved in the game. The Panthers finished the game with six receivers catching at least two passes and they all finished with at least 25 receiving yards.

Devin Funchess finished the game as the team’s leading receiver with 53 yards but there was two players in particular that hasn’t played much this year that really stood out. This week was the first time this year that Curtis Samuel was active for the Panthers.

He wasted little time before making an impact as he caught a screen pass, broke five tackles, en route to scoring his first career touchdown. While most fans know Samuel for his speed, his ability to fight through traffic and break tackles was great to see. The volume may not be there week in and week out for Samuel but he should still be able to make an impact.

The other receiver that stood out was rookie DJ Moore, who finally saw some more snaps. He finished the game catching all four of his targets for 49 receiving yards, which was second most for the Panthers. He also had a key reception on the final drive, a 20-yard catch, that helped set up Gano’s field goal.

The rookie continues to produce when his number and more impressively does it in big situations when the game is on the line. Prior to this game against the Giants, he had one receptions which was against the Atlanta Falcons that cut their lead to one possession.

The rookie’s play will make it very tough to keep him off the field and not call his number more often.