The Panthers were missing their highest-paid player, but they were still able to operate they way they’ve become accustomed to
With Greg Hardy inactive following the week that was in domestic violence, the Panthers still were able to dominate the Lions defensively, taking a 24-7 win.
The Panthers held Calvin Johnson to six catches for 83 yards and the Lions to just 70 yards rushing.
They’ve created six turnovers in two weeks, with even kicker Graham Gano recovering a fumble.
That gave their deliberate offense (glaciers move faster) plenty of margin for error.
Cam Newton looked reasonably sharp after missing the opener with a broken rib, completing 22-of-34 for 281 yards and a touchdown. Coupled with a Jonathan Stewart rushing touchdown, the Panthers were able to keep chains moving and the clock rolling, which was enough to help them improve to 2-0.
They have plenty of issues to deal with moving forward, but for the moment, they proved they can still play defense without their franchised defensive end.