Carolina Panthers: Performance Grades from Week 5 against NY Giants

Offense

Quarterback

Cam Newton finished the game completing 21 of 35 pass attempts for 237 passing yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. He also had 29 rushing yards against the Giants. While the numbers don’t jump off the stat sheet, Newton did a great job of moving the ball around by completing passes to six different players. If he is able to continue to do that, this passing attack should improve.

Grade: B-

Running Back

Christian McCaffrey once again finished the game with over 90 yards from scrimmage, something he has done every game this year. He also found the end zone for the first time this year with a 18-yard reception in the fourth quarter. The fact that this game seemed a little lackluster from McCaffrey is a testament to what he has accomplished this season. However, he once again was the team’s really only weapon as C.J. Anderson only had nine rushing yards on four carries.

Grade: B+

Wide Receivers/Tight Ends

It was certainly a team effort for these two positions as the Panthers had four receivers, along with Ian Thomas, finish with at least two receptions and 25 receiving yards. The team was led by Devin Funchess with only 53 yards but rookie DJ Moore was not far behind with 49. Meanwhile it was second-year receiver Curtis Samuel that found the end zone for this group, the first of his career.

Grade: B+

Offensive Line

The Panthers have somehow been able to piece together a quality offensive line over the past few weeks with all the injuries they have had to deal with. The good news before the game on Sunday was that Trai Turner would be returning but center Ryan Kalil left with an injury against the Giants. This group though had another good day as Newton was only sacked once, hit three times and made some good blocks on a few key runs.

Grade: A-