Don’t look now (do, though, that’s why you clicked the post), but the Carolina Panthers are in first place!
So with one week of the 2021 season in the books for the NFC South, let’s take a quick review of what went down with the division on Sunday afternoon.
Sam gets his revenge, Panthers win 19-14
Whether you want to call it a “revenge game” or not, Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold bested his former team in his debut with his new one. The 2018 third overall pick completed 24 of his 35 throws against the New York Jets for 279 yards, a touchdown and zero interceptions. He also added a 5-yard touchdown run, the sixth of his career.
The driving force behind the victory, however, was the Carolina defense. Led by linebacker and new wearer (that’s really a word?) of the No. 7 jersey Shaq Thompson, the Panthers pounced on rookie quarterback Zach Wilson for six sacks and a pick. New York, additionally, was held to just 45 rushing yards on 17 attempts (2.6 yards per carry).
Bucs raise banner and a 31-29 win over Cowboys
The defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers successfully defended their home turf on opening night. Quarterback Tom Brady tossed for 379 yards and four scores to stave off a hot Cowboys offense headed by Dak Prescott and his own 403 yards and three touchdowns.
A 36-yard field goal by Ryan Succop with two seconds remaining in the contest gave Tampa a two-point lead and the victory.
Eagles commit bird-on-bird crime with 32-6 slaughter of Falcons
We knew not to expect much from the Atlanta Falcons, at least to start the 2021 campaign. But, man . . .
The Falcons’ supposedly potent offense was completely shut down, as they gained just 260 yards while going a paltry 3-for-14 on third down tries. Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts shined, going 27-of-35 for 264 yards and three touchdowns through the air. He rushed for another 62 yards on seven takes.
Saints win easy without Brees-y in 38-3 romp over Packers
In their first game without Drew Brees as apart of the organization since 2005, the New Orleans Saints did just fine. In fact, they were more than fine.
Head coach Sean Payton and company dismantled one of the NFC’s favorites and held down the league’s reigning Most Valuable Player Aaron Rodgers, who finished with 133 yards and two interceptions. New starter Jameis Winston, albeit on an odd stat line, fared much better with his 148 passing yards and five touchdowns.
NFC South Standings through Week 1
Carolina Panthers (1-0)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0)
New Orleans Saints (1-0)
Atlanta Falcons (1-0)
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