GAME GRADES !

[TheSpecialJuan]

Quarterback grade: Cam Newton, 45.0

Rookie-like mistakes cost Newton and the Panthers

When your MVP QB is making rookie mistakes, it is tough to win a game. Cam Newton was staring down receivers, throwing jump balls to players like Ted Ginn – who will never make that decision a good one by going to get it – and continually targeting a corner in Tampa Bay’s Brent Grimes who clearly had his number all day, almost as if it became a matter of pride. He did get them down the field late to set up a game-winning attempt, and was unlucky his intended receiver slipped on his cut, but in all honesty, he didn’t deserve to win given his performance.

Top offensive grades:

G Trai Turner, 86.3

OT Daryl Williams, 84.2

WR Kelvin Benjamin, 81.3

OT Mike Remmers, 74.1

G Andrew Norwell, 70.8

Offensive line plays well, but bad plays and missed kicks dug a hole for Carolina

Carolina’s offensive line played well, and Newton was rarely under much pressure (seven snaps in 35 dropbacks). The issue was Newton tossing the ball to the opposition, and seemingly intent on going after Brent Grimes, who was locking down whichever player lined up near him. When Newton went after other Bucs defenders or ran the ball, the team had more success, but the positive plays from players outside of the offensive line were too few and far between to rack up points.

Top defensive grades:

LB David Mayo, 87.2

S Michael Griffin, 84.6

CB James Bradberry, 83.2

DT Kawann Short, 80.6

DT Star Lotulelei, 79.0

Big plays bottled up the Bucs — and has Carolina been using the wrong linebacker to back up Kuechly?

The Panthers’ defense were able to force a few big plays to end Bucs drives, but the play of LB David Mayo was most notable, flashing the kind of ability he showed in college and suggesting that maybe the Panthers have had the wrong linebacker starting in place of Luke Kuechly with A.J Klein. Mayo had a team-high four defensive stops despite playing just 21 snaps, and allowed only five yards in coverage, while Klein has a season grade of 44.6. James Bradberry’s pick continued a rookie season of flashing big-time potential.