Game Grades: Panthers at Raiders

Don’t panic, Panthers fans.

I repeat, don’t panic. This game may feel like a loss, but it was an important victory, and I will explain why.

Offense:

Jake Delhomme had his worst performance since 2006 against Philadelphia, the only other game in his career where he threw four interceptions. Yes, Jake Delhomme still throws up a couple of stinkers a season. He always has, he always will. The difference this year? The Panthers won. In years past, Jake’s less than stellar games were sure losses in a big way. But thanks now mainly to an improved runnig game and defense, a few interceptions does not necessarily mean the game is over.

Yes, Panthers fans, what you thought was a terrible game, is actually a sign that the Panthers remain a Superbowl contender. I do not think we will see another stinker from Jake this season, hopefully it is out of his system.

Offensive Grade not named Deangelo Williams:D

Deangelo Williams Grade: A (congrats on a career game)

Defense:

This continues to be the best defense we have seen in Carolina in years. Charles Godfrey continues to be the best sleeper draft selection not only on the Panthers, but possibly in the entire conference. Why isn’t the mainstream media talking about this guy?

Julius Peppers again displayed why he is one of a handful of game changing defensive players in this league. Many Panthers fans have spent the entire offseason and regular season calling for his contract not to be extended. I wonder what they are thinking this morning?

Defensive Grade: A

Special Teams:

Kickoffs did not reach the end zone, and Kasay did miss a field goal. However, Mark Jones is the MVP of this game, with kick returns Panthers fans have been longing to see.

Special Teams Grade: B