The Panthers’ offense dominated Sunday’s home opener, defeating the San Francisco 49ers by a convincing 46-27.

With a score like that, you would think it was easy beating San Fran’, but that wasn’t the case at all.

The first half was defense-heavy for both teams, which was frustrating for the home team fans, considering Carolina was rested and coming off such a devastating loss.

It seemed like they were going to implode quickly when, on Cam Newton’s first drive of the game, a pass intended for Ed Dickson was tipped up and picked off, giving the ‘Niners the opportunity to strike first. Then on the very next drive, a 42-yard touchdown to Ted Ginn was reversed causing the offense to punt it away.

Thankfully the defense didn’t have the same luck on their side of the ball. Even on that godawful turnover, that set Blaine Gabbert up deep in Panthers territory, defense held them to just  a field goal. That restored enough confidence in the guys, to finally put up the first seven of the game.

The back-and-forth eventually led to a 17-10 Carolina lead heading into the half.

Momentum was pretty much all Panthers until San Francisco scored 10 straight points off turnovers. Fozzy Whittaker, who shared the load with Mike Tolbert after J-Stew left the game with a hamstring injury, coughed up the rock and set the ‘Niners up for three. Then Teddy Ginn Jr. muffed a catch (not sure if he thought the ball didn’t touch him or what) that San Fran’s special teams grabbed up for a momentum-shifting score.

SN: I just want to stop and take a second to marvel at kb13’s awesome catch:

https://twitter.com/CarPanthersNews/status/777587348078862337

Ok I’m back.

After the unfortunate miscues, it was all Carolina the rest of the way. Newton finished with 353 yards, 4 touchdowns and passed former Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme for most passing touchdowns in the franchise.

Even though they were victorious, there is still plenty for the defense to work on. They gave up 27 points, which is a lot for them. Tre Boston is stepping up as a starter and only time will help the rookie safeties improve. They should get plenty of practice, going up against Sam Bradford and the Vikings next Sunday.

How did your team make out this week? Leave your comments!!

Until next time…